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EU rallies in NEWS support of Ukraine amid Trump standoff AIETEUR
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October 17, 2026 - Vol. 21 No. 41 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $200 readership yesterday, 42,127
Feasibility, EIA studies must be done for all project Ambassador funded by US EXIM Bank GDF lost 20 minutes Avalon looks to Linden verifying MV Barima Technical Institute to help distress signal; build future OMAI workforce sea conditions not
considered in searches
Subcontractor electrocuted by live GPL wire Rodrigues-Birkett pushes multilateralism as path to ending global conflict
Avalon said a future OMAI operation would require a wide range of technical and support skills, including geologists, mining engineers, geotechnical specialists, heavy-equipment operators, mechanics, construction workers, caterers and labourers.
Mohamed, staff granted $750,000 bail each for firearm, obstruction charges
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Saturday October 17, 2026
Mohamed, staff granted $750,000 bail each for firearm, obstruction charges Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and two other defendants have been granted bail totalling $750,000 each after pleading not guilty to joint charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition and obstruction of justice. Mohamed, Mario Mohamed and Eugene Thorne appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where bail was set at $250,000 per charge for each defendant. The charges stem from an incident on the night of 12th October into the early hours of 13th October, 2026, in Kitty, Georgetown, involving alleged gunfire near the home of Prem Narine, head of the Special Branch intelligence unit and a witness in ongoing extradition proceedings involving Mohamed. The defendants pleaded not guilty to all three joint charges. The firearm and ammunition charges allege that on 13th October, at Alexander Street, Kitty, they were found in possession of a .32 Taurus pistol and matching live ammunition without a firearm licence, contrary to the Firearms Act, Chapter 16:05. The obstruction charge alleges that on 12th October, at Barr Street, Kitty, the three men wilfully attempted to obstruct the course of justice by discharging a firearm in the vicinity of Narine’s home, contrary to Section 330 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. During lengthy submissions, defence attorneys Siand Dhurjon, Damien Da Silva and Roysdale Forde, SC, challenged the prosecution’s account of the incident and questioned how the alleged firearm was recovered. According to the defence, Thorne was driving the vehicle, with Mario Mohamed in the rear seat and Opposition Leader Mohamed in the front passenger seat. Counsel said Mohamed was documenting public activity for social media after receiving reports of a heavy police presence outside Narine’s residence. The defence told the court that Narine had recently testified in the extradition proceedings that he was conducting surveillance on Mohamed. Counsel said that when the vehicle passed the residence
a second time, Mohamed extended his mobile phone to record officers stationed outside. The attorneys maintained that the vehicle was not tinted and that the occupants would have been visible to officers. They alleged that between five and seven gunshots were then fired, prompting Thorne to accelerate away. According to the defence, police intercepted the vehicle within 30 to 45 seconds at the junction of Sandy Babb Street and Vlissengen Road. Counsel alleged that further shots were fired during the interception, leaving visible bullet holes in the driver’s door, rear passenger door and roof. The defence further alleged that Narine, who was masked and accompanied by three other masked officers, was the only person firing. Counsel said Mohamed exited the vehicle with his hands raised, repeatedly identifying himself before lying on the ground, where an officer allegedly stomped on him. DEFENCE QUESTIONS FIREARM RECOVERY A central issue in the bail hearing was the recovery of the alleged firearm and ammunition. Defence counsel told the court that an initial roadside search conducted by a
detective sergeant found no illegal items. They further alleged that Narine seized Mohamed’s mobile phones at the scene, depriving the defence of potential recording evidence. The defence said a Special Branch officer subsequently drove the vehicle to the Kitty Police Station while the accused were transported in a patrol vehicle. Counsel submitted that a second search was conducted within the station compound using a firearmdetection dog, which allegedly failed to alert officers to the presence of a weapon. The attorneys alleged that after they were briefly asked to step back, an officer produced a small firearm and placed it on the floor mat b e n e a t h t h e d r i v e r ’s accelerator pedal. They also questioned why the weapon was not subjected to fingerprint dusting and raised concerns about the handling and sealing of evidence boxes containing gunshot residue swabs taken from the defendants. The defence applied for the state to disclose government CCTV footage recorded between 11:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. along Sandy Babb Street, Vlissengen Road, Barr Street and Thomas Street. Counsel
argued that the footage was necessary to mount an effective defence. Forde and his co-counsel also challenged the basis for attributing possession of the firearm to all three occupants, arguing that the prosecution had not established individual knowledge or control of the weapon. Counsel cited the precedent of Cummings v. Willis in support of the argument that mere presence in a vehicle occupied by several people does not, by itself, establish possession. The defence also urged the court to grant bail, describing Mohamed as a 39-year-old Member of Parliament, Leader of the Opposition, businessman and father of five, with substantial property interests. Counsel argued that he was not a flight risk. PROSECUTION ALLEGES RISK OF WITNESS INTIMIDATION Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Diana O’Brien opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the charges and the fact that the principal accused was already on bail in separate proceedings. The prosecution alleged that the vehicle passed Narine’s residence twice at a slow speed and that, during the second pass, an
Mohamed and employees after being released from lockups
Diana O’Brien, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions explosion suspected to be a gunshot was heard coming from the vehicle. Narine reportedly returned fire before police units pursued and intercepted the occupants. O’Brien clarified that while Narine’s main house was situated at the back on the property, the entrance to the premises where the alleged incident occurred, is on Barr Street. The prosecution confirmed that an initial roadside search yielded no items but maintained that a subsequent search at the police station compound uncovered the .32 Taurus pistol and matching live ammunition beneath the accelerator pedal. Relying on the principle of joint enterprise, the prosecution argued that it was not necessary at the bail stage to establish precisely who had fired a weapon. O’Brien also said shell casings recovered from Barr Street were undergoing ballistic examination. The state further relied on Section 7 of the Bail Act to argue that the defendants’ release posed a substantial risk of witness intimidation, citing a report by Narine that he had received direct threats. Magistrate grants bail under strict conditions. In granting bail, Magistrate McGusty noted the issues raised concerning joint charges and possession in a vehicle occupied by multiple persons. The magistrate also considered the questions
surrounding the gap between the initial roadside search, which reportedly found nothing, and the subsequent discovery of the firearm after the vehicle had been driven to the police station. The absence of immediate CCTV footage establishing that the alleged gunshot originated from inside the vehicle was another issue raised during the proceedings. Taking into account M o h a m e d ’s r e p o r t e d compliance with court reporting requirements in other proceedings and the submissions concerning flight risk, the magistrate found special reasons to grant bail while allowing the state time to complete its investigation. Each defendant was ordered to attend every court hearing, reside at his declared fixed address and provide updated contact details. They must also surrender their travel documents and may not apply for replacements or leave Guyana without the court’s permission. The court further prohibited the defendants from contacting or intimidating prosecution witnesses and barred them from traversing the section of Barr Street between Vlissengen Road and Alexander Street. All three must report weekly to designated police stations every Friday. The matter was adjourned for the service of prosecution statements and video evidence.
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Saturday October 17, 2026
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Feasibility, EIA studies must be done for all project funded by US EXIM Bank - Ambassador The United States Export Import (US EXIM) Bank does not lend a dime to fund any projects unless a feasibility study and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is conducted. This is according to the US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot. During an interview with Kaieteur News on Tuesday on the sidelines of an event, the diplomat explained the requirements that must be met. She said, “So yes, EXIM abides by (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) OECD rules. So, OECD is an international body and EXIM abides by those rules and that OECD requires all of those studies to be done and they do not lend a dime to anyone until those have been done and satisfied.”
