Kaieteur News

Lethem robbery ends in shooting, car crash; man arrested

Oil prices climb past $105 a barrel as war in Iran enters third week

Venezuelan dies in E-bike crash at Enmore …as reserves surge 221% Oko West holds 4.64M of GMIN’s 6.52M ounces of gold

Senegal revokes 71 mining licences over“unfair” gas contract

…as Guyana maintains ‘sanctity of contract’ with ExxonMobil

By Davina Bagot

Prime Minister of

Sénégal, Ousmane Sonko has revoked 71 mining licensesafterdeclaringaBP gas contract “unfair”, freezing the accounts of a major Indorama subsidiary untilitsettlesapproximately 380 million euros ($438 million).

Reutersreportedthatthe prime minister vowed to lay out more sweeping reforms, signalling the most decisive measures yet from a government that came to powerin2024withapledge to audit and potentially renegotiateresourcedealsin the WestAfrican nation and restoreitsfinancialstability

“The contracts that have been signed are unfair contracts, which we intend to discuss in detail," Sonko saidinatelevisedstatement.

The government review found that a gas contract for theGreaterTortueAhmeyim project operated by BP was one-sided and unfair As such, Sonko said he would publishadocumentwiththe details of the contracts studied,whichalsoincluded fishing and infrastructure, but did not provide specific detailsaboutanydiscussions withBP

BP did not respond to a Reuters email seeking comment.

Review ⁠to boost

Senegal's economy

S o n k o s a i d t h e renegotiationswouldrebuild Senegal'sfinancesandboost the economy by delivering cheaper gas to industries as wellasthepopulation.

Senegal is grappling with debt that reached 132

per cent of gross domestic product at the end of 2024, a c c o r d i n g t o t h e International Monetary Fund (IMF), which froze its lending programme after a g o v e r n m e n t a u d i t discovered misreported debt.

Sonko has previously said the country will not need to implement a restructuring plan, despite what he referred to as a d

repaymentschedule.

Senegalhasannounceda plantoclose19government agencies to save money

Tensions have risen at universities over the government not paying students promised financial aid Meanwhile, teachers' unionshaveheldnationwide strikes over shortages, salariesandtaxes.

Sonko said talks to nationalise the YakaarTeranga gas project, operatedbyKosmosEnergy were nearly concluded and Senegal would retake the block at no cost in the coming weeks Kosmos Energy, which has a 90% stake, became the operator of the Yakaar-Teranga gas field in 2023 after BP decidedtoexit.

Kosmos said in an email itwaswithdrawingfromthe block and that its licence expires in July 2026. "We have not been able to attract asuitablepartnerandagreea commercially attractive development concept with thegovernmentofSenegal," KosmosspokesmanThomas Golembeskisaid.

Senegal became an oilproducing nation when the Sangomar field began

productioninJune2024.

S o n k o s a i d

o cancelled the licences of several blocks such as Diender Offshore, Differe, Cayar Offshore Shallow, St Louis Offshore Shallow and Rufisque Offshore. He said the gov

nment was discussing the resizing of blocks, as the previous perimetersweretoovastand did not meet international bestpractices.

Senegal has frozen the accounts of Industries ChimiquesduSénégal(ICS) until the phosphate and fertiliser company pays the ⁠state 250 billion CFAfrancs (380 million euros), Sonko said.

Thegovernmenthasalso revoked 71 mining licences, including 14 gold licenses, because the companies failed to abide by ⁠contract terms.More broadly, Sonko said many infrastructure projects had overcharged Senegal by an average of 15%, costing the indebted countryhundredsofmillions ofeuros.

"We are still a long way from having completed this work," he said, adding that the review would likely continuethroughhistermin office "We're going to completely change the way ofdoingthings."

While the west African nation has taken a stern approachonitsresourcedeal asanewcomertothesector, Guyana maintains its commitment to “sanctity of

Armed robbers strike

Liliendaal supermarket, businessman shot in thigh

A businessman was shot and robbed during an armed hold-up at his supermarket inLiliendaalonSundayafternoon.

PolicereportedthatKashiefRodney,36, of332SectionA,BlockX,Liliendaal,wasin the cashier area of Rodney Supermarket at about 12:41 hrs when two men of African descententeredthestore.Oneofthemenwas armedwithahandgun,cladinablueandgrey jumperwith“SLB”ontheback,ablackfullfaceskimask,andblack-and-whiteslippers. The armed suspect reportedly fired two rounds, striking Rodney in the upper right thigh, before taking a gold metal chain and approximately $200,000 GYD. The robbers then fled on a black, red, and white XR Honda motorcycle driven by the second suspect.Rodney was rushed to St. Joseph Mercy Private Hospital, where he is receivingtreatmentforhisgunshotwound. Police processed the scene, recovering one bullet fragment and two 9mm spent shells. Investigators canvassed the area and are reviewing CCTV footage from the supermarketandthecommandcenter,while severalwitnessesarebeingquestioned.

contract” insisting that the lopsided Stabroek Block deal with ExxonMobil cannotbeimproved.

Stakeholders have arguedthatduetothedrastic changes in the Stabroek Block, Guyana would be well within its right as a sovereign nation to demand greater benefits for its resources. In 2016 when the agreementwithExxonMobil and its partners were made, the country's oil reserves

stood at a just three billion barrels. Fast forward to 10 years, the Stabroek Block is now estimated to hold more than 11.6 billion barrels of oil.

Previously, President IrfaanAli made it clear that he has no intention on writing Exxon to seek a renegotiationofthelopsided contract.

He explained, “No, we don't need an official response (from Exxon). We havemadeourpositionvery clear that future PSAs, and we have stuck to that and existing PSAs, the sanctity of contract, we respect that.

You know this, we have discussed this, many times before.”

The PSA requires the prior written consent of the contractor for any amendmentstotheterms.

Article 32 states, “Exceptasmaybeexpressly provided here

,

he governmentshallnotamend, modify, rescind, terminate, declare invalid or unenforceable, require renegotiation of, compel replacement or substitution, or otherwise seek to avoid, alter,orlimitthisagreement without the prior written consentofcontractor.”

Lethem robbery ends in shooting, car crash; man arrested

Lethem robbery ends in shooting, car crash; man arrested

A robbery in Lethem, Central Rupununi on Saturday night turned chaotic after a chase for the suspect ended with a man being shot and two others injuredinacollision.

Police said the robbery was committed on Vanessa Morris Alves, 42, a businesswoman of Lot 116 Kanuku Drive, Lethem.The suspect has been identified as Raymond Glasgow, 52, a labourer of Pork Bridge, Lethem and Lot 594 East Ruimveldt,Georgetown.

Reports are that at about 22:15 hrs, Alves had just closed her store and was walking towards her home some 40 feet away while carrying a side bag containing the day's sales andothervaluables.

At the time, a man approached from the northern direction and pointed what appeared to be asmallblackhandgunather, demandingthebag.

Fearing for her life, Alves handed over the bag whichcontained$1,000,000

in cash, US$800 (valued at $160,000), 600 Brazilian reals(valuedat$25,800)and an iPhone 16 Pro Max valuedat$260,000,totalling $1,185,800.

Thesuspectthenfledthe area.

Alves raised an alarm, prompting two of her employees -Dymer Jesus Padron, a 31-year-old Venezuelan national of Bonfim, Brazil, andAlfredo Jose Rodriguez Rengel, along with Stephon Mendoza, 18, of Tabatinga, Lethem, to give chase after thesuspect.

During the pursuit along the Kanuku Drive Access Road, Alves' son Samuel Alves, 23, reportedly approachedfrombehindina silver motor car and accidentally struck the men who were chasing the suspect.During the incident, a single round was discharged, striking Padron to his upper right thigh, causing him to receive a gunshot wound Padron, Rengel and Mendoza were rushed to the Lethem Regional Hospital, where Padron was later referred to

BoaVista, Brazil for further medical treatment. Rengel and Mendoza were treated forbruisesabouttheirbodies and admitted in stable conditionforobservation.

Police who visited the scene later recovered one 9mmspentshellalongwitha pieceofabrokenregistration plate Investigators also observed CCTV cameras attached to the victim's grocerystore,andeffortsare being made to retrieve the footage.

According to the victim, the suspect had been inside her store minutes before closing,wearingaredjersey and blue long pants, asking for assistance to charge his cellphone.

The suspect was later arrested, and his home was searched, but none of the stolenitemswererecovered.

Both the suspect and Samuel Alves have been taken into custody as investigationscontinue.

Policearealsoarranging an identification parade for the victim to positively i d e n t i f y t h e suspect Investigations are ongoing.

KaieteurNews

PrintedandPublishedbyNationalMedia& PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.

Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456

Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS

Tel:225-8465,225-8491. Fax:225-8473,226-8210

EDITORIAL

Release of oil reserves

The Group of Seven nations released an historic 400M barrels of oil from their strategic petroleum reserves. The newscamethroughtheInternationalEnergyAgency,which coordinates such developments. In the U.S., President Trump authorised the release of 172M barrels from the strategic reserves bringing the total freed up to 572M barrels. It looks like a huge number, with the objective being to stabilise oil prices, and soothe the jitters that crisscross many parts of the world. How much of a difference these releases from reserves would make, and howlongtheylast,arequestionsthatwaitforthefutureto provide answers, hopefully uplifting and not further depressing.

In reaction, oil prices slipped for a brief moment, then quickly rose again. It could be that the markets, having reacted to the release, factored in the significance of the 572M barrels made available, and concluded that those barrels only makeup for so long. Tensions, blockages, mining, and attacks in the Strait of Hormuz have effectively preventedapproximately20millionbarrelsfromreachingtheir destinations,andfeedingtheinsatiabledemandoftheworldfor oil Itisworthnotingthatstrategicreservesreleasesamountto lessthanamonth’sreplacementsupplyor,formoreaccuracy,28 days Inthetacticsanddevastationsofwar,eveniftheconflict, whichisnothingbutwar,wastoend,residualtensionscouldstill put the Strait of Hormuz out of commission Would the war betweentheUS andIsrael,ononeside,andIranontheother,be calledoffbeforethereservesreleasedareswallowedup? Or coulditbethatitdragson,withnoneofthecombatantsgivingan inch,andanotherreleaseisnecessaryfromboththeUS andthe GroupofSevennations?

The strategic reserve of this group holds about 1.2B barrelsthatareundergovernmentcontrol. Anothersizable release could leave that reserve in a wobbly and undesired level. Inthecircumstances,thebestdevelopmentwouldbe forthiswartobeoverintheshortesttimepossible. Iranhas beensubjecttoarelentlesswaveofbombardments,yetthe likelihoodofitcrumblingunderthehammeringlooksmore remote as the war extends. It has shown an extraordinary capacity to absorb punishment, while showing no signs of flagging in its will to standup and deliver its own stinging blows. SomecountriesintheGulfStatesareontheedgeof slowing down their production facilities, or shutting down them, altogether Such actions serve to tighten further already restricted supply, with higher oil prices being the inevitable result. The concern that we have with higher oil pricesisthatthenegativeimpactsarenotlimitedtothoseatwar withoneanother Thoseimpactsspreadacrosstheglobeand inflict considerable amounts of pain on the economies of already struggling, nonoil producing countries Rising oil pricesarelikeavirusonthemove Thereisn’tanypickingand choosingaboutwheresteeplyrisingpricesstrike,andhowhard Truthbetold,priceslashblindly,andenvelopall,fromweakto strong Somecountriesareabletocushiontheeffectsbetter, while others get crushed into a worse place than they were before Itbecomesahugechallengetogetbacktoanevenlevel, andthat’sjustthebeginning

We at this paper think that the releases by the U.S. and the Group of Seven nations from their strategic reserves havetheirpositives. Wequicklymove,however,toassert thatthebenefitsaretemporaryandmaynotbetothedegree expected. War hurts everyone, especially those trapped in themiddleofthebattles,andotherscaughtwithinbreathing distance of it. The area around the Iranian theater of war represents a cluster of some of the largest oil and gas producersintheglobaloilbusiness. War,andanyextension ofit,isacatastrophethatstartedfromthefirstdayandthe first missile. The longer this war lasts, and the more the resultingdestructions,thegreaterthebruisingoftheglobal economy Poor countries will feel it the most, take the longesttorecover Thereisonesolution:thiswarmustend now,yesterday

Anetwork of political apologists

DEAREDITOR

Thegovernment’spublic relations machinery appears tobeworkinginoverdriveto flipandspintherecentBBC World Questions event held in Guyana. In doing so, however, it exposes itself as a network of political apologists intent on rewriting what many of us witnessedfirsthand.

Rather than simply sharingorrebroadcastingthe programmeasitwasairedby the BBC thereby allowing the public to judge the proceedings for themselves, since government through Minister Mc Coy and state media sought to paint a certain picture of the event. Thegovernment’sdefenders instead opted to circulate carefullycuratedvideoclips featuring individuals who were clearly positioned at the event to advance a particularnarrative.

