K
Tuesday Edition France imposes AIETEUR NEWS curfews in parts of Paris, other cities after weekend of riots October 20, 2026 - Vol. 19 No. 42
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $200 readership yesterday, 46,787
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
ExxonMobil lands “big discovery” in Guyana - ExxonM VP
ExxonMobil Vice President and Head of Global Exploration, John Ardill
— discovery made over a month ago, no report from govt.
Woman, 3-year-old son killed in Charity fire …husband in custody for arson
Guyana’s oil earnings hit US$3.88B,
surpass 2026
The gutted home at Charity Dead: 29-year-old Donette Albert
projection - NRF receipts jump as Exxon recovers US$55B in investments; new projects could erode profit share
Card game turns deadly Dead: Three-year-old Keron Latchman
- as 17-year-old stabbed to death at Westminster
Uitvlugt man GPSU blasts govt. shot twice after over wage talks delay refusing to hand
- warns of skilled workers exodus over jewellery to as cost-of-living pressures mount masked bandits
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday October 20, 2026
House destroyed by fire at Demerara Bank launches Friendship Backdam $100M interest-free
housing aid programme ...single-parent households to receive priority for loans of up to $6 million
A
single-storey wooden house and its contents were completely destroyed by fire at Lot 7 Friendship Backdam, East Coast Demerara last night. The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) said firefighting crews from the Campbellville and Melanie Fire Stations responded to the report of the blaze, deploying Water Tenders #123 and #131, along with Water Carrier #35. Upon arrival, firefighters found the building fully engulfed in flames. Crews immediately launched firefighting operations and, through swift and coordinated efforts, extinguished the blaze before it could spread to nearby structures. Despite their efforts, the house and everything inside were completely destroyed. The Guyana Fire Service said investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
Fire destroyed a house at Friendship East Coast Demerara
To honour the birth anniversary and legacy of its founder, the late Yesu Persaud, Demerara Bank Limited (DBL) has launched a $100 million annual housing aid programme to provide interest-free loans to eligible Guyanese families struggling to build their homes. Through this initiative, eligible families will have access to affordable financing, with the benefit of repaying only the principal amount borrowed, without the additional burden of interest. The programme is designed to make homeownership more attainable while encouraging financial responsibility and long-term stability. In a video statement on Sunday, Komal Samaroo Chairman of DBL made the announcement. He said, “Each year, Demerara Bank will set aside $100 million Guyana dollars for interest-free housing loans of up to $6 million per applicant for hardworking families who own or have been allocated land or a turnkey housing unit by the Ministry of Housing, but who cannot afford to build on it.” Samaroo outlined that there are no fees, no processing charges and no legal or inspection fees, no contribution required. “You repay only what you borrow. Priority will be given to single parents’ household, and we’ll also consider other families facing housing need. As families repay, these funds will go right back into the programme so we can help more families year after year,” he said. In order to qualify, persons will need a
Komal Samaroo, Chairman of DBL stable source of income, whether employed or self-employed, a satisfactory credit history, and land or a housing allocation they can show documentation for. Through this initiative, Demerara Bank said it seeks to do more than provide financing but to restore hope, promote dignity and help families achieve the security and stability of homeownership. “It is a reflection of Yesu Persaud’s vision that banking should not simply be about financial success, but also about creating opportunities, transforming lives and contributing meaningfully to the development of Guyana,” the Bank said. The Bank outlined that its founder rose Continued on page 10
Charlestown man remanded for murder of security guard
Dead, Esan Rose
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26-year-old unemployed man was on Monday remanded for the murder of Esan Rose, the security guard who was gunned down while on duty two weeks ago. The accused, Colin Denny, of Lot 41 Charles and Howes Streets, Charlestown, was arrested on October 13, 2026, and later confessed to the crime. Denny appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the
Georgetown Magistrates’ Court October 19, 2026, where he was charged with murder. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which states that on October 8, at Lida Chinese Supermarket on Sussex Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, he murdered 37-year-old Esan Rose. Denny was remanded and the matter was adjourned to October 30, 2026. According to reports, Rose, of Laing Avenue, was inside the supermarket, approximately five feet from the southern entrance. He was armed with a 9mm service pistol and a magazine containing nine rounds of ammunition. Investigators said a man wearing a surgical mask and armed with a handgun, approached the supermarket as a pillion rider on a red-and-white XR motorcycle. The pillion rider reportedly disembarked after the motorcycle travelled west along Sussex Street. The motorcycle then continued east along the street while the suspect entered the supermarket. Police said the suspect discharged two rounds in Rose’s direction, striking him once in the chest. Rose fell to the ground and the gunman fled the supermarket, heading west along Sussex Street before turning north onto Charles Street. An EMT was summoned, but Rose was pronounced dead at the scene.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday October 20, 2026
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ExxonM lands “big discovery” in Guyana - ExxonM VP ExxonMobil Vice President and Head of Global Exploration, John Ardill recently revealed that the company landed a “big discovery” in Guyana’s prolific Stabroek Block just over a month ago. On the sidelines of the Energy I n tellig en ce F o r u m 2 0 2 6 in London, held between October 5 and 6, the Vice President spoke with Senior Corporate Correspondent, Marc Roussot who in a LinkedIn post noted that the new discovery by Exxon could be Exxon’s 10th development in Guyana. “ExxonMobil has made a “big discovery” in the central part of Guyana’s prolific Stabroek Block, potentially paving the way for the block’s 10th development...the discovery was made about a month to six weeks ago,” he wrote. Ardill further noted that the oil giant is conducting appraisal activities along with production tests to better define the resource. The company expects to submit an application to the Government of Guyana by next year for a permit. Exxon’s Vice President in a separate comment said, “We are excited to continue exploration and appraisal activity in-and-around our significant Ranger discovery drilled in 2018 in the central part of the Stabroek block where we continue to drill appraisal wells to collect subsurface data and evaluate the path to commercial development.”
— discovery made over a month ago, no report from govt. He explained that the company is testing nearby prospects which could be tie-backs to a Ranger development. Ardill cited the Rockhead well, drilled earlier this year as one of the near-field wildcat wells. ExxonMobil has scarcely disclosed its exploration plans locally for the block, with most updates on exploration drilling published by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). Similarly, no updates on the company’s exploration activities have been offered by the government in recent times. The Mid-Year Report recently issued by the government did not highlight any discoveries made by the operator or point to any prospects being drilled. The 2025 report however provided details on three discoveries made by the energy giant, which the company later clarified were deemed “noncommercial”. In July, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ExxonMobil, Darren Woods told shareholders the corporation believes there are four more discoveries likely to be made that c a n e x c e e d t h e c o m p a n y ’s
imagination. While responding to a shareholder on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and generating prospects with specific regard to exploration in Guyana, Woods explained that a large portion of the Stabroek Block is in force majeure given the GuyanaVenezuela border controversy that is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He said, “We’ll see what happens there. We feel there’s an opportunity then to start shooting seismic and understand what that acreage potentially holds. And we’ve got more work to do in the acreage that we’ve already shot and the work that we’ve been doing.” Additionally, he reminded that Exxon has put increased effort into AI and training models. To this end, Woods said, “based on what we found already, all the drilling that we’ve done, the characterisation of that subsurface, and unleashed that in the rest of the block and have four new discovery opportunities above and beyond what we thought were opportunities. So, we’re optimistic there.” He noted that there was still a lot more work required to confirm the discoveries but assured investors, “we’re not done yet in Guyana and
Home Affairs seeks contractor for National Security Tower parking lot The Ministry of Home Affairs is seeking a contractor to construct a parking lot at the US$28.14 million National Security Tower in Georgetown as work continues to bring the new police headquarters project to completion. According to a recent invitation for bids issued by the ministry, tenders are scheduled to be opened on October 22, 2026, at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office. The National Security Tower which is under construction and nearing completion was built to replace the Brickdam Police Station which was destroyed by a fire. Kaieteur News had reported that on October 2, 2021 a devastating fire flattened the Brickdam Police Station, along with two vehicles and a business place close by. According to reports, the fire reportedly began around 11:06hrs that day in the upper part of an eastern building and spread to several other
buildings in the compound. Immediate investigations led to the root of the fire, which was found to be caused by arson. A prisoner, who was arrested earlier for robbery under arms, confessed to the crime. Following the fire, President Irfaan Ali in January 2024, turned the sod for the construction of the new
US$28,140,000 12-story Police headquarters. The Home Affairs ministry reported at the time that the construction of the new stateof-the-art building is expected to be completed in 30 months and upon completion it will house the operation of the Divisional H e a d q u a r t e r s f o r ‘ 4 A’ (Georgetown) and will feature central departments such as traffic, finance, the impact base, Criminal Investigation Department (CID), among others. In July this year, during a visit at the construction site, Senior Minister with the responsibility for finance, Dr. Ashni Singh announced that they have renamed the headquarters building as the National Security Tower. The Senior Finance noted at the time that the modern edifice is slated to be opened by the end of 2026 and will serve as Guyana’s Police Headquarters, replacing Eve Leary, with all services currently offered there available at the new location.
ExxonMobil Vice President and Head of Global Exploration, John Ardill we see – continue to see a really bright future there.” Woods pointed out that there was still a lot of acreage sitting for the company to take advantage of. As such, he informed investors that the company is continuing to look for opportunities as AI helps to identify areas not previously identified for exploration. “So, I would tell you this thing – the tape hasn’t run out on this play yet and we’re going to continue to evaluate that and see what we can get from it. But I mean, you can rest assured the organisation is very focused on maximising the value of that acreage for the benefit, obviously, of ExxonMobil. But more importantly, for Guyana, the government of Guyana, the people of Guyana,” Woods explained. Exploration and appraisal with no results In June, this newspaper reported that Exxon applied to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for authorisation to drill up to 35 additional exploration and appraisal wells in the Stabroek Block, signalling continued aggressive expansion of one of the world’s most productive offshore oil frontiers. It is unclear whether the company’s request has since been approved. Guyana’s oil reserves have been stagnated around 11 billion barrels
since 2022, despite the announcement of at least eight new discoveries. Although millions are being spent by the company on appraisal activities to better under the quality and quantity of resources discovered. In fact, Exxon recently said Guyana’s reserves dropped below 11 billion barrels. In a statement, the company said, “With an estimated resource base of just under 11 billion oil-equivalent barrels and plans for up to eight offshore developments by 2030, the Stabroek Block is helping to meet demands across the Americas, Europe and Asia, contributing to global energy security and market stability.” To date, ExxonMobil has made 46 discoveries in the Stabroek Block, since the first discovery in 2015. Notably, oil-producing states around the world, including neighbouring Suriname have blocked oil companies from recovering costs spent to hunt for oil. Guyana on the other hand not only allows Exxon to recover costs for wells successfully drilled, but even dry holes encountered in the process. The sweetheart deal signed by ExxonMobil in 2016 allows the company to recover costs related to its exploration activities, even if those efforts do not produce oil.
Teacher robbed of bike, phone after gunmen fire shots A 31-year-old female teacher of East La Penitence, Georgetown, on Sunday, was robbed by armed bandits as she was about to park her motorcycle and enter her yard. According to the police, around 08:50hrs at East La Penitence, as the teacher was about to park her motorcycle, she was approached by two males on a red and white XR motorcycle. The pillion rider reportedly dismounted the motorcycle, pointed a handgun at the victim and discharged two rounds before
relieving her of a silver Haojue motorcycle bearing registration number CS 9982, a Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra cellular phone and GY$40,000 in cash. The suspects then fled the scene. Police ranks visited the location, where one suspected .32calibre spent shell was recovered. No injuries were reported. CCTV footage from the surrounding area is being reviewed as part of the investigation. No arrests have been made. Investigations are ongoing.
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Tuesday October 20, 2026
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Vape crackdown President Irfaan Ali's announcement that the Government will restrict the importation of vaping products into Guyana is a welcome intervention in a public health problem that has been allowed to grow for too long. With growing concerns about the use of these products among schoolchildren and teenagers, the proposed restrictions are a necessary step towards protecting a generation increasingly exposed to potentially harmful substances. But the Government must recognise that the problem extends beyond imports. It is also about the ease with which children can access these products, the businesses selling them and the apparent gaps in enforcement that allow young people to obtain vapes with little difficulty. In Guyana, concerns have been raised about how easily children can walk into stores and purchase vaping products. Where age restrictions are ignored or inadequately enforced, even the most well-intentioned public health policy will struggle to achieve its objectives. Children should not be able to obtain potentially addictive products as casually as they would purchase sweets or soft drinks. Vaping products are often marketed in colourful packaging and appealing flavours that can make them particularly attractive to young people. Their appearance and presentation may create the impression that they are harmless, fashionable accessories rather than products capable of exposing users to nicotine and other potentially dangerous substances. Nicotine is highly addictive and is particularly concerning for children and adolescents, whose brains are still developing. Exposure can affect attention, learning, mood and impulse control. Young people who become dependent on nicotine may find it difficult to stop, even when they begin experiencing negative consequences. There are also concerns about the effects of vaping on the respiratory system. The aerosol inhaled by users is not simply harmless water vapour. Depending on the product, it may contain nicotine, fine particles, chemicals and other substances capable of irritating or damaging the lungs. Some products may also contain ingredients whose long-term effects are not yet fully understood. The uncertainty surrounding some vaping products should strengthen, rather than weaken, the case for precaution. The absence of complete knowledge about longterm consequences cannot reasonably be interpreted as proof of safety, particularly where children are concerned. Pregnant women also face potential risks from nicotine exposure, which can affect fetal development. These concerns reinforce the need for proper regulation, accurate public information and responsible oversight of products containing nicotine or other potentially harmful substances. The President has said the proposed restrictions are intended to address recreational use while allowing exceptions for legitimate medicinal, therapeutic and other approved applications. Such exceptions may be reasonable, but they must be carefully assessed by the relevant health authorities to prevent loopholes from undermining the policy. The Government must now explain how the restrictions will work in practice. Import controls alone will not eliminate products already in circulation, nor will they automatically prevent illegal sales. Enforcement must therefore target the entire supply chain, including wholesalers, retailers and persons who sell vaping products to minors.Businesses must be held accountable for supplying these products to children. There should be clear rules, meaningful penalties and regular inspections. Where age restrictions apply, they must be enforced consistently, rather than left to the discretion of individual shopkeepers. The authorities should also investigate how readily minors are obtaining vapes and establish the extent of the problem in schools and communities. Reliable information would help shape effective interventions and determine whether existing laws are adequate. Parents, teachers, religious leaders and community organisations also have an important role.
Jagdeo well poised to initiate what he touted at Corbin's wake Dear Editor, My current sojourn overseas, and being in-flight on the evening of Oct 12 curtailed my participation in the Home-Going activities for Robert Herman Orlando Corbin, CCH. However, virtual access availed me with the opportunity to listen to the Tributes of Ravi Dev and Bharrat Jagdeo, interalia, both of whom eulogised him for his patriotism, and commitment to Guyana's development, especially in the political sphere and inclusive governance, in particular.