The explanation from the Ambassador comes amid an almost two-year-long delay on the Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project being constructed at Wales, West Bank Demerara where a feasibility study was never pursued by the Government of Guyana (GoG) who described the initiative as a “no-brainer”. In November 2024 it was announced that the US EXIM Bank approved government’s application for a loan to support the project. An agreement with the institution for US$527M was signed the following month. Although GTE is the c o u n t r y ’s f i r s t g a s development and the largest ever financial project in the c o u n t r y ’ s h i s t o r y, a feasibility study was not conducted by government. It entails a pipeline to transport gas from the Liza fields in
Govt. eyes poultry, high-value crops to diversify Essequibo Coast economy
Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha during his address. The Government of Guyana is looking to diversify the Essequibo Coast’s agricultural sector beyond rice production, with plans to expand poultry farming, high-value crop cultivation and other areas of development, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has said. Speaking at Friday’s sod-turning ceremony for a new rice storage facility, Mustapha said the investment in rice infrastructure represents only one component of the broader development planned for Region Two. “We are looking to do poultry. We are looking to do the high-value crops, and also, we are looking to bring other forms of development. So, the storage of rice is just one component or one aspect of the development that will be taking place in this area,” the minister said. Mustapha noted that while residents of Region 10 are traditionally associated with mining and those in Region Two with rice cultivation, communities must diversify their economic activities to create more opportunities. He said the government intends to make substantial investments in other areas of the region in the coming months, with the aim of attracting more investment and expanding the local economy. According to Mustapha, President Irfaan Ali has Continued on page 19
US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot
the Stabroek Block along with a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility and a 300 megawatt (MW) power plant that expected to cost over US$2B. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in a statement this week noted that the power plant was exempt from an EIA while the NGL and power plant were covered under one environmental study. Ambassador Theriot told Kaieteur News that the delays at the project are a result of soil stabilisation
works that were necessary. These soil conditions would have been assessed as part of an EIA. Theriot explained, “The simple fact is the delay was caused by the land. The area that was given to them to build the power plant was marsh. It was a swamp and so it took 18 months to remediate that soil. Can you imagine building an electrical power plant on unstable soil? That’s the craziest thing ever and so because this is a US company and it does things
correctly the first time, they said, okay, we’re going to remediate this soil, and it took 18 months and over $100 million to do that.” Regarding a feasibility study for the project, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo during a virtual discussion in 2021 on oil and gas contracts alongside Professors Paul Tennassee and Floyd Haynes on Globespan 24×7 was asked to respond to concerns that the project may not be a good fit for Guyana. He however noted, “The financial aspect is a nobrainer. Any sensible person with a modicum of sense, a tiny brain, even a residual brain, would understand that.” Backing up his s t a t e m e n t s , t h e Vi c e President explained that, “If you are generating power at $12 or $13 per kilowatt hour with the current price of fossil fuel…if you can supply power at $7 or $8 per kilowatt hour, a mad man would make the decision to do so and that is what this opportunity offers…to cut
the cost of generation by 50% from its current level.” “What else do you need,” he asked, adding, “if you can get power at half the price at which you are generating? That would allow us to cut the cost that you sell it at so it is a no-brainer. You just have to think it through for a couple of minutes.” Jagdeo mentioned as well that ExxonMobil had completed a Technical Feasibility Study back in 2016; further cementing Government’s position that the project is financially feasible. Such a study assesses the details of how you intend to deliver a product or service to customers, as the gas-toshore project would utilize associated gas from ExxonMobil’s Liza Phase One project, which has been in operation since December 2019. GTE is now expected to s t a r t u p i n D e c e m b e r, delivering just 57 MW of power. The other turbines to generate 300-MW are likely to come online by mid-2027.
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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor-in-Chief: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Chewing gum The first US objective was to batter Iran into submission. A rain of bombs from the skies, a groundswell of internal resistance from the streets of Teheran, and it would be just a matter of mopping up operations, all over. The Iranians have not played along, and what was projected to last a few weeks only has now extended to months. Instead of chewing gum, the US is now chewing on nails. US involvement in the Middle East has not reached the state of a quagmire, but it is beginning to take the shape of one. Start out with bright hopes, expect the enemy to cave in, only for the opposite to occur. It is not Vietnam from over a half century ago, but it is not the successes of Desert Storm and Desert Shield. Not by the reports coming out of the ground. The Middle East has always been a place of old feuds, one with a tinderbox atmosphere, and where vengeance is a matter of honor. This is where the US entered with its technology and its allies, and now finds itself trapped, without the face-saving way of an honorable extrication available at this time. In the meantime, the Houthis have entered the fray, and they are known proxies of the Iranians. Saudi Arabia is coming under intensifying fire, and Turkey and Pakistan have voiced their support for the Saudis. What started out as a textbook exercise, part of the war games’ scenarios developed by the Pentagon, has since been anything but a textbook exercise in military dominance. Different parts of this always combustible region are already dragged into a fight that they do not have much of a stomach for. For its part, Iran has been struck by a long shower of hard blows. It has lost senior figures that inspired. It has cracked at the seams and reeled from its bombardments of punishments. But Iran has not broken. It has taken its licks, and sucked the US into a struggle that it prefers not to be a part of. In the beginning, the first objectives were military driven, with regime change, and a compliant Iran. More recently, the emphasis on the US side of the now drawn-out battle is on economic pressure. Squeeze the economy of Iran until it crumbles. The people cannot take it anymore, the resisters split apart and collapse. On their side, the stubborn Iranian regime has its own card up its sleeve. The US midterm elections are now about three weeks away. To say that they are pivotal, can be a gamechanger, is as feeble as an understatement could get. Americans do not relish long foreign engagements, especially when inflation makes life so difficult for ordinary Americans. The truth of the matter is that they are locked in both, with no way out. Forty-five years ago, the Iranian mullahs timed their release of US hostages in such a way that Democrat Jimmy Carter lost the presidency to Republican Ronald Reagan. Though the masterminds of that action in walking a political tightrope have been killed by US bombs, the lesson has been well learned by the new Iranian regime. It could have another move of its own that goes in the opposite direction this time. Instead of Republicans coming out on top, the Democrats could be the winners. The Houthis are the wildcard, and the concern is how much trouble they can initiate, and how much damage inflict, including psychological ones. A larger, still unanswered question, is how many other proxies do the Iranians have, and where are they located? The US had mapped out a small, neat, war. Iran’s preference has been for a tangled, untidy, one. The fallout from this conflict is now felt by many countries across the globe. Higher oil prices translate to harsh economic pain on many peoples. Guyana’s oil has led to more earnings for its treasury. Despite more millions for Guyana, citizens continue to struggle, have difficulty coping. Making it in Guyana’s world beating economy is also equivalent to chewing nails. Higher oil prices have those ripple effects. Meanwhile, the US-Iran conflict languishes. The US is not chewing gum, it is chewing nails. So are Guyanese.
Remove the Commissioner of Information DEAR EDITOR, In October 2025 Ms. Danuta Radzik and Ms. Elizabeth Deane Hughes asked the Commissioner of Information for records on the Gas-to-Energy project and on hazardous waste from the oil platforms. The law gave him sixty days. A year later he has not decided. Ms. Radzik wrote to him again, relying on Justice Nicola Pierre’s ruling of 28 September. The ruling found that he had acted unlawfully on my own requests and ordered him to decide them within
sixty days. She was entitled to expect decency from a former Justice of Appeal and Attorney General. Instead, Mr. Charles R a m s o n S r. c a l l s h e r “Comrade” and dismisses one of our outstanding judges as “a puisne Judge”, inferior to judges of “exceptional, superior vintage”. He will wait, he says, for “final judicial directions”. Stripped of its ornate language, his letter says this: I will continue to draw over a million dollars a month of taxpayers’ money, and I will
have practically nothing to show for it. That has been his record for a decade. This is contempt for a citizen, for the Court and for the President. President Irfaan Ali never tires of boasting of his Government’s commitment t o t h e r u l e o f l a w, transparency and democracy. The Access to Information Act is his party’s law. The Commissioner is his appointee, and the President has the power to remove him. If Mr. Ramson will not
carry out the law, he should step aside for someone who will. If he will not go and the President does nothing, citizens can draw only one of two conclusions. Either the President cannot control his own appointee, or Mr. Ramson is doing exactly what the Government wants: keeping the people in the dark about oil and gas. Mr. Ramson is disrespecting the whole country. It is time for the President to show who is the boss. Yours faithfully, Christopher Ram
63 Beach: A New Era for Tourism, Recreation, and Economic Development in Berbice DEAR EDITOR, The transformation of the iconic Number 63 Beach into what has been described as Guyana’s largest recreational park under the National Recreational Protocol marks a significant milestone in the development of tourism, recreation, and community infrastructure in Region Six. This development represents an opportunity to strengthen the local economy, improve recreational opportunities, and position Berbice as a more attractive destination for both domestic and international visitors. For generations, Number 63 Beach has been a popular destination for families, friends, and visitors seeking relaxation, entertainment, and an opportunity to enjoy