Among the most disingenuous of these attempts was an interview with businessman Mr Richard Rambarran To anyone who actually attended the forum, as I did, the interview sounded less like an independent reflection and more like a singing for your supper defenceofthegovernment.

Three things were particularly striking about M r R a m b a r r a n ’s intervention First, he appeared to have arrived with the sole intention of defending the government. Second,hesoughttodismiss the concerns and questions raised by citizens by suggesting that those who posed them were somehow ill-informed Third, and most troubling, he made a demonstrably false claim regarding the participation ofWINmemberMs.SaraboHalley

Mr Rambarran praised Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh for his responses during the event, despite the fact that much of what the minister offered consisted largely of familiar rhetoric. In several instances, the responses were not even directly related to the questions posed but were instead used as an opportunity to recite government talking points. Equally notable was the minister’s reluctance to clearly articulate the government’s foreignpolicy position on the issue of Cuba.

When pressed on the matter, Dr. Singh did not provide a substantive

response but instead

deferredtoremarksmadeby President Irfaan Ali about theneedfor“achangeinthe status quo ” When the moderator pointed out that such a statement could reasonably be interpreted as advocating regime change andaskedforclarificationon the government’s official position, the minister effectively retreated behind the president’s comments ratherthanprovidingaclear answer

Mr Rambarran further suggested in his interview that citizens ask bad questions because they are ill-informed and fail to consult official sources of information.

Thatclaimisparticularly ironic Many citizens, myself included, have repeatedly pressed the C o m m i s s i o n e r o f Information for access to public information, only to bemetwithsilenceyearafter year If the very office responsible for providing official information fails to respond, where exactly are citizens supposed to obtain the information Mr. Rambarranclaimstheylack?

Perhaps the most troubling aspect of the interview, however, was his

claimthatWINmemberMs. Sarabo-Halley refused to answer a question posed to her about the Opposition Leader That assertion is simplyuntrue.Whatactually occurred was that an individual in the audience attemptedtoposeaquestion that was unrelated to the subject under discussion The moderator immediately ruled the question out and declined to allow it. Ms. Sarabo-Halleywastherefore neither invited to respond nordidsherefusetoanswer

For Mr Rambarran to publiclysuggestotherwiseis not merely misleading; it amounts to the deliberate distortion of events. Such conduct raises serious questionsabouttheintegrity of those who would want to present themselves as neutral commentators while acting as enthusiastic d e f e n d e r s o f t h e government.

Public discourse in Guyana is already burdened bydeeppoliticaldivisions.It does not benefit from the furtherpollutionofthespace with selective narratives, convenient omissions, and outrightfalsehoods.

YoursRespectfully Dr.RoopnarineLall, Ph.

Guyana would be better off with less pigs

DEAREDITOR

During this season of Holi, Ramadan, Lent, and Passover,weareremindedof that which is similar across all of the major religions. One such similarity is the nonuseofthefleshofthepig. Many call it unclean while others also ban its use and have stories of casting evil spirits into swine and then sending them to drown ManyMinistershaveshown their devotion to these religions, and their admirers wouldsurelycommendthem for faithfully following the practices of their respective religions.

When I first visited Jerry’s in town I was surprised to see curry pork on the menu. In my travels around the world, it was the first time I had ever seen such a dish. MyAmerindian friend who was with me got alarmed that it was on the menu and immediately wanted us to leave. My initial thought was that the

land of garlic pork had expandeditsculinarytasteto incorporate more flesh from the pig with ham and pork dishes being integrated into traditional cuisine Pepperpot which was usually prepared with only fleshfromthecattlehadalso incorporated more flesh from the pig. The taste of Guyanese cuisine appeared to be shifting more towards Americantastes,whichuses bacon fat and lard in many dishessuchasfriedchicken. I was also shocked when I had visited an American friendwhotoldmethatthey dosoforaddedflavour

When our President Mohamed IrfanAli had first announced that he would be importingmorepigsintoour country I was at first surprised that a devoted Muslim would do such a thing. After all it was the undefeatable land of Afghanistan that had only one pig in its entire country andthatanimalwasonlyfor

display in their zoo. A gift from China in 2002. The video of visitors covering their noses in the zoo was a good reminder of the stench that those animals can bring if allowed to scavenge as theyarenaturallyinclinedto do. Many people usually think of greed, filt and evil when pigs come to mind.

Attributes that have been accentuated by most religions.

There is also the use of the word pig as a verb to describe piggish behaviour and discredit those who are prone to greed and filthy surroundings. And who can forgetthebattleoftheBayof Pigs The Bay of Pigs Invasion was a CIA backed covert operation to overthrow the government of Cuba. Americans fought with Cuba and lost in 1961. TheAmericanshadhopedto create an uprising similar to whatwearenowwitnessing in Iran, but their attempts to dosoinCubafailed.

Since then, Cuba has charted its own course and has overcome many difficulties to be where it is today as a free and independent country They have partnered with likeminded independent countries and provided strength in health where it was needed Today our current President Mohamed IrfanAlihasdecidedtogoin a different direction as he increasesthenumberofpigs upon our homeland. Maybe itisworthreflectingonwhat unitesusacrossthedifferent religions, the subtle truth of what guides us towards contentment and solidarity may also be what keeps us free and independent during a time when governments are being toppled, and countriesarebeingforcedto give up their resources. A land with less pigs may be better than one with too many Bestregards, Mr.JamilChanglee

The staff of NIS and the thousands of citizens who depend on its services deserve better

DEAREDITOR

I recently visited the Brickdam office of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to conduct personal

b u s i n e s s W h a t I encountered left me deeply disturbed and, frankly, ashamed that a national institution of such importance is allowed to operate under such unacceptableconditions.

TheNIS,whichprovides social security services to thousands of contributors and pensioners across Guyana, is clearly in urgent

need of significant infrastructuraldevelopment,

both internally and externally

From my observation anddiscussionswithstaff,it

a p p e a r s t h a t t h e organisation, particularly its t w o l o c a t i o n s i n Georgetown; has outgrown its current capacity and is strugglingtofunctionwithin outdated and inadequate facilities.

Upon entering the building, the situation was immediately evident. In the Benefits Section, cubicles usedbystaffareconstructed from basic 1×2 wooden frames.

Instead of proper partitionssuchasPerspexor other suitable materials, the structures are patched together with plastic and Scotch tape to conceal damaged areas. In addition,

several of the airconditioning units appear to be non-functional, leaving both employees and members of the public to endure uncomfortable conditions.

More troubling is the presence of exposed electrical wiring in sections of the building, posing a clear safety hazard to staff and visitors alike The waiting areas are u n w e l c o m i n g a n d unsuitable for members of the public, many of whom are elderly persons seeking pension-related services

The situation in the Compliance Section is equally concerning. From the reception area to the workspace occupied by Inspectors, the environment is cramped and inadequate. Inspectors reportedly spend approximately60percentof theirtimeinthefieldandthe remaining 40 percent preparing reports and performing administrative

duties. Yet the workspace provided is far from conducive to productive work.

Additionally, sections of the flooring contain missing tiles,creatingapotentialrisk ofaccidentsforstaffaswell asforinjuredclaimantswho must visit the office. I must alsohighlightthatworksare currently ongoing on the western side of the Camp andBentStreetlocation,and staff have been forced to endure daily discomfort while continuing to perform their duties. Employees are required to operate in an e

d disturbances, dust, noise, andgeneraldisruptioncreate conditions that could potentially be injurious to theirhealthandsafety

Itisconcerningthatstaff are expected to function under such circumstances without what appears to be adequate temporary arrangements to safeguard theirwell-being.

These observations are particularly troubling when placed against the backdrop of a $1.558 trillion national budget for 2026. Based on available information, it appearsthatthereisnodirect allocation to the National Insurance Scheme from this sum.

While the Government injected $10 billion into the NIS in Budget 2025, this measure was primarily intended to assist persons aged 60 and above who had between 500 and 749 contributions but did not meet the 750 contributions required to qualify for a full pension.

While this intervention was helpful, it does not address the wider structural and operational challenges facingtheScheme.

Equally concerning is the continued silence on pension increases NIS pensionersarestillsurviving on the increases granted in

2019undertheAPNU+AFC Coalition Government, despite the reality that Guyanaisnowexperiencing asignificantlyhighercostof living This situation

becomes even more troubling when contrasted with the billions of dollars allocated to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) between 2020 a

operational losses and sustain employment. While support for workers in the sugar industry may be justified, it inevitably raises questions about national priorities when pensioners, many of whom contributed faithfully to the Scheme for

nue to struggle to survive on fixed incomes.

It must also be rememberedthattheNIShas faced serious financial challengesdatingbacktothe early2000s.

Funds belonging to contribu

were withdrawn to finance the construction of the Berbice

Bridge, w

was structured as a private investment arrangement Additionally, NIS resources were utilized to assist in resolving the CLICO financialcrisis.

Morethanadecadelater, the Scheme has yet to be fully reimbursed for these withdrawals, leaving contributorstobearthelongterm consequences of decisions over which they hadnocontrol.

Another issue that warrants public attention is the role of the Board of Directors.

The President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Seepaul Narine, currentlyservesasamember oftheNISBoard.Asatrade union leader who has long advocated for improved working conditions for employees, one must ask whether he would be

comfortable seeing workers at GuySuCo being required to operate under the same conditions presently faced byNISstaff.

As a representative of w o r k e r s , w h a t representations has he made during his tenure on the Boardregardingtheworking environment for NIS employees?Hashetakenthe time to walk through the facilities and make a firsthand assessment of the conditionsunderwhichstaff are required to work? The National Insurance Scheme is not merely another government agency; it is a cornerstone of Guyana’s social protection system After more than fifty-five years of existence, the institution should reflect modern standards of efficiency, safety, and dignity

In light of these concerns, I respectfully call on the Hon. Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr AshniSingh,tourgently c o m m i s s i o n a comprehensive assessment ofthephysicalconditionsat theNISBrickdamofficeand other facilities, ensure the immediaterehabilitationand upgrading of these buildings, allocate the necessary resources to modernise the institution’s infrastructure, and address the long-term financial sustainabilityoftheScheme, including a review of pension levels so that pensionerscancopewiththe risingcostofliving.

The staff of the NIS and the thousands of citizens who depend on its services deserve far better than what presentlyobtains.

A national institution entrusted with safeguarding workers’ contributions and providingincomesecurityin retirement must reflect efficiency, dignity, and accountability,notneglect.

Yourssincerely, AnnetteFerguson

Guyanese must grab this joint medical mission under LAMAT 2026

DEAREDITOR, Supermove!Iamhappy for all of us as the United StatesandGuyanaaresetto launch the 2026 Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Teams (LAMAT) mission. Inanutshell,thisisahealth

security cooperation engagement, designed to strengthen partnerships, enhance medical readiness, and improve access to care acrosstheCaribbean.

This Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) is really a big thing, involving a U S

Southern Commandsupported humanitarian mission where a U.S. Air Forcemedicalprofessionals’ partner with Caribbean

nations to provide specialised medical care, exchange knowledge, and strengthen health systems. LAMAT teams typically include surgeons, nurses, and technicians who perform surgeries (e.g., eye, dental) and support local, resource-constrained clinics. According to the press release from the U S Embassy in Guyana, the mission will take place from March 16 to 27 at Ministry of Healthdesignated facilities across Guyana, and during this period, U S military medical professionals will work alongside Guyanese health care providers to deliver patient care, c o n d u c t m e d i c a l knowledge exchanges, and co

t strengthening readiness andinteroperability

T h i s k i n d o f collaboration is always a good thing, as U S medical teams operating in various countries (ranging f r o m l a r g e - s c a l e government initiatives to short-term humanitarian missions) provide critical benefits for both host

n a t i o n s a n d t h e

p a r t i c i p

efforts often focus on addressing immediate

criseswhilefosteringlongterm stability and health security Itisabigwin-win for all ofusinGuyanaandI hopewereallycapitalise.

Affirming what I just said, Col Brian Gavitt, Command Surgeon forAir Forces Southern, noted that “LAMAT is about building enduring relationships that outlast any single miss

) by collaborating closely with our Guyanese partners, we’re strengthening our interoperability, sharing k n o w l e d g e , a n d reinforcing the trust that allows us to work together effectivelyintimesofneed.

As Guyana marks its 60th anniversary, it’s an especially fitting moment to stand together and invest in a partnership focused on readiness, resilience, and the health of our communities ” By the way, I just love the sense of mutuality and reciprocity;itisabout‘us’ and‘we ’ In this regard, we can look forward for some huge corporate and personal benefits in key areas such as “ general surgery, primary care, dentistry, optometry, emergency medicine, and preventive health services ” Quite a gamut! Addtothis“ themission w i l l e m p h a s i s e professional exchanges designed to strengthen long-term medical capacity and regional resilience ”

Editor,Iamremindedof a 2025 WHO/World Bank report that states “Global health challenges in 2026 focus on bridging inequities in care, with 1.6 billion people(still)facingfinancial hardship due to out-ofpockethealthcosts.