What they factually related cannot be contradicted and indeed are worthy and eminent attributions to Corbin the politician, who occupied critical leadership positions in the PNC/PNCR, and on the national landscape. However, their context, h i s t o r i o g r a p h y, a n d articulation of Corbin`s peers' responses to his ideas reflect a jaundiced, prejudicial and self-serving view of Guyanese politics. Dev sought to suggest that Corbin`s progressive politics was handicapped, if
not interred, by a group r e f e r r e d t o a s Te a m Alexander. This is a patent misrepresentation of occurrences in the PNCR, if not a mischievous representation. Team Alexander existed for a short period after the 2006 regional and general elections into the 2007 biennial congress and never engaged Corbin in contestation about SharedGovernance. That team ceased to exist after the 2007 Congress when most of its members refused to renew their membership of the
Party. Team Alexander`s call was for a new Political Culture for the Party's salvation and the creation of a new national ethos. Shared-Governance, as Dev rightly contended, was called for by most of the Team Alexander members long before such a team existed. Shared-Governance was an idea previously referred to by Hoyte as “nebulous” and “protean” before he himself subsequently proclaimed that its time had come. As for Jagdeo, his call for (Continued on page 5)
The power to remove Ramson rests with President Ali Dear Editor, I write to express my deep alarm at the continued and escalating defiance of Mr. Charles Ramson Snr., Commissioner of Information, whose conduct has now moved beyond mere administrative delay into open contempt for the law, the courts, and the citizens of Guyana. Mr. Ramson is constitutionally and statutorily required to release public information upon lawful request. Yet he has consistently refused to do so, citing vague procedural lapses and, more recently, dismissing a High Court ruling against him with language that borders on disdain. In October 2026, following Justice Nicola Pierre's September 28 ruling that he had breached the Access to Information Act 2011 by failing to determine three requests submitted by Attorney Christopher Ram, Mr. Ramson advised an applicant to await "final judicial directions," while referring to the presiding judge as merely "a puisne Judge" inferior to judges of "exceptional, superior vintage". This is not the language of a public servant; it is the language of a man
who arrogates “Godlike” status upon himself and believes he above both the law and the courts. What makes this conduct all the more egregious is the extraordinary cost to the public purse. In the 2026 national budget, a total of $40 million GYD was approved for the Office of the Commissioner of Information. Of that sum, $33.5 million GYD is allocated to Mr. Ramson's p e r s o n a l e m o l u m e n t s — s a l a r y, vacation allowance, gratuity, chauffeur allowance, and NIS contributions—while only $6.4 million is earmarked for the secretariat, which consists of a single staff member. This means the Commissioner alone consumes over 83 % of his office's entire budget. A public officer paid in excess of 2 million Guyana dollars m o n t h l y, w h o s e s o l e constitutional function is to facilitate access to information, has instead presided over what critics have rightly called a "dormant" office that has produced no annual reports and routinely ignores requests. Given this record—years of obstruction, open defiance
Children need honest, age-appropriate information about addiction and the potential consequences of vaping. Schools should be places of prevention and education, not environments where these products circulate unchecked. Ultimately, this initiative must be judged not by the announcement of a restriction but by its results. If children can still walk into stores and purchase vaping products with ease, the Government will have failed to address a central part of the problem. Guyana cannot afford to treat this as another passing concern. Protecting children requires firm regulation, consistent enforcement and sustained public education. The objective must be clear: to make it significantly harder for minors to access vaping products and to ensure that commercial interests never take precedence over their health and future.
of a High Court order, and the expenditure of tens of millions of public dollars for virtually no output—it is entirely reasonable to question Mr. Ramson's fitness to hold this office. I do not raise the question of mental competency lightly, but when a former Justice of Appeal demonstrates such persistent and deliberate disregard for the very Act he is sworn to uphold, the public is entitled to ask whether he retains the judgment and willingness to discharge his duties. If he
cannot or will not comply with the law, he should step aside.I call upon President Irfaan Ali to act. The Commissioner is a presidential appointee, and the power of removal rests with the President. If Mr. Ramson will not fulfil his constitutional obligations, the President must remove him and appoint someone who will. The people of Guyana deserve transparency, not a $40 million shield for secrecy. Yours faithfully, Jonathan Subrian
Eusi Kwayana fought a good fight Dear Editor, In Tribute to Brother Eusi Kwayana Freedom Fighter, Thinker, Activist, and Leader of the Working People's Alliance With deep respect and a heavy heart, I pay tribute to Brother Eusi Kwayana, who has passed on in the United States after more than a century of life. He was an outstanding freedom fighter, politician, and activist, and a true son of the Guyanese soil. I first met Brother Eusi around 1979, when I returned from Canada and joined the Working People's Alliance in the Berbice chapter, led by John Pinkerton. Those were difficult and dangerous times. We stood together against the dictatorship of the People's National Congress under Forbes Burnham, and we gave ourselves fully to the pursuit of freedom for our nation. In that struggle, our brother Walter Rodney was assassinated, yet Eusi Kwayana stood firm as one of the leaders who fought the good fight. Across Berbice, on the Corentyne, in Canje, and along the East Coast of Demerara, we held political meetings and "grounded" with the people, listening, teaching, and learning alongside ordinary Guyanese who yearned to be free. In all of that work, Brother Eusi made an outstanding contribution to the liberation of Guyana and its people. I will always remember our many conversations on political struggle and philosophy. Eusi was a sharp and gifted thinker whose wisdom, clarity, and principle left a lasting mark on all who had the privilege of speaking with him. We salute Brother Eusi Kwayana for his courage, his strength, and the leadership he gave throughout the history of British Guiana and Guyana. His legacy lives on in the struggle for justice and freedom that he never abandoned. Rest in peace and in power, Brother Eusi. Regards Kris Kooblall Toronto, Canada
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Tuesday October 20, 2026
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Public scrutiny is welcome; Prejudging New Wismar bridge should the appeal process serves no one be named after Robert Corbin Dear Editor, I am happy the conversations surrounding the soon to be completed Wismar Mackenzie four lane bridge is no longer about whose idea it was and who was going to do it and such waste conversation, the fact is ideas not acted on to become a reality is just that an unrealised dream. That dream however has come into existence by President Ali administration and it is a noteworthy piece of infrastructure that will be of significant importance to the people of Linden and its economy in many facets. Now the conversation is more about what new name the bridge should be named and several were suggested and reasons provided. It is in this same vein of making
suggestion, I would venture to propose that the name the New Wismar–Mackenzie Bridge be in Honour of the late Robert Herman Orlando Corbin CCH. Again and for emphasis, I strongly advocate for the new Wismar–Mackenzie Bridge be named the Robert Herman Orlando Corbin Bridge, in recognition of a distinguished son of Linden whose service helped shape Guyana's political life. Born in Linden, Mr. Corbin rose to serve as Deputy Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition and a l o n g s t a n d i n g parliamentarian. His journey from this community to national leadership is an enduring part of Linden's contribution to Guyana. The tributes now
being expressed across political boundaries recognise his commitment to public service, dialogue and cooperation. These qualities give particular meaning to naming a bridge in his honour: a structure joining two shores would commemorate a leader willing to engage across political divisions. For Linden, this would honour one of its own. For Guyana, it would demonstrate that national recognition can rise above party allegiance and acknowledge service wherever it is found. Let this bridge connect Wismar and Mackenzie while carrying forward the name of a son of Linden who served Guyana. Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira
NO ONE SHOULD BE ABOVE THE LAW Dear Editor, I am writing to express my deep indignation and displeasure regarding the profound lack of decency, moral integrity and respect for the rule of law and women's rights displayed by the government, which some claimed also has no decorum. Sources have indicated that the handling of horrific crimes including rape against women within our law enforcement system has made it undeniably clear that political connections supersede justice and women rights. In cases of rape and domestic violence, many senior male and female members in the government tend to blame the female victims. This is wrong and they should be scolded. Based on several news outlets, a senior member of the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) of the Guyana Police has allegedly been accused of committed the heinous and loathsome act against one of his subordinates and then threatened to shoot her if she tells anyone. Shockingly, this is not an isolated incident, it has been reported that in the last five years, this officer has done so numerous times against many female subordinates. Last year, there was a formal investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against the officer in question involving female police trainees at the Felix Austin Police Training
School on the Corentyne. The investigation determined that there was sufficient prima facie evidence to support a criminal charge of sexual harassment under the P r e v e n t i o n o f Discrimination Act, but no charges have been filed, or he was not removed from the Force. Instead of being charged, the officer in question remained untouched by the law. Public sentiments have revealed that the 187-yearold Police Force cannot be trusted and has become a disgrace to serve the nation. The reason for this systemic protection for friends and family of the ruling elite is as transparent as it is corrupt and evil. By actively shielding an alleged rapist from prosecution means that those in authority continued to compromise the safety of women and public servants and signaled to all and sundry that the wellbeing of female victims means absolutely nothing compared to political cronyism. The silencing of female victims of sexual assault, shielding the abusers, often deflecting the burden of proof for the assault onto the victims is appalling. Sexual abuse by any senior police officer on his/her subordinates is a serious abuse of authority and a violation of civil rights The use of power to subvert justice and the judicial process by governments could erode
public trust, destabilize the country's security apparatus and prevent the enforcement of law. A government which harbours individuals accused of atrocious crime such as rape or sexual violence against women has no integrity or moral authority to lead the nation. Such a government has abandoned its most sacred duty to protect its citizens and ensured that justice is administered fairly. Political affiliation, family ties, friends and party supporters must never serve as a shield against those who committed criminal acts. No one should be above the law and the female officer who claimed that she was raped by the senior officer should not be denied justice because her abuser has political connections. He must face the consequences because violence against women is an epidemic that could rupture the fabric of Guyanese society. We c a l l u p o n t h e authorities to end political (Continued on page 6)
Dear Editor, I refer to Mr. GHK Lall's column, “EPA Director, Parsram,” published on October 18, 2026. Mr. Lall is entitled to question the statements and decisions of the Environmental Protection Agency. As its Executive Director, I communicate the Agency's positions and am accountable for explaining them. The statements he challenges represent the EPA's position, and I stand by them. Before addressing the substance, one personal clarification is necessary. Mr. Lall describes me as his “good friend”. We are not good friends. If that description expresses a wish on his part, he is entitled to it. Unfortunately, that is not a sentiment I share, not my cup of tea. Mr. Lall also describes me as a “jester” and a “comedian”, while speculating about my “war pay”. Yet his column offers more theatrical flourish than evidence to support its central allegation of a predetermined outcome. Before assigning me the role of a comedian, he might reflect on his own performance in this column. I am accountable for the regulatory decisions I explain; he should be equally
prepared to substantiate the allegations he publishes. Environmental regulation deserves rigorous public scrutiny, particularly where concerns about uranium exploration arise. Those concerns warrant a serious discussion of the evidence, the law and the responsibilities of the institutions involved. The EPA's statement that the matter must await the Environmental Assessment Board's determination explains the regulatory process. It neither predicts the Board's decision nor assures the developer of approval. My responsibility as Executive Director is to communicate that position clearly, without prejudging the appeals. The Environmental Protection Act provides a mechanism through which persons who may be affected can challenge the EPA's decision that an Environmental Impact Assessment is not required. The EAB has the authority to confirm or set aside that decision. Respecting this process means allowing the Board to consider the appeals without presuming its conclusion. There is an important distinction between deciding whether an EIA is required
and deciding whether a project should receive an environmental permit. An EIA exemption is not, by itself, permission to commence the proposed activities. Even where an exemption is upheld, the EPA must still determine whether to approve or reject the application and, if approved, the conditions necessary to protect human health and the environment. Mr. Lall asks when the EAB has disagreed with the EPA. The Board's record is a legitimate subject for scrutiny. However, the proper test of any determination is its reasoning, the evidence considered and its consistency with the law. Agreement does not, by itself, establish political obedience, just as disagreement does not, by itself, establish independence. The column goes further, suggesting that political pressure and fear have already settled the outcome. Yet it identifies no evidence of instructions to the Board, interference in these appeals or a predetermined decision in this matter. References to unrelated controversies do not establish those allegations. An assertion (Continued on page 6)
Jagdeo well poised to initiate... From page 4 a new approach to politics, which he associated Corbin, is quite ironical. When the PNC was pushing for Shared-Governance, the PPP/C convened at State House to proclaim that there would be no such project since there was the prerequisite need for the building of Trust, exactly the enterprise that Corbin had embraced, when he engaged the PPP. It was the PPP's reaction then, and in the persons of the President and the Prime Minister now, which have failed to respond to the call of civil society organisations and IDPADA-G in particular for engagements in pursuit of finding common ground. Finding common ground requires reaching-out to others, and the lowering the venomous propaganda, which Jagdeo sought to contend is par-for-the-course in politics. His par-forthe-course and a new approach seem quite antithetical.
Corbin's passing has provided a moment for reflection. All have reflected on, and complimented him for, his believes and praxis. All are challenged to exhibit their sincerity to their own words. That would be the greatest Tribute to, and commemoration of, Corbin. Vice President Jagdeo and General Secretary of the PPP is well poised to initiate what he touted at the Wake in honour of the former Leader of the PNC/R, Robert Orlando Corbin. The creation of the environment for Corbin's Soul to Rest in Peace is in our hands. Yours sincerely Vincent Alexander Former Vice-Chair, PNCR Immediate Past Chair, Forbes Burnham Foundation Chair, International Decade for the People of African Descent
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Tuesday October 20, 2026
The people want change away from the binary forces of the past (PPP versus PNC driven by their racist politics) Dear Editor, I write in response to the letter by Ms. Surujdai Juglall captioned "Broad money has grown far beyond historical norms and the effects are being felt on the poor" (Kiskadee Newspapers, October 18, 2026). The writer is correct that broad money growth has outpaced the non-oil economy and that ordinary Guyanese are bearing the cost. However, the letter identifies only half the problem. The other half is supply—or rather, the failure to expand it. I am cognizant of the fact that Ms. Juglall has directed the questions to us for answers. I am tasked by the WIN Party, led by Mr. Azruddin Mohamed, to share some of our internal policy thinking on this matter. The Leader of the Opposition has been on the front lines listening to the people's cost-of-living plight and as a successful businessman, he has mastered the art of multiplying wealth for his
family and stand ready to multiply that wealth for the people. He was a billionaire before he came to politics, so he has no need, like the PPP mafia, to put his hand into the Treasury. Our team has been studying the issue, and while we have an action plan for 2030, which we will implement on day one of our administration, we are inviting the PPP to begin implementing these measures now—because the Guyanese people cannot wait. The Missing Half: Supply, Not Just Money Food prices rose significantly since 2023. The government's own Mid-Year Report attributes this to imported inflation, demand pressures, retail mark-ups, and weather. Every one of these is a supply-side problem. Tighter money alone will not permanently lower the price of food Guyana must import. The PPP's response—cash
Public scrutiny is welcome... From page 5 does not become evidence simply because it is delivered with confidence or repeated through rhetorical questions. I will not presume to speak for EAB members or announce their conclusions in advance. Equally, I reject the suggestion that explaining their statutory role makes me a comedian or renders the professionals involved mere rubber stamps. Their work should be examined on its merits, and any allegation of improper conduct should be supported by evidence.Public concerns about uranium deserve substantive answers. Questions about the proposed activities, potential exposure pathways, effects on water and communities, and the adequacy of safeguards are entirely legitimate. They should be examined through the project information, the reasons for the screening decision and the grounds raised by appellants. Personal ridicule contributes nothing to that examination.The public is entitled to expect the EPA to explain and defend its decisions with evidence. It is also entitled to an appeal process whose outcome has not been pronounced in advance by either the regulator or its critics. The regulatory statements challenged in Mr. Lall's column are those of the Environmental Protection Agency. As Executive Director, I stand by them and remain accountable for explaining the Agency's decisions and respecting the statutory review process. Sincerely Kemraj Parsram Executive Director Environmental Protection Agency
NO ONE SHOULD BE...
