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Guyana rejects NEWS majority of U.S. ...only six third-country nationals approved deportees from large U.S. manifest - U.S. Ambassador AIETEUR

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Thursday Edition September 24, 2026 - Vol. 19 No. 39 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $200 readership yesterday, 42,328

Govt. denies involvement in review of judge’s U.S. visa

Prime Minister, mark Phillips joined delegates at the opening of the 27th INTERPOL Americas Regional Conference being held at the International Conference Centre. Speakers at the opening ceremony called for greater intelligence-sharing and stronger cross-border cooperation.

Prison escapee nabbed hiding on fishing boat U.S. opposition emerges St. John’s College HM claims ‘victimization’ as major hurdle for after TSC demotion Rodrigues-Birkett UN bid ...says commission ignored evidence in disciplinary hearing

Questions mount over $400M Berbice Bridge deal — Ram raises concerns over liquidation, valuation and possible FMAA implications

Thursday September 24, 2026

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Trump rallies Guyana, others against drug cartels United States President Donald Trump has pledged to use “unmatched military might” against drug cartels in the Western Hemisphere during a meeting of the Washington-led Shield of the Americas coalition in New York City. In a meeting with leaders and foreign ministers from the anticartel alliance, Trump on Tuesday urged member countries to join the US in targeting 24 criminal organisations, which he earlier described as the “ISIS of the Western Hemisphere”. He said he was asking “all nations in the Shield of the Americas to formally designate narco-terrorists as common threats to stability and apply crushing sanctions” against all of the groups. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City. The coalition’s 15 governments later issued a joint statement saying they intended to impose asset freezes and visa restrictions on members and supporters of the groups and to pursue criminal charges against them. At the top of the list are two groups that have been declared “terrorist” organisations by Washington: Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) – one of Central America’s most powerful criminal gangs – and Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang that is also active

President Irfaan Ali and other Latin American leaders meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and other top U.S. officials

in Colombia, Peru and Chile. The list also includes major Mexican cartels, Colombian armed groups such as the National Liberation Army, Brazil’s Primeiro Comando da Capital and Comando Vermelho groups, and Peru’s Shining Path. Al Jazeera’s Alessandro Rampietti, reporting from Bogota, Colombia, said the statement was largely symbolic for now, because each country must follow its own legal procedures. “For example, here in Colombia, it will require a

law to pass in Congress. We understand that the government here has asked Congress to move forward in drafting such a law. So while the consequences may not be immediate, this is clearly an important step towards building what the US has been trying to do in Latin America [through] this alliance,” he added. The coalition is made up of governments closely aligned with Tr u m p , i n c l u d i n g G u y a n a , Argentina, Ecuador and El

Salvador, whose leaders he has praised or endorsed. Colombia and Peru joined after Trump-aligned presidents took office in recent months. Brazil and Mexico have not joined. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who also attended, praised “the emergence of strong leaders who are committed to the challenge of taking on transnational terrorism”. The gathering was the administration’s latest effort to rally the region behind a more

aggressive approach to drug trafficking. Since returning to office last year, Trump has designated cartels as foreign terrorist organisations and ordered dozens of strikes on boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific that US officials say were carrying narcotics bound for the US. The strikes have killed more than 223 people, and UN experts say they violate international law and could amount to crimes against humanity. The Trump administration’s National Security Strategy, released late last year, laid out plans for a revamped Monroe Doctrine, the 19th-century policy asserting US primacy in the hemisphere that critics associate with decades of US intervention. Trump has also spoken of retaking the Panama Canal and annexing Greenland and Canada. On Tuesday, he signed an agreement on Greenland that stopped short of his demand that the island become US territory. The focus on the hemisphere has raised concerns across the region. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in his UN speech, bristled ‘at the approach, warning countries in Latin America and the Caribbean of “renewed hegemonic temptations”. “Brazil is nobody’s back yard,” Lula said. (ALJAZEERA)

U.S. opposition emerges as major hurdle for Rodrigues-Birkett UN bid The contest to succeed United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has become increasingly complicated by opposition from the powerful members of the Security Council, with the United States reportedly opposed to Guyana’s candidate, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, according to reporting by The New York Times. The Guyana Government has not responded to the report. On Tuesday Rodrigues-Birkett along with President Irfaan Ali and other top government ministers of Guyana met with US President, Donald Trump and Secretary of State, Marco Rubio to sign a communique on the Shield of the Americas. According to the newspaper, Washington has indicated that it would block Rodrigues-Birkett’s candidacy because of her public position on Israel’s actions in Gaza, which she has described as genocide. Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and a former Foreign Minister, has been one of the strongest contenders in the race. She emerged as the leading candidate in the Security Council’s second informal straw poll but slipped narrowly behind Costa Rica’s Rebeca Grynspan in the third round.

The latest poll gave Grynspan nine “encourage” votes, five “discourage” votes and one “no opinion.” Rodrigues-Birkett received eight “encourage” votes, six “discourage” votes and one “no opinion.” Because the voting is conducted secretly, the identities of the countries casting the negative votes have not been disclosed. The secretary-general must secure at least nine votes in the 15member Security Council and, critically, cannot receive a veto from any of its five permanent members: the United States, China, Russia, Britain or France. The issue of Gaza has been a significant element of RodriguesBirkett’s diplomatic record at the United Nations. In 2024, while addressing the Security Council on behalf of Guyana, she said there was “a veritable genocide taking place in Gaza.” The NYT report identifies that position as the reason f o r Wa s h i n g t o n ’s r e p o r t e d opposition to her candidacy. The United States has not publicly endorsed another candidate. A State Department official said Washington was seeking someone who would pursue substantial reform of the UN, improve management and significantly streamline the organisation. The United States is

not alone in signalling opposition to particular candidates. Russia has reportedly indicated that it would veto Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, because of disagreements over his handling of the dispute surrounding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant during the Russia-Ukraine war. The United States had also opposed Michelle Bachelet, the former Chilean president and former UN human rights chief, over her positions on abortion. Bachelet subsequently withdrew from the race. administration has vetoed a resolution calling for an end to the war in Gaza since Israel’s military offensive began in October of last year.” The first poll in July showed Grynspan narrowly ahead and the second vote last month placed n Rodrigues Birkett in the top spot. Eight candidates are vying to succeed Antonio Guterres, who steps down at the end of this year after two five-year terms. It is still possible for more candidates to enter the race, Reuters reported on Sunday. Richard Gowan, director of global issues and institutions at the International Crisis Group, said neither Grynspan nor Rodrigues Birkett seem to be able to make a decisive breakthrough and “it is

Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett

time for some of the weaker candidates to bow out of the race.” “I think these figures may encourage any additional candidates who are waiting in the wings to jump into the race quite soon,” said Gowan. Ultimately the five Security Council veto powers the United States, China, Russia, France and Britain need to agree on a candidate. When Guterres was chosen in 2016, it took six straw polls for the Security Council to reach agreement.

The UN Security Council will eventually formally recommend a candidate to the 193-member General Assembly for election. The approval by the assembly has long been seen as a rubber stamp. FRIDAY’S NUMBERS In the Council straw polls, which are expected to continue for several more rounds, Security Council members are asked on secret ballots if they “encourage,” “discourage” or have “no opinion” on candidates. Grynspan received nine encourage, five discourage and one no opinion and Rodrigues Birkett received eight encourage, six discourage and one no opinion, diplomats and sources close to the process said. In the more than 80-year history of the United Nations there has never been a female secretarygeneral. Uganda’s Olara Otunnu, a diplomat and former U.N. undersecretary general, received five encourage, seven discourage and three no opinion; Argentina’s Rafael Grossi, the high-profile director general of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, received five encourage, eight discourage and two no opinion; while Senegal’s former president Macky Sall received five encourage, nine discourage and one no opinion.

Thursday September 24, 2026

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Guyana rejects majority of U.S. deportees ...only six third-country nationals approved from large U.S. manifest - U.S. Ambassador An initial proposal to send monthly deportation flights of non-citizen foreign nationals from the United States to Guyana has seen a quiet start, after local authorities exercised their right to review U.S. manifests and approved just six individuals from a significantly larger pool of potential candidates. Speaking on the sidelines of the 27th Americas Regional Conference on Wednesday, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot explained that while Washington had hoped to establish a regular monthly flight schedule, final arrival numbers remain entirely up to the discretion of the Guyanese government. “Our plan was to hopefully send one flight a month with those who had been approved. At the last manifest, you will know that only six people came, and the manifest was quite large. So, a lot of people were rejected. The government here has said they will not take anyone with a criminal record, which is absolutely appropriate and within their rights,” Nicole Theriot, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana. Ambassador Theriot noted to journalists that because Georgetown retains full authority over who is permitted to land, it is not possible to estimate how many third-country nationals might arrive over the coming months. U.S. officials maintain that no individual will be sent without prior, explicit clearance from local authorities. The first cohort of six vetted individuals, four from Cuba and two from Afghanistan, who arrived on F r i d a y, S e p t e m b e r 4 , underwent multi-layered background checks prior to arrival. Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud confirmed that all six passed background checks verifying zero criminal histories. He noted that accepting skilled, vetted migrants aligns with Guyana’s rapid, oil-driven economic expansion, which currently faces an estimated labour shortage of 70,000 to 80,000 workers. To ensure candidates meet local standards, Guyanese officials evaluate U.S.-provided background data alongside CARICOM intelligence databases and domestic security checks. The government retains

complete discretion to approve or deny proposed individuals, and U.S. Homeland Security personnel must accompany all flight transfers. Well-placed sources previously confirmed with Kaieteur News that Guyana’s decision to receive the third-country nationals centres on severe personal danger and insurmountable diplomatic barriers. Many affected foreign nationals cite a well-founded fear of violence, retaliation, or systemic discrimination if returned home. Simultaneously, the United States lacks formal diplomatic return agreements with several origin nations, such as Cuba, while other foreign governments refuse to accept their own citizens. US$7.8M IOM SUPPORT PACKAGE To support the initiative, the U.S. Department of State provided US$7,740,215.00 to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) as the official implementer over a two-year period. Ambassador Theriot highlighted on Wednesday that the comprehensive funding covers the full wellbeing of the individuals, including health and medical care, temporary housing, food, and communication tools to stay in touch with families. Under the framework, two distinct programmes exist for admitted individuals. Non-citizens can either wait in Guyana under temporary conditions until voluntary return to their home country can be arranged, or choose to temporarily resettle subject to government approval. For those choosing to resettle, the package adds specialised job skills training tailored to Guyana’s workforce needs. Official government statements released on Saturday, September 5, outlined that the framework operates under a strictly temporary one-year timeframe and explicitly excludes permanent resettlement. Admitted individuals retain the right to seek international protection through local civil society, the IOM, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). President Dr. Irfaan Ali has pushed back against public criticism, social media mischaracterisations, and allegations of secrecy surrounding the framework.

Addressing questions on financial implications, President Ali stated that Georgetown’s participation hinges on U.S. financial backing, emphasising that Guyana should not shoulder the costs of receiving and integrating deportees. The president clarified that eligibility is strictly limited to third-country nationals with expedited or final orders of removal who hold proper medical clearance. Unaccompanied

minors under 18, Guyanese nationals, individuals with pending U.S. asylum claims, and individuals with known violent criminal records are explicitly barred. In an interview with Al Jazeera, President Ali rejected assertions that Guyana was acting as a dumping ground f o r Wa s h i n g t o n ’s immigration backlogs, stressing that transfers are conducted strictly to Georgetown’s satisfaction and that neither Guyana nor

the IOM will facilitate forced removals. The administration’s assurances stand alongside past comments from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated that Wa s h i n g t o n h a s b e e n actively searching for third countries to take non-citizen deportees to keep America safe, noting that the administration is unapologetic about using third-country removals to Continued on page 8

U.S. Ambassador, Nicole Theriot

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Thursday September 24, 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-in-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

El Niño Warning The latest warning from the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) should cause Guyana to take a much harder look at its preparedness for what could become an exceptionally strong El Niño event. ECLAC is projecting in a report released on Tuesday potentially serious economic consequences across the region, including slower economic growth, higher food prices, pressure on electricity systems and rising poverty. Under an extreme El Niño scenario, the Commission estimates that the region could suffer cumulative losses of at least two per cent of GDP over three years, with half of that loss occurring in the first year. Even more troubling is the projection that declining household incomes could push as many as 4.8 million additional people into poverty by the end of the decade compared with a scenario without El Niño. The warning is particularly significant because the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is giving more than a 90 per cent chance of a very strong El Niño during the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter of 2026-27. ECLAC has also cited a 69 per cent probability of an event reaching what it describes as historic “Super El Niño” magnitude. These projections deserve serious attention, especially given Guyana’s existing vulnerabilities. Electricity is one area where the potential consequences cannot be ignored. Higher temperatures can increase demand for cooling at the same time that changing rainfall patterns and water shortages can put pressure on electricity generation. Guyanese consumers have already endured their share of blackouts and electricity reliability problems. The possibility of a prolonged period of extreme heat and altered water availability should therefore be incorporated into energy planning now, rather than after the system comes under additional strain. Food security presents an equally serious concern. The Government has moved to reassure farmers that it is preparing for the possibility of prolonged dry conditions. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha had told farmers recently at an El Niño Preparedness Forum that the Government’s message is not to panic but to prepare. But preparation must mean more than assurances. The minister had pointed to investments in canals, pumps, sluices and water-storage systems, while the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority is monitoring conservancies and irrigation systems and identifying areas that could face water shortages. Those measures are important. The real test, however, will be whether the infrastructure is functioning effectively when farmers actually need water. Guyana’s agricultural ambitions make this particularly important. The country is seeking to expand agriculture as part of economic diversification and food-security efforts. A severe and prolonged dry period could undermine those objectives if farmers cannot reliably access water. ECLAC’s warning should consequently be used as an opportunity to test the country’s preparedness from farm to market. Are irrigation systems adequately supplied? Are pumps operational? Are sufficient water reserves available? Can vulnerable farmers obtain timely assistance? Are food-import requirements being assessed in advance? And what measures are in place to prevent climate-related shortages from translating into sharp increases in the cost of food? ECLAC is also calling for a broader shift from reacting to disasters after losses occur to anticipating and managing climate risks beforehand. That approach should resonate strongly in Guyana. The country has the financial resources today to prepare in ways that were not previously possible. The challenge is ensuring that preparation is strategic, coordinated and reaches the communities most exposed to the effects of prolonged heat and water shortages. El Niño may be a natural climate phenomenon, but its economic and social consequences are not inevitable. The extent of the damage will depend, in part, on how seriously governments prepare. Guyana should therefore heed ECLAC’s warning—not with panic, but with urgency.