Even in the U S , Medicarecancostafortune. This LAMAT opportune moment then is one to be thankfulfor

YoursTruly, RaymondAnderson

Nomoreprimarytopsby2026–EducationMinistersays

I find it troubling that Mr. Kissoon chose to attack Dr. Roopnaraine after his passing

DEAREDITOR, Mylettertodayconcerns references to me made by Mr Kissoon in his columns in the Guyana Chronicle, a newspaper that has thus far declined to publish my responses, contrary to the basic norms of fairness and thefreeexchangeofideas.

My response to Mr Kissoon which the Chronicledidnotpublishbut which appeared in the Kaieteur News on March 9—was clear As I stated then, “there is history, and then there is history.” My recollection,publishedinthe Kaieteur News, is lived history I do not write as a detached observer, but as an active participant in the processes the Chronicle

columnist claims to understand through unnamedsources.

I come from an upright family with a tradition of respect for the dead. This is why,forexample,alongwith Eusi Kwayana, Rupert Roopnaraine, and David Hinds,Iattendedthefuneral of Mr Burnham in 1985. There is something deeply e m b e d d e d i n o u r culture and in human s o c i e t y m o r e broadly about showing respect for the sick and the dead.Forthatreason,Ifindit troubling that Mr Kissoon chose to attack Dr Roopnaraine after his passing in a series of columns Such conduct strikes me as excessive and unbecoming.

In his column of March 11 in the Guyana Chronicle, Mr Kissoon did not extend even the basic courtesy of careful editing; he

misspelled my name Whether this was deliberate or simply careless, I cannot say His claim that David Hinds and I contradicted each other is equally unfounded.

T h e r e i s n o contradiction. Both of us were active participants in the events under discussion, andweexpressedessentially thesamepositionindifferent ways.Acarefulreader—and a careful student of history would recognise this.

I stated the facts as I experiencedthem.Ihaveno objection to anyone challenging those facts. But those who do so should not hide behind unnamed sources.

If Mr Kissoon truly wishes to contribute to the writing of history, as he

claims, he should avoid the use of misleading or unsupported assertions as a means of shaping readers’ perceptions of events

Newspapers play an important role in society by bringing public attention to events and debates that shapeourcollectivelife.

For that reason, it is incumbent upon any newspaper to ensure that

claimspresentedasfactsare respo

Columnists should not be exempt from this basic principleofaccountability

Ultimately, the archival record will remain, and the historical record will reveal the inco

unsupportedclaimsthatmay ariseinpubliccommentary

Editor,Ihavenointerest

inprolongingthisexchange. This will therefore be my final word on the matter for now However, as someone who was an active participant in that history, I remain ready and willing to engage with students, the public, and the media in respectful and honest discussion.

Regards

Dr WazirMohamed

Kaieteur News continues to play its role

DEAREDITOR,

In my Stabroek News column # 177 published yesterday reflecting on the journey of writing on Guyana’soilandgassector,I acknowledged several individuals and institutions that helped sustain the national conversation on petroleum governance. I regret,however,thatIfailed to acknowledge a media house that played an important role in bringing many of those issues to a wideraudience.

Over the years Kaieteur News, under the leadership of its publisher Mr Glenn Lall, frequently drew on

several of my oil and gas columns as the basis for investigative reports and newsstories.

In doing so, the newspaperhelpedextendthe reach of those analyses and placed matters relating to petroleum contracts, fiscal a r r a n g e m e n t s a n d transparency before a broader section of the Guyanesepublic.

Reporters such as Ms. Kiana Wilburg, Davina Bagot and their colleagues deserve particular recognitionforthediligence with which they pursued thosestories.Ithereforeowe and extend to them a

personalapology

With the closure of StabroekNews,thespacefor independent scrutiny of public policy inevitably narrows. The responsibility for informed and fearless journalism therefore becomes even more important.

Itismysincerehopethat media institutions, especially Kaieteur News, will continue to carry forward the task of informing the public and askingthedifficultquestions t h a t d e m o c r a t i c accountabilityrequires. Yoursfaithfully, ChristopherRam

Big plus for Buxton vendors

DEAREDITOR

Iamsothrilledinreading that“Works(areset)tobegin on(the)newtarmacfor(the) relocation of Buxton vendors.” It is bound to add tothequalityoflifeforthese vendors, as well as enhance thevillageoverall.

This move is really a follow-up from that stillremembered November 2025 engagement, when at that time, the PPP/C made a commitmentforthebuilding ofamarkettarmacwithinthe vicinity of the BuxtonFoulis Neighbourhood DemocraticCouncil(NDC). So, after arranging the variouslogisticalfactors,the Ministry of Public Works hasnowannouncedthatitis settogoaheadandbuildthis new tarmac, that will accommodate some 59 vendors, plying their trade along the Railway Embankment, at Buxton, EastCoastofDemerara.

The details emanating from Minister Juan Edghill showthat“Thedevelopment of this tarmac will allow for

the orderly relocation of vendors,therebyclearingthe major road artery to enable the current contractor to proceed with construction works in the area, for the advancement of the East Coast Demerara Road Expansion Project. Minister Edghill clearly pointed out that “ after the construction of the tarmac, the relocation exercise will not displace any vendor, noting that it will instead enhance everyone involved, since “… amenities (which include washroom facilities and lighting) will now be featured, to ensure the security and comfort of all thevendors.Simplyput,this isastep-upbigtime.

Overall, in that area, “Workshavecommencedon the site with contractors, China Railway First Group (CRFG) beginning the clearing of the identified land along the Buxton Line Top, next to the BuxtonFoulis NDC for the new tarmac to be built for vending This was made

p o s s i b l e t h r o u g h collaboration with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) to ensure a suitable and accessible location for vendors who willhavetorelocate.”

As we are all aware, the East Coast Demerara Road Expansion Project is one of the country’s major infrastructure undertakings that is aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing congestion, and enhancing road safety for thousands of commuterswhotravelalong thecorridordaily I remind all that such a project was recently completedforvendorsat‘B’ FieldSophia,astheylookto widen the road network thereaswell.

We all need to face the realityofachangingGuyana under this current PPP/C Administration, as it continues investment towards a modern Guyana, onparwiththerest (Continuedonpage16)

Oil price boom could bring billions but rising freight rates could increase food costs-WIN

The We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) on Friday warned that while rising global oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions could generate billions of dollars in additional revenue for Guyana, higher freight costs may simultaneously driveup food prices and the overallcostofliving.

In a statement, the party said it was seeking to highlight both the opportunities and risks facingGuyana'seconomyas tensions in the Middle East continue to influence global oilmarkets.

WIN noted that Guyana is currently producing about

900,000 barrels of oil per day,andaUS$30increasein oil prices could have s

ial implicationsforthecountry

“Under the current production arrangements, G u y a n a

c e i v e s approximately 14.5 per cent of the value of production throughitsroyaltyandshare of profit oil Based on current production levels, a US$30 increase in oil prices could generate roughly US$4 million in additional r

Guyana,”thepartysaid.

At an exchange rate of GYD$208 to US$1, this translates to approximately GYD$830 million daily, or

more than GYD$300 billion annually if such price levels persist.

H o w e v e r , W I N

cautioned that the same geopolitical tensions pushing oil prices higher could also disrupt major global shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical maritime

passages.

According to the party, instability in shipping lanes tends to increase freight charges, raise insurance premiumsanddisruptglobal supply chains—factors that could significantly impact countries like Guyana that rely heavily on imported food, agricultural inputs and consumer goods “Food aloneaccountsformorethan one-thirdofthecostofliving in Guyana When global freightcostsrise,foodprices are often among the first to increase, placing immediate pressure on household

budgets,”WINsaid.

The party stressed that while government revenues mayrisequicklywithhigher oil prices, ordinary citizens could simultaneously face higherlivingcosts.

To cushion potential impacts, WIN suggested several measures, including establishing a temporary freight stabilisation mechanism for essential imports such as flour, cooking oil, fertiliser and animalfeed.

T

recommendedtargetedtaxor VATreliefonkeyfooditems, as well as using part of the additional oil revenue to expand fertiliser and agricultural input subsidies to help reduce production costsforfarmers.

WIN further urged the government to strengthen strategic food supply systems to prevent global

d i s r u p t i o n s f r o m immediatelytriggeringprice shockslocally

“ T h e r e a l i t y i s straightforward. When oil prices rise, government revenues increase almost immediately.Butwhenfood prices rise, the burden falls i m m

d i a t e l y o n households,”thepartysaid. It added that if Guyana stands to earn hundreds of billionsofdollarsmorefrom higheroilprices,therealtest of governance will be whether that wealth is used toshieldcitizensfromrising livingcosts.

“If oil prices rise and Guyana earns hundreds of billionsmore,therealtestof governance is simple: will that wealth protect the peoplefromrisingprices,or will the people continue to bear the burden while the country grows richer on paper?”thepartysaid.

Guyana pushes for expanded IDB financing for Caribbean

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, on Saturday called on the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to expand and tailor its financing instruments to better support the Caribbean's unique vulnerabilities.

Speakingatthe2026AnnualMeetingsof theBoardsofGovernorsoftheIDBandIDB Invest in Asunción, Paraguay, Dr Singh commendedtheBankformoving“decisively from reform to implementation” in 2025, while urging greater flexibility in the institution's lending tools and stronger relianceoncountrysystems.“TheCaribbean remains among the most vulnerable regions in the world to natural disasters, external shocks and global economic volatility,” Dr Singhsaid.

“Atthesametime,ouraccesstofinancing is constrained and fiscal space remains limited.Forthisreason,wewelcomeabigger and more responsive Bank that can deploy flexible financing tools, deepen private sectorengagement,andaddressthestructural barriersthatlimitgrowthandresilience.”

Dr Singh delivered the remarks while presenting a statement as Chair of the Caribbean Constituency, emphasising that decisions taken by the region today—both individuallyandcollectively—willshapeits ability to convert challenges into opportunitiesforstrongereconomicgrowth, expanded regional trade, and sustained investmentinclimate-resilientinfrastructure acrossLatinAmericaandtheCaribbean.

He noted that the alignment between the Caribbean's development priorities and the IDB Group's mandate provides significant opportunity for deeper collaboration, highlighting the IDB as the region's largest and most valued development partner Addressing disaster preparedness, Dr Singh welcomed the Bank's Disaster Risk ManagementActionPlan2026–2030,which prioritisesprevention,preparedness,resilient

recovery and financial protection through tools such as contingent credit facilities, catastrophe insurance and climate-resilient financingmechanisms.

“These instruments will be vital in strengtheningfiscalresilienceandimproving preparedness for future shocks,” he said, whilealsoacknowledgingtheBank'ssupport to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa in 2025. Turning to Guyana's experience with the Bank, Dr Singh highlighted increased approvals and stronger net financial flows fromtheIDBGroup.

Heunderscoredtheimportanceofpolicybasedlending,describingitasaflexibleand effective development instrument that Guyana has successfully used to advance reforms in justice administration, competitiveness, financial sector developmentand human services. However, he stressed the need for lending instruments to be better adapted to national circumstances.

“Wemusttailorfinancingtoolstocountry contexts and expand the use of national systems This strengthens ownership, improves efficiency and ensures the sustainabilityofdevelopmentoutcomes,”he said. On private sector development, Dr Singh welcomed the growing role of IDB (Continuedonpage9)

The arithmetic has changed

We are told that Guyanese, beginning with salariedpublicservants,will begin receiving the $100,000 cash grant this week.Thisisexcellentnews.

Nothing cheers the national spirit quite like the promise of free money, exceptperhapsthediscovery that your neighbour’s fowl haswanderedintoyouryard justatthesametimeyouare boilingapotofwater Acash grant, after all, is a case of government money travelling in the direction of citizensratherthantheother wayaround.

Naturally, most people

will accept that since the Budget has been passed, the funds have been lawfully appropriated, and therefore the government can now proceed to distribute the grant. Everything is neat, orderly, and constitutionally dressed.

But allow me to ask the sort of annoying question that usually gets you uninvited from polite dinner conversations:Whynow?

Yousee,whenthebudget was first presented, the assumptionsaboutoilprices were rather modest. At the time, crude was hovering around U.S.$65 per barrel,

which in the volatile world of petroleum is considered almost shy.Thecalculations about revenue, spending, andcashgrantwereallbuilt on the assumption of all prices hovering for some timearoundthatlevel.

However, the world has since developed a habit of refusing to cooperate with tidy economic forecasts Events in the Middle East have pushed oil prices to over U.S.$100 per barrel, and analysts are predicting theymayclimbevenhigher Inotherwords, thefinancial arithmetic that shaped the Budget has changed—and

Guyana pushes for expanded IDB...

Frompage8

Invest in Guyana following its recent capitalisation, noting that the country looks forward to deeper collaboration to support emerging investment opportunities in transport, energy infrastructure, productive diversificationandtradeexpansion.

He encouraged the Bank to broaden the use of instruments such as equity financing and local-currency lending to improve projectbankabilityandscale.

n o t s l i g h t l y, b u t dramatically

Now,Iamnoeconomist. ButevenIcanseethatwhen the price of oil jumps by more than fifty percent, the expectedrevenuesforanoilproducing country tend to b e c o m e r a t h e r enthusiastic.Whichraisesan awkward but unavoidable thought.