From page 5 protection and ensure the female police officer (rape victim) receive an impartial investigation. We demand an immediate, independent and thorough review of this case, and charge and remove the officer in question from the Force if found guilty. Furthermore, the time has come to end the political interference that continues to plague the Force and deny justice to this and other female victims. We need a system where justice is blind to political loyalty. We look forward to seeing swift visible reform and a renewed commitment to equal and impartial justice for all the citizens. Sincerely, Aubrey Retemyer
grants—is incremental. What is missing is a plantation-scale agriculture that is totally mechanized to permanently change the cost structure of production itself. Two WIN Policy Measures of the Many 1. A Workers' Shareholding Local Content Programme We propose that every public project and every foreign investment over GY$1 billion requires the winning contractor or winning investor to sell 5 percent of the project value to a Guyanese shareholding company owned by workers earning under GY$500,000 per month and paying NIS. The Treasury pays for these shares on behalf of these workers. Dividends flow annually, tax-free to these workers. Consider the Versailles to Parika road project: GY$132 billion over three years. Under the WIN Team model, at least GY$8 billion would go directly to working-class shareholders. Today, they received zero from the plundering PPP Party on this project. This is not a cash grant. It is turning workers into owners. It creates a second income stream tied to national development, and it incentivizes formal employment and NIS participation. It creates a pathway, if you want to work, then in Guyana, you have a direct opportunity to gain wealth. The shares are locked in for five years and cannot be sold but can be pledged at the bank if you are building your home. This stimulates building longterm wealth, not immediate
consumption. However, mandatory dividends are paid yearly at no less than $50,000 per shareholder which will be funded by the Government. Every teacher, every policeman, every nurse, every rice farmer paying NIS and earning less than $500,000 a month, will earn from this National Investment Company and it can be housed in NICIL, the Government Shareholding Company. 2. Plantation-Scale Mechanized Agriculture with Brazil We will convert 2,000 hectares of the former Enmore Estate land on the East Coast of Demerara into 100 percent mechanized plantation agriculture, with Brazilian partners as lead investors. This will expand in every region as our people become more involved and trained in the new technologically advanced agricultural development. Brazil possesses the world's largest reserve of undeveloped arable land and is one of the largest net food exporters globally. Its agricultural success rests not on land alone but on the technological innovation system built by Embrapa, with their expertise at tropical soil science, variety improvement, and precision agriculture. Brazil has accumulated extensive experience in tropical crop cultivation, large-scale mechanized operations, and pest and disease management. Its "tropical agriculture t e c h n o l o g y package"—including no-till farming, biological nitrogen fixation, and integrated
crop-livestock-forestry systems—can help Guyana achieve high yields while avoiding environmental degradation. Under the WIN Team, the Government of Guyana will pay for the marketing study and complete all the certification process to export production from this area to anywhere in the world. The Brazilian conglomerate will play a lead role in planning and operating this mega farm and will use their influence globally to get our products into the respective international markets into countries we never sold food to before like Angola and Portugal. Whatever they want, we shall produce, so the process will be market driven and supermarket ready – meaning if it is squash you want in Portugal, we shall grow it, we shall wash it, we shall peel it, we shall cube it and we shall package and label it all under the best international standard and ship it to Portugal. The operations will have the highest grade and levels of mechanization along every step of the process. All gains and wins from this project will be shared with the working class as part owners. Where Mr. Ali failed with his 25 percent reduction in food imports by 2025, a WIN Government will make Guyana the lead food exporter in the Caribbean. No need for semantics from the State House Mafia. Why This Works Mechanized plantation agriculture attacks the "goods" side of the equation d i r e c t l y. M o r e f o o d
produced locally at lower unit cost eases price pressure from imports and retail mark-ups. Higher agricultural exports generate foreign exchange, supporting exchange-rate stability and reducing imported inflation. And unlike austerity, this is investment-led—creating e m p l o y m e n t i n mechanization operations, maintenance, logistics, and processing. The shareholding model ensures the poor are not bystanders to foreign investment but direct beneficiaries. It does not take wealth from them; it builds the productive base on which their future earnings depend. The Bottom Line The most effective antiinflation policy for Guyana is more goods, produced more efficiently, by a more productive workforce—and a distribution model that ensures the working class owns a stake in that productivity. The WIN Team has many more public-policy plans already developed. The people want change away from the binary forces of the past (PPP versus PNC driven by their racist politics). We are the only real option with the support from all classes of people and the policy action plan to develop Guyana without the sticky fingers of the Leonora Mafia in the pot. Space does not permit more. But where this came from, there is much more as the WIN Team remain focused on bringing betterment for the people of Guyana. Sincerely, Charles Sugrim
Tribute to a Mighty Man: Eusi Kwayana Dear Editor, My name is Omolara Oluwafunmilaiyo Tafawa. It is a name so distinctly African that back home in Guyana, everyone asks, "Is weh she come from wid all that name?" When I respond, "My father is from Buxton and my mother is from Bachelor's Adventure," they laugh and say, "Oh, Nigeria! Yuh really gat dem people face." I always smile, because I know the truth: my name lives because of Eusi Kwayana—a man I never met. On the flip side, when I am walking the soil of the African continent, almost no one takes a second look or questions my heritage. Well, rarely. On occasion, in a quiet village setting, a curious uncle might lean in with one eyebrow raised suspiciously and ask in a whisper, "What tribe are your people from?" Perfect. Another beautiful opportunity to speak about Eusi Kwayana—a man I
never met.I am 50 years old now, but I have spent 25 of those years living on the Motherland—in Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, and South Africa. I crossed that ocean because of Eusi Kwayana—a man I never met.Both of my parents attended County High School. My oldest sister is named Tchaiko, after Eusi's beautiful wife. Today, most of my parents' grandchildren carry a meaningful African name. This legacy continues because of Eusi Kwayana—a man I never met.I have been an Italist and a vegan for 26 years. Decades ago, when I first told my parents that I was giving up meat and transitioning to a plant-based diet, they nodded and remarked how I was walking just like Eusi Kwayana—a man I never met. When my children play out in the sun, speaking to each other fluently in Twi or Chichewa with their dreadlocks glimmering in the African heat, I know
within the depths of my soul it is because of the teachings of Eusi Kwayana—a man I never met. Whenever the sisters in the Rastafari Community organise projects, we instinctively revert to the Village Movement systems—cooperatives I would know nothing about if not for the teachings of Eusi Kwayana- a man I never met. When I am in Africa, I build water wells in the villages I call home, and I organise cooperative groups with local farming women. I do it not for fame or glory, but simply for the people. I do it because of Eusi Kwayana—a man I never met.So I sit in the quiet spaces of my mind and reflect on my life, I realise a profound truth: for a man I have never met, he has had the absolute highest impact on the person I am today. Sincerely Omolara Oluwafunmilaiyo Tafawa
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
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Tuesday October 20, 2026
GPSU blasts govt. over wage talks delay The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has accused the Ministry of Public Service, Government E f f i c i e n c y a n d Implementation of delaying negotiations for increased wages, salaries, allowances and other conditions of service for public sector workers, warning that the continued inaction is undermining workers’ welfare and contributing to the loss of skilled professionals. In a September 7, 2026 letter to Permanent Secretary Soyinka Grogan, the union expressed “vehement displeasure and deep frustration” over what it described as the unacceptable delay and indifferent manner in which negotiations were being handled. The union’s concerns were acknowledged in a response from the Permanent Secretary dated September 8, in which the Ministry said it was finalising the team that would negotiate with the union and indicated that a date for the commencement of talks would be communicated once all team members were available, likely on or before September 18, 2026. A meeting has since been set for this week.
— warns of skilled workers exodus as cost-of-living pressures mount In its correspondence, signed by Dawn Gardener, Vice President, on behalf of GPSU President and Chief Executive Officer Patrick Ya r d e , t h e u n i o n s a i d repeated calls, formal correspondence and reminders about the financial pressures confronting public servants had failed to produce satisfactory engagement from the Ministry. The GPSU argued that public servants were grappling with an escalating cost of living, driven by rising prices for basic necessities, food and housing. It described the M i n i s t r y ’s p a c e o f e n g a g e m e n t a s “ t a r d y, evasive, and wholly unsatisfactory,” contending that the continued delays undermined the spirit and legal framework of collective bargaining. The union further warned that the situation was demoralising public sector employees and accelerating what it called an “unwelcome and dangerous exodus” of skilled professionals from the public service, threatening institutional memory and
capacity. “A contented, secure, and fairly compensated workforce is vital to national development,” the union stated, while insisting that the workers responsible for sustaining the public sector should not be subjected to continued uncertainty over their compensation. T h e G P S U acknowledged that it had officially met with the Ministry, but said it was proposed that a designated team would be assembled to formally commence the negotiation process. It therefore demanded the immediate commencement of negotiations and a definitive, time-bound schedule for meaningful engagement on its submitted wage proposals. The union also called for an urgent written response and the immediate resumption of what it described as robust, bona fide negotiations to resolve the matter. “Public Servants have exercised immense patience and patriotism, but this forbearance must not be mistaken for weakness or an acceptance of continued
neglect,” the GPSU warned. The union also disclosed that it had written to the Minister of Finance requesting a review of the increases in wages, salaries and allowances for 2025. The September 7 letter was copied to President Irfaan Ali, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and the Ministry of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation. In her September 8 response, Grogan said the Ministry was “presently finalising the team” for the negotiations and assured Yarde that a date for the start of discussions would be sent to the union once all team members were available. The ministry’s response, however, did not provide a confirmed meeting date, stating only that the commencement was likely to be on or before September 18, 2026. However, the September 18 date passed and there was no meeting. Be on guard Meanwhile, in a circular to members giving an update on the situation the GPSU said that Guyana has experienced unprecedented
GPSU President, Patrick Yarde economic growth, with real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanding at an historic pace and projected to maintain extraordinary momentum through the end of the year. However, the union said, inflation as of mid-2026 continues to climb, with further increases projected by December 2026. “Even the Bureau of Statistics, which continuously understates the true depth of the economic crisis facing ordinary Guyanese, recorded a sharp rise in consumer prices as of July 2026, driven primarily by surging food, vegetable, energy, and transportation costs.” “Cognizant of the harsh daily realities facing public
servants, including skyrocketing costs for basic needs like home rentals and construction materials, your representatives at the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) have diligently requested meetings with the Government to commence formal negotiations on your salaries, wages, and conditions of employment,” the union told members. It noted that following a p r o l o n g e d d e l a y, t h e Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Public Service responded, giving an undertaking that negotiations would commence on or before September 18, 2026, Continued on page 16
Civil society groups demand independent probe into Karimbaksh allegations – Call on DPP to explain delay in advising on charges, urge govt. to publish investigation procedures
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fizal Karimbaksh
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coalition of civil society organisations and individuals has renewed calls for an independent investigation into allegations of sexual violence and threats at gunpoint against Deputy Commissioner of Police Fizal Karimbaksh, warning that the reported reversal of an order sending him on pre-retirement leave raises serious questions about accountability and the rule of law in
Guyana. In a letter to the editor issued following reports that Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken rescinded his directive for Karimbaksh to proceed on leave, the coalition said that, if confirmed, the development points to a “broken system of accountability and rule of law” within the country, particularly the Guyana Police Force. Kaieteur News reported on October 14 that Hicken had withdrawn his earlier order after Karimbaksh, through his attorney, Rizwaun Mohamed, challenged the legal basis for compelling him to proceed on leave and threatened legal action against the Force. The civil society coalition said it had previously questioned why the deputy commissioner appeared to be receiving special treatment despite the serious allegations against him. “The Sexual Offences Act (SOA) lays out clear processes
to be followed in sexual offences cases, including paper committals and the exchange of all statements by both prosecution and defence lawyers,” the letter noted. It questioned whether survivors, Guyanese organisations and the wider public could have confidence in police investigating allegations against one of their own, particularly an officer of Karimbaksh’s seniority. “Justice must not only be served but must appear to be served,” the coalition said, calling for the immediate appointment of a special independent prosecutor to investigate and prosecute the case. The signatories also called on Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar Ali-Hack to explain what they described as a prolonged delay in advising on the institution of charges. According to the letter, credible statements alleging sexual abuse and threats at
gunpoint were reportedly made against Karimbaksh, and the file was sent to the DPP for advice. “We therefore call on the DPP to break her silence and explain her long delay in advising that charges be instituted, including arrest, as is the norm for procedures for any sexual offence crime,” the coalition stated. The group also criticised Karimbaksh’s reported refusal to proceed on leave, allegedly on the advice of his lawyers, arguing that his continued presence at work c o u l d u n d e r m i n e e ff o r t s t o investigate the allegations without interference. It said the reported defiance made a mockery of directives from the Minister of Home Affairs, the Commissioner of Police and other officials calling for him to proceed on leave while investigations into the allegations of sexual offences and threats to life are pursued.