Shield of Americas Enhances Geo Security and anti-Narco-Trafficking DEAR EDITOR, President Trump and leaders of a group of Latin American and Caribbean countries gathered in Miami on March 7, 2026 to discuss regional security. Hosted by Trump, the inaugural Shield of the Americas summit was presented principally as a response to drug cartels, transnational organized crime and the growing security challenges confronting the US and countries across the greater region. Twelve Latin American and Caribbean leaders were willing attendees at the Miami meeting, including the leaders of Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago. Since then, the initiative has developed into a broader regional framework not only to combat the threat posed by narco-traffickers but also geo-strategic matters and trade. The Shield is complementary, both to bilateral alliances geared towards assistance and to the OAScentered multilateral forums, such as the Summit of the Americas. The members support the aggressive, military-first approach of Trump to combat transnational organized crime. There was a follow up meeting by the leaders of the group of 14 on September 22 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar and President Irfaan Ali of Guyana were there to promote common interests as they also were in Miami. The Shield of Americas is essentially a strategic, formal partnership consisting of member statesto combat narco trafficking in the

region. Narco-trafficking has posed a significant threat to national security of the US and the greater region. The Shield is a security framework, serving as a central pillar of cooperation aimed at eradicating the production and importation of narco drugs and trafficking in the region. It is formal diplomatic treaty operating as a functional web of bilateral regional cooperation against drug trafficking. The security architecture has so far been based on US-centered bilateral military alliances and partnerships. But a guiding assumption is that regional security and fighting drug trafficking can be further secured by preserving the hegemonic position of the United States (“US primacy”). According to official statements, the main purpose of the Shield is to intensify cooperation with the US rather than with each other in combating drug trafficking. The members of the Shield hardly work with or trade or cooperate with each other on any matter except their support for USA and President Trump who has been supportive of them. Cooperation among each other is the next logical step and could happen soon. Coordinating their efforts, the members offer a collective front that no single nation could project alone, providing a public good to the region such as tracking illegal fishing, narco, and improving disaster response which builds diplomatic goodwill. Thus far, the Shield is issue specific although its overarching goal includes

maritime security and China which has posed a challenge to US hegemony in the region. It is not forgotten that the US accuses China of exporting illicit drugs to the region and into the US. China is on the minds of Washington policy makers. China’s economic threat to USA makes its presence in the region a security policy challenge. It is not a secret that Washington seeks to limit China’s influence while combating narco-trafficking and narco-terrorism. In this context, this multination regional alliance cooperating with Washington is important. Expansion of bilateral partnerships with willing states, underpinned by increasing anti-drug and economic cooperation, and limiting China’s influence are worthy objectives. But success will largely depend on the resources Washington is willing to provide the individual nation to combat drug trafficking in their respective territories and to limit the economic presence of China. In recent years, it has become apparent that the security policies of Guyana and T&T coincides with USA – varying slightly, depending on the global political situation and as well as the constellation of which party in power. UNC and PPP seem willing to cooperate with Washington; others seem less willing and paid a price in elections. T&T and Guyana should be natural allies of the US given the large diaspora presence in America and the desire of every Trini and Guyanese to obtain a visa to visit or lives in USA. And given the security threat from Venezuela, both

should have bilateral military alliances with Wa s h i n g t o n a n d t h e i r presence in Guyana and T&T. Irfaan and Kamla have been have acted wisely in supporting US strategies on regional security; both should enter into defense relationships with Washington and deepen cooperation. All nations (CARICOM and OAS) and all political parties and leaders (government and opposition) ought to be concerned about the effects of drugs on people as well as on the economy and support the Shield. The Shield enhances security under US military might. States have different perspectives on joining the alliance. But they all want American resources, soft loans, financial aid, intelligence to combat threats, including illegal maritime activities, securing sea lanes, expanding fair trade, etc. The Shield can provide satellite data on vessel movements with information cross-checked against ship automatic identification systems (AIS). Illegal ships can be located and apprehended. It is a win for member nations. One problem with the Shield is it is “leaderless” and lacks a permanent secretariat or a joint military command structure, it risks functioning more as a highlevel talking shop than a reliable security guarantor. And Washington has not delivered on funding. President Trump should address these issues. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

President Ali: Where are the daily returns on Guyana’s growth? DEAR EDITOR, President Irfaan Ali is right that global prices and difficult weather affect Guyana. Cash grants and subsidies offer some relief. But with substantial borrowing and growing oil revenues, Guyanese deserve a clear answer: Why are affordable food, dependable electricity and safe water still so difficult to secure? Economic growth deserves recognition. Its credibility rests on whether Guyanese can see the returns in their homes, markets and communities. The Government’s credibility has already been assailed by its callous refusal and delays in bringing up the MV Barima victims, or whatever remains of them, languishing at the

bottom of our waters. It cannot afford more unforced aberrations-or apparitions. Enough is enough! The Government reports 33.3% economic growth in the first half of 2026 and projects nearly US$6.5 billion in petroleum revenue for the year. Yet prices rose 4.4% between December and June, including 6.7% for food. The President’s 4% inflation figure compares June 2026 with June 2025; it does not describe the price increases families faced during the first six months of this year. Claims that Government prevented even higher prices should be supported by evidence. Publish the cost and measured benefit of fuel, electricity and water subsidies. Publish food prices

across all ten regions, the reported consumer price index covers Georgetown and show whether farmers’ markets lower the cost of a regular basket week after week. President Ali should also provide a project-by-project account of public loans and oil-fund withdrawals: amounts borrowed or withdrawn, contracts awarded, interest and repayment costs, completion dates, and results delivered. Where programmes fall short, fix them. Prioritise drainage, irrigation, storage and transport to reduce food losses, alongside reliable utilities and timely help for families under the greatest pressure. Regards, Albert Baldeo

Thursday September 24, 2026

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Understanding Pres. Ali claims Guyana’s share is 39.8%, but BoG data suggests less than 30% Visa Under Review & Revocation DEAR EDITOR, The media reported that the visa of a Guyanese judge, Gino Persaud, is ‘under review’. That was used for denial of boarding a flight from Guyana for entry into USA. Every country has a sovereign right to decide who may enter its territory. S o m e ( s m a l l , insignificant, unimportant country in world affairs like CARICOM and most OAS nations) may not want to deny entry to Americans or Britons or nationals of powerful countries for fear of consequences. But large, powerful nations like USA, China, India, Russia, France, Britain, among others, can bar entry of non-nationals without fear of consequences; and they often did so. An American or Canadian or British visa is coveted; many applicants were denied. (Guyanese no longer need visa to enter Britain whereas Trinidadians do even if it is in transit). It is not known why Justice Gino’s visa is under review although this writer was offered some speculations. Politics is not among the reasons as the US is not likely to use politics to punish someone; it is unAmerican. And Gino is not a politician. What does being ‘under review’ mean? The consular office in Guyana is actively evaluating a visa and can revoke it. Vi s a s o f s e v e r a l Guyanese were revoked over the last few years for a variety of reasons, not the least being engaged in corruption, accepting bribe, mis-information or lying on application, ill-treating or cheating Americans, blackmailing. Restricting freedom of speech of Americans in Guyana can lead to visa suspension with several Europeans suffering that fate. If a visa is under review, the passenger will be denied boarding or taken off a flight if already boarded. Before a flight departs to USA, the manifest (list of all passengers) is electronically sent to USA for security review. Certain names ‘ring an alarm’ for secondary processing and questioning or denied boarding, taken off the plane. If security agents

wish to question certain individuals, they would allow them to visit the US and pick them up at the airport for questioning. Several Guyanese were questioned in Miami and JFK, and a few had their visas revoked and deported. If one does not cooperate or lies or is a security threat, the visa will be revoked. American citizens coming from Guyana were also questioned. American visas are revoked or cancelled all the time. Last year March, the Tr u m p A d m i n i s t r a t i o n cancelled visas for 300 foreign students. Just Monday gone, 32 visas were revoked for Europeans. Last year, visas of Britons and European officials were revoked because they penalized American business people for speaking out against corruption. T h e T r u m p Administration does not take too kindly to perennial criticism of USA; can lead to visa under review or revocation. At any rate, if one does not like USA, why obtain a visa or go there? When a visa or revoked or under review, Washington or the Consulate does not have to give a reason unless it wants. It could be legitimate security or law-enforcement concern. And a visa under review can happen to anyone dealing with issues that relate with American security. Yours truly, Name supplied

DEAR EDITOR, President Irfaan Ali indicated on August 18 that Guyana’s share of oil from the Stabroek Block has increased from 12.5% to 39.8%. See: https://youtu.be/kiP-WwYh1l4?t=593. However, in its 2026 Half-Year Report, issued a few weeks later on August 28, 2026, by the Honourable Dr. Ashni K. Singh, M.P., Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, the Bank of Guyana (BoG) appears to imply that Guyana’s profit share will be less than 30%. That would amount to billions of US dollars less than the figure implied by President Ali. When President Ali made his statement, he implied that the maximum cost recovery going forward would be 20.4%. However, in section 3.63 on page 21, the BoG states: “The Stabroek Block partners will continue to recover current costs, lower than 75 percent of gross revenue, and Government will receive more than 12.5 percent of gross revenue in profit oil. As additional projects are approved, and their development costs enter the cost bank, the profit-oil ratio will move again.” This statement essentially means that the cost bank can rise to as much as 75% of gross revenue. Stated another way, Guyana’s profit share going forward could range from 12.5% to 39.8%. When Exxon referred to US$55 billion in capital and operating costs being paid off by the end of 2Q2026, it was not clearly stated which projects were included. However, one could reasonably assume that Exxon was referring to the first seven oil projects. The eighth oil project has already been approved, while the ninth oil project is in the process of being approved. Thus, one can assume that the 39.8% profit share could be short-lived. The Bank of Guyana’s own production and oil-price assumptions raise an important question about the implied profit share for the second half of 2026.