If the original cash grant was $100,000 per adult based on oil at around U.S.$65, and oil is now flirting with U.S.$100 and above, wouldn’t the logical conclusion be that the grant itselfshouldalsogrow?One

room where everyone assumed that all Guyanese possess bank accounts, credit cards, and perhaps a modest investment portfolio i n S w i s s f r a n c s Unfortunately, reality is slightlylesselegant.

managed to exclude them. One might call it digital generosity with analog consequences.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming Guyana’s strong support for the IDB Group anditsreformagenda,expressingconfidence that the capitalisation of IDB Invest and the replenishment of IDB Lab will position the institution to become an even stronger and moreresponsivepartnerfortheCaribbean.

Dr Singhisaccompaniedatthemeetings byMs.NavitaRamroop,ExecutiveDirector in the Caribbean Office of the IDB, along with Mr Bernard Lord, Director of Projects at the Ministry of Finance, and Ms. Ronette Hetsberger, Senior Economic and Financial Analyst.

WithGuyanaplacingstrongemphasison economic diversification, Dr Singh also welcomed IDB Lab’s continued focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and scalable private-sector solutions, noting that these initiatives are critical to building long-term resilience.

DEM BOYS SEH

Money will pass in and out of the bank account like breeze

Dem boys seh the government about to start paying out that $100,000 cashgrant,atleasttopublic servantsfirst.

A n d t h e b i g announcement is that the money going straight into people bank accounts Straight. Modern. Digital. Efficient.Thekindofthing thatdoesmakeyoufeellike Guyana suddenly turn into Singaporeovernight.

But dem boys seh the banks better not get too excited Because that money ain’t going to stay there long enough to even warmupthetill.

Demboyssehthebanks only getting used like a paymentstation—akindof financial bus stop The moneywillarriveMonday, stretch it leg Tuesday morning, and by Tuesday afternoon it catching a minibus straight out the account.Withdrawn.Gone. Vanished.

Now some people saying this system is about “financial inclusion.” Dem boys nearly choke on dem

teawhendemhearthatone. Because the reality is simple:peopleain’tputting that money in the bank to save. They putting it there because the government say so.And once it land, it gone.

Dem boys seh the real problem is that the government seem to believe inflation numbers like how children believe Santa Claus Official statistics does say inflation low But anybody who walk through Bourda Market or step inside a supermarket know something different going on. Prices behaving like they training for the Olympics.

And now that the cash grant about to land, dem boyssehwaitandseewhat happen. By the end of the week, the price of chicken, rice, vegetables, cooking oil-everything-going mysteriously climb Not jump suddenly, mind you.

T h a t w o u

d

o k suspicious No, the increases will happen

quietly, politely, like a pickpocket saying “excuse me” while taking your wallet.

Dem boys seh some businesses already sharpening dem pencils Because they know what coming: thousands of people suddenly walking around with an extra $100,000. And in Guyana, whenever people get money,pricesgetideas.So what will really happen is simple mathematics People will collect the grant, rush to the bank machine, withdraw the money,anduseittofillthe holes in their monthly budget. Light bill. Food bill School expenses Transportation.Bythetime the dust settle, the grant gone and the prices still high.

Demboyssehthebanks might record the shortest savings history in the world Money enter Monday Money exit Tuesday Balance Wednesday:backtoreality Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

could make a very respectable argument that the payment should now be $200,000peradult.Afterall, the government is about to enjoy a substantial windfall fromhigheroilprices.

Of course, I am not suggesting anything improper Governments are paragonsoffiscalvirtue.But one cannot help wondering whether the sudden urgency to distribute the grant right now has something to do withensuringthepaymentis madebeforetheoilwindfall becomes too obvious to ignore.

Timing, as Shakespeare might have said if he had been a budget analyst, is everything.Yetthetimingis not the only curious feature of this arrangement. The method of payment raises a few eyebrows of its own particularly among those who still possess eyebrows.

The government has announced that the money will be deposited directly into citizens’bank accounts. On paper, this sounds modern, efficient, and technologically enlightened. Italsosoundslikesomething invented in a conference

There are tens of thousands of Guyanese who do not have bank accounts. Some never felt the need to open one because interest rates are so low that saving money feels like storing sugar in the rain.Then there are those, like some of our hinterlandresident,wholive nowherenearabank. Others cannot meet the minimum requirements imposed by banks those charming littlerulesthatrequireyouto already have minimum balances that exceed what thesmallmancanhideunder hismattress.

In other words, the peoplewhocouldbenefitthe most from a cash grant may betheveryoneswhocannot receiveitthroughthechosen system.

Meanwhile, there exists anothergroupofpeoplewith bank accounts in Guyana: individuals who live comfortably abroad in places like New York, Toronto, and Miami—but who maintain local accounts For them, the processisquitesimple.They register online, click a few buttons, and the money appears in their account faster than you can say “oil boom.”

The result is a rather strange form of financial inclusion. Tensofthousands of Guyanese living overseas may effortlessly receive the grant, while tens of thousands of poorer citizens living right here in Guyana without bank accounts could be left wondering how inclusion

And so, the situation leavesuswithtwoquestions thatrefusetogoaway.First, if oil prices are soaring and revenues are about to surge, shouldn’t the grant itself reflect that reality? And second, if the grant is meant to benefit the people of Guyana, shouldn’t the system ensure that the poorest citizens can actually receiveit?

T h e s e a r e n o t unreasonable questions. In fact, they are the kind of questions that tend to arise whenever large sums of money, oil revenues, and human ingenuity collide in thesamenationalmoment.

Still, the payments are beginning this week, and thatisgoodnews.Inaworld filled with economic uncertainty, geopolitical turmoil, and bank forms written in a language that appears to be ancient Sanskrit, a cash grant is somethingtangible.

The only mystery that remainsiswhether,giventhe new oil reality, that grant should have been twice as largeandwhetherthepeople who need it most will actuallygetit.

But perhaps that is a philosophical issue best discussed after everyone checkstheirbankaccount.

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

H@RD TRUTHS

Vaya con dios, SN

FromShakespeare'slament inCymbeline:

Fear no more the heat o' the sun, Nor the furious winter's rages; Though thy worldly task hast done, Home art gone, and ta'en thy wages; Golden lads and girls, all must, Like chimney sweepers, come to dust

The life and times of Stabroek News has seen the Pickwickian taken to its extreme. Evenitspartingof ways and passing into the forlorn twilight. Editorials

thatoffended. Letterwriters that raged at imagined putdowns, exclusions. Politicians and their agents who complained about bias. Yet were so silent when the stablesthattheyoperated. They had licence to cavortfreely Theycouldn't be more dishonourable, more disgraceful, when fairness was decimated When statesmanlike maturity was called for, and mellowness should have been the standard to which all aspired, viciousness was found, loved, and became the baseline for greater expressions of more

despicable wrongs. Postures that harmed the interests of Guyanese without a voice. Or the courage that these days require. When money is used as weapon to broadside an entity out of existence, democracy has comeuponbadtimes,fallsto afoulplace.

Guyanesewillbefedthe fareofDPI,NCN,andothers of that putrid ilk. I believe thattoomuchofanythingisa badthing. Misstepssuchas these remind of historical misjudgments What accelerated the demise of those with dirty dictatorial tendencies; reduced to dust and pebbles, those addicted to the siren call of complete control. Those who had a wishrelativetothepresence ofSNanditsliquidationmay find it that all they have achieved is half of a wish; thenonlytherottedpartofit. There will be some version of Stabroek News that is envisioned to do the impossible. That is, what willbeSNwithoutbeingSN. Become an imitation of

whatisgone,whatislonged for, while blazing a new path. The masters of the Guyana Universe have it right. Digital is the way to go,theplacetobe. Weshall see. ThepassageofSNmay be seen by the powers that be,asonemischievousgenie forced back into the bottle. There are other spirits and there is much of the new spaceinwhichtoroam.

Howtomanagethat,how to put a cap on those heads?

History has shown that man is at his most resilient when compelled to improvise Thebattlefortruthandlight, and what is right for Guyanesewillhavetogoon. WithoutSN;withorwithout some others. Time will tell whether Guyanese are grovelers, or they are fighters. Risers to a new challengeathand;anddoers inthestruggleforthesoulof thisrichbutparalyticnation. There is precedent, for the mediawasfearedbefore,and squeezedbefore,andshutout before,righthere. Thearcof reason, the swing towards

justice, takes its own sweet time.

But it does gravitate to what is true, noble, upright. Upright men do not fear. Neither their own shadows nor that of others. Those who stand for s

Something so fair that it has its own transcendent brilliance. Menandwomen wholieforaliving,haveno choice but to keep on lying, hiding, squeezing, and seeing enemies everywhere, when none exists. Genuine patriots and democrats have no basis to fear from other patriots and democrats

Their cause is common, and itisalsostitchedthroughand throughwiththegrandestof nationalessences. Allelseis chaff, the frothy stuff of derided riffraff dismissed withoutasecondthought.

Instudyingthedeparture ofStabroekNews,itisclear that a nest of vipers has the upper hand currently in this country Manyastrongman thought he had everything undercontrol,undertheheel

of his boot. Until he found out to his dismay that he didn't. TakeabowStabroek News. Wewilllaughagain, but we will never be this bright and young again. It was a life well-lived Goodbye and good luck. Guyana will go on. I don't knowquitehow,asyet.Butit will. There'sthattideinthe affairs of men. It oftentimes leads to surprising places. Thelawoftheunanticipated atwork.FromShakespeare's Cymbeline to another literary giant, Scotland's Robert Burns “To a Mouse: the best laid plans of mice and men…Yeah, they often go offline, off the reservation. The unplanned emerges.

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

Oil prices climb past $105 a barrel as war in Iran enters third week

(CNN) The price of oil rosetoitshighestlevelsince July2022Sundayeveningas the Trump administration suggested the war with Iran could last several more weeksandPresidentDonald Trump called on the international community for help reopening the Strait of Hormuztooiltankers.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose 2.9% to about $106.12 a barrel. U.S. oilrose2.6%to$101.53.

The U.S. and Israel-led war in Iran has now entered its third week, causing the biggest oil disruption in history

The Strait of Hormuz, the vital waterway controlled by Iran, has been effectively shut for oil tankerstopassthroughsince the start of the war About 20%oftheworld'soilsupply

flows through the chokepoint.

T h e T r u m p administration has repeatedly tried to assuage concerns about shipping flows. Trump has said that the U.S. will send naval forces to escort and protect oiltankersastheytravelout oftheMiddleEast.

But the administration hasrecentlyconcededthatit

could take weeks before the Navy is prepared to begin thatendeavor

Trump on Saturday in a TruthSocialpostaskedother countries to help coordinate a reopening of the strati to restore the flow of oil, “so thateverythinggoesquickly, smoothly,andwell.”

Oil prices tend to be more volatile in after-hours trading,asspeculatorshedge positions when volume is lower Last Sunday, oil nearly hit $120 a barrel before settling near $100 duringthedayonMonday

Trump added on

Saturday in a Truth Social post that the U S will coordinate with other countries in the region to restore the flow of oil, “so thateverythinggoesquickly, smoothly,andwell.”

But Iran has ramped up pressure, including laying minesinthestraitandsaying itwillstrikeanyU.S.-linked oil and gas infrastructure.

And tankers have been struck in the Strait of Hormuzsincethestartofthe waronFebruary28.

The United States has also bombarded Kharg Island, home to most of Iran'soilproduction.Butthe Trumpadministrationsaidit

Venezuelandiesin E-bikecrashatEnmore

The mangled electric bike (NCN photo)

Demerara,aftertheelectricbikehewason,allegedly swervedintothepathofacar

Thedeceasedhasbeenidentifiedas34-year-oldCarlos Eliber,aconstructionworkerofMonRepos,EastCoast Demerara.

Accordingtopolice,theaccidentoccurredaround23:50 hrsandinvolvedmotorcarPAN5007drivenbya25-year-old manofBlossomScheme,Enmore,andanelectriccycle riddenbyEliber

Reportsarethatthemotorcarwasproceedingwestalong thesoutherndrivinglaneofEnmorePublicRoadwhenthe electriccyclereportedlyrodeacrosstheroadwayfromnorth tosouthintothepathofthevehicle.Policesaidthedriver claimedthatheswervedsouthandappliedbrakesinaneffort toavoidacollision,buttheright-sidefrontportionofthecar collidedwiththeelectriccycle.

Asaresultoftheimpact,Eliberwasflungintotheair beforelandingontheroadway.EmergencyMedical Techniciansweresummonedtothesceneandtheinjuredman wasexaminedbyadoctorattachedtotheGeorgetownPublic HospitalCorporation,whopronouncedhimdead.

Eliber'sbodywastakentotheMemorialGardensFuneral Home,forapost-mortemexamination.