The coalition warned that the matter had implications beyond the case itself, particularly for victims and survivors of sexual and genderbased violence who may question whether senior public officials are subject to the same standards of accountability as other citizens. The letter placed the allegations within the wider national context of violence against women and girls. It cited figures disclosed by the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, which reportedly showed that 209 rape cases were recorded in 2025 and another 85 during the first half of 2026. The coalition further pointed to 22 cases of femicide in 2025, compared with 13 in 2024, alongside more than 1,800 cases of domestic and gender-based violence. “What will victims of gender-based violence conclude if it seems there are no accountability measures when Continued on page 9
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Tuesday October 20, 2026
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Jagdeo's olive branch may have a snake in the grass At the 'wake' of former Leader of the PNCR, Robert Corbin, Bharrat Jagdeo began talking about political cooperation, and the need to move beyond political divisions. But faced with this olive branch, the sensible citizen should reach for a comfortable chair, a strong cup of coffee and a healthy supply of smelling salts. At the wake, Jagdeo had some seemingly conciliatory things to say. One could almost hear the violins warming up in the background. Here was the VicePresident, extending what appeared to be a gesture across the great political divide, inviting us to imagine a Guyana in which the major political parties could put aside their d i ff e r e n c e s a n d w o r k together. It was a touching moment. Unfortunately, Guyanese politics has taught us that an olive branch can sometimes be a very useful instrument for measuring the distance between two people who have absolutely no intention of embracing. Before the PNCR starts organising a thanksgiving service for this sudden outbreak of goodwill, it should remember that political history is not a collection of speeches delivered at wakes. It is a record of what people actually do when the
cameras are switched off and there is something substantial to negotiate. And Jagdeo's record, along with that of the PPP/C, ought to encourage a certain amount of caution. Political cooperation requires more than the ability to pronounce the word “talks” without looking as though one has swallowed a lemon. It requires trust, compromise, consistency and, above all, a willingness to accept that the other side might have legitimate interests that cannot simply be dismissed as an inconvenience. The PPP/C and the PNCR have spent decades demonstrating that these qualities are considerably easier to recommend than to practise. There have been discussions, negotiations, agreements and political declarations, but the relationship has too often resembled a marriage in which both partners insist they believe in reconciliation while secretly hoping the other will move out. Consequently, the PNCR should not mistake Jagdeo's words for a change of political direction. What matters is whether Jagdeo is prepared to make substantive concessions to the combined opposition. Not simply to the PNCR, and certainly not to the PNCR as t h o ugh the main opposition part y, We I n v e s t i n
Nationhood (WIN), does not exist. It does and it secured more seats that the PNCR with which Jagdeo is extending an olive branch. The emergence of WIN has disturbed that comfortable arrangement of a political system accustomed to two dominant parties. WIN's presence, however temporarily it might be presumed to be, presents an uncomfortable development for those who have spent years treating Guyanese politics as a permanent contest between two political establishments. Jagdeo's apparent interest in reconciliation must therefore be examined against this new reality. Is he proposing a genuine transformation of political relations, with meaningful power-sharing, institutional reforms, respect for opposition rights and a willingness to negotiate with the opposition collectively? Or is he attempting to restore the old political arrangement in which the PPP/C and the PNCR remain the principal protagonists, each defining its political identity through its rivalry with the other? Or even narrower, is his overture confined to an interest in shutting WIN out of control of Region 10's regional administration? The first would require a fundamental change in political behaviour. The
DEM BOYS SEH
Kingston Seawall gan soon become Stabroek Market! Dem boys seh dem got a big sign pon de Kingston Seawall telling people that vending is prohibited. Big English. Clear message. Nuff authority. But dem boys want know if dem put up that sign to frighten de vendors or to decorate de seawall. Because de vendors ain't frighten one bit! Dem boys watching how de invasion starting. First, one little vendor come. Then two. Before yuh know it, big canter vans pulling up wid millions of dollars in goods, unloading pon de very spot wha people supposed to sit down, relax and enjoy de sea breeze. Dem boys seh at de rate things going, is only a matter of time before de bars start going up. Then gan come de playpens. After dat, somebody gan bring a barbecue grill, another man gon set up a karaoke machine, and before yuh know it, de seawall gon have more commercial activity than Regent Street. De vendors even beginning to line de perimeter of de picket fence in front of de play area fuh dem children! But de real question is: Where de authorities? Dem boys hear de authorities good at
putting up signs and making rules. But when it come to enforcing dem rules, everybody suddenly develop a case of laryngitis. De authorities got to act now before de invasion become occupation! Because once de bars open and de playpens establish, moving dem gon become a national emergency. Everybody gon claim investment, hardship and victimisation. Politicians gon start making speeches, and somebody gon demand compensation for de loss of a business that never shoulda been there in de first place. So dem boys got one simple suggestion: take down de sign if nobody intends to enforce it. Because right now, de sign saying one thing, de vendors doing another, and de authorities behaving like dem watching de whole affair on television. And if dem boys understand Guyanese politics, pretty soon dem gon erect another sign. Because once the invasion is complete, the next sign on the Kingston Seawall may have to read: “Vending prohibited. Vendors welcome. Authorities absent.” Talk half. Leff half.
second would require little more than dusting off the old furniture and putting it back where it used to stand. The third will be seen as amounting to horse-trading. There is a perfectly plausible political argument that the two established parties have historically benefited from their mutual hostility. Each has been able to present itself to its supporters as the necessary bulwark against the other. Each has had an incentive to keep the old divisions alive, even when the country has paid the price. In that sense, the PPP/C and the PNCR have sometimes appeared less like mortal enemies than symbiotic twins. They fight, they quarrel, they accuse each other of every imaginable offence, but each political survival has depended on the existence of the other as the
principal adversary. Jagdeo may therefore have an interest in restoring the status quo ante: a political environment in which the central contest is once again between the PPP/C and the PNCR, and the two parties can continue to organise much of the national debate around their longstanding rivalry. If Jagdeo wants a new political relationship, he must demonstrate that he is prepared to pay the price of changing the old one. The PNCR should resist the temptation to rush into a bilateral arrangement that restores its former prominence at the expense of the wider opposition. Being invited back into the old political club may feel flattering, but the club's rules may still be designed by the same people. However, Jagdeo may be entirely sincere. If so, he
should have no difficulty demonstrating it through concrete proposals and measurable concessions. Until then, the PNCR should keep its champagne on ice and its political calculator close at hand. After all, in Guyanese politics, when an old adversary suddenly offers you a hand, it is worth checking whether he intends to shake it, hold it, or lead you straight back into the same old dance. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Civil society groups demand... From page 8 senior policemen face allegations of abuse?” the letter asked. It further questioned the message being sent to survivors, victims and perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence when a senior police officer is accused of committing serious acts against a fellow police inspector. The coalition also referenced recent gun violence in Linden, which left a child and a young man dead, as well as other reports of gun violence involving a senior member of the Guyana Police Force and the Leader of the Opposition. “How can Guyana have the kind of development which is respectful of human rights within institutions when duty bearers cannot be held accountable?” the statement asked. While mourning the lives lost during the week, the signatories reiterated their demand for an independent investigation into the allegations against Karimbaksh.
They also called on the deputy commissioner to step aside to allow the investigation to proceed and urged the Guyana Police Force and the Government of Guyana to publish the procedures governing the investigation. The coalition further appealed to citizens to reflect on the country’s culture of violence in all its forms and to identify ways to transform it. The letter was signed by representatives of civil society organisations and individuals, including the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA), Blossom Inc., Citizens Against Rape, the Guyana Organisation of Indigenous People (GOIP), Red Thread, the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) and We The People. Other signatories included Alissa Trotz, Christine Samaroo, Danuta Radzik, Dr. Raquel Thomas, Janette Bulkan, Jean La Rose, Rev. Patricia Sheerattan Bisnauth, Sherlina Nageer and Vanda Radzik, among others.
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UTH
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Tuesday 2026 MondayOctober May 02,20, 2022
H@RD TRUTHS
BY GHK LALL
The Robert Corbin effect T h i s m a n ’s R o b e r t Herman Orlando Corbin’s handiworks needs a longer, slower look. In dying, it seems that Mr. Corbin is more alive. Certainly, his spirit has taken on a m o t i v a t i n g q u a l i t y, a pervading strength. Who would have believed? I wouldn’t have gone so far. Some housekeeping is in order first. The attentive in Guyana would notice that I have been silent relative to a tribute on the passing of Robert Corbin. Let it suffice to say that I take to heart that profound Latin exhortation: de mortuis nil nisi bonum dicendum est (of the dead nothing but good is to be said). There I leave it. From there, I now gravitate to some intriguing, postp a s s a g e C o r b i n developments. What the man couldn’t achieve while he was around, he now compels others to get done. As Guyana would say: dah maan gat a strang spirit.
For there was Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who is PPP through and through, even to his own self-stunting, now rebalancing his portfolio, and reengineering himself, as Dr. PPP-PNC. See, why there’s so much regard for the Americans. Nicely done, Excellency. I can hear her message. What is going on in Guyana cannot continue to go on. Damnit! Assuredly, Dr. Jagdeo was not quite that enthusiastic about moving from where he has always been stuck. But there was that other motivating factor. A former best friend of the president, and as close as a friend can get to Jagdeo, Nandlall, et al, now the PPP’s most feared foe. A man that’s being made into a monstrous foe, with all manner of prior governmentally concealed stories now unearthed in a court of law, and hung out on the Guyana clothesline. Mr. Azruddin Mohamed of WIN is that second motivating factor, for Dr.
Jagdeo now being Dr. PPPPNC. There was the shock aka seismic shift of 16 parliamentary seats. If Mohamed can do that in five months, there’s no fooling around with what he could get done in five years (once he stays out of jail). Go ahead! Let Jagdeo and company deny. A former bankroller, let that also be denied. Hence, that most cunning of political animals returns. Bharrat Jagdeo is his name. Political vision and political preparation are his games. Relative to Mr. Mohamed, the ambassadors got him into parliament. Now they will have to spring him out of the penitentiary. This country is a real basket case. PPP Govt. leaders have to be given a steady supply of oxygen; the opposition leader has to be salvaged. The fear of Mohamed and WIN sent Dr. Jagdeo in sanctimonious spells during his Robert Corbin pre-funeral march, peroration. Dr. Jagdeo is
now Dr. PPP-PNC. Forget about strange bedfellows. This is incestuous bed fellowship. Who will trick whom? Watching Guyanese wait to learn that score. Next, this now dearly departed brother, leader, liberator worked some more of his afterlife magic. What the living God objected to, refused to bless, a dead RHO Corbin got done all by himself. There it was, broadcast across Guyana, and around the world: the Ali-Norton embrace. What to make of that movement, and what’s
behind it? Motivations. Visions. Conditions. In sum, additions, multiplications, and divisions (the long political kind). If anyone expects me to go further, there’s this kind word of counsel. Keep expecting. I didn’t do my usual, i.e., pen a tribute to Mr. Robert H. O. Corbin. But I do him better, by going a step farther. I pen a prayer of thanksgiving for his handiworks. Even when gone, he is around. Even when out of it, he is still in
the middle of Guyana’s politics, and a wonderful motivational spirit. A man had to die, for Dr. Ali, Dr. Jagdeo, and Mr. Norton to start breathing. May his soul rest in eternal peace. In Guyana, a new day begins. It is shaping up to be a new era, a new strain, of war and peace. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Uitvlugt man shot twice after refusing to hand over jewellery to masked bandits A 54-year-old self-employed man of Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, was shot twice on Sunday after resisting two masked bandits who attempted to rob him of his jewellery. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) said in a statement that ranks in Regional Division Three are investigating the alleged attempted armed robbery, which occurred at about 18:25hrs at Uitvlugt. Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was standing in front of a supermarket on the lower flat of his residence when he was approached by two masked men on a black motorcycle. One of the suspects, who was reportedly wearing a reflective vest, dismounted the motorcycle and attempted to forcibly remove the man’s jewellery. However, the victim resisted.
The suspect then pulled out a handgun, pointed it at the victim and demanded that he hand over his jewellery. When the man refused, the suspect reportedly discharged two rounds, hitting him in his right ankle and left leg. The injured man escaped into the supermarket, while the suspect ran back to the motorcycle. Both suspects then fled the scene. The victim was escorted to the De Kinderen Public Hospital, where he was examined, treated and admitted. His condition is listed as stable. Police ranks visited the scene, where two suspected 9mm spent shells were recovered. CCTV footage from the area is being reviewed as part of the investigation. No arrests have been made, and investigations are ongoing.
Demerara Bank launches $100M... From page 2 from humble beginnings on Guyana’s sugar estates to become a pioneering businessman and establish Demerara Bank, the country’s first indigenous commercial bank. “Throughout his life, he remained guided by a simple but powerful belief: every individual deserves a fair opportunity to improve their circumstances and build a better future. He dedicated decades to empowering Guyanese families, supporting entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for those who might otherwise have been left behind,” the Bank said.
DBL’s Housing Aid programme is now open. All applications are subject to assessment and approval in accordance with the programme’s established criteria and funding guidelines. The Bank noted that financial assistance is subject to a maximum approved amount per successful applicant. It was stated that all applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application in writing. DBL also stated that meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee approval or funding. Applications reopen annually.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday October 20, 2026
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Woman, 3-year-old son killed in Charity fire
The aftermath of the fire where the bodies were discovered.
...husband in custody for arson
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29-year-old Donette Albert
Three-year-old Keron Latchman
Magistrate to rule Nov. 10 on fate of Regent Street gas station bomber, accomplices
29-year-old woman and her three-yearold son died in a house fire at David James Housing Scheme, Charity, Essequibo Coast. The deceased have been identified as Donette Albert, 29, and Keron Latchman, three. Kaieteur News was informed that Albert’s husband is
in custody for suspected arson. The Guyana Fire Service (GFS), in a statement, said that upon arrival at the scene, firefighters encountered a twostorey wooden building fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters immediately went into action, employing swift and coordinated efforts to bring
the blaze under control. D u r i n g t h e e m e rg e n c y response, firefighters received reports that two occupants were trapped inside the burning building. After extinguishing the fire, firefighters conducted a search of the premises, which led to the discovery of the charred remains of Albert and her son.
Storage bond destroyed by fire in Mahaicony
P
r i n c i p a l Magistrate Faith McGusty is scheduled to rule on November 10 on whether three foreign nationals charged in connection with the deadly October 2025 Regent Street gas station bombing will be committed to stand trial in the high court. The decision date was set in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court following no-case submissions presented by defense attorneys representing three of the accused, Jhonny Boodram, Krystal La Cruz, and Alexander Bettencourt. The trio, along with prime suspect Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodemo, are facing terrorism charges over the attack at the Mobil Regent Street gas station, which claimed the life of six-yearold Soraya Bourne and left several others injured. Appearing before M a g i s t r a t e M c G u s t y, defense counsel argued that the prosecution, led by Mandel Moore, failed to establish a prima facie case against their clients. Boodram was represented by attorney Mikel Puran, La
Main suspect: Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo Cruz by attorney Tifaine Rutherford, and Bettencourt by attorney Melvin Duke. State-appointed counsel Shellon Boyce, representing the prime suspect Ramirez Peodemo, informed the court that her client would abide by the magistrate’s ruling. The case against the coaccused has seen significant developments. In March and April, Ramirez Peodemo admitted sole responsibility for the attack and urged the court to acquit his co-accused. H o w e v e r, a f t e r t h e Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) instructed the prosecution to Continued on page 16
A storage bond at the A&S General Construction Klyzaanar Asphalt Plant in De Hoop, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara was on Monday destroyed by fire. The Guyana Fire Service in a release said it successfully extinguished the
fire. Water Tender #125 and Water Carrier #35, along with firefighting crews from the Mahaica and Melanie Fire Stations, were dispatched to the scene. “Through swift and coordinated firefighting efforts, crews were able to
bring the blaze under control and successfully extinguish it, preventing further spread,” GFS said. However, it said that the storage bond sustained extensive damage as a result of the fire. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
The aftermath of the fire
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday 2026 MondayOctober May 02,20, 2022
Kaieteur News
Tuesday October 20, 2026
PAGE 13
Guyana’s oil earnings hit $27M wharf and US$3.88B, surpass 2026 shed to be built projection - NRF receipts jump as ExxonMobil recovers US$55B in investments;
at Mahaicony
Landing site at Central Mahaicony.