For the first half of 2026, the BoG reports that Guyana produced 163.3 million barrels from the first four oil projects at an average price of US$92.50 per barrel. At a 12.5% profit share, Guyana’s first-half profit oil would therefore be: 163.3 million × US$92.50 × 12.5% = US$1.89 billion The BoG projects an average oil price of US$86 per barrel for the full year. We can therefore work backwards to determine the oil price that the BoG must effectively be assuming for the second half of 2026. Scenario 1: Fifth project starts October 1 Assume the existing four projects produce another 163.3 million barrels during the second half of the year, and the fifth project contributes another 22.5 million barrels after starting on October 1 at approximately 250,000 barrels per day. Second-half production would therefore be: 163.3M + 22.5M = 185.8 million barrels Full-year production would be: 163.3M + 185.8M = 349.1 million barrels For 349.1 million barrels to average US$86 per barrel for the year, after the first 163.3 million barrels were sold at an average of US$92.50 per barrel, the implied average price for the second half must be approximately: US$80.29 per barrel That gives second-half gross oil revenue of: 185.8M × US$80.29 = US$14.92 billion If Guyana’s share during the second half is 39.8%, its second-half profit share would be: US$14.92B × 39.8% = US$5.94 billion Adding the first-half US$1.89 billion gives: US$1.89B + US$5.94B = US$7.83 billion Ye t t h e B o G i s p r o j e c t i n g approximately US$5.97 billion in profit-oil revenue for the entire year. Since approximately US$1.89

billion relates to the first half, the BoG projection leaves only: US$5.97B “ US$1.89B = US$4.08 billion for the second half. Against estimated second-half oil revenue of US$14.92 billion, that means the BoG projection effectively assumes a second-half profit share of: US$4.08B ÷ US$14.92B = 27.4% That is substantially below the 39.8% figure being used for comparison. Scenario 2: Fifth project does not start until December 1 Now take a much more conservative assumption. Suppose the fifth project contributes only 7.5 million barrels during December. Using the same steps as in Scenario 1 and the BoG’s projection, the implied second-half share becomes 29.95%. So, even if we use the BoG’s relatively low US$86 full-year oil-price assumption, its projected US$5.97 billion in profit oil appears to imply that Guyana receives only about 27.4% to 30% of second-half gross oil revenue, depending on when the fifth project starts. If, in 2027, we produce 1.15 million barrels per day for the entire year at an oil price of US$100 per barrel, that would generate approximately US$42 billion in revenue for the year. If Guyana receives a 39.8% profit share, that would amount to approximately US$16.7 billion. However, if Guyana receives only 27.4%, the profit share would be approximately US$11.5 billion. We are talking about a difference of US$5.2 billion, almost the amount of Guyana’s entire 2024 national budget. President Ali needs to clarify: when he stated that Guyana will receive 39.8% of the Stabroek Block oil revenues, did he mean that this level would apply for only a couple of months? Regards, Darsh Khusial Joe Persaud on behalf of OGGN a 501(c)(3) www.oggn.org/about

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Thursday September 24, 2026

Questions mount over $400M Berbice Bridge deal — Ram raises concerns over liquidation, valuation and possible FMAA implications Chartered Accountant and commentator Christopher Ram is questioning the Government’s decision to spend at least $400 million to acquire shares in the Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI), arguing that the transaction raises serious questions about the value received by the State, the company’s liquidation and the use of public funds. In a commentary published yesterday, Ram said the transaction was particularly concerning because the Government’s 2026 Mid-Year Report, dated August 28 and released on September 14, made no mention of either the proposed acquisition of BBCI or the company’s decision on August 21 to voluntarily wind up. Ram recalled that President Irfaan Ali had announced in August 2025 that Government was in the final stages of negotiations to acquire the Bridge and that Minister of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh was leading those negotiations. “By August 21, 2026, Singh had therefore been leading the negotiations for a full year,” Ram said. He noted that on August 2 1 , B B C I ’s m e m b e r s resolved to wind up the company voluntarily and appointed chartered accountant Raan Motilall as liquidator. Yet, Ram said, within days of the Mid-Year Report being released, the public learnt that Government had paid $400 million in the transaction. According to former BBCI Chairman Paul Cheong, Government purchased all 400 million issued ordinary shares at $1 each, with the money paid to existing shareholders. Ram stressed that a purchase of shares is fundamentally different from purchasing the company’s assets. “A share sale does not dispose of the company’s assets or liabilities,” he said, arguing that liquidation instead deals with the company’s assets, liabilities and obligations. He questioned how the share purchase fitted into the voluntary liquidation of BBCI.

“If the $400 million transaction occurred after August 21, did Motilall sanction it?” Ram asked. “If before, why did Government buy the shares of a company whose members were about to put it into liquidation?” Ram also questioned what remained for the liquidator to deal with after Government acquired the ordinary shares and what h a p p e n e d t o B B C I ’s preference shares, bonds, other financial instruments, liabilities and obligations. He further rejected the suggestion that Government effectively acquired an $8 billion Bridge for $400 million simply because BBCI had 400 million shares issued at $1 each. “The number of shares in issue tells us nothing about the value of the company,” Ram said, describing the multiplication of the number of shares by $1 as “an arithmetic exercise, not a valuation.” He also challenged the description of $1 as the shares’ “nominal value,” noting that Guyana abolished par or nominal value for shares when the Companies Act 1991 came into force in 1995. According to Ram, the more important issue is the Bridge’s existing concession agreement. He said BBCI did not own the Berbice River Bridge in perpetuity but operated it under a fixedterm concession due to expire in 2027. Under the Berbice River Bridge Act and the concession agreement, he said, the Bridge and specified rights and assets were to pass to Government at the end of the concession period, subject to the terms of the agreement. Against that background, Ram questioned why Government needed to purchase BBCI’s ordinary shares for $400 million only months before the contractual handover. He also pointed to Government’s existing involvement in BBCI through NICIL, which held the company’s special or “golden” share and associated veto rights.

Ram said there was also no basis yet to conclude that $400 million represented the S t a t e ’s f u l l f i n a n c i a l exposure. He noted that BBCI’s audited financial statements disclosed other substantial obligations and argued that a complete accounting was needed of the company’s liabilities, preference shares, debt instruments and any obligations assumed or discharged directly or indirectly by Government. “Until there is a complete accounting … the transaction should properly be described as involving at least $400 million, and potentially more,” he said. The commentator also raised questions about the role of Government’s legal advisers and the Attorney

provides for personal liability where loss of public money is caused or contributed to through misconduct or deliberate or serious disregard of reasonable standards of care. Ram stressed that he was not alleging that any statutory breach had occurred. “On the basis of publicly available information, there is no finding of statutory breaches,” he said. However, he argued that the provisions make the questions surrounding the transaction more serious. “Who gave the legal advice? Who authorised and certified the payment? What valuation supported it? And what precisely did the State acquire for its money?” he asked.

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh

General, whom he described as the principal legal adviser to the State. Ram said a transaction involving the acquisition of shares in a company entering liquidation, alongside the Government’s existing rights under the concession, required competent and independent legal advice. He then pointed to the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA), particularly Sections 31, 48 and 49. He said Section 31 regulates the requisition and payment of public money, while Section 48 prohibits a Minister or official from misusing, misapplying or improperly disposing of public funds. Section 49, he added,

Ram also drew a comparison with the Government’s repeated invocation of the “sanctity of contract” principle in relation to ExxonMobil and the 2016 Petroleum Agreement. He questioned why that principle should not equally apply to the Berbice Bridge concession, which contained a contractual end date and provisions for the Bridge and specified assets to pass to the State. “Why was the State paying $400 million for shares in the concessionaire only months before the contractual handover?” he asked. Ram concluded that the Berbice Bridge issue goes beyond whether Government secured a good

Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram

or bad bargain. He argued that, if public money was paid when it should not have been, the matter could potentially involve questions of misuse or misapplication of public funds and personal liability under the FMAA. “The failure to obtain or heed such advice may bring into play an even more critical piece of legislation—the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act,” Ram said. MAKE AGREEMENT PUBLIC Last week Member of Parliament for A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Dr. Terrence Campbell, said the agreements governing the financing, ownership and eventual acquisition of the Berbice River Bridge should be made public. Responding to questions from the media about the process and agreements under which the bridge was financed and subsequently sold back to the Government, as well as whether the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) recouped its investment, Campbell said the lack of publicly available agreements makes it difficult to determine what returns the NIS received. “We can’t even tell because the agreements made have not—the agreements signed, if any, have not been made public. The Berbice River Bridge was a massive heist by cronies of the PPP government,” he said. Campbell said he did not recall all the exact figures but noted that private investors reportedly contributed less than the NIS, while receiving common shares that carried voting rights. “The cronies put up X and they got what are called the common shares, the shares that are able to vote and so on, and the NIS put up more than X, the NIS was the biggest investor,” he said. Campbell pointed out that although the NIS provided the majority of the financing for the bridge, it did not receive common shares. Instead, it received

preference shares, leaving it without voting power or management control over the bridge. He said that arrangement was particularly concerning from a business perspective. Campbell acknowledged that he did not have sufficient information to determine the full financial details of the arrangement. “I know that the contract was coming to an end and I think my fellow MP Saiku Andrews has spoken on this before. It was coming to an end, so I do not know what the cash flows were, who and who have been repaid,” he said. However, Campbell said his main concern was whether the NIS received adequate returns on its investment. “But I will say, without the benefit of information, what has to be interrogated, I care little about the cronies, the crooked cronies, and some of them their ill-gotten gains have been so well laundered that nobody even looks at them anymore as being corrupt over the last 20, 25 years,” he said. “But what I’m very concerned about is what are the returns to the NIS, if any, of the $400 million?” On September 17, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced on his Facebook page that the Government of Guyana had acquired the Berbice River Bridge for $400 million, about five per cent of the original $8 billion construction cost. The acquisition had been signalled months earlier. In March, Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill told the National Assembly that the Government was finalising negotiations for the full acquisition of the bridge. “…the Berbice Bridge and I don’t want to use this opportunity to make an announcement, I want to inform the House that the Government of Guyana is on its way to finalising all the I’s and crossing the T’s for the ownership of the Berbice River Bridge and based upon Continued on page 16

Thursday September 24, 2026

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Thursday September 24, 2026

Govt. denies involvement in review of judge’s U.S. visa Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, on Tuesday said the government had nothing to do with the United States of America reviewing the visa of High Court Judge Gino Persaud. Addressing the matter, which has attracted considerable media attention, Nandlall said several members of the media had reached out to him seeking a comment on the issue. He said it was unfortunate that the judge himself had not officially said anything. “Neither has the U.S. said anything officially. So, I have no informed comment

to make on the matter, but it’s a I guess a universally known fact that the U.S. has always exercised great sovereign control over those who are permitted to travel to their country and that’s a known fact,” he said. The AG noted that he had seen a statement from the father of Opposition Leader, Azruddin Mohamed, which was carried in “certain sections” of the media, alleging “that President Ali, Vice President Jagdeo and the attorney general are somehow linked to this visa review because of our public criticism of this judge after his ruling in the Lamborghini and Ferrari tax

cases. Now, I don’t think that I need to tell you that that’s utter foolishness,” Nandlall said. Nandlall said government, including the president, vice president and himself had absolutely no influence over U.S. foreign policy or any other aspect of the U.S. government. Meanwhile, speaking on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of the 27th Americas INTERPOL Regional Conference, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot told reporters that in order for a person’s visa to be revoked, there has to be information from a

Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall U.S. government source. Asked if the embassy has any role to play in the revocations, she clarified that there are occasions where information is

U.S. Ambassador, Nicole Theriot

submitted, “but in the case that I think you are talking about we were not aware.” The ambassador was also asked if the U.S. government usually grants visas to persons who provide information, referencing a recent incident where screenshots of messages between a social media commentator and someone purported to be a U.S. agent regarding the granting of visa for information were shared. “I am not aware of that but I can tell you that no there is absolutely not a legal basis for someone receiving a visa and that is that they are not a (threat) to the United States. That’s the basis of most of the tourist and business visas, that’s the basis, the legal basis in U.S. law…nothing more, nothing less. It’s very simple. So, no there is absolutely not a scenario where we would reward someone for giving

us information. That’s just not how it works,” she explained. Ambassador Theriot was also asked about “S category visas for informants” to which she clarified that they are not visas but a separate process via the Department of Homeland Security called “parole.” Explaining further, she said there is also another type called a “Special Benefits Parole” which is often used for persons entering the U.S. to give evidence in a case. “…there’s also one called humanitarian parole, that’s for example, a small child that needed to have a surgery that’s only available in the United States we provide that as well. That allows those people who are incredibly important to us, that we want to help to skip the visa process and still receive entry to the United States,” she further stated.

Guyana rejects majority of U.S.... From page 3 deport individuals cleared for removal. Guyana joins an expanding list of CARICOM partners receiving noncitizen deportees under U.S. bilateral arrangements. Global rights groups including Amnesty International, Refugees International, and Human Rights First have warned that third-country removals carry severe risks of unlawful repatriation. H o w e v e r, t h e U . S . administration defends the policy under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) as a national security mechanism. According to a Congressional Research Service (CRS) document dated August 24, 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) estimates over 21,000 individuals have be e n

removed to third countries under the policy to date, despite ongoing legal challenges in U.S. federal courts. Speaking at a press conference, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Saiku Andrews questioned the administration’s security assessments and operational readiness, arguing that such decisions should not be made in secret and must involve the public. Echoing those concerns, APNU parliamentary lead Dr. Terrence Campbell warned of potential national security vulnerabilities and urged the government to halt the process until parliament receives a full briefing, stressing that the country must understand the background of every individual brought into Guyana.