Policereportedthatabreathalysertestconductedonthe driverrecordedreadingsof35and39microgramsofalcohol inhisbreath.Heiscurrentlyinpolicecustodyassistingwith theinvestigation.

The price hike comes as U.S.-Israel's war on Iran continues. (FILE) / Reuters

has spared Iran's oil productionfornow

Also, over the weekend, the administration made several efforts to expand

U S production to counteractrisingfuelprices.

On Saturday, it approved a new BP pro

off America's Gulf coast — the company's first new project

Horizondisaster

And Energy Secretary Chris Wright directed Sable Offshore Corp. to restart its offshore oil rigs and pipelines off the coast of SouthernCalifornia.

TheInternationalEnergy Agency member countries also agreed Wednesday to

release400millionbarrelsof emergency oil It's the agency's largest collective action, but oil from the Americas and European countries won't be released untiltheendofMarch.

U.S.gaspriceshavebeen on the rise due to the largescale oil disruption, up 24% to an average of $3.70 a gallon since the start of the war,accordingtoAAA.

The jump threatens to unwind one of Trump's biggest talking points: that gas prices have dropped

during his second term, especially when prices slippedbelow$3agallonin December the lowest sinceMay2021. Closures at the strait affectmorethanoil,though. Farmers across the world rely on fertiliser that is shippedthroughtheStraitof Hormuz, potentially affecting grocery prices And shipped perishables — like dairy, fruits, vegetables andfish—couldbethefirst batch of goods to become morecostly

U.S. predicts quick end to Iran war; Tehran says can outlast foes

(Reuters)-U.S.officials responding to economic uncertainty over high oil prices predicted on Sunday that the U.S.-Israeli war on Iranwouldendwithinweeks and that a drop in energy costs would follow, despite Iran's assertion that it ​remains "stable and strong" andreadytodefenditself.

U.S. President Donald Trump threatened more strikes on Iran's main oil export hub Kharg Island overtheweekendandsaidhe wasnotreadytoreachadeal toendthewarwhichhasshut offthevitalStraitofHormuz andshakenupglobalenergy markets.

T h e T r u m p administration plans to announce as early as this weekthatmultiplecountries have agreed to form a coalition to escort ships through the narrow waterway but they are still discussing whether those operations would begin before or after hostilities end, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing unnamed U.S. officials. The White House did not immediately

respond to a request for comment.

Trump, who on Friday said the U.S. Navy would "soon" start escorting oil tankers, has said Iran wants to negotiate, but Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas AraqchionSundaydisputed thatclaim.

“Wehaveneveraskedfor a ceasefire, and we have never asked even for negotiations," Araqchi told CBS' "Face the Nation" program. "We are ready to defend ourselves ​for as long asittakes.”

With crude oil prices hovering around $100 a barrel,Trumpadministration officials insisted that all signs point to a relatively quickendtotheconflict.

"This conflict will ⁠certainly come to the end in thenextfewweeks—could be sooner than that and we'll see a rebound in suppliesandapushingdown of prices after that," U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright told ABC's "This Week"program.

An LPG gas tanker at anchor as traffic is down in the Strait of Hormuz, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Shinas, Oman, March 11, 2026. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo

Meanwhile, Araqchi ​soughttoprojectanimageof strength.

"It'snotawarofsurvival. We are stable and strong enough,"Araqchi told CBS.

"We don't see any reason why we should talk with Americans,becausewewere talkingwiththemwhenthey decidedtoattackus,​andthat wasforthesecondtime."

Withthewarenteringits third week, Trump said on Saturday that U.S. strikes had "totally demolished" much of Kharg Island and warnedofmore,tellingNBC NewsonSaturday,"Wemay hit it a few more times just forfun."

The comments marked a sharp escalation from Trump, who had previously said the U.S. was targeting onlymilitarysitesonKharg, and dealt a blow to diplomatic efforts to end a war that has spread across the Middle East and killed more than 2,000 people, mostinIranandLebanon.

Washington has brushed aside ​attempts by Middle Eastern allies to open talks, three sources told Reuters, and Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday they

had fired more missiles at IsraelandthreeU.S.basesin theregion.

But Israel and Lebanon are expected to hold talks ​in coming days aimed at securing a ceasefire that would see Iran-backed Hezbollah disarmed, two Israeli officials said Lebanonwassuckedintothe warwhenHezbollahopened fireatIsrael,sayingitwasto avenge the killing of Iran's supreme leader, and Israel has responded a fierce ⁠offensive.

WAR,ENERGYCRISIS LOOKSETTOPERSIST

With global air transport heavily disrupted and no clear end in sight, Iran's ability to choke off traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, the conduit for a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas, has emerged as a decisive threat totheglobaleconomy

Although some Iranian vessels have continued to pass, the passage has been effectivelyclosedformostof the world's shipping since the United States and Israel attackedIranonFebruary28 at the start of an intensive bombing campaign that has hit thousands of targets acrossthecountry

TheInternationalEnergy Agency on Sunday said oil from its emergency reserves will begin flowing to global markets soon, with member countries pledging to make available 411 9 million barrels.

Trump on Saturday called on China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain andothercountriesimpacted by ​the choking off of oil suppliesthroughtheStrait⁠of Hormuz to join efforts to reopenshippinglanes.

On Sunday, British PrimeMinisterKeirStarmer spoke to Trump about the need to reopen the Strait, a D o w n i n g S t r e e t spokeswomansaid. The Financial Times

reported that European Union foreign ministers woulddiscussexpandingthe EU's regionalAspides naval mission, which protects shipping against Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, to includetheStraitofHormuz. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said he was skeptical about such a move.

France has been seeking to assemble a coalition to secure the strait once the security situation stabilizes, ​while Britain is discussing a range ⁠of options with allies to ensure the security of shipping,officialshavesaid.

IRANDENIES TARGETINGCIVILIAN AREAS

Araqchi denied Iran was targeting civilian or residential areas in the Middle East and said it was ready to form a committee with its neighbours to investigatetheresponsibility forsuchstrikes.

But as the standoff c o n t i n u e d , I r a n ' s RevolutionaryGuardssaidit had fired more missile and drone barrages at targets in Israel and at U.S. military bases in the region, where Saudi Arabia said it had intercepted10attacks.

Israel said its jets hit ⁠moretargetsin​westernIran, including headquarters of the Revolutionary Guards andBasijmilitiaforcesinthe cityofHamadan.

A source briefed on Israel'smilitarystrategytold Reuters​thatIsraelhadbegun targeting roadblocks and bridges it believed Revolutionary Guards commanders were using. Iranian security forces detained dozens of people accused of sharing information with Israel, Iranianmediareported.

Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar rejected claims that Israel had told the UnitedStatesitwasrunning lowoninterceptors.

TheclosureofStabroekNews

The closure of Stabroek News, marked by the printing of its final edition on Sunday, March 15, 2026, is a deeply regrettable moment for Guyana's media landscape.

For decades, the publication played a significant role in informing the public and contributing to national dialogue. Its absence leaves a gap that reminds us how essential independent journalism is to any democracy.

At this time, all stakeholders—citizens, civil society, and the private sector—must remain vigilant. A strong democracy depends on scrutiny, transparency, and the free flow of information.

We wish to reassure readers that Kaieteur News remains steadfast in its commitment to fearless and independent journalism. We will continue to expose corruption, highlight mismanagement, and hold those in authority accountable.

Our mission remains unchanged: to defend the public interest, uphold press freedom, and ensure that truth and transparency remain at the heart of Guyana's national conversation.

BLUNT BLUNT BLUNT BLUNT

...BLUNT...BLUNT BLUNT...BLUNT ...BLUNT...BLUNT

New UGSS Council sworn in

…reelected President Tirishatha Semple pledges continued service to students

A new Council of the University of Guyana StudentSociety(UGSS)was officially sworn in last Wednesday at the University of Guyana's Turkeyen Campus, with returning President Ms TirishathaSemplebeginning her second term at the helm

new council, several of whom are returning alongside the president to continue their work in advancingtheinterestsofthe University's more than 16,000students.

In a press release UG said, university officials commendedMs.Sempleand

ofthestudentbody

The ceremony, held in the Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Building, brought together university administrators, studentleadersandmembers of the campus community to witnesstheinstallationofthe

thepastcouncilmembersfor the work accomplished during the last term and encouraged the new council to embrace leadership through service Vice-

Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin

congratulated the new council for stepping forward to lead and for earning the confidence of their fellow students. “First, I would like to congratulate you all, first, for your courage to step up. The university has about 16,000 students who placed their confidence in you and that confidence must never

be betrayed,” the ViceChancellor said as she encouraged the council to adopt the principles of servantleadership.

Reflecting on the responsibilities of student l e a d e r s , P r o f e s s o r Mohamed-Martin reminded the council that their work must always centre on the

students they represent. “… youareneverperformingfor the office you are in, nor are you performing for yourself; you are performing for the students who elected you.

So, when you leave this office, you must leave something behind that is tangible, not only those you have touched, but those who

you have performed for, those who saw you as a model,” Vice-Chancellor urged.

According to the ministry, the VC further a c k n o w l e d g e d t h e leadership of President Semple, congratulating her on the work accomplished (Continued on page 15)

New UGSS Council sworn...

Frompage14 during her first term and expressing confidence in her continued leadership

Registrar Dr Nigel Gravesande reminded the newly elected representatives that leadership often comes with challenges but must alwaysbegroundedinservice to others. “Leadership can, at times, be a very lonely experience, but you are being elected by your peers and I want you to take the opportunity to reflect on this important leadership role that youaregoingtobeembarking on.Iwanttourgethatyousee it as an excellent opportunity for service Leadership is always about service and in yourvariouscapacities,Iwant you to be examples and models to the entire student population,” Dr Gravesande told the members of the council.

Returning UGSS President, Ms Tirishatha Semple, signs the Oath of Office during the installation

ceremony held at the University of Guyana's Turkeyen Campus In her address, President Ms Tirishatha Semple expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving the student body “First, let me say how truly grateful and honoured I am to stand here today as I begin my second term as President of the UniversityofGuyanaStudent Society.

Servingthestudentsofthe University of Guyana has been one of the greatest privilegesofmylife,andtobe given the opportunity to continue serving you all for another term is something I deeply appreciate and certainly do not take lightly,” UGSSpresidentshared.

She acknowledged the support of the outgoing council and student leaders who worked collaboratively to implement initiatives across both the Turkeyen and Tain campuses. “Leadership isneveraone-personshow It takes a team It takes dedication,collaboration,and sometimes a lot of late nights tryingtofigureouthowtoturn ideas into reality,” Semple noted.

Reflecting on the past year,thepresidenthighlighted several initiatives undertaken by the council. Among them was the UGSS Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium,

which was hosted at both campuses and the launch of the UGSS Washroom Amenities Project, ensuring that essential hygiene products were available in washrooms across both campuses Through partnerships with Sterling Products Limited Guyana, Sami Distribution and Women's Haven Guyana, sanitary products, hand sanitizers, soap and toilet paperweresuppliedregularly tosupportstudents.

Another initiative introduced was the UGSS Water Dispenser Project, which installed

r dispensers across both campuses. Additionally, the UGSS president shared that the past council also supported student parents through a Backpack Distribution Initiative, which saw150backpacksfilledwith school supplies distributed to the children of university students “Many of our students are not just students, they are parents, workers and providers for their families. UGSS recognises that reality, and through initiatives like this we try to support our students wherever we can,” Semplefurtherstated.

Looking ahead, President Semple outlined several initiativesplannedforthenew term. Among them is the transformation of the UGSS Buildingintoacentralstudent hub with study areas, recreational spaces and improvedfacilitiesforstudent activities.

Plansarealsounderwayto expand sports opportunities and introduce a UG Steel Orchestra in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Further initiatives include the introduction of a Dormitory Support Programme, which willprovidemonthlyfoodand laundry hampers to students residing in the university dormitories, and continued advocacy for improved learning environments, including air-conditioned classrooms. The installation ceremony of the UGSS Council was chaired by Senior Assistant Registrar, Student Welfare, Dr Daniella King, who also added her words of congratulations to the members urging them to do the best they can in fulfilling their mandate as studentleaders.

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PAHO reports sustained yellow fever transmission in parts of South America

The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) has issued a new epidemiological alert cautioning of sustained yellow fever transmission in parts of South America, with cases continuing to be reported in 2026 and detection

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occurring in areas beyond the traditional hotspots of the Amazon basin.

Since September 2024, yellow fever cases have been reported in areas where they had not previously been recorded in the Region, including some locations outside the Amazon.

In response, PAHO is reinforcing the call for Member States to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, intensify vaccination campaigns among populations at risk, and take the necessary measures to ensure that travelers heading to areas where vaccination is recommended are properly informed and protected.

The Organisation also recommended reinforcing the capacity of health services for the early detection and timely clinical management of severe cases, as well as maintaining strategic vaccine stockpiles to enable a rapid response to potential outbreaks. In 2025, a total of

346 confirmed yellow fever cases and 143 deaths were reported across seven countries in the Region: Bolivia (8 cases, 2 deaths), Brazil (120 cases, 48 deaths), Colombia (125 cases, 46 deaths), Ecuador (11 cases, 8 deaths), Guyana (1 death), Peru (49 cases, 19 deaths), and Venezuela (32 cases, 19 deaths).