The construction of a timber wharf and shed at C e n t r a l M a h a i c o n y, Region Five, will cost $27 million under a project being executed by the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), an agency under the Ministry of Agriculture. According to information published on the website of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), the contract, valued at $27,009,010, was awarded to Copifix following a national competitive bidding process. Kaieteur News understands that this contractor was among 44 bidders that submitted bids for the project which was
estimated to cost $33,720,500 – government engineer’s figure. While a new construction will be undertaken at Mahaicony, NPTAB also awarded a $120,152,200 contract to Yunas Civil & Building Construction Services to execute the repairs to the Albion Fisher Folk Wharf, Corentyne, Region Six. The project forms part of the $67.6 billion allocated to the Ministry of Agriculture in this year ’s national budget. Through the ministry, the government has been upgrading several fisheries facilities across the country to ensure fisherfolk could ply their trade in more organised and secure spaces. Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, during the commissioning of a new wharf and shed at the Three
Door Koker Landing Site, West Coast Berbice, last year, said upon assuming office, the government recognised the importance of fisherfolk and had prioritised improving their working conditions through the Fisheries Landing Site Enhancement Project. “It commenced in 2023, costing over $300 million, targeting over 100 landing sites across the country through the construction of washroom facilities, sheds, wharves, solar lighting, ramps, and office buildings. Again, in 2024, another $300 million was expended for the enhancement and development of all Fisheries Landing Sites in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six, benefitting over 300 persons,” he explained at the time.
Guyana has already received more oil money than government anticipated new projects could erode profit share to earn for 2026. The country initially now increased since the cost of all projects projected the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) would receive approximately approved to date have been repaid; but this US$2.8B for the year but the oil account has does not mean the cost bank is empty as already overflowed with over US$3B by operational, exploration and other expenses still exist. Consequently, 20% of production August. According to the NRF receipt for the third has been set aside in the new formula for quarter, covering the period July 1, 2026 to costs. The remaining 40% is split evenly September 30, 2026, the country received a between Guyana and ExxonMobil. Currently, four projects are producing whopping US$1.8 billion in profits and a royalty payment. The document, published in about 900,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd). the official gazette, states that Guyana Guyana’s production will surpass one million received US$1.886 billion in three months barrels per day before the end of 2026 as the fifth project, Uaru will add alone. approximately 250,000 For context, Guyana barrels. The Floating barely received US$761 Production Storage and million during the first three Offloading vessel (FPSO) months of 2026. In the for that project has already second quarter, oil revenue arrived in Guyana. i n c r e a s e d t o Even as the country US$1,235,229,090 due to enjoys increased revenues higher oil prices. This means from the sector, its sudden that Guyana has already bounty could be impacted received US$3.882 billion by oil prices. While a up to end of September. sudden change in oil prices Guyana’s share of profits is beyond the control of the grew significantly during the third quarter after ExxonMobil recovered its US$55 state, government can take steps to prevent billion investments in the country. The the profits from falling again. If the GoG announcement was first made by the approves more projects for Exxon without chairman and chief executive officer of changing the existing arrangements, Exxon, Darren Woods during the company’s Guyana’s share of profits could again slide to July 31, 2026 earnings call for the second 12.5%. ExxonMobil is currently pursuing at quarter. Instead of just 12.5% of profits, least two new projects in the Stabroek BlockGuyana is now earning 39.8% in addition to its eighth and ninth- which will add more expenses to the cost bank. Without its quarterly 2% royalty. In accordance with the terms of the 2016 implementing new systems like a ringProduction Sharing Agreement (PSA), fencing provision, Guyana’s profit share Exxon was allowed to take out 75% of the oil could again fall to allow the operator to produced in Guyana each month until all of finance these multibillion U.S-dollar projects. the company’s investments were repaid. President Irfaan Ali during a press The remaining 25% of oil each month was split between Guyana and the contractors, conference told this newspaper that the GoG with the country receiving half of the “profit will seek expert advice on the financing of oil” or 12.5%. The country’s profit share has future developments.
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday October 20, 2026
96 CPCE teachers graduate with vocational qualifications Ninety-six teachers from the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) on Monday graduated from the C o l l e g e ’s C a r i b b e a n Vocational Qualification (CVQ) programme, gaining practical skills and occupational qualifications aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education in Guyana. The graduation ceremony was held at CPCE’s Convention Centre at the Turkeyen Campus and was attended by Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, Deputy Chief Education Officer – Technical, Dr. Ritesh Tularam, and other education officials. The CVQ programme equips teachers with practical competencies and recognised occupational qualifications to improve the delivery of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) across the country. According to the Ministry of Education, the programme became a mandatory component of the CPCE curriculum in 2023 for students pursuing specialisations in Agricultural Science, Industrial Technology, Home Economics and Visual Arts. That year, 121 TVET students across the College’s seven coastal centres were introduced to the programme. To meet the requirements for institutional certification, CPCE also invested in building the capacity of its staff to deliver and assess the programme. In April 2023, 14 full-time and part-time lecturers from various centres participated in
96 Teachers of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) graduated with a Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) certification on Monday. Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET). Initially, the College offered seven occupational areas, with students registered through partner post-secondary institutions, including the Linden Technical Institute (LTI), E s s e q u i b o Te c h n i c a l Institute (ETI), Guyana Technical Institute (GTI), Berbice Practical Instruction Centre (BV PIC), Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centre (MTVTC) and Hopetown Practical Instruction Centre. The ministry explained that CPCE began the process of becoming a registered CVQ institution in November 2024 and secured registration in June 2025. The registration allows the College to register its students directly for CVQ certification, strengthening its capacity to manage and
Minister of Education, Sonia Parag presenting a certificate to one of the teachers. deliver the programme. “Through the continued expansion of the CVQ programme, CPCE is contributing to the development of a more skilled teaching workforce and strengthening the
delivery of practical, competency-based education,” the ministry stated. Addressing the graduates, Minister Parag emphasised the growing importance of technical and
vocational skills in preparing Guyanese for emerging opportunities. She also challenged the perception that TVET is inferior to traditional academic education. “ Te c h n i c a l a n d vocational education is not a lesser pathway. It is essential to preparing our people for the opportunities ahead and building a skilled workforce that can contribute to G u y a n a ’s c o n t i n u e d development,” Parag said. She encouraged the teachers to take pride in their achievement and use their newly acquired competencies to share knowledge, inspire students and strengthen technical and vocational education at their respective institutions. Meanwhile, Dr. Tularam described the occasion as a celebration of commitment, professional growth, lifelong learning and the
pursuit of excellence in technical and vocational education. He told the graduates that obtaining a CVQ certification demonstrated their commitment to nationally and regionally recognised occupational standards. “It demonstrates that an individual has acquired and can apply the practical skills, knowledge, and competencies required to perform effectively in a particular occupational area,” he said. D r. Tu l a r a m a l s o highlighted the importance of continuous professional development in strengthening teachers’ capacity to deliver competency-based training and assessment. He encouraged the graduates to apply their newly acquired skills in the classroom and mentor their colleagues.
Recovered MV Barima EPIRB carried sticker urging vessel registration
Recovered EPIRB
A manufacturer’s warning sticker fixed to the MV Barima’s emergency locator beacon urging owners to “be responsible, be safe, complete your beacon registration” fell on deaf ears, and when questioned about the process on Monday before the Commission of Inquiry (COI), Christopher Bailey, surveyor of ships and acting Marine Superintendent for MARAD admitted he did not know who vessel owners are supposed to register the safety devices with. Appearing before the five-
member panel at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Bailey, was questioned directly by Commission Chair Godfrey Smith regarding a label found on the retrieved Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB). When asked by Chair Smith what the sticker meant, Bailey explained, “That would be a sticker by the manufacturer… it means to get your beacon registered. When you purchase your beacon from the manufacturer it’s then registered
to the vessel, so I guess this is maybe just a reminder.” However, when pressed by Chair Smith on who, vessel owners completed that registration with in Guyana, Bailey responded, “I’m not sure sir.” The exchange highlights regulatory oversights surrounding the tragedy. Previous testimony from Director of Air Navigation Services Rickford Samaroo confirmed that the MV Barima’s beacon was never registered with
Christopher Bailey, Surveyor of Ships and Acting Marine Superintendent for MARAD
Guyanese authorities. That failure severely hampered emergency responses on July 18, as officials receiving automated Continued on page 15
Kaieteur News
Tuesday October 20, 2026
Card game turns deadly — as 17-year-old stabbed to death at Westminster A card game at Westminster, La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, ended in tragedy on Sunday after a 17-year-old construction worker was fatally stabbed and a 26-year-old man was injured. According to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), police in Regional Division Three are investigating the alleged murder of Akeem Bannister, called “Boy”, of Westminster, and the unlawful wounding of the 26-year-old construction worker, who is from the same area. The incident occurred between 15:30hrs and 15:55hrs on Sunday, October 18, 2026, in the vicinity of a supermarket. Preliminary investigations revealed that an argument arose following a card game, which subsequently led to a confrontation involving the 26-year-old construction worker and a 30-year-old male vendor from the area.
During the confrontation, the 26-yearold allegedly armed himself with a cutlass and dealt the vendor a chop to his right hand. The vendor then reportedly drew a knife, and a physical scuffle ensued, during which the construction worker sustained injuries. Bannister became involved in the confrontation and was allegedly stabbed three times to his lower limbs by the 30-yearold vendor. Police said both Bannister and the injured construction worker were taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where Bannister succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention. The 26year-old was also treated at the hospital. CCTV footage from the surrounding area was obtained and is being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation. The 30-year-old suspect has not yet been apprehended, and investigations are ongoing.
Recovered MV Barima EPIRB... From page 14 satellite distress alerts could not match the device’s identification code to the v e s s e l , i t s o w n e r, o r emergency contacts. Bailey detailed his role in search and recovery operations following the sinking of the passenger vessel off the Essequibo Coast. Guyana’s Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) Unit at the Timehri Control To w e r h a d r e l a y e d coordinates to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard and MARAD after receiving distress alerts forwarded by the United States Mission Control Centre (USMCC) at 10:43 PM on July 18. Deployed aboard the pilot vessel Haiama, one of three MARAD craft dispatched to the scene, Bailey testified that he spotted a faint flashing light floating in the open water between 3:30 AM and 4:00 AM on July 19, 2026. “At approximately 3:30am to 4am in the morning, I would have seen a faint light from it, and I proceeded to that device. I didn’t know at the time what it was. When I got there, I discovered that it was indeed the EPIRB in the water,” Bailey testified. He noted that the device was drifting adrift approximately 3 to 4 nautical miles from the initial reported coordinates. “It wasn’t attached to any debris, it wasn’t attached to the vessel, it wasn’t attached to any life raft. It was found with no survivors. It was just afloat in the water. So, I retrieved it,” he stated. Bailey explained that the emergency beacon, designed to float free and
automatically transmit coded distress signals to the international Cospas-Sarsat Satellite Network when submerged under 1 to 4 meters of water, shut off immediately once pulled onto his vessel. “When I brought it on board, it immediately deactivated. It was not deactivated by me. It was not activated by me. It was in the water. I took it out, it deactivated immediately,” Bailey said. He later handed the beacon over to Captain John Flores at the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC). Responding to questions from Commissioner Andrzej Jaisonowski, Bailey agreed that the initial distress signal received at 10:43 PM on July 1 8 lik e ly ma r k ed t h e moment the MV Barima began submerging, causing the starboard side where the beacon was mounted to go under. Bailey also revealed that on November 17, 2025, he had conducted an inspection of the MV Barima and observed a beacon mounted on the starboard side of the wheelhouse in a white floatfree casing. However, given th e v o lu me o f v es s el inspections he performs, he told Commissioners he could not confirm whether the unit recovered from the sea was the same device he
had inspected months earlier. Recounting the night of the disaster, Bailey said he was alerted at his home around midnight on July 19 by a colleague. He contacted MARAD’s director general before heading to the MRCC and embarking from the Georgetown boathouse aboard the Haiama, accompanied by the pilot vessel Haiakwa. Upon reaching the search grid, Bailey’s vessel found three fully inflated life rafts floating in the water, but no survivors were inside. Harbor Master Captain Sultan and Coast Guard units were already on scene. At around 4:40 AM, Bailey learned that survivors had been rescued by coast guard officers and civilian fishermen. The Haiakwa was directed to transport the first 50 survivors to Pomeroon. The search continued over the following days. Bailey testified that between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM on July 20, search teams spotted and recovered a number of deceased bodies floating off t h e P o m e r o o n - Wa i n i coastline. Bailey is scheduled to reappear before the Commission at a later date to give further testimony regarding the physical condition and seaworthiness of the MV Barima.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday October 20, 2026
OP:ED THE MANY FACES OF EL NIÑO By Sergio Díaz-Granados Executive President
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(CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean) In April 2024, Bogotá was forced to ration its water supply when the Chingaza system, which provides 70% of the city's water, fell to approximately 16% of its capacity. In Grenada, prolonged drought led the Government to declare a national water crisis in May 2024, as reservoir levels fell to unprecedented lows and water restrictions were introduced across the country. In Panama, drought forced authorities to reduce daily transit slots through the Panama Canal, one of the world's main arteries of trade, from 36 to 22. Meanwhile, Ecuador experienced the opposite: between December 2023 and March 2024, rainfall associated with El Niño affected approximately 160,000 people and more than 35,000 homes. Four countries, one climate phenomenon, and profoundly different consequences. Traditionally, when we think of El Niño, we associate it with a lack of rainfall and prolonged droughts. Yet its effects are far more wide-ranging. While it increases the risk of drought in some areas, in others it brings extreme rainfall and flooding. This reality underscores the need to tailor our response to climate phenomena to the specific vulnerabilities and needs of each territory. There can be no one-sizefits-all solutions to threats that manifest themselves in such different ways. This lesson is particularly relevant as a new El Niño event intensifies in the Pacific. The World Meteorological
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Organization forecasts that it will reach its peak in December. This El Niño has the potential to be the strongest in the past 100 years. It poses a threat to the well-being and livelihoods of millions of people and communities already facing difficult circumstances. The potential consequences extend far beyond immediate emergencies. Water scarcity and flooding can disrupt the delivery of essential services, including drinking water and electricity, while exacerbating risks to public health and food security. These impacts may be compounded by losses in agriculture, livestock and fisheries, damage to infrastructure, supply chain disruptions and potential price increases. A climate threat of this magnitude can escalate into an economic, social and fiscal crisis. Latin America and the Caribbean must prepare to confront these consequences but, above all, seize the opportunity to act before they occur. To this end, CAF has made an initial USD 1 billion financing package available to the region to strengthen preparedness and response efforts ahead of the 2026–2027 El Niño event. These resources will help countries address their most urgent
needs while also advancing their long-term priorities. For far too long, our region's response to natural disasters has followed the same pattern: respond to the emergency, rebuild what was lost, recover what we can, and wait for the next disaster to strike. At CAF, we are working to help break this cycle. We intend to do so through a combination of financing, institutional capacity-building and regional coordination that complements the efforts of individual countries. This commitment is already translating into concrete action. As part of the
third edition of the International Economic Forum – Latin America and the Caribbean, which will take place in Panama on January 27 and 28, 2027, we will convene the first Meeting of Ministers of Economy of Latin America and the Caribbean, dedicated to disaster risk financing and strengthening fiscal institutions. This meeting will provide an opportunity to address the challenges posed by El Niño, exchange experiences and advance instruments that enable countries to anticipate, manage and transfer risks, safeguard public finances
and respond more effectively to emergencies. We will also develop a white paper containing recommendations and good practices tailored to the region's diverse territorial realities. This effort will be complemented by the development of practical risk management tools, technical assistance programmes and mechanisms to facilitate the exchange of information and knowledge among countries and institutions. The devastating events that have struck our countries in recent months remind us that not all natural disasters can be predicted with precision. Nevertheless, science and knowledge are providing us with ever greater opportunities to identify threats, understand their potential impacts and reduce vulnerabilities. The challenge is to translate that knowledge into decisions, and those decisions into effective capabilities to protect people, economies and territories. El Niño will take many forms. Our response must be equally diverse. The goal is to prevent threats we can anticipate from repeatedly setting back the development of our countries. At CAF, we are supporting this effort with resources, knowledge and concrete action.