Guyana’s natural coastal environment. The beach has long held cultural and recreational importance, particularly during holidays, weekends, and major celebrations. Its transformation into a modern recreational facility could significantly enhance the experience of visitors while preserving its importance to the surrounding communities. One of the most promising benefits of this development is its potential to stimulate economic activity throughout the Upper Corentyne. Increased visitor traffic could provide opportunities for small businesses, including food vendors, restaurants, transportation operators, photographers, local
artisans, and entertainment providers. Entrepreneurs may also benefit from opportunities to introduce new services that cater to families and tourists. With proper management, the facility could become a reliable source of income and employment for residents, contributing to the wider economic development of Region Six. The development also presents an opportunity to s t r e n g t h e n G u y a n a ’s domestic tourism industry. While major tourism initiatives often focus on the country’s interior destinations and natural attractions, coastal recreational facilities play an equally important role in encouraging Guyanese to explore different regions of
their homeland. An improved Number 63 Beach could attract visitors from Georgetown, New Amsterdam, neighboring communities, and other parts of the country. Its location near the Guyana-Suriname border may also create opportunities to attract visitors from Suriname, strengthening cross-border tourism and commercial activity. Beyond the economic benefits, the recreational park could make an important contribution to public health and community well-being. Accessible recreational spaces encourage families to spend quality time together, promote outdoor activities, and provide opportunities for Continued on page 5
Schengen Visa DEAR EDITOR, The matter of the application for, and, indeed, the necessity for a Schengen Visa for Guyanese to travel to anywhere in Europe has recently been raised by the President. A Schengen Visa is “an entry permit for nonEU nationals to make a short, temporary visit of up to 90 days in any 180 day period to a country in the Schengen area.” Guyanese who want to visit Europe must obtain a S c h e n g e n Vi s a w h i c h involves completing a comprehensive application online and obtaining an appointment to visit the Netherlands Visa Application Centre in Suriname to have one’s biometrics taken and to present (leave) their passport. This requires either
remaining in Suriname to collect one’s passport when the process is completed or obtaining an Emergency Certificate through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to travel home from Suriname and wait for your passport to be returned by mail. The applicant will know whether their application was successful or not when they receive their passport, about one week later. On the 9thJanuary this year, I and my wife submitted applications for Schengen Visas to the Netherlands Visa Centre in Suriname to travel to Iceland and Norway. We attended an interview at the Centre on 15th January. On our arrival at the Centre, only one of us was permitted to conduct the interview and my wife was called because her name, Madhoo, is
alphabetically before mine, Nascimento. I then followed, not for an interview, but to submit my biometrics. We r e c e i v e d o u r passports on 23rd January with an enclosed notification and a rejection letter stating that “justification for the purpose and conditions for the intended stay was not provided” and “you have not provided proof of sufficient means for subsistence, for the duration of the intended stay or for the return to the country of origin or residence, or for the transit to a third country into which you are certain to be admitted.” Let me underline that at no time during her interview was my wife questioned in any manner with regard to any of the grounds given for rejection. The rejection letter
provides for an objection process to the rejection which we immediately submitted. One of the reasons stated for the rejection was that I did not sufficiently state the purpose of our visit. In fact, we stated “tourism.” The second reason for the rejection was that we had not sufficiently provided our means of support. In fact, under that requirement, we had stated “credit card, providing the details of the c a r d – p r e p a i d accommodation – prepaid transport.” At the interview, my wife provided documentary evidence from the travel agency which had arranged the visit, that all the expenses, that is the cost of flights, the cost of accommodation, the cost for tours and transportation to Continued on page 5
Saturday October 17, 2026
Kaieteur News
Will Freddie’s questioning of the Jewish Holocaust undermine Guyana’s UN nomination? DEAR EDITOR, F r e d d i e K i s s o o n ’s questioning of the Holocaust is reckless and unjustified particularly when Guyana is pulling all stops in Washington and among western nations to galvanize support for our nomination as UN Secretary General. Will it undermine Amb. Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett candidacy for SG, the most prestigious position ever for a Guyanese? Birkett is widely recognized as a brilliant, pragmatic, and highly capable diplomat. Her personal journey from the remote interior village of Santa Rosa to the halls of the UN is a testament to her profound capability. Freddie’s column must not be allowed to derail her nomination. It must be condemned to limit backlash. Freddie questioned facts about the holocaust including arguing that Hitler did not give a written order to incinerate Jews. Kissoon has faced pushback on his inadequate intellectual rigor and academic standard. Educators and historians publicly debunked his assertions on the holocaust. The intersection of Freddie‘s recklessness and international diplomacy has never been so dangerous for Guyana as it does right now. F o l l o w i n g F r e d d i e ’s September 2026 highly controversial article, there
are ripples in global diplomacy as diplomats at the UN and western governments quietly indicated that there will be consequences. I hope not as Freddie does not speak for the Guyana government and is not close to Amb Birkett. In fact, discredited Freddie has been known for his strident criticisms of Birkett when she was a Minister with the Jagdeo-led PPP administration which Freddie passionately and vociferously opposed with obsession from 1992 to 2020. Freddie’s anti-Jewish column has reached Washington and the Israeli government as well as prominent Jewish Americans, AIPAC, other Jewish lobby groups and Jewish legislators around USA. The disgraceful column has the potential to alienate Guyanese from Jewish Americans in USA. Guyanese Americans have condemned the column and distance themselves from it. Since the struggle against the dictatorship going back in the 1980s, a small group of us has developed a fraternity with Jewish Americans in NY who assisted us to pressure the Hoyte administration to implement political reforms that led to free and fair elections that brought the PPP not government. Jewish Americans were in the
forefront in solidarity with our movement against the dictatorship. And recently, a lobbying group of Indian Guyanese and Jews have coalesced in NY working on issues of common interests towards Guyana and India and Indo-Caribbean people. Jews have been known to patronize Guyanese cultural events and celebrations of our national day in Queens. Many Guyanese have been working for Jewish owned companies and also as domestic help at Jewish owned homes. Jewish New Yorkers have been known to attend Hindu and Muslim festivals in Richmond Hill. Freddie’s questioning the Holocaust put the GuyaneseJewish solidarity movement under threat. David Weprin, a Jewish legislator, among others works closely with Guyanese. Guyanese planned a fundraiser for Weprin’s re-election on the evening of October15. Weprin has been the face who Guyanese have turned to for support for issues in the community including for Muslim and Hindu holidays. He was a regular face at Guyanese programs over the last couple decades. He attended several of President Irfaan’s engagements in Queens. He was at the Queens Village event in midSeptember with Irfaan. He posed for pix with the President. He was observed
cheering the President’s remarks. Weprin, like other Jews, are very sensitive about the Holocaust. Weprin is not pleased with Freddie’s article questioning the holocaust where millions were exterminated by Hitler. Who asked Freddie to write this anti-Jewish column when he knew America and Israel will not be pleased. Was he trying to derail our nomination? Ambassador Birkett has built a formidable, historic campaign. As an Indigenous woman from a small developing state, she has secured the enthusiastic backing of a majority of the UNSC and of almost every member of CARICOM, surging to a commanding second place in the UN Security Council’s initial straw polls. Her message of updating the UN while fiercely protecting the values of its Charter has resonated deeply. Yet, the SG selection process is a chess match dominated by the five permanent veto powers of the UNSC. And in that arena, credibility is the only true currency. Guyana cannot allow its ties to powerful nations to be questioned, especially when a discredited columnist writes nonsense. Freddie’s column h a s h a n d e d G u y a n a ’s detractors and those seeking to derail Birkett’s Continued on page 6
63 Beach: A New Era for Tourism, Recreation... From page 4 relaxation away from the pressures of everyday life. Children and young people may benefit from having a welcoming environment for recreation, while elderly residents and families can enjoy opportunities for social interaction. Such facilities are important because healthy communities require more t h a n e c o n o m i c opportunities; they also need safe, accessible, and enjoyable public spaces. A n o th er s ig n if ican t advantage is the potential to promote cultural activities and community engagement. Number 63 Beach has traditionally served as a gathering place where p e o p l e f r o m d i ff e r e n t backgrounds come together to celebrate, socialize, and enjoy recreational activities. W i t h i m p r o v e d infrastructure and effective management, the
recreational park could accommodate cultural exhibitions, community events, family-oriented entertainment, and activities s h o w c a s i n g G u y a n a ’s diverse heritage. These initiatives could strengthen social relationships while creating additional opportunities for local performers, artists, and small businesses. However, the long-term success of this investment will depend heavily on maintenance, environmental protection, public safety, and responsible management. As visitor numbers increase, attention must be given to waste disposal, sanitation, security, traffic management, and the protection of the beach’s natural environment. Adequate facilities and consistent maintenance will be essential to ensuring that the park remains attractive, safe, and accessible.