During the first seven weeks of 2026, 34 human cases and 15 deaths have already been confirmed in Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela. PAHO noted that the sylvatic transmission cycle of yellow fever, involving mosquito vectors and nonhuman primates as hosts, —that is, transmission of the virus between wild mosquitoes and nonhuman primates (such as monkeys)— reactivates periodically in the region, which is an expected phenomenon.

However, since late 2025, human cases have been detected in geographic areas without recent transmission

and outside previously considered risk zones, such as São Paulo state in Brazil and the department of Tolima in Colombia.

The detection of cases in areas near urban centers increases the risk of urban transmission of yellow fever, in which the virus spreads between people through the mosquito Aedes aegypti, which can lead to rapidly spreading outbreaks. In May 2025, PAHO classified the overall public health risk in the Americas as high, due to the increase in cases, elevated case-fatality rates (41% in 2025), and the detection of cases in new areas. The current situation maintains a similar level of risk.

Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can cause severe illness with a high fatality rate.

There is no specific treatment, but vaccination is the most effective measure to prevent the disease. A single dose of the vaccine provides

lifelong protection. Most confirmed cases in 2025 and 2026 were reported in people who were not vaccinated. PAHO reminds countries with risk areas to maintain vaccination coverage of at least 95% among exposed populations, while also strengthening epidemiological surveillance and surveillance of epizootics in nonhuman primates —that is, the occurrence of the disease in animals— which can serve as an early signal of virus circulation, as well as strengthening mosquito control measures.

Travelers are also advised to get vaccinated at least 10 days before visiting areas where the disease circulates regularly, in accordance with international health recommendations.

PAHO will continue monitoring the epidemiological situation and supporting countries in surveillance, prevention, and response actions related to this disease.

Poor in an oil-rich country: Republic of Congo’s youth hope for change

(AL-JAZEERA) In Pointe-Noire, the economic capital of the Republic of Congo, the aisles of the Grand Marche come alive in the early hours of the morning. Among the market stalls, street vendors, and shoppers pushing their way through the crowd, Romain Tchicaya is selling medicines on the sly.

As the price of basics –including pharmaceutical products – rises, and people turn to more affordable unregulated options, merchants like Tchicaya step in to fill the gap while trying to earn a living in a struggling economy.

However, the 37-yearold’s background is far from typical for a street vendor.

With a degree in management, he thought he would find a stable job after graduating from university. But like many young Congolese, he found himself facing a tight job market with few oppor-

tunities. “We are told that the country is rich in oil. But I don’t see that wealth in my daily life,” he told Al Jazeera. “Look at Pointe-Noire, formerly nicknamed as Ponton la Belle [Beautiful Pointe-Noire]. Today, the city is unrecognisable.”

Around the Grand Marche, the main roads are potholed, and when it rains, the streets get flooded, making it almost impossible to drive. Like Tchicaya, Brice Makaya, in his 40s, has never managed to find a stable job here despite having a degree in computer science.

With no stable employment, he is unable to rent a house and now lives outside the church where he prays.

“I am still underhoused at my age and have no prospects for the future,” he told Al Jazeera. “Without a job, I can’t plan ahead. I’m just trying to survive.”

For many young Congolese, daily life is a paradox:

though they live in a resource-rich country – the third largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa and a producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) – nearly half the population live below the poverty line. This Sunday, Congo goes to the polls in which President Denis Sassou Nguesso, 82, is again seeking another term. For young voters, jobs and the economy are a big concern. But for the government, there appear to be limitations to what is possible. During one of his speeches in the election campaign, Nguesso pointed out that the civil service could not absorb all job seekers, and urged young people to take charge of their own futures by encouraging self-employment. Oil: ‘Fuel of the political system’ According to the World Bank, oil accounts for about 70 percent of Congo’s exports and nearly 40 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP). But this wealth does

not automatically translate into an improvement in living standards for most of the populace. The World Bank estimates that more than 40 percent of Congolese people live below the poverty line, despite the country’s significant natural resources.

For economist Charles Kombo, this can be explained in large part by the very structure of the Congolese economy, which is dependent on oil revenues.

“Oil dependency plays a structuring role in many African economies. In what some call a ‘rentier state’, a large part of public resources comes from the exploitation of natural resources rather than taxation,” he explained. In a rentier state, the country generates substantial revenue from “renting out” natural resources, such as oil, to foreign companies. In exchange for the exploitation rights granted on these

(Continued on page 18)

Big plus for Buxton vendors...

From page 06 of the world. A quick word on how essential this tarmac market is might help for a deeper grasp and appreciation of what is about to unfold.

First, properly surfaced and planned asphalt commercial areas, provide significant benefits for businesses, cus-

tomers, and operations. Tarmac is mostly favored for its durability, smooth finish, and ability to handle heavy, high-volume traffic. With this as foundational, there will be the ensuing improved efficiency and accessibility, as these modern structures facilitate easy, allweather access for customers,

employees, and logistics. They also allow for efficient transport, enabling quicker delivery turnarounds. Then in terms of amenities, there will be the necessary efficient drainage and water management, so essential in any kind of market setting. We all appreciate that properly installed tarmac prevents mud

and standing water, providing a clean environment even during heavy rainfall. More positives can be added, but my points for being supportive of this venture and anticipating it are more than enough.

Kudos to the enablers.

Yours truly, Hargesh B. Singh

16 contractors bid to construct new Capoey Nursery School

TheRegionalDemocratic

Council (RDC) of Region Two has received16bidstoconstructanew nursery school building in the Amerindian Community of

Capoey Theprojectisestimatedto cost$35million. Contractors have submitted bids ranging from $29 million to $67 million to execute the project Kaieteur New

Belowarethecompaniesandtheirbids:

RegionalDemocraticCouncilRegionTwo ConstructionofCapoeyLakeNursery School,Capoey,EssequiboCoast.

understands that the RDC was allocated a sum of $11.2 billion in the2026budget. Of that amount, $6 8 billion was set aside for the delivery of education

Nursery education is not compulsoryinGuyana However, education officials have maintained that nursery education plays a critical role in laying the

ExtensionofMainstayLakeNurserySchool.

foundation for lifelong learning anddevelopment. Since taking office in 2020, the government said it has built over 60 new nursery schools acrossthecountry

SupplyandDeliveryofOneNewTruck.

SupplyandDeliveryofOneNewAmbulance.

Iranholdsthekeytoreopeningglobalenergymarkets

(Reuters) -WhenSaudi Aramcotolditsoilbuyersin a letter this week that it had no clear idea which port it would use forApril exports, it laid bare a new reality: Iran, not the United States, holds the key to reopening theglobalenergymarket.

The letter, sent Saudi oil buyers around the world, said they might receive oil from the Red Sea, but they might still get it from the Gulf.

“ImightaswellcallIran to find out when this war endssoIcangetmyoil,”one regular Saudi oil buyer said upon receiving the letter as war raged across the Gulf andIranshutdowntheStrait ofHormuz.

Thecommentreflectsthe growing conviction inside and outside the Middle East that while the United States and Israel could declare the war over at any time, Iran willhavethefinalsayabout the duration of what the InternationalEnergyAgency has described as the most severe oil and gas supply disruptionsever

U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly said the United States is close to winning the rapidly escalating war, ‘but his indicated timeframes range fromdaystoweeks.

Iran has retaliated

against the U S -Israeli attacksonitbyfiringdrones and missiles at ships in the StraitofHormuz,effectively shutting down the flow of around20%ofglobaloiland LNG supply to refiners, petrochemical and power plants, and energy-intensive industriesaroundtheworld.

Executives at Middle Eastern companies and their Western peers warn it will require more than just U.S. assurances of safety to restart shipping traffic and production even if the fightingceasesimmediately Tehran’s capacity to produceanddeploylow-cost

drones means Iran has an ability to disrupt or paralyse shipping that could long outlastadeclarationfromits attackers that combat operationsareover

Trump has said the U.S. might send military escorts to help restore traffic through Hormuz and urged allies to send warships to securethestrait.

Naval escorts, however, would fail to normalise traffic unless the U.S. and Israel agree terms with Tehranthatincludeithalting its attacks or threats on shipping, a senior Gulf energyindustryofficialsaid,

adding that his tankers would stay put until Iran guaranteessafepassage.

If the U.S. and Israel declarevictoryontermsthat Iran does not accept, then Tehran would want to show it has not been defeated by causing more disruption with mines and , said ‘Neil Quilliam from think tank ChathamHouse.

Drones also targeted the UAE’s oil loading hub in Fujairah on Saturday, just hours after the U S hit military targets on Kharg Island, home to Iran’s main oilexportterminal.

Iranissendingamessage

that there is no safe harbour in this conflict and that Washington will not control the terms of escalation, said RBCCapital’sHelimaCroft, a former CIA analyst, pointingtothepossibilityof proxy attacks from Yemen, inIraqandelsewhere.

Yemen’s Iran-allied Houthis could further raise thestakesfortheenergyand shipping industry, and by extension

bal economy,byattackingSaudi Arabia’s Red Sea port of Yanbu, the kingdom’s only currentalternativeoil-export route.

COLLAPSEIN CONFIDENCE

The crisis has collapsed ‘confidenceinsupplyroutes and exposed the region’s weakness in defending its energy system, an Iraqi government energy adviser said.

Repairswilltakemonths and insurance for shipments will be more expensive and hardertofindbecauseofthe perceived higher risk, he added.

Iranian attacks have caused shutdowns at refineries in Saudi Arabia, theUAE,BahrainandIsrael, sending oil and gas prices surgingbyasmuchas60%.

Even a quick resolution to the conflict would see weeks of market disruption,

analysts ‘including from MorganStanleysaid. Global oil companies mightbeslowtoreturntothe Gulf, delaying restarts at some fields and risking damage to reservoirs, analysts from Rapidan Energysaid.

T h e c l o s u r e o f shipping lanes has also forced producers to cut outputastheycannolonger exporttheirbarrels.

Aramco has shut production from two large offshorefields,Safaniyaand Zuluf, reducing output from OPEC’sbiggestproducerby 20%.

In No 2 producer Iraq, ‘production has dropped 70%, while in the UAE, OPEC’s No 3 producer,outputhashalved, accordingtoanalysts.

Total oil output cuts in the Middle East now standat7-10millionbarrels per day, or 7-10% of global demand, according to analysts’estimates.

Qatar fully shut its liquefied natural gas production, cutting 20% of the world’s LNG supplies, andtoldcustomerstheymay not receive cargoes until May

“It is simple - it is safety We cannot risk lives,” said an industry source.

Poorinanoil-richcountry:RepublicofCongo’s...

Frompage16 resources, the state receives royalties,taxes,orashareof production.

In this type of system, Kombo explains, the management of revenues becomes central to political power

“Control of this revenue oftenreinforcesinstitutional centralisation,” he said, explaining that dependence is no longer

y economic, but becomes institutional and sometimes p

perceptionsofdevelopment.

He points out that when the economy relies heavily on extractive revenues, economic and political resources tend to become intertwined, which can limit electoralcompetitiveness.

“Oil revenues can generatesignificantincome, buttheydonotguaranteethe

structural transformation of theeconomy,”hesaid. Thisoildependencealso exposes the country to fluctuations in oil prices on internationalmarkets.

Afterthefallincrudeoil

experienced a severe crisis. Public debt exceeded 90 percentofGDP,beforebeing

International Monetary

l internationalcreditors. Althoughthishashelped stabilisethemacroeconomic situation, the country remains heavily indebted.

According to the World Bank, public debt fell from 103.6 percent of GDP in 2020toabout93.6percentin 2024, reflecting a gradual improvement, but also the continued vulnerability of

C

’s

fluctuations in global oil prices. For political analyst

Aman walks past a campaign banner of first-time presidential candidate Destin Gavet, in advance of the election [Roch Bouka/Reuters]

Alphonse Ndongo, oil revenues also influence politicallifeinCongo.

“Oilhasbecomethefuel of the political system. It is used to finance parties, coopt elites, and maintain socialbalance,”hesaid.

According to him, “oil money comes easily and quickly”, but this financial windfall has long delayed

necessary structural reforms such as economic diversification. In his view, the steady flow of money from the oil sector can create a sense of complacency within the system, reducing the pressure to pursue deeper structural reforms As a result, debates around economic diversification

tend to emerge mainly during periods of financial stress,whenfallingoilprices expose the limits of the model. But when revenues rise again, he argues, the urgency to diversify often fades, leaving the economy heavily dependent on the sameresource.