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A Mid-Year Report is a report card not an audit Christopher Ram is right to demand accountability for the spending of public money. He is also right that figures are most useful when they tell a coherent story about what Government has spent, what it has achieved and what remains to be done. But to ask for all of these things in a Mid-Year Annual Report is to turn that report into something that it was not intended to be. And given the statutory timelines, it is doubtful that the deadline set in law would be met if Ram’s requirements were to be met. The Mid-Year Report is a statutory document required by section 67 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003. The Act requires the Minister, within sixty days after the end of the first half of the fiscal year, to present to the National Assembly a report on the year-to-date execution of the annual budget and the prospects for the remainder of that fiscal year. In other words, the MidYear Report is essentially a report card. It tells Parliament how the Government is performing against the budget approved for the year, what has changed since the Budget was presented, what the economic and fiscal outlook now looks like, and what risks or adjustments may confront the Government during the remaining months. Section 67(2) sets out the architecture of that report. It requires an update on the macroeconomic and fiscal situation, including a revised

economic outlook and the implications for the annual budget. It requires a comparison of actual current and capital expenditure and revenues with the estimates approved by the National Assembly, together with explanations of significant variances. And it requires a list of major fiscal risks for the remainder of the year and the policy responses Government proposes to address them. Those requirements are important because they tell us what Parliament intended the Mid-Year Report to accomplish. Against that statutory purpose, some of the additional information suggested by Ram would undoubtedly be useful. It would be helpful, for example, to know expenditure by programme and, where appropriate, by major project. It would be useful to know the cost of completed works, expenditure to date on unfinished works, physical progress against expenditure, significant variations from original project estimates and, u l t i m a t e l y, e n o u g h information to enable an assessment of value for money. But what Ram wants is not a statutory requirement. If every one of Ram’s requirements were incorporated into the MidYear Report for every Government programme, the document could quickly become extraordinarily voluminous and cumbersome. A housing programme alone may

contain numerous developments, each involving land acquisition, roads, drainage, utilities, street lighting, community facilities, houses, lots and other infrastructure. Multiply that across every ministry and agency and the Mid-Year Report could cease to be a report card on the national budget and become a vast compilation of project-management reports. That is not necessarily better accountability. More information is not automatically more useful information. Good public financial reporting is about presenting the right information at the right level, in a form that allows Parliament and the public to understand the fiscal position and to identify significant deviations from what was approved. There is also a difference between budget execution and project auditing. The M i d - Ye a r R e p o r t c a n properly tell Parliament that a particular sector has received and spent a particular amount against its approved allocation and explain significant deviations. That does not mean the report must become the principal document for determining whether every road was constructed at the optimum cost, whether every housing development is at the precise stage claimed, or whether each individual project represents value for money. Those are legitimate questions, but they can and

Dem Boys Seh...

The report that nobody does read Guyana got a report for everything. If a government office buy a box of pencils, somebody does write report. If de pencil sharpen, another report does come. If de pencil break, well, that is serious business — committee got to investigate and another report does follow. By the time the report reach the Permanent Secretary, the pencil done retire. And now we hearing that some people want even more information in Government reports. Dem boys seh careful what you ask for. Government does already produce so much reports that if all of dem was stacked together, Guyana could build another skyscraper — and probably spend three years preparing a feasibility study to determine where to put it. Every year we get Budget. Then MidYear Report. Then Annual Report. Then audited report. Then performance report. Then monitoring report. Then evaluation report. Then implementation report. And sometimes, if things really going good, a report on why the previous report was delayed.

Nobody knows who reading them. Dem boys seh the report does go straight from printer to shelf, where it enters witness protection. But the real problem is not that Government produces too many reports. Is that despite all dem reports, dem boys nah see much people reading them. After producing 200 pages explaining what Government did last year, the next report does say Government must improve reporting. Dem boys seh that one deserve a report all by itself. Maybe we need a new Government rule. Before writing a report, identify who will read it. And before commissioning another report, find the last one. Because if nobody read that one, why we ordering volume two? At this rate, Guyana don’t have a shortage of reports. We have a shortage of people reading them. And dem boys seh if anybody want to investigate that, please don’t form a committee. Just send us the report. We promise we won’t read it. Talk half. Leff half.

should be pursued through the Report of the Auditor General or through a process of demanding annual reports of the various Ministries, agencies, public corporations and agencies. This does not mean that the Government should hide behind the statutory minimum. The law establishes a floor, not necessarily a ceiling, for transparency. Where a very large expenditure requires additional explanation to make the figures intelligible, Government should provide it. And where there are significant variances, section 67 expressly requires explanations. The sensible debate, therefore, is not whether R a m ’s a p p e t i t e f o r information is legitimate. It is whether every item on his wish list belongs in the MidYear Report itself. The answer should be no. A good Mid-Year Report

should allow Parliament to answer the fundamental questions: Where are we financially? How much of the approved budget has been executed? How does actual performance compare with what Parliament authorised? Why are there significant deviations? What has changed in the economic outlook? What risks lie ahead? And what is Government doing about them? Those are the questions section 67 places at the centre of the exercise. The Mid-Year Report should therefore be judged principally by whether it fulfils that purpose. It should be clear, credible and sufficiently detailed to permit meaningful parliamentary scrutiny. But it should not be transformed into an unwieldy catalogue of every project, contract, expenditure item and

physical output undertaken by Government during the first six months of the year. The challenge is not to put every conceivable number into one document. It is to ensure that the right information appears in the right document, at the right level of detail, and that together those documents provide Parliament and the public with a complete picture of how public money is being managed. That is a much more useful standard by which to judge the Mid-Year Report. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

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Thursday September 24, 2026

The Guyana-China card - Pt. 1 In his 201st Oil and Gas column, the tireless Chris Ram, man of law and man of numbers, introduced a thought-provoking element in Guyana’s oil weaknesses and struggles. It’s one with explosive potential. One, if acted upon, that is sure to trigger some huge ripples across a number of fronts, both local and foreign. Mr. Ram came up with the novel idea that the Guyana Government should leverage its valued relationship with the Chinese Government for some movement towards the contract renegotiation table. I am sure that the resonantly named Excellency Yang Yang, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana would be more than inspired to take it from there. Now, I urge a careful scrutinising, measuring, of the environment. America wants China to go out of Guyana and back to China. China wants to stay. Guyanese have an oil contract challenge. It’s

about how to get more from the Exxon-led oil consortium. A consortium in which a Chinese company, CNOOC, holds a not insignificant 25 percent stake. Exxon men have been blunt: no to renegotiation. Could it be that CNOOC, a Chinese entity - alongside its country that is supposedly friendly to Guyana - does not agree with that no-torenegotiation posture in some way? Small or substantial, it’s in Guyana’s interests to explore through diplomatic channels what the possibilities could be. A Chinese company, deeply embedded within the American oil consortium, could be the platform, launchpad, to the door of renegotiation for Guyana. The quid pro quo for being a gamechanger is that China has a firmer footing in Guyana. Exxon and America may not like any such overture. But recheck its moves in Venezuela with Maduro.

Indeed, all is fair in love and war. To that, I add, Guyana’s interest in getting a few dollars more from a depleting asset. Not buckets of millions, but a cupped hand that collects what is fair, what is appropriate in a partnership that has been celebrated as among the best in the world. Let’s look back and recall Exxon’s manoeuvres in the precontract signing period. Reports are that Exxon was neither forthcoming nor straightforward nor comprehensive (three euphemisms) in its disclosures about what the Stabroek Block held at that point. Today, there is that opportunity, as inserted into Guyana’s oil conversations, to return the favour. The Chinese are looking for a lifeline that gives longevity in Guyana. Guyana is scrambling for an ally against a whale of an oil company (Exxon, with Chevron in tow), and there is CNOOC standing invitingly.

It could be a wedge presence for Guyana, more of a helper to a friend in need, than a spoiler to consortium’s interests. I see this as bigger than oil. There’s gold, bauxite, timber, and other rich natural resources that Guyana could use as bargaining chips to entice the Chinese to see matters Guyana’s way. Naturally, only on terms that are mutually healthy. The stakes are high. The issue is whether the men who are highly placed in the Guyana Government have the fortitude to seize a rare opening and massage it for all that it is worth. Is the Ali-Jagdeo Axis committed to better for Guyana from its oil? (Expect something on this). CNOOC has been silent,

unlike that former consortium member, Hess Corp. Exxon has done all the pronouncing relative to renegotiation. Perhaps, the time has now arrived for CNOOC to break ranks and be more vocal for what’s helpful to Guyana. It would be surprising if the Chinese Government is cool to any genuine overtures from Guyana’s leaders. Guyanese have heard from Drs. Ali and Jagdeo about the cherished nature of the Guyana-China friendship. Hon. Prime Minister Mark Phillips most recently spoke of expansion of Chinese ties. A message and a mission fused into one. Thus, I exhort Pres. Ali, Excellencies Phillips and

Jagdeo to take that expansion a step farther. Engage the Chinese for the benefit of Guyanese. This is the Achilles heel in the oil consortium, as the Fates would have it. China wants something (to stay). Guyana wants something (to renegotiate). Exxon wants its way (to standstill). This formula can be changed. Could the PPP Gov’t put Guyana first? Mr. Ali and Mr. Jagdeo can finally prove themselves. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

St. John’s College HM claims ‘victimization’ after TSC demotion

...says commission ignored evidence in disciplinary hearing St. John’s College headteacher, Beverley Agard, says the disciplinary action taken against her by the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), which resulted in her demotion and transfer from the city school, was based on an unfair process. Speaking with Kaieteur News on Wednesday, Agard said the decision followed reports that she had allegedly breached several of the commission’s rules. Agard said that at a meeting with the TSC on September 17, the commission failed to properly consider the evidence and explanations she presented in her defence and instead relied on a letter submitted by District Education Officer (DEO) for Secondary, Shevon Sutton. “I was charged with one - nonsubmission of a document, one was not completing a transcript in time and the TSC called me in to address those matters. However, the evidence that I took and my explanation was not considered,” Agard said. Documents shared with this publication show that in a letter dated February 6, 2026, Sutton wrote to Principal Education Officer Immanuel Bridgewater stating that Agard had been in breach of TSC rules on several occasions over the previous two years, which had become a cause for concern. Sutton recommended that necessary action be taken to prevent Agard from continuing to breach the rules. Among the concerns outlined in the letter were alleged neglect of duty, inefficiency, failure by the headteacher and other administrative staff to provide guidance to non-administrative staff, poor supervision, inability to meet deadlines, failure to maintain proper statistics and records, and inadequate attention to duties assigned to her as headteacher. The TSC subsequently summoned Agard in a letter dated September 9 to answer

DEMOTED: Miss Beverley Agard

charges of “neglect of duty” and “inefficiency”. The alleged offences included “inability to meet deadlines” and “general failure on the part of the headteacher to give guidance to nonadministrative staff and poor supervision”. Agard, however, said she believes the process was unfair because the Commission did not properly examine the evidence she presented. “I do not believe how everything happened is a fair process, based on the fact that if someone complains about me, check, there was no check. Because in the TSC meeting they clearly said that they don’t have to look at my evidence that I have or have to consider what I am saying to them. The evidence that they used to make the decision was the letter that the DEO presented to them and she claimed that I receive those letters,” Agard said. She clarified that she only became aware Continued on page 15

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GUYANA PUSHES GLOBAL SOUTH TO BUILD ITS OWN PANDEMIC DEFENCES

– Pres. Ali calls for greater scientific capacity, regional cooperation Guyana has emerged as a leading voice in a renewed push by countries in the Global South to strengthen their ability to prevent and respond to future pandemics, with President Irfaan Ali calling for developing countries to move beyond being consumers of medical innovation and become producers of it. President Ali made the call on Tuesday at a high-level United Nations General Assembly side event in New York, jointly organised by Guyana and Burundi, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The forum, titled “Two Regions, One Future: Financing Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response to Build Global Health Security,” brought together leaders and health officials from Africa and the Americas to examine how countries can strengthen health systems and secure long-term financing to prepare for future pandemics. According to a PAHO press release, Ali used the platform to highlight a lesson exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic—the vulnerability of countries that depend heavily on distant suppliers for vaccines, medicines, diagnostic equipment and protective gear. “Science should know north or south but access to its fruits must never depend on geography,” Ali said. He argued that the Global South must develop the scientific and technical capacity not merely to receive life-saving innovations but to participate in creating them. “We must build a world in which the global south has the scientific capacity, not simply to receive life-saving innovation but help create it,” the Guyanese President said. Discussions at the forum emphasised the importance of regional institutions and cooperation in pooling expertise, surveillance systems, laboratories, emergency personnel and other resources. PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa said pandemic preparedness must not be treated as an expense that governments turn to only when a crisis emerges. “Preparedness is not a cost we pay during an emergency. It is an investment we make before one strikes,” Barbosa said, arguing that sustained financing is needed during periods when there is no immediate crisis. He said the world already has many of the diagnostic tools, risk assessments and action

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony and other officials at the forum.

President Irfaan Ali joined Director of PAHO, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa at the event.

plans required for preparedness, but the major challenge is ensuring predictable, long-term financing to maintain those capabilities. The discussions also focused on disease surveillance and epidemic intelligence, laboratory and genomic surveillance, early-warning systems, rapid response, emergency coordination and the ability to maintain essential health services during outbreaks. Africa CDC Director-General Dr. Jean Kaseya stressed that regional institutions can help countries achieve collectively what individual states, particularly smaller ones, cannot easily sustain on their own. He said regional public goods such as surveillance networks, laboratory systems and emergency response capacity can make national investments more effective. The meeting also brought attention to the continuing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with Burundi’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Zephyrine Manirataganda, warning of the urgency of investing in preparedness before outbreaks escalate. She pointed to similarities in the structural challenges confronting Africa,

South America and the Caribbean and welcomed greater South-South cooperation in health preparedness. The event’s organisers argued that pandemic preparedness is not only a health issue but also one of economic resilience, national security and sustainable

development. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how quickly a health emergency can disrupt trade, supply chains, employment and economic activity. The forum advanced calls for a shift away from crisis-driven funding towards sustained Continued on page 15

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New Little Diamond Day/Night care centre officially commissioned

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud on Wednesday officially commissioned the $170 million Little Diamond Day/Night care and early childhood development centre. According to information provided by the ministry, the facility, procured under the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), can accommodate up to 50 children and will provide care during both the day and night. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister Persaud said the facility will benefit families within the Little Diamond Young Professional Housing Scheme and nearby communities, giving parents greater peace of mind while they work, knowing their children are in the hands of trained and professional caregivers. “It’s another step towards making childcare more accessible while giving parents the support they need to work and earn an income,” the ministry reported. The Basic Needs Trust Fund on its Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud on Wednesday commissioned the Little Diamond Day/Night Care and Early Childhood Development Centre.