Equally important is the involvement of surrounding communities. Local residents, businesses, and community organizations should have opportunities to participate in decisions concerning the facility’s development and operation. Their involvement can encourage a sense of ownership and shared responsibility, helping to preserve the recreational park for future generations. T h e r e c e n t commissioning of the Number 63 Beach recreational park by Guyana’s First Lady also highlights the broader importance of investing in community-centered infrastructure. As Guyana continues to experience economic transformation, developments of this nature can help ensure that progress is reflected not only in major industries and national
infrastructure but also in the everyday experiences of citizens. Ultimately, the success of this development should be measured not simply by the size of the facility or the investment made, but by the lasting benefits it delivers to communities. A recreational park that supports local businesses, protects the environment, encourages healthy lifestyles, and brings people together would represent a meaningful contribution to Guyana’s national development. Number 63 Beach has long been a place where memories are created. With this transformation, it has the potential to become a place where new opportunities are created as well, benefiting Berbice, strengthening tourism, and contributing to a more vibrant Guyana. Yours sincerely, Philip Inshanally
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Schengen Visa From page 4 and from and within the countries to be visited, had been prepaid, along with evidence of travel medical insurance. Neither on the application nor in the interview, were we required to provide any other evidence of our financial capacity such as a bank account. We submitted the objection on the form provided on 11th February. Herein, however, we confronted a major challenge. The only address provided for submission for the Objection was to the “Postbus 2, Consular Service Organisation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, IND Visadienst, Nederland.” Because it is a P.O Box address, we airmailed it and couriered it to a person we knew living in Holland to mail it locally for us. It was delivered to the postal service in Holland on 4th March, stamped as received and placed in the mailbox. We could not courier the objection from Guyana to the address given because the courier (DHL) required a postal address zip code, not available for a P.O Box address. Over one month later, on 13th April, we received, via surface mail, an unsigned acknowledgement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Holland, of their receipt of our objection informing us that the deadline for their decision to process our objection may take longer than 12 weeks (again by surface mail) and that we will receive it in Dutch “for legal reasons.” Nine weeks have now passed since we applied for the Schengen Visa. On 14th April we wrote the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Head of the Visa Service, pointing out that according to their letter, I should not expect a decision on my objection until 25th May and that they should appreciate the fact that we had “already incurred substantial expenses in booking airfares and hotel accommodation in anticipation of receiving the Schengen Visa.” I also pointed out that the web address that they provided for contact required the use of Zivver and DigiD, which is not readily available, and that no other email address is provided for easy and rapid means of communication. We finally received a letter from the Netherlands Ministry of Justice and Security, confirming that our objection had been upheld and that “your visa application have now been approved” for “a visa for a single entry for a stay of 9 days” and that we should “make an appointment to collect your visa” and if we have questions we should raise them with the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs via website contact, believe it or not. We then immediately proceeded to make the appointment in Suriname. The first available date was 14th August. At this point in time, some 7 months since first applying for the visa. It was now unclear to us whether we had to return to Suriname or not to collect the visas since we had already submitted our biometrics. I was then able to enlist the good offices of our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and our Embassy in Suriname who contacted the Netherlands Visa Centre in Suriname who confirmed that we now only have to submit our passports for the visas to be entered into. This process, however, took until 21st August for us to receive our passports with the visas, some 7 months after we applied for the Schengen Visas, having persisted in pursuing the objection and with the assistance of our Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I have decided to write this letter in order to illustrate the degree of insult afforded to the people of Guyana in applying for a Schengen Visa to visit Europe. Not only was our President fully justified in raising this matter publicly, but it is incumbent upon our government to confront the government of the Netherlands and make it plain that this arrogance towards our country is unacceptable and intolerable. I must conclude, however, by pointing out that since our experience, a Schengen Visa can now be obtained much more easily and much more readily through the French Embassy in Guyana, providing, however, that the primary destination in Europe is France. Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento
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Saturday October 17, 2026
Duo remanded for robbing, assaulting Berbice pandit Michael Embrack, called “Duck-man,” 39, of Fort Ordnance Village, East Canje, and Rada Corlette, called “Vanessa,” 36, of Fryish Village, Corentyne, were charged in relation to robbery when they appeared before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the Albion
Magistrate’s Court. Together, they were accused of robbing Parsram Arnold, a 32-year-old man, of Bun Bush Dam, East Canje Berbice, on September 20, 2026. Arnold was reportedly robbed of $768,000 during the incident.
The charge of robbery under arms was read to both accused, who were not required to plead to the indictable offence. Bail was objected to by the prosecution, which was upheld by Magistrate Matthias, who then remanded the pair to prison.
Two remanded to prison for firearm, narcotics possession
D
avid Ramphal, c a l l e d “Tampoo,” of Belvedere, Corentyne, and Dedesh Naris, a resident of Albion Front, Corentyne, made a joint appearance before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court earlier this week, to answer to charges related to firearm, ammonium, and narcotics. The charges include possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to Section 5(1)(a) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act; possession of a firearm without a licence; and possession of ammunition without a licence, contrary to the Firearms Act. Based on reports, on October 12, 2026, police ranks, acting on information, journeyed to
The matter has been transferred to the Reliance Magistrate’s Court for October 21. The victim, who is a chef, disclosed following the ordeal last month that he was asleep with his seven-yearold daughter and eight-yearold son around 3:00 hours when he was choked out of his sleep. Three men, none of whom were masked, were observed beside him, carrying guns and cutlasses. He said his son was dealt a blow to his head by one of the men as they demanded he hand over money. A cutlass was reportedly pressed to the neck of his daughter as the men repeatedly threatened to
Michael Embrack
Rada Corlette
harm them if Arnold did not give them the money. Arnold complied and offered the bandits money he had kept as donations for
religious purposes, but the men insisted he hand them more, forcing his son to his vehicle where they would Continued on page 19
Will Freddie’s questioning of the... David Ramphal
Dedesh Naris
No. 1 Road, Corentyne Berbice, where they encountered four men travelling with two motorcycles, one bearing registration number CS 7869, and the other unregistered. During a search, ranks discovered a 12-gauge shotgun in the possession of one of the men, who was carrying a black haversack. Eighteen 12-gauge shotgun
cartridges and 15 small ziplock bags containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis were also found. The suspected cannabis was weighed and amounted to 25.3 grams. The other two men encountered during the operation were also initially detained as police conducted their investigations.
From page 5 nomination a powerful weapon. It is an unforced error. The US and Israel whose explicit or implicit support is structurally vital for any aspiring SG view Holocaust denial and antisemitism as absolute red lines not to cross. The narrative peddled in the column, which went as far as utilizing classic antisemitic tropes alleging global Jewish control over historical narratives, strikes directly at the core values of international human rights that the UN chief is meant to embody. The timing could not be worse since Washington had already expressed private reservations regarding Guyana’s rhetoric concerning the conflict in Gaza. The sudden injection of Holocaust revisionism blurs the line between legitimate geopolitical critique and hate speech in a state owned newsprint. That article attacking Jews should not have
been published anywhere in Guyana or supported by any Guyanese. The U.S. State Department maintains a strict, unyielding policy of confronting global antisemitism. In UN selection process, U.S wields an absolute veto, an uphill battle to overcome when one attacks Jews. Israel’s reaction also carries massive diplomatic weight among Western allies, particularly USA. Israel and Jewish lobbyists have the capacity of a “discouraging” vote. She previously stated that she would withdraw from the race if it became clear that a veto power intended to cast a discouraging vote against her. Freddie’s view of the holocaust should not hang over our nominee. Guyanese must dissociate from and condemn it. At a minimum, he should apologize to the Jewish people. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
Saturday October 17, 2026
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Kaieteur News
Saturday October 17, 2026
Subcontractor electrocuted by live GPL wire A subcontractor attached to the China Railway First Group was electrocuted early Friday morning after coming into contact with a live wire while conducting pipe-laying works near Congress Place, Sophia. According to the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), the incident occurred around 01:00 hrs. and also disrupted electricity supplies to several communities in the area. In a statement published on its Facebook page, GPL said the accidental contact with its live electricity network caused the company’s Sophia F3 feeder to trip, resulting in interruptions to electricity service in Lamaha Gardens and Section K, Campbellville, for approximately one hour. The company added that its Sophia F6 feeder also went offline for about 30 minutes, affecting customers in Areas A to E, Field Sophia. GPL extended condolences to the deceased’s family and friends as they come to terms with his death. The company also reminded contractors undertaking work near electricity infrastructure to follow established safety protocols to prevent similar incidents. These measures include coordinating with GPL before commencing work, identifying potential electrical hazards and ensuring that the necessary protective measures are in place before proceeding. GPL urged everyone working near its electricity network to make safety a priority at every stage of their operations.