‘Anuphillbattle’ As the country’s oil

wealth fails to filter to the majority of the population, y o u n g p e o p l e a r e particularly affected and manyfaceunemployment. Accordingtodatafromthe World Bank and

our Organisation, the youth unemployment rate in Congo isamongthehighestinCentral Africa, while the informal sectorabsorbsthemajorityof new entrants to the labour market. During a news conference on March 4 in Brazzaville, Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso, who is also spokesperson for presidential candidate and incumbent leader Nguesso, saidthatyoungpeoplewereat the heart of the government’s policy

“Youth has always been atthecentreofDenisSassou Nguesso’s policies and social projects,” he said, citing investments in education and the constructionofuniversities.

OkoWestholds4.64MofGMIN’s6.52Mouncesofgold

...as reserves surge221%

Canadian mining

company G Mining Ventures Corp.(GMIN)hasreporteda major increase in its gold reserves, owed to the addition of the Oko West Project located in Region Seven, Guyana, which now stands among the largest gold projects under constructionglobally

In its year-end 2025 mineral reserves and resources update, the companysaiditsprovenand probable gold reserves rose by 221% year-over-year to 6.52millionounces,withthe OkoWestprojectaccounting for the bulk of the increase, even as some depletion occurred at its operating TocantinzinhoGoldMinein ParáState,Brazil,following the first full year of commercialproduction.

The completion of a feasibility study in 2025 revealed that Oko West project alone contains 4.64 millionouncesofprovenand probable reserves at an

averagegradeof1.89grams ofgoldpertonne.Thestudy outlinesa12.3-yearminelife with average annual production projected at about 350,000 ounces of gold.

According to GMIN, 88% of resources at Oko West were converted into mineralreserves.

“This is a positive indicator of geological confidence and resource maturity, also demonstrated by the conversion of 2.40 million ounces of inferred resources(YE2024)intothe indicated category, reducing inferred ounces to 1 17 million ounces at year-end 2025,”thecompanynoted.

As of December 31, 2025, the Tocantinzinho mine proven and probable reserves stood at 1 87 millionounces.

That project produced approximately 172,000 ounces of gold during 2025.

Meanwhile, Gurupi Project also in Brazil, hosts 1.83 million ounces of indicated

Gunlodgedatthe SpringlandsPoliceStation

Berbice men arrested during brawl …police lodge gun

Two Berbice men were arrested on Saturday after a firearmandammunitionwere discovered during a roadside altercationalongtheNumber 73PublicRoad,Corentyne.

The incident occurred at about17:32hrswhileranksin Regional Division Six were conducting a motorcycle patrolinthearea.

According to the Guyana Police Force statement, reportsindicatethattheranks observedtwomenengagedin a fight along the roadway Duringtheconfrontation,one of the men was seen holding what appeared to be a firearm, while the other was armedwithapieceofwood.

“ P o l i c e r a n k s immediately intervened and ordered both men to cease fighting.”Policesaid.

During the intervention, the man with the firearm reportedly jumped into a nearbydrainwhereheplaced

resources and 0.77 million ouncesofinferredresources, aspartofitsbroadergrowth strategy

President and Chief Executive Off

cer Louis-PierreGignacsaidthe updated reserve figures strengthen the company's

outlook. “Today's mineral reserve update positions G Mining Ventures with s

optionality,”Gignacsaid.

“We now have a cash-

Tocantinzinho supporting the construction of Oko West,oneofthelargestgold projects under construction globally, while advancing Gurupi through technical studies.

Thisthree-assetplatform provides multiple pathways to production growth, portfoliodiversification,and explorationupside.”

Gignac noted that with OkoWest advancing toward first gold pour in the second halfof2027andGurupigold project development taking shape, GMIN is building a d

portfolio positioned for sustained growth well into thenextdecade.

Construction at Oko West is progressing, with about 60% of detailed engineering completed and full completion targeted by thethirdquarterof2026.

The company expects commercial production by January2028.

In December, this publication reported that GMIN secured a 20-year mining licence from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission(GGMC)forits

100 per cent-owned Oko Westproject.

The licence, which took effectonDecember5,2025, authorisesfulldevelopment, operation and commercial productionatthesite.

Analystshavepointedto Oko West as the company's keygrowthdriver

GMIN has been recognised as one of the Toronto Stock Exchange's top-performing companies, amid a strong year for gold producers driven by rising prices.

GMIN is among five

Canadianminingcompanies collectively controlling an estimated 15 5 million ounces of gold across various stages of development in Guyana These projects, spanning across Guyana's mining regions, are progressing through exploration, feasibility studies, and permitting.

Many of the companies have praised Guyana's mining-friendlypoliciesand arebankingontheseprojects to drive substantial growth fortheirshareholders.

Essequibomankilledaftercarslams intotwotrucksatGreenwichPark

A 55-year-old man lost his life on Saturdaynightafterhiscarcrashedinto two trucks along the Greenwich Park PublicRoad,EastBankEssequibo.

Dead is Derrick Singh, 55, of St Lawrence, East Bank Essequibo. The incidentoccurredaround21:10hrs.

theweaponinacornerbefore he was apprehended by the ranks.

The weapon was later retrieved and examined. It was identified as a 9mm pistol containing one 9mm round of ammunition in the magazine.

The suspect, a 54-yearold man of Number 73 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, along with

er individual involved in the altercation a 25-year-old labourer of Number 72 Village, Corentyne were arrested and taken to the Springlands Police Station along with the firearm and ammunition, which were lodged.

Bothmenwerelatertaken to the Number 75 Regional Hospitalwheretheyreceived medical treatment before being placed into police custody Inves

ongoing.

According to the police, the accident involved motor car PXX 9053, driven by Singh, motor lorry GAB 5416 driven by a 31-year-old manofLeonora,WestCoastDemerara, andmotorlorryGAF6756drivenbya 21-year-oldmanofCorneliaIda,West CoastDemerara.

Initial investigations revealed that the two trucks were proceeding east along the northern side of the Greenwich Park Public Road when Singh's car, which was travelling west in the centre of the roadway between the northern and southern lanes, swerved north into the path of motor lorryGAB5416andwiththeright-side rearwheelofthesaidlorry

“As a result, the motor car lost control and ended up on the southern lanefacingwest,”policesaid.

Further, motor lorry GAF 6756, whichwasalsotravellingeastalongthe northern side of the road, reportedly swerved onto the southern lane in an attempttoavoidthecollisionbutended upcollidinghead-onwiththecar

Singh was pinned inside the wreckagewithinjuriesabouthisbody

He was subsequently removed by public-spirited citizens in an unconsciousstateandrushedtotheDe Kinderen Regional Hospital where he waspronounceddeadonarrival. HisbodyiscurrentlyattheEzekiel Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination “A breathalyser test conductedonthedriverofmotorlorry GAB 5416 detected 071 and 072 micrograms of alcohol in his breath, whileatestconductedonthedriverof motor lorry GAF 6756 detected 05 micrograms,”policesaid.Bothdrivers are presently in police custody assistingwithinvestigations,whilethe vehicles involved have been lodged pendingexamination. Investigationsareongoing.

GuyanaCricketBoardannouncesUnder-16Squad forCWIRisingStars50-OverBilateralSeries2026

The Guyana Cricket Board(GCB)hasannounced the Guyana Under-16 squad selected to participate in the CWI Rising Stars Under-16 50-Over Bilateral Series, scheduled to be hosted in Guyana from March 27, 2026toApril7,2026.

The tournament, organized by Cricket West Indies, will provide an important platform for the region’s emerging young

cricketers to showcase their skills and gain valuable competitive experience at theyouthlevel.

Lomar Seecharran has been appointed Captain of the Guyana Under-16 team, with Leon Reddy serving as Vice-Captain. The selected squad features a balanced group of talented players drawn from across the country

GuyanaUnder-16Squad –2026:

Lomar Seecharran –Captain

RavidFredricks

AkashRamdewar

LukeAmsterdam

Monday March 16, 2026

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

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

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

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

GEMINI(May21–June20)

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

CANCER(June21–July22)

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

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

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

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

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

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra.

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

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)

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

SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)

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

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

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

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

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

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

Nathan Bishop –Wicketkeeper

AsgaralliNabi

AltafAli

MakaiDowlin

Leon Reddy – Vice

Captain

JadenGanpat

JonathanBarry GautamDhanraj

BrandonGrimmond

DevrajPersaud

Additionalplayers: AshtonCollins RavindraPersaud

DemarcusThomas

TrevorReynolds

AfrazKhan

ProsperJacobus

UsainFredricks

The team will be under the guidance of Manager, Terry Newton with Yeuraj Khemrajascoach.

The Guyana Cricket B o a r d e x t e n d s congratulations to the

represent Guyana with discipline, pride, and determination during the tournament.

The Board also expresses confidence in the squad’s ability to perform competitively on home soil and continues to emphasize the development of youth

Archery Guyana continues to strengthen Athlete Development through Part II Wellness and Nutrition Seminar

Archery Guyana Inc.successfully concluded Part II of its Wellness and Nutrition Seminar on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at theNationalRacquetCentre, Woolford Avenue, bringing together athletes, coaches, and club representatives from across the archery community for another dynamic and engaging morning focused on athlete well-being and highperformancepreparation.

The part 2 seminar

formed part of the Federation’s continuing effort to strengthen the holistic development of its athletes, highlighting the importance of proper nutrition, injury prevention, physical conditioning, and recovery as essential componentsofelitesporting performance.

Archery Guyana

e x t e n d e d s i n c e r e appreciation to Dr Ariane Mangar, Director of Rehabilitation, and the Guyana Physiotherapists Association for their collaboration and support in delivering the programme.

The Federation also expressed gratitude to workshop facilitators Ms. Vanessa Wickham and Ms.

Aretha Legall, whose practical presentations and interactive discussions provided athletes with valuable insights into maintaining optimal physica

nd performancereadiness.

Participants explored topicsrangingfromphysical conditioning and injury management to the role of nutrition and recovery in sustaining high-level performance. The sessions emphasised that modern competitivearcheryrequires far more than technical skill it demands a structured and disciplined approach to overall athlete wellness.

Speaking during the Seminar, Archery Guyana’s Head Coach Ryan McKinnon emphasised that meaningful improvement in archery is not achieved simply by increasing the number of arrows shot during practice Instead, athletes must focus on int

n

t

ng, combining technical practice with physical care, conditioning, and mental discipline in order to consistently execute the precisetechniquerequiredin competitivearchery

An important initiative a

discussions during the s

a

Federation President Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon announced that Archery Guyanaiscurrentlyworking with Dr Ariane Mangar and the Ministry of Health to organise a vision screening opportunityforarchers.

Mrs.Persaud-McKinnon opined that given that archery relies heavily on accurate vision, focus, and depth perception, the Federation is exploring arrangementsforaSaturday

morning screening session whereathleteswillbeableto receive basic eye examinations. For archers who may require corrective lenses, there may also be accesstovouchersthrougha Ministry programme to assistwithobtainingglasses. Clubshavebeenaskedto submit the names and contact information of interested archers so that numbers can be compiled and arrangements finalised in collaboration with the Ministry The Board of DirectorsofArcheryGuyana

also expressed appreciation toitscorporatepartnerswho supported the event.Thanks were extended to the Massy DistributionGuyanaInc.for providing Soldanza snacks and healthy Nature Valley Oats ‘n Honey granola bars for participants, and to Guyana Beverages Inc. for supplying Oasis Water and Altitude, helping to keep athletes refreshed throughout the session Thanks were also expressed to Director of Sport Mr Steve Ninvalle and the N a t i o n a l S p o r t s

Commission for use of the Facility

The seminar concluded with group photographs featuring participants from the various clubs represented, reflecting the strong sense of community and shared commitment to raising the standard of archeryinGuyana.

The Wellness and Nutrition Seminar forms part of Archery Guyana’s broader strategy to develop well-rounded athletes capable of competing successfully at regional and internationallevels. Through initiatives such as education workshops, athlete health programmes, and collaboration with professional partners in sports m

dicine and

abilitation, the Federation continues to reinforce the message that elite performance begins with athlete health, discipline,andpreparation.

As the Federation continues to expand its development programmes, Archery Guyana remains committed to ensuring that itsathletesaresupportednot only technically, but also physically and mentally, as theypursueexcellenceinthe sport.

F1 calls off April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia

LONDON, (Reuters) -

FormulaOne’sBahrainandSaudi ArabianGrandsPrixwillnottake placeinAprilduetotheconflictin the Middle East, the sport announcedonSaturday

The announcement had been widelyexpectedandthestatement bytheLibertymedia-ownedsport and governing FIA, as well as localpromoters,saidtheraceswill not be replaced on the calendar nextmonth.

Sourceshavesaidtheyarealso unlikelytoberescheduledforlater in the year due to logistics and weather, although the statement did not explicitly rule that out, withthecalendarsettobereduced from24to22races.

“While this was a difficult decisiontotake,itisunfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation intheMiddleEast,”saidFormula One Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali.

Bahrain’sdesertSakhircircuit had been due to host the fourth round of the season on April 12 with Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah

Corniche track following the weekendafter Both races ‘are floodlit and at night.

FREIGHTDEADLINE WASLOOMING

U S and Israeli attacks on Iran are continuing while Iranian drones and missiles have hit Middle Eastern capitals including Bahrain’s Manama, where team personnel would be staying in hotels.