Facebook page stated that the facility provides a purpose-built facility that can accommodate up to 50 children per shift. Designed with the needs of young children and their families in mind, the centre features furnished and equipped learning spaces, a dedicated play area, and provisions to support accessibility and inclusion for children and adults of all abilities. Reflecting on the journey from an identified community need to the completed facility, BNTF Guyana Project Manager, Karen Roopchand, said “The true value of this investment will be measured by the children and families it serves.” During her remarks, she also highlighted the importance of the Centre’s day-and-night care model, recognising that many parents work shifts, nights or extended hours and also need access to safe and dependable childcare. This publication understands that the nightcare services will commence on October 1.

Fire destroys house at Victoria The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has reported that another fire has destroyed a The aftermath of the fire which destroyed house on the East Coast of Demerara, a house at Victoria, East Coast Demerara. this time in the community of Victoria on Tuesday night. The fire service on Wednesday reported that they responded to a fire at Lot 1 Victoria Village. “Water Tender # 125, Water Carrier # 35 and Ambulance # 25 crew from Mahaica and Melanie Fire Station, along with their respective crews, were dispatched to the location. Upon arrival, firefighters observed the wooden building of one floor was completely engulfed in flames,” the fire service reported. This publication understands that through swift and coordinated efforts, firefighters brought the blaze under control. “The fire was subsequently extinguished, but the building and its content were destroyed,” the report stated. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

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Prison escapee nabbed hiding on fishing boat Police have recaptured New Amsterdam Prison escapee Budnarine Persaud, a 28-year-old fisherman of Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, who was found hiding aboard a fishing vessel at No. 65 Fisheries, Corentyne, early Wednesday morning. Acting on information, police ranks went to the area at about 03:30hrs on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, where they conducted a search of a fishing vessel. During the search, Persaud was found hiding in the bow of the vessel and was arrested. He was subsequently escorted to the Springlands Police Station, where he was placed in custody pending investigation into his escape from lawful custody. Persaud had escaped from the New Amsterdam Prison on Monday, September 21, at about 13:00hrs, while he was working at the new administrative building with three other inmates under the supervision of a prison officer. He was serving a 24month prison sentence for

CAPTURED: Budnarine Persaud simple larceny and was scheduled to be released on November 5, 2027. His last known address was given as Lot 101, Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice. Following his escape, the Guyana Prison Service launched an investigation and said persons found to have neglected their duties would be held accountable. D u r i n g We d n e s d a y morning’s operation, six other persons—four men and two women—were also arrested in connection with the alleged harbouring of Persaud.

St. John’s College HM claims... From page 10 of the letters when she was summoned by the TSC and they were presented to her. One of the issues raised against her concerned an alleged failure to meet a December 11 deadline for submitting examination scores for a Mathematics mock examination to the Education Ministry. Agard disputed the allegation, explaining that the ministry had requested the examination marks in a format showing the students’ names, Paper One scores, Paper Two scores and the overall total. “Ministry is claiming that on the 11th of December, I did not submit the scores for the children but specifically I did submit paper one. Now it’s impossible for you to get a paper two score with a grand total and I did not submit paper one. So, when I show them the format at TSC they said they ain’t concerned about that, the DEO said you ain’t submit, you ain’t submit,” Agard recounted. She described the handling of the matter by the Commission as a “clear case of victimisation”, arguing that the evidence she presented to support her position was overlooked. Agard said she has been in the teaching profession for more than 20 years and has served at several schools. She became headteacher of St. John’s College in 2023. Efforts to contact officials from the TSC for a response were unsuccessful.

GUYANA PUSHES GLOBAL... From page 11 investment in preparedness, with national governments identifying their own risks and priorities while regional bodies provide technical cooperation, cross-border coordination and shared infrastructure. The discussions come ahead of the Second United Nations High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response on September 25, where world leaders are expected to review progress since the first high-level meeting in 2023 and consider how to maintain political commitment and financing for pandemic preparedness. The meeting also takes place as countries move ahead with implementation of the WHO Pandemic Agreement and other international commitments aimed at strengthening global health emergency preparedness.

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Kaieteur News

Thursday September 24, 2026

UK and U.S. warned to take action on spiralling debt costs by IMF (BBC) The world’s advanced economies including the UK and US need to cut borrowing and reduce debt levels following weeks of spiralling government interest costs, the head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned. In an exclusive interview, Kristalina Georgieva said global economic shocks had been “pushing debt levels up

like a staircase not to heaven” but that governments had taken “no action to contain that service cost”. “[It’s] time to take that action,” she said, adding that “courage” was needed by politicians to take the necessary steps. The intervention comes as government borrowing costs have surged in response to wars disrupting the supply of oil, which has

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Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, issued a warning on debt levels at the UN general assembly meeting in New York City.

the central banks deliver on their mandate for price stability,” she said. “It is impossible to stress strongly enough how critical it is to get the courage to take the steps that are necessary. These are politically tough steps to take, but necessary steps to take.” Asked specifically about the UK’s higher interest costs compared to other major economies, Georgieva said its position was “not very different” from others. She pointed to “fairly consistent action” on lowering debt and praised planning and housing reforms, adding that advanced economies “don’t have the cash” to boost growth and so had to rely on reforms to encourage the private sector to invest.

AI COULD PRESENT ‘FINANCIAL STABILITY RISK’ Governments around the world raise money by selling bonds - essentially an IOU and in return pay interest to the investment funds that buy them. Concerns over inflation eating away at returns has sent the interest rates on bonds - known as yields higher in recent months. But there are other factors pushing yields up, including increasing competition in the bond market from large tech companies looking to raise huge amounts of money to invest in artificial intelligence (AI) development. On AI, Georgieva referenced recent concerns about loss of safe control over such systems as a potential

financial stability problem, alongside debt levels. “If we see more incidents when AI takes [on a] life of its own, then we can be faced with a significant financial stability risk,” she said. The IMF’s managing director repeated the influential body’s assessment that the global economy was affected by two forces “pushing in opposite directions” - the energy price shock and investment in AI. She said it was important for the low exports of oil and gas from the Gulf “to resume in a durable manner, for the energy supply shock to finally be in the rearview mirror”. “That is a very significant step to normalisation,” she said, but acknowledged it was yet to happen.

President Ali, regional leaders commit to stronger hemispheric security under Shield of the Americas President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali joined United States President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other leaders of the Shield of the Americas on Tuesday, where member states adopted a Joint Communiqué to strengthen the resilience of the Western Hemisphere. The communiqué is built on three pillars: economic, security and multilateral coordination. The meeting, convened by President Trump on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly

(UNGA) in New York, called for enhanced collective action to combat narcoterrorism and greater efforts to strengthen regional resilience through economic, security and multilateral cooperation. President Ali was joined in the meeting by Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud and Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett. The Shield of the Americas comprises the United States, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican

Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Trinidad and Tobago. The coalition was established by President Trump on March 7, 2026, at a summit with leaders from across the Western Hemisphere in Doral, Florida. President Ali attended that inaugural summit, where leaders signed the Doral Charter, committing to dismantle drug cartels and transnational criminal organisations, discourage illegal immigration, and ensure peace and stability

throughout the hemisphere. President Ali was one of only three Caribbean heads of government invited to the inaugural summit, alongside Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar and Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader. Speaking at a July reception marking 60 years of Guyana-US partnership, President Ali said strengthening security ties remains a priority in the bilateral relationship, noting, “That is why we are a founding member of the Shield of the Americas.” (DPI)

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fuelled inflation. Higher global borrowing costs have hit the UK government in the run-up to UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s first Budget next month, with speculation building over potential tax and spending policies. The latest figures show borrowing - the difference between tax receipts and government spending - was £18.3bn ($24.4bn) in August, almost a fifth higher than the year before and higher than official forecasts. Meanwhile, debt interest was the highest figure for August since monthly records began in 1997. Higher borrowing costs have also hit the US, the world’s largest economy, which has seen its debt pile surpass $40tn. The amount has doubled within the space of a decade, prompting concerns at home and abroad. On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Georgieva said the IMF’s message to advanced economies was that while there were economic factors occurring outside the control of governments, they did have command over domestic policies. “There are these two things that must be done: bring debt levels down, put fiscal consolidation as a priority, and make sure that

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From page 6 the figures I have been looking at, what it will be costing the Treasury for the acquisition of the bridge would be less than if we have to pay toll between now and next year, based upon the figures I’m looking at,” Edghill told the National Assembly. In October 2022, President Irfaan Ali had announced plans for a new Berbice River Bridge and said the Government was discussing the possible acquisition of the existing bridge. “We are in the process of discussing with the Berbice Bridge Corporation, the possible acquisition of that bridge by the government,” Ali said at the time. The Government had also indicated that if the acquisition was not finalised by the time the new Demerara River Bridge became operational, the existing Berbice River Bridge crossing would become toll-free simultaneously. The current Berbice River Bridge was constructed between

2006 and 2008 at a cost of approximately $8 billion. Its financing included loans and equity contributions from several entities, including the State-run National Insurance Scheme and private investors. According to the ownership structure of the Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI), National Industrial and Commercial Investments Ltd. (NICIL) holds 10 per cent, the NIS 20.2 per cent, Hand-in-Hand Fire Insurance 10 per cent, New GPC 20 per cent, Queens Atlantic Investment Inc. 20 per cent, and Secure International Finance Co. Limited 20 per cent. The disclosure of the agreements and the financial records surrounding the bridge could therefore provide greater clarity on the original investment structure, the returns to the NIS and the basis on which the Government acquired the asset for $400 million.

Kaieteur News

Thursday September 24, 2026

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Election fraud trial…

Defence challenges expert GECOM IT manager says witness over anti-APNU/PNC had authority to remain alone social media posts with SOPs, remove servers G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s C o m m i s s i o n with two unidentified men before returning to (GECOM) Information Technology Manager his car. The footage later showed him Aneal Giddings testified in the Georgetown lowering the vehicle’s window and receiving Magistrates’ Court that his decision to remain an item from one of the men. Hughes suggested that Giddings had alone with Statements of Poll (SOPs) for about four hours, as well as removing deliberately left GECOM’s central server GECOM’s central server for more than two inside his vehicle for more than two hours, hours, fell within his operational allowing external persons access to it while he went to the muster point to create what the responsibilities. Giddings made the assertions during lawyer described as “plausible deniability.” Hughes further suggested that the item cross-examination by defence attorney C.A. Nigel Hughes in the ongoing 2020 General passed through the vehicle window was a flash drive containing manipulated election and Regional Elections fraud trial. Hughes questioned Giddings extensively data. “I am suggesting to you that you placed the server in your car... to about his actions inside the provide them with access Ashmins building on March 3, while you went in front to give 2020, after then-Deputy Chief yourself an excuse,” Hughes Election Officer Roxanne put to the witness. Myers instructed staff to leave “Absolutely not,” the building. Giddings replied. Giddings acknowledged Giddings denied any that he remained in the collusion and said he did not tabulation room for know the identities of the two approximately four hours with men. However, he the SOPs, alongside colleague acknowledged that he could Paul Persaud, while no not recall why he had spoken political party agents, electoral to them or what item was observers or GECOM handed to him. commissioners were present. Giddings served as Hughes pressed Giddings Anneal Giddings GECOM’s IT manager from to identify any statutory provision or written Standard Operating July 2018 to April 2023. Following Hughes’ cross-examination, Procedure that specifically authorised an IT Manager to remain alone with election attorney Eusi Anderson questioned Giddings documents under those circumstances. about his employment history and the scope Giddings conceded that there was no specific of his duties at GECOM. Giddings was asked to submit his official written provision covering that particular job description and employment contract to scenario. He nevertheless maintained that his the court to assist in establishing his formal responsibilities, together with the responsibilities. He subsequently submitted administrative authority he acquired as a the documents. The trial involves several contracted GECOM employee, empowered former GECOM officials and former political figures who are facing charges arising from him to safeguard and process the documents. The defence then turned to events on alleged misconduct in public office and March 5, 2020, when Hughes confronted conspiracy to defraud in connection with the Giddings with security footage from the March 2020 elections. The matter continues before Principal GECOM car park. The footage showed Giddings exiting his vehicle and speaking Magistrate Faith McGusty.