Another $108.3M awarded for Micobie Secondary as project remains unfinished T h e N a t i o n a l Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) has awarded a $108.3 million contract to R.R. Enterprise for the construction of laboratories at Block C of the new Micobie Secondary School in Region Eight, adding to the $253 million already allocated for the school’s construction. Information published on NPTAB’s website revealed that the contract, valued at $108,357,420, was awarded to R.R. Enterprise, which was among 40 contractors that submitted bids for the project. The works were estimated to cost $135,578,181. Kaieteur News understands that the additional contract comes as the school project continues to face delays and remains uncommissioned, according to previous media reports. In July 2024, former Education Minister Priya Manickchand and her team joined residents of Micobie for the sod-turning ceremony to mark the start of construction of the $253,561,500 secondary school. The original contract was awarded to NK Engineering Services following a competitive bidding process, with the Ministry of Education announcing that the project was expected to be
completed within six months. At the time, the ministry disclosed that an initial mobilisation payment of $76,068,450 had already been made. According to the ministry, the original contract covered the construction of a staffroom for teachers and 10 classrooms, including five specialised facilities for science, information technology, home economics, visual arts and library services. During the sod-turning ceremony, Manickchand underscored the importance of the school to the c o m m u n i t y a n d u rg e d residents to hold the contractor accountable for delivering the project as promised. However, by May 2025, the project was facing significant challenges. Addressing the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference that month, Manickchand announced that the ministry was preparing to terminate the $253 million contract because of concerns about the contractor ’s performance. The former minister told village leaders that while the ministry had been rolling out projects and programmes aimed at improving the quality of education, it Continued on page 10
Kaieteur News
Saturday October 17, 2026
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How does one heal a broken heart? My next question to Guru was done via mail. I wrote to him and asked Dear Guru, There is a problem that affects millions of people, yet many suffer through it in silence. It is heartbreak. People will openly discuss their financial difficulties, seek medical attention when their bodies are unwell, and ask friends for advice about their careers. But when their hearts are broken, they retreat into silence, pretending to be fine while quietly falling apart. Some have been abandoned by people they loved deeply. Others have discovered infidelity, been rejected without explanation, or watched a relationship they believed would last forever crumble before their eyes. Some are
grieving a love that ended years ago but still occupies a corner of their hearts. Others are struggling to accept that the person they love no longer feels the same way about them. They go to work, smile at colleagues, laugh at jokes, and carry on with their responsibilities. But when night comes and the distractions disappear, the memories return. A song, a photograph, a familiar place, or even the sound of a telephone can reopen wounds they thought were healing. M a n y a r e t o o embarrassed to seek advice. They fear being told they were foolish to trust, weak to care so deeply, or deserving of what happened to them. So they suffer alone,
sometimes for months or years, waiting for time to do what they do not know how to do themselves. Guru, why does heartbreak hurt so much? How does one stop loving someone who has stopped loving them? And how does one move forward when the heart refuses to accept what the mind already knows? The Guru replied: My dear friend, heartbreak is among the most painful experiences of being human because we do not merely fall in love with another person. We fall in love with the life we imagine sharing with them. We make room for them in our plans, our habits, our hopes and our understanding of the future. When the relationship ends,
Dem Boys Seh...
Guyana is not a real place De more oil we pump, de more backwards we getting. De richer we get, the poorer our lives become. Take for example de traffic situation. With each passing day, motorists find themselves trapped in a long, slow-moving line of congestion as if the roads were cursed by de devil himself. The government’s brilliant solution is to build more roads, allow more vending and business alongside the roads and add a few pavements for motorists to park on. But de more roads we build, is more cars deh pun de roads. And then yuh gat to build even more roads and borrow money to do so. Finding a parking spot in de city is like searching for the fabled City of El Dorado. People circle around blocks like vultures praying for a miraculous vacancy while businesses suffer as customers abandon their futile search. The gridlock on our streets is hurting the economy and peoples’ pockets. Productivity plummets as employees spend more time in traffic jams than working. By
the time you leave work in the afternoon and get home, it is already night. No wonder so many people have dark lines under their eyes. Being in traffic is like being in purgatory. Bosses now measure output in units of honks per hour, while drivers have developed a new skillset-perfecting their steering wheel drumming technique. As stress levels skyrocket, so does the occurrence of road rage, which has become the national pastime. Horns blare like a symphony of frustration, accompanied by colorful expletives that would make even the hardiest sailor blush. More middle fingers are shown daily than are inked on Election Day. But we like it so! May the traffic gods bless us with endless congestion, impossible parking, and a never-ending supply of stress! After all, in this twisted land, the only thing that is more reliable than the sun rising, is the inevitability of another traffic jam. Talk half. Leff half!
we lose not only a person but also the future we had begun to believe was ours. That is why telling someone with a broken heart to simply move on is rather like telling someone with a broken leg to run. The instruction may be wellintentioned, but it demonstrates little understanding of the injury. The first thing to understand is that there is no shame in having loved deeply, even when that love ends painfully. The fact that someone failed to honour your affection does not mean your affection was misplaced. Nor does another person’s inability to love you as you loved them diminish your worth. Also, you can love someone and still recognise that the relationship is no longer good for you. You can miss someone terribly and still understand that their absence is necessary for your peace. Sometimes you miss a person because they were right for you. Sometimes you miss them because they were familiar. And sometimes you miss the person you hoped they would become, rather than the person they consistently showed themselves to be. The second lesson is to stop demanding that your heart heal according to a timetable. There is no
universal period for recovering from heartbreak. But while you give yourself time, do not make a permanent home out of your pain. Eat properly. Sleep as best you can. Exercise. Spend time with people who genuinely care about you. Return to activities that remind you that your life contains interests, possibilities and pleasures beyond the relationship you have lost. And, above all, resist the temptation to keep reopening the wound. Constantly checking an expartner ’s social media, searching for clues about their new life can keep you trapped in the very grief you are trying to overcome. You cannot heal while insisting on touching the wound every morning to see whether it still hurts. Third, forgive yourself. Many broken-hearted people spend years conducting imaginary trials in their minds. They revisit conversations, examine every mistake and wonder w hether one different decision might have saved the relationship. They blame themselves for not seeing the warning signs, for trusting too much, or for staying too long. Nor must you hate the person who hurt you in order to move forward. You may never receive an apology.
You may never understand why things happened as they did. You may have to accept that some questions will remain unanswered. Finally, remember that heartbreak is also an opportunity to rediscover yourself. When a relationship ends, ask not only what you have lost, but what you may have neglected while trying to preserve it. Reconnect with old friends. Revisit forgotten ambitions. Discover interests that belong to you alone. Learn to enjoy your own company without interpreting solitude as evidence of failure. And if the pain becomes overwhelming, persists to the point of disrupting your daily life, or leaves you feeling unable to cope, seek help from a counsellor or mental-health professional. Grieve what you have lost. Learn what you can. Release what you cannot change. Then, little by little, begin living again. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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Saturday October 17, 2026
Bharrat Jagdeo at Robert Corbin’s gathering - Pt. I It was Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo at his best. Mellowness amid a moment of mourning. A figure and contributor at his most solemn in an hour of reflection to honor the passing of Robert H. O. Corbin, Esq, MP, Deputy Prime Minister, and Opposition Leader. Let there be no mistake: it was Dr. Jagdeo in the flesh, and coming to a place that has long been part of the quest of many outstanding Guyanese patriots. “We believe that the future of Guyana would involve at some level and some fashion, whatever that framework may be, these parties working together. They have to, of necessity. That’s when this country can accomplish all the dreams of those who had to flee this country and seek a better fortune elsewhere and the dreams of those who are
living here now. That’s how we’d achieve it.” What to make of that shocker that has inclusion stamped all over it? I could never find fault with any Guyanese who speaks of what could unify, what may just ease the bitterness of three score and fifteen years of angry, insoluble division. When Bharrat Jagdeo finally comes around to this what he called enlightened place, it was worth the wait. It is worth all his curses and insults, his tantrums and throwdowns on Thursdays, and all those other days of the week spanning several years. Listen some more to him: “Trust me, the country needs now a new form of enlightened thinking. And a new approach to solving issues.” Since this former president can be mellow, so can I.