Airports in the region have closed, including Manama, with Iran threatening to block the key trade route through the StraitofHormuz

Bahrain is also the headquarters of the U S Navy’sFifthFleet

The deadline for freight for the race to be sent to Bahrain was March 20, according to informed sources Formula One is currently racing in Shanghai, China, with Japan next on the calendar on March 29 Miami will now be the next round after that on May 3, a five-

week gap. For some, such as struggling Aston Martin, that could be a welcome breathing spacetoimprovetheircar

T

Federation (FIA) said that while several alternative venues had been considered, it was ultimately decided to leave Aprilblank.

It said the decision had been taken in full consultation with Liberty Media-owned Formula One, local promoters andFIAmemberclubs.

Formula Two, Formula Three and the all-female Academy ‘rounds scheduled for the Middle Eastern races willalsonotgoaheadthere

“The FIAwill always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first,” said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem,who comes from the United Arab Emirates,inthestatement.

“ A f t e r c a r e f u l consideration, we have taken this decision with that

responsibility firmly in mind We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stabilityintheregion,”headded.

“Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season and I look forward to returning to both as soon as circumstancesallow.”

BOTH‘RACESPAY SIGNIFICANTHOSTING FEES

The two races are major

contributors to Formula

One’s balance sheet and team finances, with Bahrain’s hosting fees alone estimated at around $45 million a year and Saudi Arabia’s likely to be higher

It is the second time Bahrain has had the race, its biggest sporting event of the year, cancelled In 2011 it was called off due to civil unrest in the Gulf kingdom

The Jeddah ‘race was called into question in 2022 after missile and drone

attacks by Yemen’s Iranbacked Houthis on an oil facility near the circuit

The grand prix went ahead after teams received safety assurances and drivers met for more than four hours to discuss the situation

The races are both also significant investors in the sport, with Bahrain’s Mumtalakat sovereign wealth fund the owners ‘of reigning champions McLaren while Saudi oil giantAramco is title sponsor ofAstonMartin.

“We respect the decision of the (FIA) and Formula One not to hold the race at its scheduled time,” the Saudi state news agency SPAquoted Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki AlFaisal as saying

“Weaffirmtotheinternational sporting community that the Kingdom was fully prepared to host this race, which it has previously hosted successfully and with distinction on five occasions.”

Co m p e t i t i v e football action returned to the East Bank corridor after a long hiatus when the inaugural East Bank Inter Village Competition kicked off at the Eccles EE Ground

on Saturday evening following a colourful march pastofthevillages.

It was a history making night on many fronts as it was also the first time that this ground hosted a competitive football match. This new facility, has been

developed under the Government of Guyana,

Ground Enhancement initiative and jointly undertaken by the Ministry ofHousingandtheMinistry ofCulture,YouthandSport.

Apart from the march past before on field action,

there was also the distributionofequipmentby

the National Sports Commissiontoeachvillage, byMinisterwithintheOffice of The Prime Minister, Hon Kwame McCoy, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, Vice Chairperson of the National Sports Commission, Cristy Campbell, and National Footballer Jerome Harrigan. Minister of Housing Colin

Croal joined the others for the kickoff of the tournament’sfirstmatch.

The Soesdyke Linden Highway based Kuru Kururusuitedupagainstone of the top villages in Agricola as group ‘A’ play gotunderway

Teams are battling in a round-robin format with the toptwofromeachofthefour groupsearningaplaceinthe final eight when the knockoutphasewillbegin.

The highway boys came to the show to make their presence felt on a historic dayandwantedtoetchtheir name in the history books. They drew first blood 22 minutesintotheopeninghalf whenLeroyEvansbreached the Agricola defence and goalkeeper, Christopher Adams.

The half ended with KuruKururuenjoyingaslim lead and Agricola relishing the opportunity of leveling things up and even going ahead. In the 57th minute, Kuru Kururu doubled the advantage with a Kevin Scottstrike.

Even though, Agricola halved the advantage when Shemar Sampson found the back of the net in the 61st

East Bank Inter Village Football HerstellingdefeatLowerSoesdyke; KuruKururutoppleAgricola

minute, veteran forward, Marvin ‘Munro’ Joseph rolled back the years when he re-established their twogoalcushiononthestrokeof fulltime.

Agricolahavenowfound themselves in a must win situationwhentheycomeup against Mocha, defeat will see them exiting the competition.

The feature game of the night pitted a young Herstelling side against Lower Soesdyke It was a very intense encounter as the Lower Soesdyke boys used their height advantage to good effect but Herstelling never backed down.

The first 35 minutes did not separate the two villages as though chances were created either side of the pitch It was the final four-minutes of the clash thatsawHerstellingscoring back-to-back goals that sealedfullpointsforthemin thisGroup‘B’clash.

Johenni Mendoza broke the deadlock in the 66th minute and two minutes later, junior national and Elite League player, Malcolm Hendricks knockedthewindofthesail of Nijuan Hooke, caught outofposition.

The win for Herstelling has placed then in a good position to earn a quarterfinal berth, while Lower Soesdyke will have to win their next clash against Swan if they are to stand a chanceofadvancing Grove and Circuitville collidedyesterdayafternoon inthefirstthefirstofanother doubleheaderwhileTimehri engaged Kaneville in the feature.Actionwillcontinue thisweekend.

Raphinha hat-trick fires Barcelona past Sevilla to stay top

B A R C E L O N A , (Reuters)-Raphinhastruck a hat-trick, including two ice-cool penalties, as Barcelona swept aside Sevilla 5-2 on Sunday to remain four points clear at thetopofLaLiga.

Hansi Flick’s side lead thestandingswith70points, ahead of Real on 66, while AtleticoMadridtrailon57.

With Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 clash against Newcastle in mind, Flick rested regular starters including Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez, but his reshuffled side scarcelymissedabeat.

Barca were in front after nine minutes when Djibril Sow bundled over Joao Cancelo in the box Raphinha cheekily chipped his spot kick straight down the middle ‘as keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos divedleft.

VAR intervened in the 21st minute, spotting a handball by Jose Angel Carmonaasheslidintohalt Cancelo. Raphinha drilled hissecondpenaltylowtothe left, Vlachodimos getting a handtoitbutunabletokeep itout.

DaniOlmoaddedathird inthe38thminute,finishing first time after Marc Bernal surged down the left wing andsquaredintohispath.

Sevilla briefly stirred before halftime, as 22-yearold academy winger Oso volleyed home Juanlu Sanchez’s cross in added time Any hopes of a comebackfadedsixminutes after the restart when Raphinha completed treble, ‘hislowstrikedeflectingoff NemanjaGudeljandlooping over the wrong-footed Vlachodimos.

Cancelo made it five on thehour,cuttinginsidefrom

the left and gliding past Gudelj before slotting into thefarcorner

With the win all but guaranteed,Flickintroduced midfielder Gavi off the bench in the 83rd minute, with the 21-year-old Spain international playing ‘his first minutes after undergoingsurgerytorepair ameniscusinjuryhesuffered inAugust.

“It’s been really tough, I’vehadaprettyhardtimein arecoveryprocesswhichhas been really painful,” Gavi toldDAZN.“Day-to-daylife was so `hard and being here today,withawinandinfront of our fans is special, what I’m feeling right now is unique,andI’mveryhappy.”

The tournament, hosted by Australia, started just as the U.S. and Israel launched airstrikesonIran,killingthe Islamic Republic’s Supreme LeaderAliKhamenei.

There was still time for Sevilla to ‘score a second, however, with Oso turning provider in added time,

Manchester United tighten hold on third in the Premier League with win over Aston Villa

Matheus Cunha buried a secondhalf strike off a pinpoint through ball from Bruno Fernandes for a clubrecord 16th Premier League assist in a season to lift the hosts to a 3-1 victory over AstonVillaSunday Casemiro and substitute Benjamin Sesko scored United’s other goals in a resultthattightenedUnited’s grip on third place in the standings on 54 points after 30 games, while fourthplacedVillahave51points.

United, who were playingtheirfirstgamein11 days,werekeenforavictory after interim boss Michael Carrick’s seven-game unbeaten run ended in a 2-1 loss to 10-man Newcastle UnitedonMarch4.

With 22 points from a possible 27 under Carrick’s leadership, Sunday’s win will invariably lead to more questions about his chances of becoming United’s permanentmanager

“It was a slightly different `game today going into it being so close in the leagueandmakingthesmall

jumpwecouldifwewon,off thebackofadefeat,”Carrick said.“Itwasasmalltestand wehaven’treallyhadthat.

“The boys dealt with it reallywell,hadareallygood week and applied themselveswell.Everything is so so encouraging.We’ve gotalottoplayfor.”

Thegamelookedheaded for a draw before Cunha scored from the left side of the box in the 71st minute,

with Fernandes recording his 100th assist for the club acrossallcompetitions.

With eight games left, Fernandesisalsofourshyof matching the Premier League record for assists in one season of 20 held by Thierry Henry (2002-03) andKevindeBruyne(201920).

“He’s had so many big moments, to score a goal, to makeapass,”Carricksaidof

Fernandes “Training or games, he’s always there. Reallygoodwiththecorner. The pass to Matheus `fantastic to cap off a good performanceallaround.”

Sesko put the game out of reach 10 minutes later with a blistering shot from thecentreofthebox.

Casemiro put United ahead in the 53rd minute with a glancingheader from aFernandescorner

Ross Barkley levelled in the64thwithashotfromthe middle of the area. After a lengthy VAR check to determine whether the ball glanced off an offside Amadou Onana, the goal stood.A better second half salvagedadecentgameafter a dreary first 45 ‘minutes plaguedbyerrantpassesand slippingplayers. United did have some decent first-half chances

including a header from AmadDiallothatgoalkeeper EmilianoMartinezstretched backwardstokeepoutofthe net Diogo Dalot had a terrificchanceinsidethebox thathelaunchedoverthebar

Leny Yoro’s block spoiled one of Villa’s best chances and led to a ‘longrangeshotfromFernandesat theotherendthathesentjust wideofthepost.

Villa have not won a league game since February 11,andananimatedmanager Unai Emery spent much of the afternoon stomping his feet and waving his arms in frustration.

“ H o w w e a r e progressing after we did fantastic ` months in October, November, December, the last two months we are struggling,” Emery said “It’s Manchester United here at home, and they are now in good moment And of course, they played a very intelligentmatch.

“Ithinkwecangetbetter The result at the end was a bad result for us. We must accept it and try to analyse nowtogetbetterforthenext challenge.”

Tanzid 107, Taskin four-for trump Agha 106 to give Bangladesh series

ESPNcricinfo - This wasanold-fashionedclassic disguised as 21st century cricket. Probably the best ODImatchoftheyearsofar, tucked away as a bilateral decider in Mirpur Two batters, Salman Agha and TanzidHasan,playedstellar knocks while everyone else struggled on a pockmarked pitch. Yes, this was oldfashioned: there was the tragic Pakistan collapse, the comical Pakistan running, and the tragicomic Pakistan finish. At the end of it all, Bangladesh won their second successive bilateral ODI series against Pakistan, thetwoseriesbeing11years apart.

Let’s start with just the last over: one wicket left, Shaheen Shah Afridi on strike, Rishad Hossain with the ball. 14 needed off six. Off the second delivery, Rishad ran back to collect a skierandspilleditatmid-on when he could have closed outthematch.

With12neededofftwo, a wide was given, then a sneaky review was taken by

Bangladesh to reverse it. With 12 needed off the last ball, Afridi ventured down thetrackandmissedtheball all ends up, and could have been off for a stroll by the timeLittonDasremembered towhipoffthestumps.

However, the match was alongwayawayfrombeing a heart-stopper, and had mostly been a one-way dogfight with Bangladesh callingtheshots.

Then, Agha made a belatedentrytothemiddleat 67 for 4.They were chasing 291 on a pitch that turned when you slowed it down, and bounced when you speareditin.

Taskin Ahmed was the early wrecker-in-chief for Bangladesh, taking out Sahibzada Farhan and Mohammad Rizwan in the first and third over Maaz Sadaqat departed to an edge offNahidRana intheoneoverinbetween

Yet,debutantGhaziGhoriand two-ODIs-old Abdul Samad got together to stem the bleeding: they poked and prodded, and sometimes

ColinCroftturns73

Kaieteur Sports

t a k e s t h e opportunity to wish Legendary Guyanese andWestIndiesfastbowler ColinCroftahappybelated birthday and God’s richest blessings.

‘Crofty’ as he is fondly referred to, celebrated his birthdayyesterday Hewas part of that fearsome West Indies bowling attack that decimated many a batting lineupbackinhisday Cheers‘Crofty’.

middledone,astheylaboured to a 50-run partnership in 67 balls The highlight of their standwasatleastfourrun-out chances, with many yes-andnocallsasnervesgaveway

Scores: Bangladesh 290 for 5 (Tanzid 107, Hridoy 48*, Rauf 3-52) beat Pakistan 279 (Agha 106, Masood 38,Taskin 4-49) by 11runs.