Forensic auditor Terrence Jaskaran came under intense defence scrutiny on Wednesday as attorney Eusi Anderson challenged his impartiality as a state expert witness in the March 2020 General and Regional Elections fraud trial. Anderson confronted Jaskaran in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court with an August 28, 2020 Facebook essay he authored under the headline, “APNU/PNC and Their Infamous History of Elections Rigging.” The defence tendered the social media publication into evidence as Anderson sought to establish that Jaskaran’s previous political commentary raised questions about his independence as an expert witness. During questioning, Anderson read extensive portions of the publication in which Jaskaran described opposition election claims using terms including “paid social media profaners,” “pseudo-intellectuals” and “nomads clutching at straws.” The post also contained commentary on Guyanese elections dating from 1968 to 1997. Anderson established that Jaskaran, who was born in 1985, was either unborn or a minor during most of the elections discussed in his publication. The attorney also questioned Jaskaran about

Terrence Jaskaran his academic background and established that he had no formal history degree beyond sixth form and had not reviewed primary-source indexing materials or original source documents for those elections before publishing his commentary. J a s k a r a n , h o w e v e r, rejected suggestions that his public writings demonstrated political bias or compromised his ability to provide objective evidence before the court. “I am a professional,” Jaskaran told the court. He maintained that he was capable of separating his personal views and commentary from his professional responsibilities. “I am required to keep separate ideas, consistency, and views as opposed to those when I do my professional work,” he said. Jaskaran explained that his online commentary had been based on publicly available reports from

international observer missions. He maintained that his forensic work in the present case was based strictly on mathematical and evidentiary analysis of election documents and spreadsheet tabulations provided to him. Anderson also questioned Jaskaran on whether he held the view that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was the best party to govern Guyana while he was preparing his evidence. Jaskaran maintained that his professional conclusions were separate from any personal political views. T h e d e f e n c e subsequently tendered Jaskaran’s social media publications into evidence as part of its challenge to his credibility and impartiality as an expert witness. The trial continues before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty.

Venezuela declares Kamla persona grata (CNC3) Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez has confirmed that Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar is persona grata in Venezuela, signalling a significant shift in relations between the two neighbouring countries. The confirmation came during a meeting between Rodriguez and Persad-Bissessar at the Permanent Mission of Venezuela to the United N a t i o n s i n N e w Yo r k o n Wednesday, on the margins of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to a joint statement issued by the Governments of Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago, the two leaders held a cordial working meeting which heralded “the beginning of a new era in bilateral relations”. The statement said the leaders reaffirmed the historical bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries and committed to consolidating the

bilateral agenda based on mutual r e s p e c t , s o v e r e i g n t y, g o o d neighbourliness, dialogue and cooperation. They agreed on a work agenda covering trade, energy, security, disaster risk management, environmental protection, agriculture, tourism, air connectivity and culture. Rodriguez also expressed the gratitude of the Venezuelan people to the Government and people of T r i n i d a d a n d To b a g o f o r expressions of solidarity following the earthquakes of June 24, 2026. The leaders further agreed to maintain a direct consultation mechanism at the highest level and will pay official visits to Caracas and Port of Spain. The joint statement specifically said, “The Venezuelan side indicated that the Prime Minister was indeed Persona Grata in Venezuela.” That marks a reversal from

October 28, 2025, when Venezuela’s National Assembly declared Persad-Bissessar persona non grata. The declaration came amid heightened tensions between Caracas and Port of Spain and was l i n k e d b y t h e Ve n e z u e l a n legislature to its opposition to US military exercises in Trinidad and Tobago. Venezuela accused Persad-Bissessar of adopting what it described as a “war-mongering” position by allowing the exercises, which Caracas viewed as a threat to Venezuela. The Venezuelan legislature also called on the Trinidad and Tobago Government to distance itself from what it described as military provocations in the Caribbean. The latest meeting and joint statement indicate a renewed effort by both governments to strengthen bilateral ties. The two leaders said they were determined to promote friendship, good neighbourliness, trust and

Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez (right) and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar cooperation, while creating opportunities for development and well-being for the peoples of both

countries and contributing to peace, stability and prosperity in the Caribbean.

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Thursday September 24, 2026

Iran’s president tells UN General Assembly his people have been ‘victims of terrorism’ by U.S. (AP) — Iran’s president said Wednesday that his people have been “victims of terrorism” by the United States, delivering a rare wartime speech at the U.N. General Assembly a day after President Donald Trump said he may “annihilate” the Islamic Republic if a deal isn’t reached soon to end the nearly seven-month war. The defiant speech by President Masoud Pezeshkian marked a striking instance of a foreign leader addressing the world body while their country is at war with the host nation. While defending his country, Pezeshkian held up large photos of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the more than 150 Iranian schoolchildren killed on the first days of the war. “We have only defended ourselves. We are not terrorists,” Pezeshkian said at the General Assembly. “Our innocent people have been the targets of cowardly attacks and aggressions imposed upon our country. And we defended ourselves with utmost strength. America

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressing the annual gathering in New York on Wednesday and Israel attacked us.” He added of the United States: “Yes they did hit us, but we did not bend the knee.” Toward the end of his speech, Pezeshkian called out Trump by name. “It must be understood by Mr. Trump and those who seek to bully us that we are ready for dialogue and diplomacy and negotiations without accepting the language of force,” he said. Shortly after, both U.S. and Israeli officials blasted the speech, saying that it was hypocritical for the Islamic

Republic to present itself as the victims of the world. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters: “I don’t know what standing Iran has to lecture anyone on human rights or the international system when they habitually violate it.” A BUSY 24 HOURS FOR US-IRAN RELATIONS Arriving in New York under heavy security and scrutiny, Pezeshkian — who, within Iran’s political landscape, is considered a moderate politician — addressed world leaders a day

after Trump used the same stage to mull whether to massively escalate a war that has already spiraled out of control. “I have a big decision to make,” Trump said in his wide-ranging address Tuesday. “Will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country than it ever was before, maybe one of the greatest in the Middle East or even the world. Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again?” Hours after those stunning threats, Trump told reporters that his chief envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, met for about three hours with the Iranian officials on the sidelines of the annual gathering. But he offered few details about how the discussions transpired or the substance of the exchange. “It was a very good meeting,” Trump said. The president later added that the Iranian officials were “not the

highest level, but it’s something.” Also on Tuesday, Rubio said Trump is open to meeting with Pezeshkian while he’s in New York. But Tehran downplayed Tuesday’s unscheduled exchange, which were the first indirect talks between U.S. and Iranian officials since a June ceasefire unraveled. Esmail Baghaei, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, maintained the c o u n t r y ’s n e g o t i a t i n g position in talks with U.S. officials, demanding that Washington end its blockade of Iranian ports and release frozen Iranian assets, Baghaei said the talks — conducted indirectly through Qatari mediators — were “not anything new.” Rubio echoed that sentiment Wednesday, saying that “it was a continuation of conversations that have occurred in the past.” “If there’s an opportunity to exchange ideas and messages, we will. And that’s what largely yesterday was — it was positive in that regard,” he said. “But ultimately, I don’t want to mischaracterize

this as a major breakthrough.” MORE THAN A YEAR OF NEGOTIATIONS HAVE TAKEN PLACE Pezeshkian’s address elaborated on where Tehran stands as more than a year of start-stop negotiations between the two longtime adversaries have failed to produce a sustainable solution. His speech came as intermittent attacks continued in the Strait of Hormuz off Iran’s coast, where commercial shipping remained below prewar levels. His address last year came months after the 12-day Israel-Iran war that saw the assassination of many of the Islamic Republic’s highest military and political leaders and once again broke down weeks of negotiations with the United States. “Ladies and gentlemen, you all bore witness that this past June, my country was subjected to a savage aggression and flagrant contravention of the most elementary principles of i n t e r n a t i o n a l l a w, ” Pezeshkian said at the time.

Trump meets Venezuela’s Rodriguez for first time since Maduro’s capture (Reuters) - US President Donald Trump met Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez late on Tuesday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, their first meeting since American forces captured then-President Nicolas Maduro in a January raid. The aside meeting at a reception Trump hosted came during Rodriguez’s first trip to the US since taking office. She is set to address the General Assembly on Wednesday afternoon. The Venezuelan delegation, which includes the vice president of economy, the oil minister and officials from state oil company PDVSA, is focused on making the country look “investable,” two people close to the delegation told Reuters. Rodriguez called the meeting a historic step towards strengthening ties with the US in energy, mining, and security. “Venezuela and the United States share a historic relationship that, in this new phase, we are called upon to steer through dialogue,” she said on messaging app Telegram after the talks. Her administration would ‘pursue diplomacy aimed at “concrete results and collective benefits” for Venezuelans, she added. A White House official said the meeting with Rodriguez included President Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and Stephen

Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez attends the 81st United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York City, US, September 22, 2026. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid Miller, assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for policy. Trump has built a working relationship with Rodriguez, who served as Maduro’s vice president. But critics say Washington has sidelined the opposition led by Maria Corina Machado, dropping demands for free elections in favor of oil and investment deals with the interim government. Machado, who has been in exile since late last year, made three unsuccessful attempts to return to Venezuela by sea and air in recent hours, her team and media said on Tuesday.

A small group of Venezuelans protested in New York, calling for elections. In his speech to the General Assembly, Trump called Maduro an “outlaw dictator,” said hundreds of political prisoners had been freed since his capture and held up the raid as proof the US would protect its interests in the Western Hemisphere. “To the victor belong the spoils,” he said, calling `an oil deal his administration signed with Caracas last month “perhaps the biggest deal ever made.” Trump has said he wants $100 billion in investment to flow into Venezuela’s

oil industry. Rodriguez arrived in New York on Monday with the delegation that has been holding talks on energy, mining and debt with US officials, multilateral lenders and companies, sources said. The head of the Inter-American Development Bank is working to secure approval for a $2.5 billion loan for Venezuela but has faced pushback from some members of the lender’s board. DEMONSTRATORS DEMAND FREE ELECTIONS More than 50 protesters waving Venezuelan flags and carrying

signs reading, “No Vote, No Oil” and “New `Face, Same Regime,” gathered outside the UN earlier on Tuesday to protest Rodriguez’s presence. Many said they wanted Trump to push for free elections in the country. They sang the Venezuelan national anthem and chanted “Delcy, I swear, you’re going to Brooklyn with Maduro”, referring to the federal jail in Brooklyn, just across the East River from the UN, where her predecessor is being held pending trial on drug trafficking `charges. “On one hand, it’s outrageous to see part of the regime meeting with the authorities of this country’s current government, but there’s also no doubt that thanks to this government, today we are one step closer to freedom,” said Miguel Eduardo Martinez, a 34-year-old social media manager who moved from Caracas in 2017. Cesar Coello, who carried a sign depicting Rodriguez ‘in an orange jumpsuit, said, “Delcy Rodriguez wasn’t born on January 3, 2026. Delcy Rodriguez has been with the Chavista dictatorship for more than 20 years. She has been complicit.” The reference was to “chavismo”, the political movement founded by the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez. Coello said he hoped Trump and Rodriguez would discuss holding elections soon.

Kaieteur News

Thursday September 24, 2026

PAGE 19

“Not good for democracy” diplomatic corps taking WIN’s concerns over GECOM deadlock “very seriously” “GECOM does need to move forward, because the standstill that they’re in now will prohibit regional elections and local elections from happening, and that’s not good for democracy,” United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot cautioned on Wednesday. Speaking to members of the media on sidelines of the 27th Americas Regional Conference, she said members of the diplomatic community are taking concerns raised by Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party very seriously amid the ongoing impasse at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Addressing formal correspondence received from the office of the leader of the opposition, the U.S. envoy affirmed that foreign diplomats across Guyana have received his submissions and consider his concerns valid. She noted that while international representatives engage opposition leadership individually rather than en masse, direct communication with GECOM, the government, and opposition lawmakers remains continuous and close, with meetings scheduled alongside various parliamentary parties. She clarified that while she is not the dean of the diplomatic corps, the U.S. government works very closely with GECOM. This follows an August 19 press statement from the opposition leader’s office titled “Guyana’s Electoral Institutions at a Crossroads: GECOM, Representation and the 2025 P o l i t i c a l Tr a n s i t i o n . ” W I N highlighted that despite emerging from the 2025 general and regional elections as the principal parliamentary opposition force and largest non-governmental party in the National Assembly, aspects of Guyana’s institutional framework continue to reflect an earlier political dispensation. S p e c i f i c a l l y, t h e t h r e e opposition seats on GECOM continue to be occupied by nominees from the former opposition coalition, A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC). The opposition’s statement detailed that following the 2025 polls, the leader of the opposition sought legal advice on the constitutional requirement for meaningful consultation with nongovernmental opposition parties before recommending nominees to the president. On June 30, 2026, Mohamed formally advised President Irfaan Ali to appoint Roysdale Forde, S.C., Siand Dhurjon, and Damien Da Silva as commissioners of GECOM. A follow-up letter was dispatched on August 7, 2026,

Nicole Theriot, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana noting the lack of a substantive response. The presidency has not yet provided a substantive response to the recommendations. Following stakeholder discussions with the government, opposition leader, GECOM, opposition parties, and civil society, The Carter Center in August 2026 publicly called for the deadlock concerning GECOM’s composition to be resolved. The center expressed considerable concern that without a fully functioning commission, GECOM may be unable to organise local government elections within

parliamentary opposition parties. In response, GECOM issued a public clarification confirming it currently pays 69 field scrutineers appointed by APNU+AFC under an existing arrangement for the combined opposition. GECOM stressed that maintaining this payment framework should not be interpreted as a determination that WIN or any other party is unentitled to representation. Addressing the consultation process for scrutineers, GECOM clarified that Chief Election Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud did not make an adverse finding regarding consultations undertaken by the leader of the opposition. Following a June 3, 2026 letter from the opposition leader submitting proposed scrutineers, GECOM received formal objections from APNU. On June 5, the CEO informed the opposition leader that he lacked statutory authority to determine whether meaningful consultation had occurred, noting that competing inter-party claims were matters for the parties themselves to resolve. GECOM emphasised that under Section 7A of the Representation of the People Act (as amended by Act No. 25 of 2022), the CEO is subject to the direction and control of the commission and cannot substitute