What’s the use of reminding him, or any Guyanese, that other Guyanese have been about that enlightened thinking since around the beginning of this millennium, if not before? What’s the point of dredging up, adversarial visions of taking away the PPP plums, diluting its victories, and doing so via the backdoor? The fact that Dr. Jagdeo chose the opportunity of a tribute to the departed Robert Corbin to say what he said gives even more resonance to what is now before Guyanese to dissect and interpret. I have always believed that Bharrat Jagdeo and Robert Corbin knew how to do business together, at least they had some form of understanding on how to coexist, without the country becoming unglued. It shows
in that tribute. What could be more fitting to the JagdeoCorbin Manifesto? As an aside, the spirit of a truly great Guyanese left these shores to rejoin his ancestors after a century of years, plus one. Interestingly, not a word, not a pause, not even a nod of awareness from Excellencies Ali or Jagdeo, or any of that assembly of PPP dignitaries. It was not Babu John and PPP Founder Cheddi. It was Lilendaal and Robert, PNC leader. It is inspiring, though, that whatever he stood for, through thunder and lightning, there was Dr. Jagdeo at the Arthur Chung Convention Center standing at his fullest height and deluging his audience with the unexpected. Please do not spoil the moment by deluging be mistaken for deluding. Separately, I have heard it said that General Secretary Jagdeo is seeking partnership with the PNC to vanquish the formidable electoral threat posed by Mr. Azruddin Mohamed’s WIN. Drive a wedge, pickup a pledge. It’s the fine art of politics. The
vice president may have learned that from his years in the local political trenches. Then again, there were those years that he spent at Patrice Lumumba U in the vicinity of the snowy Steppes. There are always thinking guerilla fighters and stealth operators on that campus. Outflank a serious menace. Better to link arms with the devil that is known that deal with the dangers of the blue sea (take that literally) that could swamp. What a pitch and what a pitchman! What timing and what skillful probing for an opening! For its part, the PNC has been steely in its resolve: Mohamed and WIN are on their own. It is less of the humiliation of a pathetic showing and loss. It is more of what could have been unfolding behind the scenes, with the power of the PPP General Secretary at work. Studying the new lay of the territory. Already calculating the odds. We i g h i n g t h e alternatives. And now, presenting his almost perfect blueprint for Guyana. There is
money. There is a set of hungry people. Therein lies opportunity. As president, as Opp Leader, as vice president, and as party general secretary, Mr. (later Dr.) Jagdeo has never sniffed out a situation that he has not used wiles and guiles to overcome. PPP succession and Nandlall. Parliamentary noconfidence motion. PNC diminishment and Granger. And, now the Blue people and their leader that is under tight, suffocating, control. Once again, like him or lash at him, Bharrat Jagdeo has proved himself Guyana, perhaps the region’s, craftiest political mastermind. (In Part II or later -an analysis of his actual words, as quoted above, compliments of Demerara Waves). (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Another $108.3M awarded for... From page 8 continued to encounter difficulties with some contractors. “We are about to terminate the contract for Micobie Secondary because the person who won that bid…we have problems with them finishing on time, we have problems with them doing it the way we want it done,” she said. Manickchand acknowledged that weather conditions in some hinterland communities could hamper the transportation of construction materials to project sites. However, she maintained that, in her assessment, those circumstances did not adequately explain the delays in Micobie. “Micobie has no legitimate reason in my respectful view and my considered view as to why he couldn’t start it so we have those challenges,” she said. More recently, in May 2026, the newly
appointed Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Eight, Marti De Souza, visited the area and assured parents that everything would be done to ensure students could occupy the facility by the start of the new school term in September. The award of the additional $108.3 million contract raises further questions about the project’s progress, particularly given the original six-month completion timeline and the Education Ministry’s announcement in 2025 that it was preparing to terminate the initial contract. With the new laboratory works now awarded, the outstanding questions include the current status of the original construction contract, the extent of work completed under the initial $253.6 million allocation, and when the school will finally be ready to accommodate students.
Saturday October 17, 2026
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GDF lost 20 minutes verifying MV Barima distress signal; sea conditions not considered in searches Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Langevine
Crucial minutes were spent verifying the initial distress signal following the capsizing of the MV Barima, while subsequent aerial search operations were conducted without factoring in tides, currents or wave action, the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the tragedy heard. Pilot Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Langevine and Flight Operations Officer Captain Simon Gordon of the Guyana Defence Force Air Corps detailed the initial operational confusion, communication channels, and technical constraints surrounding the July 18 tragedy, during examination at the Department of Public Service building in Georgetown. Log sheets submitted to the commission showed that military personnel spent approximately 20 minutes confirming that the initial distress signal was authentic before dispatching air assets to the area. Captain Gordon explained under oath that verification protocols are standard practice due to recurring false alarms and electronic “spoofs” that have previously sent search crews toward conflicting locations. Citing a past incident to demonstrate the challenge of unverified signals, Captain Gordon recalled a distress beacon that transmitted three vastly different locations within minutes, first from Region 7, then from Church Street in central Georgetown, and finally 200 miles off the Atlantic Coast. Because deploying to unverified coordinates carries a high risk of misdirecting limited resources, officials took time on the morning of July 19 to corroborate the incoming alert before launching assets. “If you were to deploy to one of these three locations, we could have been 30% wrong or 60% wrong or something
like that,” Captain Gordon testified. “So, we had to verify.” However, once search crews were dispatched, they operated with minimal spatial intelligence regarding the precise location of the vessel and survivors. Captain Gordon revealed under questioning that no ground-truth coordinates were available at the time of deployment. Instead, search teams were dispatched with only broad, generalized parameters handed down by Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Jocelyn Asannah. “The information did not c o m e t o m e d i r e c t l y. However, this is what we were told, this is the distress area,” Captain Gordon testified, explaining that instructions pointed crews toward a broad, ill-defined zone. “The reference point was along Somerset area, just not how far up, down or outwards, sir. So, until we could have...” Captain Gordon further admitted under oath that responders lacked basic confirmation regarding the exact site when search assets were launched. “We had no definitive proof of where exactly it was,” Captain Gordon told the commission. The inquiry also examined subsequent r eco n n ais s an ce f lig h ts conducted days after the incident. Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Langevine testified regarding three flights he piloted aboard the Bell 407 helicopter on July 22, July 24, and July 25. Under questioning by commissioners, Lieutenant Colonel Langevine acknowledged that environmental sea factors were never factored into flight planning or target selection. Asked whether wave action, currents, or tide conditions were ever discussed during pre-flight
Major Kevin Moore and Captain Simon Gordon (right).
briefings to determine where floating survivors or remains might drift, Lieutenant Colonel Langevine confirmed those variables were entirely omitted from instructions. “That was never factored into any discussion that I was part of,” Lieutenant Colonel Langevine testified, adding that he was not aware of prevailing sea conditions during his flights. The witness explained that all flight directions were delivered verbally by Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Jocelyn Asana, leaving pilots to execute orders without personal discretion or maritime tracking input. “The commanding officer would take responsibility for that,” Lieutenant Colonel Langevine told the commission. “Whatever flights you do, you don’t take your own initiative. It is given to you as basically as an order to execute.” The testimony further highlighted structural limitations in the Air Corps’ maritime search capabilities. Lieutenant Colonel Langevine revealed that his formal search and rescue training was strictly limited to inland operations, a twoweek course conducted in 2024 certified by the Civil Aviation Authority, and that he had never received training in maritime search and rescue operations. “I have not been exposed to maritime search and rescue operations,” Lieutenant Colonel Langevine stated. Lieutenant Colonel Langevine noted that the single-engine Bell 407 aircraft operates under strict safety constraints that prevent it from flying offshore unless specific glide distances can be maintained, confining its sweeps to the immediate coastline. During his July 22,
24, and 25 missions, crew members scanned the shore using only their naked eyes from low altitudes of 20 to 40 feet, without binoculars or specialized imagery equipment. “Our focus based on the information that we got was mainly to scan along the shore to see if anyone would have been close to the inland part of it,” Lieutenant Colonel Langevine said, confirming that no survivors or remains were spotted during his three flights. On July 22, Lieutenant
Colonel Langevine departed Ogle at approximately 11:25 a.m., flying to Hampton Court and continuing to Waini Point before returning to Hampton Court at 4:30 p.m. On July 24 and July 25, flights departed Ogle around 10:00 a.m., flying west to Supenaam, north along the coastline to Hampton Court, onward to Waini Point, and back. The hearings also raised questions regarding early communications surrounding the emergency. Lieutenant Colonel
Langevine testified that he first saw an alert regarding a possible vessel in distress at 1:05 a.m. on July 19, posted in a WhatsApp group containing over 20 Air Corps personnel. When asked by Commissioners whether the chat logs could be provided to verify the exact timeline of early alerts, Lieutenant Colonel Langevine stated he was “not privileged to share that at this point in time” without official guidance. T h e C o m m i s s i o n ’s hearings continue in Georgetown on Monday.
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Avalon looks to Linden Technical Institute to help build future OMAI workforce The Linden Technical Institute (LTI) is being engaged by Avalon Gold Exploration Inc. to explore skills-training opportunities for Guyanese workers ahead of the proposed redevelopment of the historic Omai Gold Project in Region Seven. The engagement is aimed at identifying the technical skills that would be required for the project and exploring how the institute could help prepare students for potential employment opportunities in the mining sector. Avalon projects that the proposed operation could create approximately 1,200 jobs during construction and between 800 and 850 jobs during operations, if the project proceeds. A team from the company, including Chief Executive Officer Elaine Ellingham, Vice President of Operations Jason Brewster and Director of Government and Community Relations Jake Thomas, recently visited Linden, where they toured LTI’s business, electrical, mechanical and other technical departments. The delegation also held discussions with LTI Principal Hector Anthony and Deputy Principal Keisha Luke-Garraway. Mrs. Marcel Watson of the Board of Industrial Training participated in the meeting. LTI has approximately 450 students and recently expanded its on-site accommodation by 150 rooms, increasing its capacity to accommodate students from outside Linden. During the discussions, the company highlighted the potential demand for a wide range of technical and support skills as Guyana’s mining industry expands.