GPSU blasts govt. over wage talks delay From page 8 however, it remains entirely clear that there are elements within the government who are actively opposed to decent work and the payment of a livable salary to you. Steps taken Outlining the steps taken thus far, the GPSU told its members that they have been working tirelessly to ensure that the dedication, resilience, and sacrifices of public servants are met with fair, livable economic returns. “Over the past several months, the Union has taken the following structured steps: submission of Comprehensive Proposals: We formally submitted our detailed memorandum of demands for 2026 to the Government of Guyana. This proposal factors in the current cost of living, economic growth indicators, and inflation to ensure your purchasing power is not only protected but enhanced.” It noted too that it has demanded Collective Bargaining, noting that it has consistently written to the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of the Public Service, demanding the immediate invocation of the legally binding Collective Bargaining process.
“We have firmly emphasized that arbitrary, one-sided impositions, including premeditated year-end handouts, cannot substitute for mutual, good-faith negotiations that yield market- de-
termined salaries and wages.” According to the GPSU, despite its law-abiding approach and continuous outreach, the administration’s response continues to lack the urgency and gravity required to address the plight of public servants. “This reluctance to engage in meaningful, face-toface collective bargaining signals a blatant disregard for the very workforce that keeps the wheels of the state turning. The GPSU refuses to accept the erosion of our members’ standard of living while national revenue continues to reach unprecedented heights.” According to the union, while they remain deeply committed to a peaceful, negotiated settlement, “we cannot allow prolonged silence or evasion to compromise the welfare of our families. The strength of a union lies entirely in the unity and readiness of its membership to stand up for what matters most.
Therefore, the Executive Council calls on all members to stand on high alert as we prepare to issue a final ultimatum to the government to meet at the negotiation table. We demand a collective bargaining process based on market-determined criteria and the true performance of our
booming economy. Please note that should the government fail to engage the GPSU in good-faith negotiations within the stipulated timeframe, the Union will be forced to utilize all lawful mechanisms available to defend the rights of workers,” the union said.
Magistrate to rule Nov. 10 on... From page 11 proceed with terrorism charges against Boodram, La Cruz, and Bettencourt, all Venezuelan nationals, Ramirez Peodemo retracted his guilty plea, opting to face trial proceedings alongside them. The court concluded the tendering of evidence in July during paper committal proceedings, submitting more than 225 written statements and exhibits into evidence. The prosecution’s evidence includes statements from doctors at the National Forensic Science University in India, reports from police investigators, and testimonies from key prosecution witnesses. Additional evidence features a DNA analysis report from the Center of Excellence in DNA Forensics in India, the post-mortem report detailing the cause of death for six-
year-old Soraya Bourne, medical certificates detailing injuries sustained by surviving victims, and immigration records for Boodram, Bettencourt, Ramirez Peodemo, and a fourth suspect, Jennifer Rodriguez. The October 2025 bombing initially implicated eight individuals across different court jurisdictions. Venezuelan national Jennifer Rodriguez was previously committed to stand trial in the High Court following paper committal proceedings at the Leonora Magistrates’ Court. Meanwhile, all charges against Guyanese nationals Wayne Corriea and Ramesh Pramdeo were dismissed by Magistrate Alisha George at the Leonora Magistrates’ Court due to insufficient evidence connecting them to the conspiracy.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday October 20, 2026
PAGE 17
MV Barima disaster: Engineer lacked maritime certification,
search faced obstacles, rescue logs relied on media The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the fatal capsizing of the MV Barima on Monday exposed troubling gaps in vessel maintenance, maritime safety procedures and the coordination of the initial search-and-rescue operation, with testimony revealing that the vessel's chief engineer lacked formal maritime certification for his position, mandatory safety drills were not being conducted, and official rescue records relied on figures obtained from media reports. The disclosures emerged during Monday's resumed hearings at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, where commissioners examined the operational preparedness of the vessel, the limitations confronting military aircraft during the early search, and the accuracy of information recorded by the authorities as rescuers worked to locate passengers and crew following the July 18, 2026 disaster. Taken together, the testimonies raise questions about whether adequate systems were in place to maintain the vessel, ensure compliance with safety requirements, and coordinate an emergency response when the MV Barima got into difficulty. Chief engineer lacked formal maritime certification Chief Engineer Christopher Clark, of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), told the commission that he held no formal maritime licence or certification for his position, relying instead on an internal promotion letter issued by management. Under questioning by commissioners, Clark disclosed that although he had spent approximately two decades in the department, much of his work involved shore-based plumbing and electrical repairs rather than engineering duties aboard vessels. His testimony also raised questions about his familiarity with the MV Barima and the vessel's maintenance history. Clark acknowledged that he had not worked on or maintained the vessel in nearly 18 years and could not recall basic structural details, including the location of its onboard water tanks. The commission also heard that the MV Barima operated without a formal planned maintenance system or standard operating procedure manuals. Instead, servicing was carried out on an adhoc basis every 500 engine hours. Adding to the concerns, Clark admitted that mandatory safety drills were not being conducted. The testimony raises questions about the standards governing appointments to senior maritime engineering positions, the systems used to monitor vessel maintenance, and the enforcement of safety procedures within the
MARAD Chief Engineer Christopher Clark Major Loyden Layne
maritime sector. It also places the vessel's maintenance arrangements under scrutiny as the commission seeks to establish the circumstances that led to the tragedy and whether deficiencies in operational preparedness contributed to the outcome. Unlit airstrips constrained early search efforts The commission also heard how inadequate nighttime landing facilities along the Essequibo Coast limited the options available to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Air Corps during the early hours of the search. Major Loyden Layne testified that he received an urgent telephone call from his commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Jocelyn Hosanah, shortly after 1:00 a.m. on July 19, 2026, following the emergency involving the MV Barima. He was initially asked to fly from Ogle to either Anna Regina or Hampton Court. However, Major Layne advised that landing at either airstrip before first light would not be advisable unless runway lighting was activated. He told the commission that neither runway was lit and that the operation could proceed only at first light or if the necessary lighting was available. The flight objective was subsequently changed to an offshore reconnaissance mission using a GDF Islander aircraft. Major Layne recounted that he and his co-pilot operated in pitchblack conditions at an altitude of approximately 500 feet, spending between 20 and 25 minutes circling a steady red light observed offshore. The location was estimated to be 49.5 nautical miles from Ogle and 14 nautical miles from Hampton Court. The aircraft did not have specialised searchlights, limiting the crew's ability to observe the area to what could be seen with the naked eye. The coordinates of the location were entered into the aircraft's GPS and relayed to GDF headquarters for further operational action.
Rickford Samaroo, Director of Air Navigation Services at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)
Major Layne's witness statement and accompanying map were tendered into evidence as Exhibits LL1 and LL2. His testimony highlighted the practical constraints confronting the early aerial search, including the absence of runway lighting at the two coastal airstrips and the limited visual-search capability of the aircraft deployed. Rescue authority relied on media reports for survivor figures Questions about the reliability of the first emergency response were also raised during the testimony of Rickford Samaroo, Director of Air Navigation Services at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). When commissioners questioned him about figures indicating that 67 persons had been rescued while 66 others remained the subject of the search, Samaroo acknowledged that the information came from media reports rather than records independently maintained by the authority. “Well, that's what we had from the media releases,” Samaroo told the commission. Pressed on whether the figures came directly from the media and whether subsequent updates had been recorded, he confirmed that they had not been incorporated into the authority's log. “Media, yeah,” he said, adding that although the media issued several updates during the day, those updates were not recorded. “No, not in our log. Thank you,” Samaroo told the
commission. The exchange raised questions about how survivor and missingperson figures were tracked and verified during the initial response to the disaster, particularly while search operations were continuing. The testimony did not, by itself, establish that the figures used by the authorities were incorrect. However, it exposed a gap in the record-keeping process, with the commission hearing that media updates were available but were not entered into the relevant operational log. Search-and-rescue timeline examined During Samaroo's testimony, the commission received several technical exhibits, including the status incident report and integrated time log generated by the Rescue Coordination Centre, an air traffic control audio transcript involving Roraima Airways aircraft ROR 401, and excerpts from the 2019 Aeronautical Search and Rescue Plan, as amended in 2024. These were admitted as Exhibits RS3, RS4 and RS5, respectively. Samaroo explained that the timestamps in the integrated operational logs were recorded in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), requiring four hours to be deducted to establish local Guyanese time. According to the status report, the Rescue Coordination Centre was formally activated at 1:10 a.m. local time on July 19, with L.
Fernandez designated as the Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator for aerial operations. At 1:08 a.m., Aeronautical Information Services had queried a Cospas-Sarsat beacon alert and confirmed that a beacon message had been received for the vessel. Roraima Airways flight ROR 401 departed Eugene F. Correia International Airport at 1:39 a.m., while a Guyana Defence Force helicopter departed at 2:04 a.m. to join the search. The asset movement records tendered into evidence showed that seven aircraft were mobilised to search maritime target zones and coastal areas. The aircraft included Roraima Airways' BN2 Islander, registration 8 R - G R C , a n d Tr i s l a n d e r, registration 8R-GRF; GDF Air Corps assets comprising a BN2 Islander, registration 8R-GMN, a helicopter, registration 8R-GKE, and a Dornier 228, registration 8RBKS; and two additional rotorcraft identified in the records as P-R-OO-J and 8R-MVA. The air traffic control transcript documented ROR 401 making contact over the search grid at 3:11 a.m. local time. The pilot reported that a flare had been located and that the aircraft had detected a strong emergency locator transmitter signal. Because the aircraft was operating at low altitude over the water, controllers instructed the crew to switch radio frequencies from 128.6 MHz to 124.2 MHz. The records provided the commission with a timeline of the activation of the rescue coordination centre, the deployment of aircraft and communications between search aircraft and controllers. H o w e v e r, t h e q u e s t i o n s surrounding the recording of survivor figures indicate that the existence of operational logs alone does not settle whether all critical information was consistently captured and updated during the emergency. National search-and-rescue framework under scrutiny Samaroo also outlined the framework governing search-andrescue operations, explaining that Guyana's system is structured around standards established under International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 12 and the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue manual. The framework brings together several agencies, including the GDF Air Corps and Coast Guard, Civil Defence Commission, MARAD, Guyana Police Force, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, the Aerodromes Department and local airport authorities. Asked whether the plan was (Continued on page 18)
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France imposes curfews in parts of Paris, other cities after weekend of riots (Reuters) - French authorities set curfews in parts of several cities on Monday, including Paris, Lille and Nice, as they faced pressure over security failings after a weekend of riots and looting stemming from nationwide antigovernment protests. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu had ruled out a blanket curfew in Paris but not a state of emergency, and had said it was more appropriate for now to partial and localised curfews. "My determination to restore order is absolute," he told reporters. Paris police said they had issued orders barring protests in certain areas of the French capital from 8 p.m. (1800 GMT) and had issued a curfew around the Place de la Republique and Les Halles from 11:00 p.m. Both would remain in effect until 6 a.m. on Tuesday morning.”A police deployment is in place to ensure strict compliance with these measures," the police said in a statement. A source in Lecornu's office said a curfew for minors had been set between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. for the next two days in Lille, Douai, Wattignies and Denain with the agreement of the local mayors. In Nice, mayor Eric Ciotti said in a video posted online that he had signed an order installing a curfew for minors in central Nice overnight. Marseille banned gatherings and demonstrations. French unions meanwhile called for a new round of strikes and rallies on November 5. The weekend of looting and violence between some protesters and police followed weeks of student demonstrations, rocking France six months ahead of its next presidential election and highlighting pressures from a weak economy and surging debt. MINISTER BLAMES FAR LEFT
People walk past the damaged window of a McDonald's in Paris, the day after a national day of demonstrations, October 18. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier
Lecornu blamed far-left groups for some of France's worst unrest in years. "There is, after all, a far-left movement that wants to cause — we can't put it any more strongly — profound unrest in the country in the run-up to the presidential election," he said. Hard-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon urged him to provide evidence. "Otherwise, he should apologise, keep quiet and stop fanning the flames of unrest," he said on X. The Federation of Trade and Retail said almost 3,000 shops had been affected over the weekend. "Behind every ransacked shop are business owners, employees and families who have seen years of work and effort wiped out in a matter of hours," it added, calling for social security and tax relief for affected businesses. Lecornu said the government would provide furlough measures from Tuesday.
Standing before a boarded-up shopfront, Gerard Nouchi, manager of two clothing stores in Marseille, said there weren't enough police to stop the looters. "They trashed everything, broke things, insulted us,” Nouchi said. "It was like a real tornado." The government o rdered platforms selling looted goods to take down announcements and collaborate to prosecute resellers, Junior Digital Minister Anne Le Hénanff wrote on X. Some 2,400 people were arrested and one protester died from a cardiac arrest on Saturday while nearly 1,000 officers injured, according to the Interior Ministry. 'LEFT WITHOUT PROTECTION' French assets were underperforming broader European markets on Monday, though moves were more contained than at some other moments of recent political friction.
Engineer lacked maritime certification... From page 17 regularly tested, Samaroo said communication exercises and biannual fullscale field operations were audited by the GCAA's regulatory division to identify and correct deficiencies. The commission requested that copies of previous exercise evaluation reports be submitted to its secretariat. Those reports could provide further information about the deficiencies identified during earlier exercises, the corrective measures recommended and whether the relevant agencies had implemented them. Questions the inquiry must resolve The testimonies have placed several aspects of the disaster under examination: the qualifications and experience required for senior engineering positions, the
maintenance and safety systems governing the MV Barima, the limitations confronting aircraft deployed during the initial search, and the reliability of information recorded by the authorities as rescue operations unfolded.While the evidence presented does not, on its own, establish the precise cause of the vessel's capsizing or determine whether any individual failure directly caused the loss of life, it has highlighted areas in which the commission may need to examine existing procedures, operational decisions and institutional accountability. The inquiry continues as commissioners seek to reconstruct the events surrounding the disaster, assess the preparedness of the agencies involved and determine what lessons must be drawn to prevent a recurrence.