GECOM Chairperson, Ret’d Justice Claudette Singh formal decisions and directives from the commission. The operational delays compound earlier concerns raised by GECOM Chairperson Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh. In May, Justice Singh stated that GECOM could not move forward with its work, including preparations for LGE originally slated for November, until the new leader of the opposition submitted the names of his nominees to properly constitute the commission. The chair emphasised that she must tread cautiously to avoid legal

Meeting with WIN and APNU

the statutory timeframe, execute necessary electoral reforms before the next general elections, or ensure that constitutional bodies reflect the current political configuration. Adding to the operational gridlock is a parallel dispute concerning political field scrutineers under Section 33D of the Representation of the People Act. WIN reported that none of the 69 field scrutineers currently remunerated by GECOM on behalf of the opposition belong to WIN or the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), the two other

his own decisions for that of the commission. Reassuring stakeholders on its legal boundaries, GECOM added that it holds no locus standi regarding commissioner nominations under Article 161(3)(b) of the constitution and cannot intervene in or resolve nomination impasses. On Local Government Elections (LGE), GECOM confirmed that while its secretariat has prepared a comprehensive workplan outlining operational tasks, the secretariat cannot independently activate or implement the workplan without

challenges from excluded parties. However, opposition commissioner Vincent Alexander strongly opposed the notion of existing commissioners stepping down, asserting that the law provides no straightforward mechanism for their removal or resignation merely because opposition leadership changed. Alexander revealed that the commission had not met since September 7, 2025, leaving critical operational decisions unapproved, even as a budget estimate was submitted and approved by

parliament. Administrative strain within GECOM persists alongside the political dispute. During parliamentary budget debates in F e b r u a r y, M i n i s t e r o f P a r l i a m e n t a r y A ff a i r s a n d G o v e r n a n c e G a i l Te i x e i r a confirmed that funds were set aside for LGE within GECOM’s $6.9 billion national budget allocation. However, key administrative vacancies remain unfilled, including the Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO), Assistant Chief Election Officer (ACEO), Legal Officer, Information Technology Manager, Research Officer, and Chief Accountant. Despite the leadership gridlock, technical preparations have continued. GECOM published the Revised List of Electors (RLE) for public scrutiny from February 7, 2026, across registration divisions and on its website. Additionally, GECOM advertised for temporary trainers to design training materials and prepare polling staff for the local government polls. Inter-party efforts to resolve the friction directly led to exploratory talks on August 24, 2026, between WIN and APNU. The WIN delegation, comprising Mohamed, General Secretary Odessa Primus, MP, and parliamentarians Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, Natasha Singh, Duarte Hetsberger, and Vishnu Panday, met with an APNU delegation led by Chairman Aubrey Norton, PNCR General Secretary Sherwin Benjamin, Parliamentarians Dr. David Hinds, Ganesh Mahipaul, Coretta McDonald, and Dr. Dexter Todd, alongside Ronald Daniels and Shaneika Haynes. A joint statement confirmed that both sides agreed to consult their respective leaderships on establishing two three-member teams to draft guidelines governing future political cooperation. Agenda items focused on GECOM representation, scrutineer allocations, the ongoing impasse at the Region 10 Regional Democratic Council, and nominations to the Local Government Commission. The meeting was reported as cordial, but no final decisions were taken on substantive matters, and no further meetings have been held since. Local Government Elections, which establish grass-roots governance across 65 Neighborhood Democratic Councils and six municipalities countrywide, are constitutionally due every three years. With the last local polls conducted in June 2023, diplomatic representatives, electoral observers, and political leaders continue to stress the urgency of resolving the institutional impasse in strict accordance with the Constitution and the rule of law.

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Kaieteur News

Thursday September 24, 2026

Kaieteur News

Thursday ThursdaySeptember November 24, 24, 2026 2022

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Harpy Eagles Gym ready to spread their wings at GBA’s National Novices Harpy Eagles Boxing Gym is preparing to make a strong statement at the G u y a n a B o x i n g A s s o c i a t i o n ’s ( G B A ) National Novices Championship, with coach and trainer James Walcott determined to see his young c h a rg e s c h a l l e n g e f o r honours when the three-day tournament gets underway from September 25–27 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The championship is expected to bring together some of the country’s most promising amateur boxers, all eager to seize their moment in the spotlight at one of the most anticipated events on the GBA’s calendar. For Harpy Eagles, the tournament represents another opportunity to showcase the depth of talent being developed under the watchful eye of former boxer-

turned-coach Walcott, whose gym has established a reputation for producing some of Guyana’s leading youth pugilists. While Pace and Power Gym and the New Amsterdam Boxing Academy have already publicly signalled their intentions of challenging for the overall title, Walcott is making it clear that Harpy Eagles will not be entering the

James Walcott (centre) receives boxing gear from GBA President and Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle (left) previously.

Thursday September 24, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You will be able to find a greater connection to your inner soul today, Aries. You will also find that you're more psychic than usual. The more you look inward, the more you're apt to find the solutions to your outward questions. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You may have many irons in the fire today. People and projects could demand your attention, yet you may feel so dreamy and unmotivated that it could be hard to make progress on any of them. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) This is going to be a great day for you, Gemini. Strangely enough, you will find that tension may help you get things done. There's an easiness today that will create openings for exploring creative outlets. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You may need to let go and release your control, Cancer. You know what you want, so just trust your intuition. If you continue to let your brain do all the work, you will probably miss valuable information. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) This is an excellent day for you. You will find that things automatically flow your way. You will receive more attention than usual and be the center of any flattering discussions. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may feel a bit lazy and unmotivated today, Virgo. It could be hard to drag yourself out of bed. In terms of love and romance, there's apt to be some tension.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Love and romance are apt to be going quite well for you now, Libra. You should find that it's easier to be yourself in a partnership. Let your romantic side shine through. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You may feel a great deal of nervous energy today. Tension could come to you from all angles. Indecisiveness might be your biggest problem. You may be in a frenzy trying to figure out where to move next. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Issues having to do with love and romance are in your favor today, Sagittarius. You're more in touch with your emotions. You will find that your attitude toward love is more grounded than usual. Feel free to let go of some control. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may not feel in sync with the day's energy, Capricorn. Something about it may not sit right with you. Your natural instinct to want to take the lead may be overshadowed by an unwillingness to even get up. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Issues regarding love and romance should be going well for you now, Aquarius. You will find that your natural tendency to ground and plan is working perfectly with your desire to find what you want in a mate. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may want to escape into your dreams today, Pisces. Trying to do something practical may be met with opposition, as the general mood of the day calls for things to be more ethereal and elusive.

championship merely to make up the numbers. The experienced trainer is targeting the crown and believes his stable has enough talent to mount a serious challenge. “I have at least 15 boxers that I want to bring,” Walcott said, while explaining that more than 20 youngsters, including females, are currently competing for a place on the final team. “I have a lot, but I have to take like 15 of the best. The competition will be tough this time, so they’re all working and training hard to find a spot on the team for this weekend,” Walcott said. The battle for selection, he believes, has created an added level of motivation within the gym, with every boxer eager to earn the right to represent Harpy Eagles and ultimately make an impression inside the ring. “We have been doing well. We either win, or come second most times, so my job now is to keep them focused,” Walcott pointed out. However, while the gym has considerable depth among its male boxers, Walcott remains hopeful that his females will finally get the opportunity to showcase their abilities in competition. He explained that one of the recurring challenges is finding opponents for his female boxers, despite their commitment to training. “They’re use to boxing with the boys in the gym, but I would tell them that they can’t fight against boys when we get to tournaments. Sometimes we go to weighin, and they don’t have

anyone to fight them. So they would ask me if they could fight with the boys, and I would tell them no,” Walcott stated. With a handful of female boxers working towards selection, Walcott is hoping circumstances will be different at this year’s Novices Championship. “They train, and I would

love to see them get a chance to fight,” he said. With competition for places already intensifying at Harpy Eagles, Walcott’s charges are expected to arrive at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall hungry for success, as the gym looks to turn its growing reputation into championship glory.

Kaieteur News

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Thursday September 24, 2026

Vryman’s Erven Secondary wins Georgia Women Cricket Association-New Amsterdam Inter Secondary School girls’ Inaugural T10 cricket tournament

Outstanding VESS batters Latoya Williams after scoring an unbeaten 36 and Jelisha Shepherd not out on 14 carried their team to victory.

Coordinator and organiser Ms. Petal Samuels at left and Regional Educational Officer Reg 5 right, pose with VESS unbeaten batters Latoya Williams second left and Jelisha Shepherd second right. By Samuel Whyte In an exciting final encounter Vryman’s Erven Secondary school defeated New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary School to take top honours in the NA Inter Secondary School female cricket competition. The three days competition, which was held from Friday 18 to Sunday 20, was played at the Berbice High School (BHS) Ground. Five schools participated. Namely Berbice High School (BHS), Berbice Educational Institute (BEI), New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary School (NAMSS), Vryman’s Erven Secondary School (VESS) and Tutorial Academy Secondary School (TASS). In a fitting climax, the round robin competition saw all the schools playing each other with the top four advancing to the semifinals before the two winners met in the final. In the final, NAMS batted first and ended on 86-3 off their allotted 10 overs. Extras was the main contributor with a massive 73 runs while Amesha

Beerball was unbeaten on 9. In reply VESS reached 90-1 in 9.2overs. Latoya Williams looked well composed as she led the scoring with an unbeaten 36, with her was Jelisha Shepherd on 14 not out. Earlier, TASS had played unbeaten in the preliminary round robin stages winning all four of their matches and advancing to the knockout stage unbeaten. In the semifinal, TASS took on NAMS while BHS played VESS. In the first match NAMS defeated TASS to end their unbeaten run, while VESS got the better of BHS. At the presentation ceremony, which followed immediately after, a number of awards were handed out. A Most Valuable Player (MVP) was selected for every game. There were 10 in total. Most Promising wicketkeeper award went to Hana Fraser of NAMS. Most catches were taken by Veera Seegolam of TASS. Teira La Cruse of NAMS received an award for hitting the only 6 in the competition.

A special award was presented to BHS for their team spirit and discipline. Some 11 years old girls participated in the competition and were duly rewarded Beerball of NAMS finished the competition with three wickets to emerge as the tournament’s leading bowler. La Toya Williams of VESS who looked a cut above the rest walked away with a number of awards. She scored 78 runs from three innings including her unbeaten 36 in the final to have the most runs in the tournament and 2 wickets was also the best batter and the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the final and the competition. In remarks Regional Education Officer Region No 5 Ms. Celeste La Rose thanked Ms. Samuels for taking the time to travel to Guyana to organize and coordinate the competition. She said its good when persons can remember where they come from. She said that the gesture is most welcome. She encouraged the students to continue to practice and to take

their education seriously. Samuels was humble and thankful for the assistance she received and those who assisted in making the tournament successful. She had special words of thanks to Mayor Wainwright Mc Intosh and Redo Ms Celeste La Rose. She promised to have a bigger and better tournament next year. Samuels, a native of New Amsterdam, Berbice, is a Hall of Famer in the USA. She is the founder and president of Georgia Women Cricket Association (GWCA) and Atlanta Pearls Women’s Cricket team. Samuels is also a certified Cricket Umpire and Cricket Coach. She has a long and outstanding career in the area of Sports, Sports administration and Community Development. Among the sponsors were Banks DIH Limited, A. Ally and Sons, New Amsterdam Multilateral Alumni International, Star Party Rentals and New Amsterdam Mayor Wainwright Mc Intosh among others.

Outstanding and Most Valuable Player Latoya Williams pose with her winnings including bat, trophies, medals and other silverware after the presentation ceremony.

Kaieteur News

Thursday September 24, 2026

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Lavendra Luckiram and Rajiv Latchana tops latest GNRA Smallbore shoot

The participants take time out for a photo following the competition. The Guyana NRA Smallbore section held its third competition for the year 2026 titled, Super September Shoot. Aquafina Water and Ice Inc. sponsored the Super September Shoot 2026, which saw an IPSC Level I competition which comprised of four stages, that catered for Standard and Production Divisions with a ladies category. Lavendra Luckiram and Rajiv Latchana were the stand out names at the conclusion. T h e Ti m e h r i R i f l e Ranges came alive with members applying their

acquired skillsets, challenging each other for top positions in the two available divisions on Sunday 6th September 2026 last. In an environment of elapsed time, torrid sun and sand, faced by participants who endured and safely navigated the intense stage scenarios with composure and adhering to the rules of engagement, in a sport ridged with regulatory and procedural discipline. As the sun went down and the last shot fired, participants grew anxious

knowing it was a robust performance and had no clue of their placement in the divisions prior to release of the results. Match officials and participants were commended for their professional approach and most important of all, exercised safety precautions. The Guyana NRA expressed sincere gratitude to the known and unknown sponsors for their continued support to the development of the Association towards sport shooting in Guyana. The results were

formulated by PractiScore 2 application and presented by the small-bore Captain. There were various categories of the competition, which included, Production and Standard Divisions. Production focuses on relatively standard factory firearms and equal equipment conditions, while Standard Division provides competitors with greater flexibility to customize their firearms and equipment. The Production Division saw nine (9) participants, and first place went to Mr.