Avalon Gold Exploration Incorporated has begun discussions with the Linden Technical Institute (LTI) on potential training opportunities to prepare potential workers for employment at the proposed re-development of the Omai Gold Project. These include geologists, mining engineers, geotechnical specialists, heavy-equipment operators, mechanics, construction workers, caterers and labourers. Avalon Chief Executive Officer Elaine Ellingham said early planning would be important to ensure that training institutions could respond to the anticipated demand for skilled workers. “With the potential development of three to four major mines over the next five years, the demand for skills will expand. We need to identify the scope of skills that will be needed at the mines and then support the Institute to develop additional training modules or courses to provide the relevant mining-specific skills,”
she said. Ellingham added that on-site training would be important once mining operations were established, while cooperative work terms and apprenticeships could give students opportunities to gain practical experience. She said there were opportunities for students to work with mining companies through arrangements that could combine their training at the institute with practical experience in the industry. Avalon said it would continue exploring potential opportunities with LTI and the Board of Industrial Training, possibly in coordination with other companies advancing large-scale mining projects in Guyana.
LINDEN POSITIONED TO BENEFIT Linden’s proximity to Omai, its industrial skills base and its historical connection to the former mine make the community a potential source of workers for the proposed redevelopment. Many families in Linden have relatives who worked at Omai during its previous years of production. Skills acquired in mining and other industrial operations could also be transferable to jobs associated with a future operation. Deputy Mayor Wainwright Bethune, who previously worked at Omai, recalled learning gradecontrol skills in the open pit before applying that experience in
Linden’s bauxite industry. Retired Major General Norman McLean, a former Human Resources Manager at Omai, also accompanied the Avalon team and spoke about the long-term benefits and positive experiences that m o d e r n l a rg e - s c a l e m i n i n g operations could bring to workers and communities. Beyond direct employment at the mine, Avalon identified transportation, construction, engineering, equipment services, accommodation, catering and maintenance as areas in which local businesses could potentially participate. During the Linden meeting, the company indicated that construction could begin in approximately 24 months. However, that timeline remains subject to the completion of technical work, environmental and regulatory approvals, financing and a final decision to proceed with construction. The proposed redevelopment remains at the technical, environmental and regulatory work stage, and the projected employment figures are contingent on the project advancing. While discussions with LTI could help identify future training needs, no specific training programmes or employment commitments were announced. Avalon Gold Exploration Inc. is the wholly owned Guyanese subsidiary of Canadian company Omai Gold Mines Corp. It holds a 100% interest in the Omai Gold Project in Region Seven and is advancing exploration, technical studies and environmental work towards the potential redevelopment of the historic mine.
Saturday October 17, 2026
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Sod turned for $557.5M National Neurological Rehabilitation Centre Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony and a team of health officials on Friday turned the sod for the construction of the National Neurological Rehabilitation Centre at Industry, East Coast Demerara (ECD). A c c o r d i n g t o information provided by the Ministry of Health, the establishment of the facility marks another step in efforts to strengthen and expand specialised healthcare services across Guyana. Kaieteur News reported in September that a $557,560,000 contract was awarded to Digital Design Construction, Logistics and Supplies for the construction of the centre, according to information published on the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) website. The health minister said upon completion, the centre is expected to improve access to specialised rehabilitation services for people living with neurological conditions. The
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony accompanied by health officials on Friday turning the sod for the construction of the National Neurological Rehabilitation Centre which will be located at Industry, E.C.D. facility will support patients in their recovery, help improve mobility and functional independence, and ultimately enhance their quality of life. “This initiative further underscores the
government’s commitment to developing a more inclusive, accessible, and comprehensive healthcare system that responds to the evolving needs of the population,” the ministry stated.
During the presentation of the national budget earlier this year, the National Assembly was informed that plans were underway for the
construction of the centre. The facility is expected to provide specialised clinical care and long-term management for patients
with brain injuries, including those resulting from strokes, as well as head and spinal cord injuries and neuromuscular disorders.
Rodrigues-Birkett pushes multilateralism as path to ending global conflict
At right, Guyana’s Ambassador to the United Nations Carolyn Rodrigues- Birkett speaks to Stimson Center dialogue, under the theme, “A vision for the future of multilateralism” Guyana’s Ambassador to the United Nations Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett believes that multilateralism is the path to ending global conflict. Speaking to the Stimson Center dialogue under the theme “A vision for the future of multilateralism”, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guyana—a candidate for UN Secretary-General said, “We need a UN then that is fit for purpose and that is effective. And I think all of us would agree that the UN has delivered substantially over these 81 years, from the global rules that we agree to live by, to being the only lifeline for many people still today.”
“Many countries, including mine, came about because of the UN decolonisation process. The UN held our hands all the way to where we are today. So, it is not a question of whether we need the UN. It’s a question of what type of UN we need not only for today, but also for the future.” She noted that at a time when the world faces immense challenges, including protracted conflicts and declining trust in international institutions, multilateralism must remain the beacon in which the world places its trust. Back in July, Rodrigues-Birkett Continued on page 19
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EU rallies in support of Ukraine amid Trump standoff (AL-JAZEERA) European Union leaders h a v e u rg e d c o n t i n u e d support for Ukraine amid a deepening rift between Washington and Kyiv that has raised fears the country could be left more exposed to Russian attacks heading into the winter. Top EU officials stressed the need to keep arming Ukraine and sanctioning Russia on Friday, the second and final day of an EU summit in Brussels attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “This is no time to withdraw support to Ukraine,” said European Council President Antonio Costa, standing beside the Ukrainian leader. “This is no time to relieve Russia’s sanctions. Now it is time to increase our support, to increase our pressure.” The EU is hosting Zelenskyy at one of the most d i ff i c u l t m o m e n t s f o r Ukraine, four-and-a-half years after neighbouring Russia invaded it. Russian missiles and
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meets with Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at the European Union summit in Brussels, Belgium, October 16, 2026. [Olivier Hoslet/Pool via Reuters] drones have rained down on Ukrainian cities daily, and Kyiv’s souring relationship with the United States has sparked fears that Washington could pull back crucial intelligence sharing and weapons support. Arriving at the summit, Zelenskyy thanked EU leaders for their support and pointedly referred to them as “real leaders”. That remark appeared to be a dig at US
President Donald Trump, who last weekend blindsided the Ukrainian president by announcing that Kyiv and Moscow had agreed not to target each other’s energy facilities. Zelenskyy abandoned that deal on Thursday, saying Russia had failed to live up to it, a move Trump called “a disgrace”. Trump has also angered Ukraine by suspending
$51M for new Little Diamond -Herstelling NDC office
The Little Diamond- Herstelling building on the East Bank of Demerara which was destroyed by a fire. The construction of a new Little Diamond-Herstelling Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) building on the East Bank of Demerara has been awarded for $50.9 million. The contract, valued at $50,911,785, was awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to Eron Lall Civil Engineer Works. The project is being executed through the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. NPTAB also awarded contracts for the construction of three other NDC buildings across the country. Professional Engineering & Construction Service was awarded $52,037,800 to construct the Bloomfield-Whim NDC building, while DR Engineering secured a $36,505,900 contract for the TuschenUitvlugt NDC building. Meanwhile, RC Construction was awarded $41,270,800 for the construction of the Best-Klien Pouderoyen NDC building. The rebuilding of the Little DiamondHerstelling NDC office follows a fire earlier this year that destroyed the building. The blaze also caused minor damage to sections of the nearby Providence Nursery School.
Following the incident, the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development said it was working with the relevant agencies to assess the damage and restore normal operations as quickly as possible, while ensuring that services to residents continued. The contracts come as the government continues its programme to upgrade local government infrastructure. In this year’s budget, approximately $550 million was allocated for the construction of 12 additional Local Democratic Organs (LDO) buildings. In March, the ministry also broke ground for a new $40 million Eccles-Ramsburg NDC office. The project followed the demolition of a dilapidated structure that had long posed challenges to the council’s operations. According to the ministry, the new building is intended to provide a safe, efficient and accessible environment for council staff and residents. At the sod-turning ceremony, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand reaffirmed t h e g o v e r n m e n t ’s c o m m i t m e n t t o strengthening local government systems and ensuring communities have the infrastructure and resources needed to function effectively.