Te n s i o n s i n P r e s i d e n t Emmanuel Macron's fragile government over apparent security shortcomings — coming as the government needs to pass a budget bill to rein in its finances — could further unsettle investors. Macron's office said on Monday he had turned down his Interior Minister Laurent Nunez's offer to resign, telling him instead to put an end to barricades and looting and be transparent over what Macron called "intelligence and foresight failings". Nunez told reporters that Tuesday evening's Champions League soccer match between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona would go ahead as planned. The mayors of Paris, Marseille and Lyon said in a joint op-ed in the newspaper Liberation that they were used to demonstrations and protests. "But on Saturday ... for the first time, we had the feeling that whole
sections of our cities had been left without protection," said the mayors, all from the centre-left. The start of school holidays on Monday may provide relief, but students were staging more gatherings and blockades in some places, including the Louvre gallery and Sciences Po university in central Paris. LUXURY BOUTIQUES DAMAGED At the weekend, hundreds of thousands took to the streets to protest over what many say are declining and dysfunctional public services. At the Place Vendome in Paris, home to l uxury hotels and boutiques, most shops were shuttered and surrounded by security guards on Monday. The front door of a Dior boutique was smashed, while windows belonging to other luxury brand stores in central Paris, including Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren and Gucci, were damaged. In Marseille, Ligue 1 club Olympique de Marseille said its official store on the city's historic main avenue had been looted, while a town hall in central France was torched. France deployed 60,000 police and other security forces on Saturday, Nunez told France Inter radio, but he acknowledged that was not enough to control violent crowds. Cost-of-living issues also drove weekend protests in other European countries including Italy, Belgium and Albania. European governments have advised citizens travelling to France to avoid large crowds and exercise caution. As France was busy cleaning up its streets, Macron arrived in Kuwait for a Gulf trip aimed at securing additional petrol and diesel supplies to bring down pump prices.
IDB increases lending capacity to support development in LAC (CMC)The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) says it has increased its additional lending capacity to US$138 billion over the next decade to support development in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), reflecting the impact of institutional reforms and financial innovation.It said that additional lending headroom has increased by 68 per cent this year, from $US82 billion to US$138 billion over the next 10 years, exceeding initial projections. The increase is driven by capitaladequacy reforms, exposure-exchange agreements, and revised credit-rating agency criteria.The IDB Group's $138 billion additional space accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the US$792 billion in additional
lending capacity collectively reported by the heads of multilateral development banks (MDBs).The IDB Group is on track to reach its ambition of providing $500 billion in financing over the next decade. “The increase in lending capacity demonstrates how capital-adequacy measures, innovation, and prudent risk management can help multilateral development banks expand their scale and impact while maintaining financial strength,” said IDB Group President Ilan Goldfajn.At the IDB, the public-sector arm of the IDB Group, additional lending headroom increased as a result of financial innovations as well as revised credit-rating agency criteria for the institution' s financial strength.
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N T B . U . L . L T B . N . U . N U T L N B . U . T . L N T U N B . N U . L U L LUNT. B . T . . T T N N B U B . U . L . L T B . B . . N . . . T U T L Access to N N T U U L N L B U . B . . L . . . T B T . . N . N T U L N LU information B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . NT LUNT...B NT...BLU N U L B . . B . U . . T L . N T B . . U N . L N T B U N . . L . U T L B . . N B . . . T U . L N T B U . . L . UN T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L B U UN .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B . . L LU ...BLUN . T B . . N . T U L N T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U BBL T...BLUN BLUNT... ...BLU . T . N . N T T U L U N L B U T...BLU U B . L . N . B T . . . N T U N N N L U U U B L . L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Tuesday October 20, 2026
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Guyana’s Access to Information Act was intended to promote transparency, not provide public officials with excuses to avoid accountability. Commissioner of Information, Charles Ramson Sr.’s response to requests for oil and gas documents raises troubling questions about his commitment to that mandate.
The High Court has already ruled that he breached the law by failing to determine three requests within the prescribed period. Yet citizens seeking critical information about the Gas-to-Energy project and hazardous waste management remain waiting. Ramson is entitled to pursue the legal process, but he must not treat judicial authority with disdain or allow technicalities to frustrate the public’s right to information.
President Irfaan Ali must demand accountability. Guyana’s oil wealth belongs to its people, who deserve transparency, not bureaucratic obstruction. Public office is a responsibility, not a shield against scrutiny.
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Bravo, Simmons demolish England as Windies crowned WCL 2026 Champs West Indies Champions celebrate winning the 2026 World Championship of Legends title.
W
est Indies Champions thrashed their England counterparts in the final of the WCL 2026
Batting first, England Champions lost both openers, Jason Roy and Dawid Malan inside the powerplay overs to Shelton
season in Sharjah. The outcome granted the West Indies Champions team its first-ever WCL title in three editions of the tournament.
Tuesday October 20, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19 A small spark in a dry field is apt to whip the hill into flames. A raging wildfire may be underway by the end of the day. Know that you're one of the biggest perpetrators, but don't feel badly about it. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Put on some lively music you can dance to and really kick up your heels, Taurus. It's time to put away the sour mood and have fun. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) This is a tremendously expansive time for you, Gemini, and there is very little that will stop your momentum once you get going. Your eyes are alive with a spark that says that you're ready to take on the world.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) This is a terrific day for you, Libra, and you will glow brightly from head to toe as you radiate your true inner self to the world. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Tap into the boisterous, lighthearted mood of the day instead of getting bogged down with heavy emotions. This is a good time to engage your mind rather than let your heart take control. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Your optimism will be inspiring today. You will find that your lighthearted approach is perfectly suited to taking care of any issue that arises.
CANCER (June 21–July 22) This is a good time to put things in writing. Your gift with words is apt to shine today as you write a proposal, email, or love poem.
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Difficult challenges that have been lingering on the sidelines will probably become more prominent today. There is a strong possibility that things will come to a head.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) The day's energy is apt to be lively, making it much easier to get the things done that you need to do. You will find people are more than eager to help .
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You could be the one everyone runs to for advice today. You're the one with all the answers who can easily pull the rabbit out of a hat.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Obstacles that you have ignored are suddenly starting to expand beyond reasonable proportions. Be careful of what you say as a result, because your words could spread like wildfire.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may get frustrated when you find that people aren't as sensitive to a situation as you want them to be. While you're looking to make a strong connection with someone.
Cottrell and Fidel Edwards respectively. Captain Ravi Bopara also listed 16 runs from his end off 17 balls with a solitary boundary before becoming Dwayne Bravo's first victim of the evening. Moeen Ali at number four resurrected the tottering England Champions innings with an insurgent 60 off 39 balls. The legendary allrounder and hard-hitting middle-order batter clattered four fours and four huge sixes in his knock, and shared a counterattacking partnership with Owais Shah to lift his side from 61-5 to 115-6. While Raymon Reifer got the better of Ali, Dwayne Bravo dismissed Joe Denly and Samit Patel in quick succession to bag sensational figures of 3-21 from his four overs. Owais chipped in with a fighting 38* off 28 balls to steer England Champions to a competitive total of 159-7. For West Indies, Shelton Cottrell and Fidel Edwards as well as Raymon Reifer and Carlos Brathwaite all assisted Dwayne Bravo by picking up a wicket each. Chasing 160 runs to win, West Indies Champions lost captain and legendary opener Chris Gayle for 21 off
Uefa gives... From page 24 planned distribution funding for MAs from 2027 to 2030, with $25m (£19m) available per member association. "Why was substantially increased funding for MAs presented in connection with FFE and external investment, rather than being financed directly from Fifa's own resources?" Uefa has asked. "Given Fifa's strong financial position, why was it considered necessary to seek investment from private investors? What financial or strategic advantages would such an arrangement have offered compared with funding football development directly from Fifa's own resources, particularly in light of Fifa's subsequent proposal to do precisely that on a substantially increased scale?"While Fifa is yet to respond, sources have indicated its ability to answer certain questions are restricted by the legal action that Uefa has launched. Last month, it filed legal papers in the US requesting disclosure of evidence and documents from Fifa, warning it could lodge a criminal complaint in Switzerland.
14 balls with a boundary and two huge sixes in the final over of the powerplay. His partner Lendl Simmons, however, went berserk in his scorching halfcentury. The former West Indies cricketer blasted 77* runs off just 53 balls with eight boundaries and three huge sixes.Simmons also shared an unbroken 119-run partnership for the second wicket with fellow half-
centurion Chadwick Walton. The latter of the two himself composed 58* off 35 balls as the West Indies Champions soared past the Englishmen with three overs and nine wickets to spare. With the win, the West Indies Champions has now lifted its first-ever WCL title after losing the 2024 and 2025 editions of the tournament in the last two years. (CREX)
St Joseph's High clinches October Fest... From page 27 the title decider through victories in the semifinal round, with Christ Church overcoming Annandale Secondary and St Joseph's High defeating Patentia Secondary to set up the championship showdown. Sommersell's influential contribution throughout the competition was recognised when he was named Most Valuable Player (MVP), capping an outstanding tournament for the St Joseph's High all-rounder.The competition, coordinated by James Lewis, head of Uprising Promotions, was supported by the Toolsie Persaud Group of Companies and several other contributors whose involvement helped ensure its successful staging. The organisers acknowledged the contributions of Ambassador Ivan Evelyn, Chief of Protocol; Rosalinda Rashul; Ambassador Audrey Waddle; Ambassador Keith George; and Honourable Carl Greenidge. Meanwhile, organisers indicated that the next edition of the secondary schools tapeball competition is tentatively planned for November to coincide with the Diwali Festival of Lights, subject to the availability of sponsorship.
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Uefa gives Infantino two-week deadline to release key documents (BBC Sport) - European governing body Uefa has told Fifa it must release key documents and answer all questions relating to its governance and decisionmaking by a deadline of 2 November. At the Fifa Council on Thursday, president Gianni Infantino apologised for his World Cup sell-off plan - but f a i l e d t o o ff e r a f u l l explanation for how the proposal was devised. In the letter seen by BBC Sport, Uefa general secretary Theodore Theodoridis said that world football's governing body had failed to address "a number of fundamental questions". "Others remain unanswered, and the information and documentation requested have not been provided," it read.The letter included eight pages containing 42 questions covering a number of issues, from the Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) private investment, to the Fifa Peace Prize and the controversial suspended ban given to USA striker Folarin
Balogun at the World Cup. "The withdrawal of FFE, the acknowledgement of mistakes and the announcement of 'potential governance reforms' do not answer how the relevant decisions were taken or why the Fifa Council was not involved at the appropriate stage," it continued. "Any refusal to disclose information or documents should be justified individually, with a clear explanation of the specific grounds relied upon. "These questions require answers now. They cannot be deferred until the next meeting of the Fifa Council nor can future governance reforms substitute for scrutiny of decisions already taken and accountability for them."Uefa did not outline what steps it intended to take should Fifa not meet the deadline, but will hope it adds to the pressure on Infantino ahead of November 18, the cut-off date for any candidates to confirm they are standing against him in next year's presidential election.
Ronaldo given 30-day suspension and £215 fine by Portuguese FA
Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearanc es (Getty Images)
(BBC Sport) - Cristiano Ronaldo has been given a 30-day suspension and fined 255 euros (£215) by the Portuguese Football Federation after leaving his country's international camp last month. The 41-year-old captain walked out of Portugal's Nations League squad in September after being an unused substitute against Norway and then finding out he would not start against Denmark.Ronaldo said in a lengthy statement he had left because Portugal coach Jorge Jesus twice "broke his word", accusing him of an "absolute breach of trust". It is not clear which matches or activities the suspension would cover, or whether time already served under a provisional suspension would count towards the 30-day sanction.The Al-Nassr forward was provisionally suspended on 9 October. If the suspension is backdated to that date, he will be available to play in his country's next match - against Denmark on 14 November.Portugal boss Jesus denied making any agreement with Ronaldo but has left the door open for his return.Ronaldo accepted accountability and apologised to his team-mates and fans for his actions, before adding he deserved to be punished.Pedro Proenca, president of the FPF, told Portuguese outlet Record there is a "strong desire" to have Ronaldo back with the national team once the matter is resolved.Ronaldo, who has won the Ballon d'Or five times, has scored 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances - both men's world records - helping them win Euro 2016 and the two Nations League titles. Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances (Getty Images)
The questions were first put to Infantino at the Fifa Council last week, with Infantino then asking that they were submitted in writing.Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt - a Fifa vice-president - said afterwards that "if he doesn't answer those questions, he's not fit to be Fifa president". Fifa has been approached for comment. Fifa faces question on FFE and funding to associations Uefa has posed a great number of questions about FFE. "When was the idea of FFE first explored, by whom and with what objective?" Uefa asked. "Who within Fifa authorised the development of the project, and which members of the Fifa administration were involved? "What concrete measures will Fifa put in place to ensure that the shortcomings identified in the FFE process cannot occur again in the future?" Uefa goes on to ask about the circumstances surrounding Infantino's initial presentation of the FFE plan to senior Fifa
executives.In particular, it raises a question about a potential investigation into Fifa in the United States. BBC Sport has approached Uefa to ascertain what this is in relation to."According to information received from several sources, two days before the vote by the bureau of the management board on the FFE proposal, the Fifa president informed members of the management board that the US authorities were investigating Fifa's administration," Uefa claim. "Can he confirm whether such a statement was made and, if so, explain the information on which it was based, the reasons for raising it at that particular moment and whether he considered the potential pressure it might place on members immediately before their decision on FFE?" Uefa requested information on whether Infantino would have held or expected to hold any position, role or function in FFE, either during or following his tenure as Fifa president.
The relationship with Joshua Kushner's Thrive Capital was covered in detail, asking why an agreement granting exclusivity to the company was signed without prior consultation of the Fifa Council."Why was Thrive Capital selected as lead i n v e s t o r, w i t h o u t a n y competitive tendering process and under conditions of strict confidentiality, despite its links to the family of the recipient of the Fifa Peace Prize?" Uefa asked. Kushner is the brother of Donald Trump's son-in-law, while the US president was awarded the Peace Prize. Uefa also requested answer about the award of the Peace Prize, specifically who decided to establish it, for what purpose, and who decided that Trump should receive it.
Gianni Infantino has been president of Fifa since 2016 and is standing for re-election for a third time (Getty Images)
When the FFE plan was revealed in the days following the World Cup final, Infantino told the 211 member associations (MAs) they would receive $40m (£30m) if they backed it. He then set a deadline of 19 September for federations to accept his plans if they wanted to access an initial $20m (£15m). However, once the scheme was abandoned, Uefa and Concacaf called on Fifa to pay at least $10m (£7.5m) from its cash reserves to each of the MAs and, last week, Infantino agreed, proposing to increase the amount of money handed out for football development across the world by $3.4bn (£2.6bn).The releasing of cash from its reserves will result in double the level of (Continued on page 23)
Tottenham squeeze past Coventry to end winless start
James Maddison scored for Tottenham for the first time since May 1, 2024 when he netted in the Europa League semi-final first-leg tie against Bodo/Glimt. (Getty Images) (BBC Sport) - Tottenham Hotspur recorded their first Premier League win of the season to move off the bottom of the table with a home victory over Coventry City.Spurs, who went on a four-day warm-weather training camp in Marbella, Spain last week, only needed 14 minutes to take the lead. Midfielder James Maddison, starting a Premier League match for the first time since 27 April, 2025 after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, scored with a superb first-time shot into the top corner after good work from Mohammed Kudus. Dominic Solanke thought he had added a second when he converted from Andy Robertson's pass, but the Scotland captain was offside before
crossing.Spurs midfielder Sandro Tonali, speaking to Sky Sports at halftime, said "one-nil is not enough for us" and so it proved as Coventry equalised five minutes after the restart. Tottenham defender Jan Paul van Hecke lost possession and Jack Rudoni progressed down the left wing, the ball rebounding to him when a shot was blocked and he converted well to make it 1-1.But the hosts retook the lead in the 58th minute. Omar Marmoush got the goal, his first for Tottenham since joining on loan from Manchester City in August, with Spurs having an obligation to turn it into a permanent £60m deal at the end of the season.Marmoush struck his effort powerfully, but Coventry were unhappy
as the Egyptian caught Milan van Ewijk with an elbow to the face before shooting and scoring, although the goal was allowed to stand. Ben Davies sealed the victory with a third goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time with a low strike from the edge of the box into the corner of the net.There was a further boost for Tottenham as Sweden forward Dejan Kulusevski came on as a late substitute, making his first appearance since he suffered a serious knee injury in the 2-0 home loss to Crystal Palace on 11 May, 2025.This was only the sixth time in 37 matches that Tottenham had earned a home Premier League win and it took them from 20th up to 16th, moving above Coventry on goal difference.