Eagles soar past Castrol Strikers as DVA Volleyball action continues

Rajiv Latchana receives his reward. Lavendra Luckiram, second place was Mr. Gordon Richards, and third place was Mr. Jemaine Klass. The Standard Division had five (5) participants, and first place went to Mr. Rajiv

Latchana, second place was Mr. Daniel Sugrim, and third place was Mr. Jonathon Ferreira. Yonelle De Abreu and Carla Dodson battled in the Ladies section.

Lavendra Luckiram collects his prize. Action continues to heat up in this ongoing DVA tournament hosted at the National Gymnasium. Premier Eagles Volleyball Club produced a commanding performance to overcome Castrol Strikers when action in the Demerara Volleyball Association (DVA) Senior tournament continued this week at the National Gymnasium. During a four-set battle, Eagles recovered from a first-set setback to secure a convincing victory. The Strikers made the stronger start, taking the opening set 25-20 as they looked to establish early control. However, the Eagles quickly found

their rhythm, immediately responding with a 25-18 second-set to level the contest. The Premier Eagles then turned up the pressure in the third set, dominating the Strikers 25-9 to move within one set of victory. Eagles VBC maintained their momentum in the fourth, closing out the match 25-15 to complete the comeback. Leading the Eagles’ charge was Evgeny Titov, who was named the match’s Most Valuable Player

following an impressive all-round display. Titov finished with 17 points, including 13 successful attacks, three ace serves and a crucial block, as his attacking efficiency and presence at the net helped propel the Eagles to victory. After dropping the opening set, Premier Eagles showed their composure and attacking strength, winning three consecutive sets thus sealing the four-set triumph over Castrol Strikers.

Yonelle DeAbreu get her prize after the action.

Thursday September 24, 2026

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Avinash Persaud masters the greens to capture SBM Offshore Guyana Golf Tournament Avinash Persaud turned in a commanding performance on Sunday, emerging as the standout player at the SBM Offshore Guyana Golf Tournament hosted by the Lusignan Golf Club, as 43 golfers battled across the greens and fairways in a day marked by healthy competition, camaraderie and quality golf. Persaud produced the tournament’s best gross score of 69 and, playing off a handicap of 4, finished with a net 65 to claim the Overall Best Net title. The tournament brought together golfers of varying handicaps, creating a competitive atmosphere while maintaining the friendly spirit that continues to define events at Lusignan Golf Club. From the opening shots to the final putts, players navigated the course’s fairways and greens while enjoying the opportunity to compete and socialize with fellow golfers.

In the 0–14 handicap flight, Persaud also topped the standings with his net 65. Jim Peck secured second place with a gross 85, handicap 14 and net 71, while Ravindra Harry finished third with 81 gross, handicap 10 and net 71. The higher-handicap flight saw Kishan Bacchus take first place after carding 83 gross off a 17 handicap for a net 66. Kevin Budram was second with 85 gross, handicap 17 and net 68, while Oliver Dawns finished third with 95 gross, handicap 25 and net 70. Harry also claimed the Longest Drive prize, while Imtiaz Subhan captured Nearest to the Pin honours. The tournament was supported by SBM Offshore Guyana, whose partnership provided another opportunity for golfers to come together while strengthening the relationship between the corporate sector and the local sporting community.

Dominique Clarke, Administrative Assistant to the Country’s General Manager, said SBM Offshore Guyana was pleased to support the event. “It has been a pleasure sponsoring this tournament. We love all the great things we have seen and look forward to collaborations in the future. Congratulations to the winners and the club for a wellorganized event.” LGC President Anasha Ally thanked SBM Offshore Guyana for coming on board and demonstrating its commitment to corporate social responsibility. Ally said partnerships such as these are important to the continued development of golf, allowing the club to host quality tournaments while bringing together players, sponsors and the wider golfing c o m m u n i t y. S h e e x p r e s s e d appreciation to SBM Offshore Guyana for its support and looked forward to further collaboration in

Avinash Persaud receives the winner’s Trophy from Dominique Clarke, Administrative Assistant to the Country’s General Manager. the future. The successful tournament once again highlighted the competitive nature of golf at Lusignan, while preserving the camaraderie and enjoyment that make the sport a growing part of Guyana’s sporting landscape. SBM Offshore Guyana is part of the global SBM Offshore group,

a company specialising in designing, operating and maintaining the floating production, storage and offloading vessels within the offshore oil and gas industry. The company continues to play a significant role in Guyana’s energy sector and has been supportive of community and sporting initiatives.

The winners row displays their prizes.

Prisoners ready to prove their worth at GBA’s Novice Championships The Republican Boxing Gym is preparing to make a statement at the Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA) National Novice Championships, with coach Wincell “Naka B” Thomas confident that a group of approximately 30 prisoners will be ready to prove their worth when the gloves are raised at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from September 25–27. The three-day tournament, one of the GBA’s marquee events, will bring together some of the country’s most promising newcomers to the sport, but this year’s championship carries added significance for the Republican Gym, as inmates from the Mazaruni, Lusignan and Timehri facilities prepare to make their competitive return to the amateur boxing scene. Among the group are six female prisoners, all part of a programme that Thomas believes is providing far more than an opportunity to learn how to box. The initiative, a collaboration involving the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Guyana Prison Service and the GBA, is regarded as a unique programme within the Caribbean. For the inmates involved, boxing has become a

Wincell “Naka B” Thomas vehicle for discipline, personal development and, perhaps most importantly, hope. “I’m impressed with their commitment to the programme, since we started, especially the females,” Thomas said. According to the veteran coach, participation begins with a screening process conducted at the respective correctional institutions, after which inmates who demonstrate an interest and are

selected are introduced to structured boxing training. “It really comes down to who is interested, and then how they do the screening of the prisoners. But, if I visit somewhere and I see someone I know from boxing, I would point them out, and allow the authorities to make the final decision based whatever system for selection they have in place,” Thomas explained. What has stood out to Thomas, however, is not simply the number of inmates embracing the sport, but the transformation he has witnessed since the programme began. “I can attest to the change in attitude in many of them because some of them might have found their purpose through boxing,” Thomas said. Thomas admitted that getting the male inmates involved was comparatively easier, while the female participants initially presented some challenges. However, once they found their rhythm, their enthusiasm quickly became impossible to contain. Beyond the technical aspects of boxing, Thomas believes the programme is also instilling qualities that extend well beyond

the ropes. He praised the cooperation of the officers at the various facilities, as well as the inmates, noting that the responsibility associated with leaving the institutions to compete at the Sports Hall has itself contributed to a noticeable change in attitude. According to Thomas, “They’ve accepted the responsibility that comes with it leaving the facility to compete at the Sports Hall. There has been a big shift in attitude. Because, now, they understand that in boxing, you can’t make a rash decision in the ring because you can get hurt, so the boxing programme is helping them outside of the ring as well, and that’s what makes this entire thing important.” With the Republican Gym harbouring ambitions of claiming overall honours, Thomas is keeping his eyes firmly on the bigger picture. For him, success will not only be measured by medals or trophies. He wants the novice boxers to remain committed to the sport, continue developing their skills and become examples to other inmates who may be searching for a constructive outlet.

Kaieteur News

Thursday September 24, 2026

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Strong performances from Team Guyana despite loss in Singles and Doubles Table Tennis

Following Olympian Chelsea Edghill’s hard-fought victory to secure her place in the Women’s Singles Round of 16, Guyana’s other table tennis players encountered a challenging day against a strong South American field at the XIII South American Games in Santa Fe 2026. Despite the results, the Guyanese players delivered spirited and competitive performances while gaining valuable experience against some of the region’s best. MEN’S SINGLES Elishaba Johnson bowed out in the Round of 32 following a 4–0 defeat against Brazil’s Leonardo Iizuka. The scoreline did not fully reflect the competitive nature of the contest, as Johnson demonstrated his emerging talent and ability to compete at this level. Colin Wong, continuing his transition from the junior to senior ranks, also exited after a 4–0 defeat against Brazil’s Guilherme Teodoro. Competing at the South American Games represents an important step in Wong’s development and exposure to senior international competition. G u y a n a ’s n a t i o n a l m e n ’s champion, Shemar Britton, faced a demanding contest against Argentina’s highly rated Santiago

Lorenzo, but was unable to overcome the home-country favourite. MEN’S DOUBLES In the Men’s Doubles Round of 16, the Guyanese combination of Elishaba Johnson and Shemar Britton produced a competitive showing before losing 3–1 to Uruguay’s pair of Palou and Timbal. MIXED DOUBLES In Mixed Doubles action, Chelsea Edghill and Shemar Britton battled strongly but went down 3–1 to Argentina’s Santiago Lorenzo and Camila Argüelles. The results underline the high standard of competition at the South American Games, while also providing Guyana’s players with valuable experience, greater international exposure and important lessons for their continued development. Team Guyana’s table tennis campaign continues, with Chelsea Edghill carrying the nation’s hopes into the Women’s Singles Round of 16. The Guyana Olympic Association commends the players for representing the country with courage, discipline and determination against a highly competitive South American field.

Elishaba Johnson and Shemar Britton in action during the Doubles action.

Reboot joins 2026 IMC Over-40s World Cup as Gold Sponsor

CWIMA Chairman Raj Singh (left) receives the sponsorship package from a representative of Permaul Trading & Distribution.

Emerging sports drink Reboot has joined the 2026 International Masters Cricket (IMC) Over-40s World Cup as a Gold Sponsor, pledging 1,000 cases of the beverage and financial support for the tournament. The partnership was announced on Wednesday at the Ruimveldt Industrial Site headquarters of Permaul Trading & Distribution, the exclusive distributor of Reboot in Guyana. Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) Chairman Raj Singh was on hand to receive the sponsorship package. Singh explained that the partnership had been under discussion for some time before CWIMA and Permaul Trading & Distribution finalised an attractive sponsorship package. He said the company’s contribution would assist CWIMA considerably as preparations continue for the international tournament. Permaul Trading & Distribution has been a consistent supporter of masters cricket in Guyana, and the Gold Sponsorship represents an i n c r e a s e i n t h e c o m p a n y ’s commitment to the sport. Managing Director Subramani Mangali expressed his company’s satisfaction at being associated with the tournament and pledged continued support for masters cricket. His commitment came as Singh indicated that Guyana could host additional Masters World Cups in the future.

Manufactured in Trinidad and Tobago by Brava International Limited, Reboot is an isotonic sports drink containing electrolytes. The beverage caters for athletes and active consumers to support hydration and recovery following physical activity. The second edition of the IMC Over-40s World Cup will feature 16 teams competing in 72 matches from October 17 to November 1. The grand finale is scheduled for the National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara. Matches will be played at 10 venues across Guyana. Confirmed locations include the historic Bourda Ground at the Georgetown Cricket Club, the Anna Regina Stadium in Essequibo, the Joe Jagmohan Ground (Essequibo) and the Albion Community Centre Ground in Berbice. The remaining venues are being finalised. South Africa will enter the competition as defending champions, while the West Indies Over-40s team will be captained by former West Indies skipper Denesh Ramdin. Former West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan and Guyanese brothers Hemnarine and Sewnarine Chattergoon are also named in the home squad. Admission will be free at all venues. Spectators seeking an upgraded viewing experience may purchase booths for matches being played at the National Stadium.

Vryman’s Erven Secondary wins Georgia Women Cricket Association-NA Inter Secondary School girls’ Inaugural T10 cricket tournament The winning VESS girls teams pose with their trophies medals and other rewards alongside organiser, officials, sponsors, coaches and teachers.

BM SOAT/Prem’s electrical KTM looking to continue form at GMR&SC National Championships

s t r o Sp

The 2026 championship is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, One Guyana, GuyOil, Enet, KFC, Tropical Shipping and Castrol.

Fresh off their return from Barbados, the BM SOAT/Prem’s Electrical team is looking to continue its winning form this

weekend in the opening round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) National Championships.

The team, part of the four-car contingent that represented Guyana at the fourth round of the GT Challenge series in

Barbados, picked up one second-place finish and one first-place finish in the GTS Turbo Class over the weekend.

Driver and team principal Rameez Mohamed confirmed they are looking to carry that form into this weekend’s first round of the

National Championships. “We had a good run in Barbados a few weeks ago, and the car is in a really good window, so we are obviously looking to translate that form home, here, in front of our fans,” Mohamed said. “The challenge is that earlier today (Wednesday) we got the car back into our possession, so my team, led b y Wi n g m a n ( D a n i e l Gafoor), will have to run it back through, and we will do a shakedown later this week.” “But from the way we left the car in Barbados, we aren’t expecting any major work, so fans of the BM SOAT/ Prem’s Electrical can rest assured that we will be on that grid on Sunday,” Mohamed added. The car is expected to be a fixture in group four. Meanwhile, GMR&SC has pegged admission at $4,000 for adults and $2,000 for children.

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