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GDF FC crowned GFF U17 Youth Ensemble Elite League champions
G
uyana Defence Force (GDF) FC were crowned champions of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Under-17 Youth Ensemble Elite League Club Competition after completing an impressive campaign with 10 points from four matches, including three victories, as the monthlong tournament concluded on Saturday at the Western Tigers Ground. Despite not being scheduled to play on the final day, GDF FC secured the title following the outcome of the third-place playoff between Santos FC and Fruta Conquerors FC, which saw Santos emerge 1-0 winners. The competition, which kicked off on September 19, featured five elite clubs, including; Police FC, Santos FC, GDF FC, Western Tigers FC and Fruta Conquerors FC. The tournament produced 42 goals, underscoring the attacking quality and competitive spirit displayed by the participating teams. Santos FC claimed the runner-up position with a narrow victory over Fruta Conquerors FC, courtesy of Jaheim Hart's decisive strike in the 57th minute.
Guyana Defence Force Football Club crowned Youth Ensemble Elite League Club champions
Western Tigers FC also ended their campaign on a winning note, defeating Police FC 3-0 to secure third place in the final standings. Darius Chester opened the scoring in the 22nd minute before Omar Moses doubled the advantage in the 43rd. Police FC's Joshua Austin subsequently conceded an own goal in the 50th minute to complete the result. GDF FC's championship success was complemented
by individual honours during the presentation ceremony, with Shawn Brown named Most Valuable Player for his outstanding performances throughout the competition. Te a m m a t e A d r i e n Hamilton earned the Best Goalkeeper award, while Brandon Parks shared the Highest Goalscorer distinction after finishing with five goals. Fruta Conquerors FC's Jadan Christian also registered five
goals to share the honour. Commenting on the conclusion of the elite club segment, GFF President Wayne Forde described the milestone as a significant achievement in the Federation's broader youth development programme, while emphasising that the regional phase of the competition remains ongoing. “The conclusion of the U17 Elite League segment
marks a monumental milestone for GFF Elite League Clubs, but our mission continues as several of our Regional Associations are still actively playing matches in the Regional phase. In total, a remarkable 1,021 young men are participating across the country, a testament to the massive scale and reach of this groundbreaking initiative,” Forde stated. He commended the
participating elite clubs for investing in youth programmes and contributing to the success of the competition, while extending appreciation to the players, coaches, administrators and match officials for their respective roles. Forde also underscored the importance of the initiative in providing meaningful competitive opportunities for young footballers, helping coaches gain valuable experience and creating a platform for scouts to identify emerging talent for future national teams. “By establishing this structured platform, we are delivering vital match time for our boys to hone their skills, an invaluable arena for coaches to gain experience, and a centralised window for scouts to identify future national team prospects,” he added. The GFF U17 Youth Ensemble programme continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening the country's football development pathway by expanding opportunities for young players across elite clubs and regional associations.
Guyanese Horse Racing magnate Colin Elcock creates history in Jamaica By Samuel Whyte Popular Guyanese horse racing magnate and entrepreneur, Colin Elcock, has made history in the horse racing circles in Jamaica. Elcock, the owner of the Elcock and Delmur Racing Stables located on the East Coast of Berbice (No 19), Guyana, also has a well-developed Horse Racing Stable in Jamaica. According to Elcock, he has become the first Guyanese trainer to win the first race of the day. In the horse race meet held on Saturday at the Popular Caymanas Park arena in Jamaica, the horse, “Round the Twist”, running as No 12 with an outside chance of 5-1, was unstoppable. Jockey Tajay Suckoo was on the mount as Round the Twist outran its opponents to win with ease and give Elcock and his connections a lot to smile about. The animal won the race in a time of one minute, 31, 57 seconds. Elcock Racing stable was not done yet, returning on the second day, Sunday, the stable copped
Round the Twist developed an unassailable lead against the field.
Colin Elcock another victory to make it two wins. In the event for Maiden animals, it was Gypsy Lee with a 17-1 chance of winning that triumphed in the 5-furlong event. Piloted by Jockey Daniel Thompson, Gypsy Lee was in a class by itself as it whipped the field by 7 lengths to spring away for a big win for the Guyanese. Elcock recently successfully
graduated from a four-month horse racing training course in Jamaica. He was a part of the 2026 Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) Caricom Express Trainers' Course. The course which was organised by the Jamaica Race Commission saw him graduate with a trainer's license that would enable him to train horses in different parts of the world.Elcock who no longer races
in Guyana had a long and outstanding career when he was on the racing circuit here. His stable won all the major horse racing meets on numerous occasions during that time, including the Guyana Cup on four occasions.Due to the disorganised state of horse racing in Guyana, he had threatened on numerous occasions to withdraw from racing
if things did not change. Elcock, like a number of others have shifted their operations to other parts of the Caribbean with Jamaica being the number one country of choice. According to Elcock, Jamaica has very high standards and it would be good if Guyana horse racing standards could come somewhere close.
Tuesday October 20, 2026
Kaieteur News
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2026 DSB Suriname Invitational Chandra captures
overall title; Guyanese contingent impresses Guyanese golfers dominated the podium as Lakeraj Chandra led the way with the Championship Flight A title in a commanding display at the 2026 DSB Suriname Invitational. Chandra captured the Men's title while an allGuyanese contingent swept the top three positions. A professional caddy by trade and a golfer in his own right, Chandra proved that his understanding of the game extends well beyond carrying the bag. Quiet on the course but deadly with his execution, he produced two outstanding rounds to claim the championship, finishing with an overall net score of 134 and 76 net points. In Men's Championship Flight A, Chandra finished first with a net 68 on Day One and 66 on Day Two, giving him an overall net 134. Defending champion Avinash Persaud secured second place with net rounds of 69 and 66, finishing with an overall net 135 and 75 net points. Avinash added further distinction to his campaign by claiming the Men's Overall Gross title, recording rounds of 72 and 69 for a twoday gross total of 141. Patanjilee Persaud completed the all-Guyanese podium in third place, recording net scores of 68 and 67 for an overall net 135 and 75 net points. Patanjilee's achievement deserves special recognition. Promoted from Flight B to
Chandra Lakeraj (centre) was crowned the overall winner of the DSB Suriname Invitational 2026 Flight A this year, he rose to the challenge and proved his mettle against the competition's established players. His podium finish was a statement of his ability, experience and readiness to compete among the best. In Men's Flight B, Chet Bowling once again demonstrated why he is no stranger to the podium. Drawing on his experience, tactical awareness and course management, Bowling secured first place with net scores of 69 and 65, finishing with an overall net 134 and 76 net points. The ladies also delivered commendable performances. In the Ladies Championship Flight, Joaan Deo secured second place with net rounds of 75 and 73, finishing with an overall net 148 and 62 net points, she also claimed the
overall gross title for the ladies with Day 1 and 2 scores of 88 and 86. This accumulated to a gross total of 174. Deo's performance was particularly meaningful, as she had not competed in Suriname since 2019. Her return demonstrated that she remains a formidable competitor and one of Guyana's leading female golfers. In B Flight, newcomers Princessa Wilkie and Dusty Bledsoe made their presence felt, securing second and third places, respectively. Wilkie finished with net rounds of 72 and 66 for an overall net 138 and 73 net points, while Bledsoe recorded scores of 77 and 68, finishing with an overall net 143 and 67 net points. Their performances offered an encouraging glimpse of the
Avinash Persaud and Dr Joaan Deo copped the title of overall best gross. They also potential within Guyana's claimed second in emerging golfing talent. their respective In the Senior Flight, Kishan Bacchus claimed championship Flights second place with net scores of 64 and 75, finishing with an overall net 139 and 71 net points. Bacchus held his own against his Surinamese counterparts and fellow Guyanese competitors, including Carlos Adams and Maurice Deo. He also earned the distinction of recording the best men's net score on Day One, an impressive 64. Even those who did not make the podium proudly represented Guyana, showcasing discipline and heart on the course. The team included Vishal Dhani, L a k e r a m R a m s u n d a r, Rakesh Harry, Mohanlall Dindanauth, Mike Mangal, Orson Ferguson, Brian Hackett, Paton George, Troy
Cadogan, Maxim Mangra, Marlon George, Feroze Barkat, Patrick Prashad, Roy Dhori, Sabi Dhori, Lakeram Ramsundar, Rohan Albert, Carlos Adams, Maurice Deo and Kishan Bacchus, each contributing to Guyana's impressive presence in Suriname. From Chandra's championship triumph to the achievements of Guyana's
seasoned competitors and emerging golfers, the DSB Suriname Invitational was a proud showcase of skill, determination and national pride. Lusignan Golf Club did more than compete in Suriname, it made its presence felt, claimed the championship spotlight and gave its supporters plenty to celebrate.
Women's Division One League poised for thrilling kickoff The stage is set for an exciting new chapter in women's football as the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), through its Women's Football Association, officially launches the 2026/2027 Women's Division One League this Friday, October 23, at the N a t i o n a l Tr a i n i n g C e n t r e ( N T C ) , Providence. Ten clubs will compete in the national competition, providing a platform for female footballers to showcase their talent, develop their skills, and compete for national honours.The opening night promises an exciting doubleheader as Ann's Grove FC takes on River View FC at 6:00 PM, followed by Monedderlust FC against Potaro Strikers FC at 8:30 PM.The competition marks an important step in the Federation's continued efforts to strengthen the women's game, expand competitive opportunities, and establish a more structured pathway for female players across Guyana.The league will feature a dynamic nine-a-side format, beginning with an opening round in which all ten clubs face each other once. Teams will subsequently be divided into two tiers based
GDF Women constructed a flawless campaign on their way to the crown. on their standings, creating further competitive opportunities throughout the season.The GFF is inviting football fans,
families, club supporters, and the wider public to come out this Friday and support the talented women who will take centre stage at
Providence. General Admission is set at $1,500, while parking is $1,000. (GFF)
Kaieteur News
Tuesday October 20, 2026
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Guyana begins installation of first FIFA Arena mini-pitches Guyana has moved closer to delivering its first two FIFA Arena mini-pitches, with installation works now underway at Haslington on the East Coast of Demerara, marking a significant step in the country's efforts to expand grassroots football infrastructure. The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) confirmed that the final phase of construction commenced over the weekend, with a team of FIFA specialists working to install the artificial turf, fencing, goals and side boards at the Haslington site. The development places Guyana among the first Caribbean nations to begin implementing the FIFA Arena Project, a global initiative designed to provide children and young people with safe, modern and accessible spaces to play football. The project forms part of FIFA's broader commitment to install
1,000 mini-pitches worldwide, supporting the expansion of its Football for Schools programme and strengthening opportunities for young people to participate in the sport.Guyana is set to benefit from two all-weather mini-pitches, with the second facility located at Retrieve, Linden, serving communities in the Upper Demerara region. According to the GFF, once installation at Haslington is completed, the FIFA team will move to Retrieve to undertake the corresponding work. Official commissioning dates for both facilities are expected to be announced shortly. Each mini-pitch is manufactured by Netherlandsbased Edel Grass BV at a cost of approximately US$98,000, equivalent to GY$21 million, representing a substantial investment in facilities intended to
Newly installed FIFA mini pitches underway at Haslington site support youth development and community football. The commencement of installation fulfils a commitment made by the GFF following the arrival of the two pitches in Guyana in December last year. At the time,
The Haslington community gets first artificial mini-pitch as part of the global FIFA Arena Project
the federation pledged to deliver the facilities to the East Demerara and Upper Demerara football communities. GFF President Wayne Forde welcomed the progress, highlighting the contributions of East Demerara Football Association President Rickford Profitt and Upper Demerara Football Association President Wainwright Bethune in advancing the initiative. “When we received these two pitches in December last year, we made a commitment to deliver them to the East Demerara and Upper Demerara football communities. We are now fulfilling that promise,” Forde stated. The GFF president also outlined the federation's broader ambition to extend the FIFA Arena concept beyond the two initial locations, with the ultimate objective of establishing minipitches across all nine regional football associations. “Our ambition is to establish FIFA Arena Mini-Pitches across all nine Regional Associations,
creating safe, modern and accessible spaces where boys and girls can discover their talent, schools can strengthen their football programmes, and communities can unite through the beautiful game,” he added. The initiative is expected to provide a valuable platform for introducing more children to football, improving access to structured sporting activities and strengthening school-based programmes, particularly in underserved communities. Beyond providing playing surfaces, the facilities are intended to support talent identification, encourage greater youth participation and create opportunities for communities to become more involved in the sport. Wi t h i n s t a l l a t i o n n o w progressing at Haslington and Retrieve next in line, Guyana is taking its first practical steps towards realising the FIFA Arena vision, while laying the groundwork for a wider expansion of grassroots football infrastructure across the country.
St Joseph's High clinches October Fest Tapeball Title St Joseph's High School emerged champions of the Toolsie Persaud Group of Companies-sponsored Secondary Schools Tapeball Cricket Competition after securing a composed six-wicket victory over Christ Church Secondary School in Sunday's final at the National Park tarmac. Led by a composed and decisive innings from captain, Savir Narine, St Joseph's High successfully chased down a target of 43 runs, finishing on 44-4 to secure the coveted title following an impressive all-round team performance.The champions laid the foundation for victory with a disciplined bowling effort that restricted Christ Church to 42-3 in their allotted overs. Brian Sommersell spearheaded the attack, claiming two
wickets for 16 runs to keep the opposition's scoring in check. Jamal Samuels top-scored for Christ Church with 19 runs, but his contribution proved insufficient to establish a challenging total against a determined St Joseph's High outfit. In response, Narine anchored the chase with a gritty unbeaten 18, demonstrating patience and composure under pressure. He received valuable support from Shane Austin, whose 14 runs helped guide St Joseph's High across the finish line despite Christ Church's efforts to defend their modest total.Darius Haynes was Christ Church's leading bowler, claiming two wickets for 22 runs, but Narine's captain's innings ensured there would be no late twist as St Joseph High celebrated championship honours. The finalists earned their places in (Continued on page 23)
St Joseph's High thumped Christ Church to lift the Toolsie Persaud Group of Companies Trophy
Women's Division One League poised for thrilling kickoff
The competition was often fierce in the previous season of the Women's Division One League.
s t r o Sp FIFA experts continue the grass installation process on Sunday
Guyana begins installation of first FIFA Arena mini-pitches
2026 DSB Suriname Invitational
Chandra captures overall title; Guyanese contingent impresses
Top performers of the 2026 DSB Suriname Invitational took a photo op with their accolades
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