sanctions on Russian oil products and striking a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin for Moscow to supply large quantities of diesel to global markets. “This diesel deal will never be enough to offset the impact of the Strait of Hormuz on global markets,” Zelenskyy said on the sidelines of the summit. “But it will put more money straight into Putin’s pocket to fund this war.” He also accused the Russian leader of having no real interest in peace talks. “Putin does not want peace talks at the moment, in
any form,” Zelenskyy said. “He’s playing with words … Quite simply, it looks like a parody of a genuine desire to end the war.” Zelenskyy asks EU for $79bn Bracing for expected winter-time attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Zelenskyy asked EU leaders for an additional 70bn euros ($79 billion) in funding next year to keep up the fight against Russia. “The war will cost 155 billion euros [$174bn] next year. And we need at least 70 billion euros more from you
for defence, for weapons and for our resilience,” the Ukrainian president said. “This is a realistic amount. And I ask you to find this support. It will help us hold Russia back.” A l J a z e e r a ’s R o s i e Birchard, reporting from the summit in Brussels, said Zelenskyy made an “emotional plea” for European support, with air defence systems at the top of his “wish list”. Zelenskyy appealed to European countries to dig into their own stocks to help cover Ukraine’s needs in the Continued on page 19
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NOTICE
WANTED Accounts Clerk-Must be Quickbooks literate and have accounting experience. Interested applicants please call #652-7444 Domestic (Live in option available), female cook and male & female workers for the interior :660-9093 / 674-9999 / 661-5992. One (1) store clerk/yard manager; must have at least 5 years' experience and will be required to work 12 hours. Location:Triumph, Agriculture Rd, ECD. Call 644-7088 or 617-8740 One cook preferable form the East Bank.Contact #616-5700 or 748-0359
SERVICES Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:626-7040. Servicing hydraulic accumulators for concrete pump etc.Friendship Oxygen Limited. Location:Friendship EBD.Call/WhatsApp: 6343430
FOR SALE TRUCK TIRES 295/75R22.5 $40K EACH. CALL/ WHATSAPP +592-688-3201. Whole chicken for sale Retail $360 per lb and wholesale $340 per lb. For Orders and enquires, Call #625-7634
FOR RENT For Rent- Vreed-En-Hoop junction: place to rent for office storage, bond, lessons, or other. Call # 603-6400
Childcare & Protection Agency Ministry of Human Services & Social Security Lot 7 Broad & Charles Streets, Charlestown, Georgetown Telephone: 227-7542, 2257450, 225-1257 Surujdai Khan, whose last known address is Perseverance, Essequibo Coast, is asked to contact the Childcare and Protection Agency at the above address. Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Surujdai Khan is asked to bring this Notice to their attention.
LEGAL LEGALNOTICE NOTICE 2026/929-FD-PET-DEM IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION Petition No. FD929 BETWEEN: (DAVY) TANDICA ALICIA nee FAVORITE Petitioner/ Applicant -and- (DAVY) JEREMY RAMON LLOYD Respondent TO: JEREMY RAMON LLOYD DAVY (Last Known Address) Lot 359 Omai Street, Prashad Magar, Georgetown. TAKE NOTICE that on the 20 day of August, 2026 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by TANDICAALICIA DAVY nee FAVORITE the Petitioner/Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court via the E- Litigation P o r t a l h t t p s : / / ejudiciary.supremecourt.gxAND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 21 day of September, 2026, the Petitioner/Applicant was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice of Petition in 2 (two) consecutive issues of the Saturday Kaieteur News, New York Edition, a newspaper of wide circulation and Worldwide Web presence AND publication in two (2) consecutive issues of a Saturday Newspaper of wide circulation in Jamaica and on the World Wide Web. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court of Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you
desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file a Form 4: Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition through the ELitigation Portal https:// ejudiciary.supremecourt.gy within 35 (thirty-five) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. Your Access Code is cr9xuc. TAKE NOTICE that the Divorce is adjourned for Directions Hearing on Tuesday the 10th day of November, 2026 at 1:30 pm before the Honourable Madam Justice Azeena Baksh (IN-PERSON) IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 24h day of September, 2026.
LEGAL LEGALNOTICE NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF GUYANA ( C O M M E R C I A L JURISDICTION) COURT FILE NO. 2026/41-HC-CDFDA-DEM-CIV BETWEEN: SARASWATI D. HIRA HOMWATTIE HIRA Applicants-andR A B I N D R E R D AT H SOEKHAI Respondent N O T I C E : T O : R A B I N D R E R D AT H SOEKHAI Lot 147 Block Y, Cornelia Ida ,West Coast Demerara, Guyana. TAKE NOTICE that a Fixed Date Application was filed on the 26th day of February, 2026, against you by SARASWATI D. HIRA and HOMWATTIE HIRA, in the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara, where the Applicants asks for: a) An order that the Respondent forthwith pay to the Applicants the sum of Four Hundred and Forty-Two Thousand dollars ($442,000.00), the said sum being monies due, owing and payable to the Applicants under Promissory Note dated
the 10th day of June, 2024: b)Interest on the sum of Four Hundred and Forty-Two Thousand dollars ($442,000.00), pursuant to Section 12 of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act Chap 6:02, at the rate of six percent (6%) per annum ($73 per day) from the 8th day of July, 2024 to the date of judgment and thereafter at the rate of four percent (4%) per annum ($48 per day) until fully paid; C)costs; d)such further or other reliefs as the Court may deem just. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 25th day of June, 2026, the Applicants are directed to effect service of this application on you by publication of a Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News Newspaper, or a newspaper in general circulation in the Republic of Guyana. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Application, you must forthwith, within 28 (twentyeight) days after the second and final publication, enter an Appearance thereto, and serve an Affidavit in Defence on MR. GANESH A. HIRA whose address for service and place of business is at 78 Hadfield & Breda Streets, Georgetown, Guyana,Tele #:223-4447, and file same to this cause in the Registry of the High court at Georgetown via the High Court’s eLitigation online platform with the use of the authorisation code: 7Wzwqc not later than 4 (four) days before the date fixed for hearing of the application, and you or your Attorney-atLaw must appear at the hearing.AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to file an Affidavit in Defence and/or if you fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you notwithstanding your absence. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the Fixed Date Application is adjourned to the 19th day of October, 2026 at 10am before the Honourable Madam Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif via Microsoft Teams meeting J o i n : h t t p s : / / teams.microsoft.com/meet/ 2 9 6 7 1 4 2 7 4 1 9 9 4 47?p=PFrz7u30ky 056XT7i2 Meeting ID: 296 714 274 199 447 Passcode: 6AaáuU9b.
LEGAL LEGALNOTICE NOTICE 2026/218-FD-APN-DEM IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE DIVORCE
Saturday October 17, 2026 AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION Application No. FD-218 BETWEEN: JENNIFER DEOCHAND Applicant -and- DAMION SHERIFF Respondent TO: DAMION SHERIFF (Address Unknown) TAKE NOTICE that on the 10th day of September, 2026 an Application Relating to Child was filed against you by JENNIFER DEOCHAND the Petitioner/Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 11th day of September, 2026, the Petitioner/Applicant was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of Kaieteur Newspaper a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated throughout Guyana. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Application together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Application, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file a Reply, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition through the E-Litigation P o r t a l h t t p s : / / ejudiciary.supremecourt.gy‘ within 28 (twenty-eight) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. Your Access Code is X7ie7J. TAKE NOTICE that the Divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Friday, 27th day of November, 2026 at 9:00 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Simone Morris virtually. Meeting ID: 461 884 5616 and Passcode: court6 IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 8th day of October, 2026.
LEGAL LEGALNOTICE NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OFGUYANA C O M M E R C I A L JURISDICTION 2026/167HC-CD-FDA-DEM-CIV BETWEEN: FRANK SANICHARA INC., a company incorporated in Guyana under the provisions of the Companies Act No. 29 of 1991, with registered office situate at Lot 1785 Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara, Guyana Applicant And KAWALL RAMRAJ Respondent NOTICE: TO: Kawall Ramraj Lot 111 North Klein Pouderoyen West Bank Demerara Guyana TAKE NOTICE that a Fixed Date Application was filed on the 10* day of September, 2026, against you by FRANK SANICHARA INC., a company incorporated in Guyana under the provisions of the Companies Act No. 29 of 1991, with registered office situate at Lot 1785 Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara, Guyana, in the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara, where the Applicant asks for: a) Specific Performance of the Agreement of Sale and Purchase dated the 3rd February 2026 made and entered into between the Applicant and the Respondent. b. An Order directing the Registrar of Deeds be authorized to convey to the Applicant, Transports of properties: i. Lot numbered 18 (eighteen) Kashmir Section, being part of the North half of Klien Pouderoyen, in the Klien Pouderoyen-Best Local Government District, situate on the West bank of the Demerara River, in the County of Demerara, in the Republic of Guyana, the said lot being shown on a plan by S.S.M. Insanally, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 10th May, 1926 and deposited in the Deed Registry on the 3rd September, 1926 no building and erections thereon. ii. Lot numbered 19 (nineteen) Kashmir Section North Klien Pouderoyen within the Best/ KleinPouderoyen Neighbourhood Democratic Council situate on the west bank of the Demerara, in the County of Demerara in the Republic of Guyana, the said lot being shown on a plan by S.S.M. Insanally, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 10th May, 1926, and deposited in the Deeds Registry at Georgetown, Demerara, on the 3rd September, 1926, an containing an area of 0.97681 (nought decimal nine seven
Saturday October 17, 2026 six eight one) of an being acre shown defined on a plan by D.C. Jesimy, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 6th day of September, 2010 and recorded in the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission of the 10th day of September, 2010, as plan No. 48437 and deposited in the Deeds Registry on 13th January, 2014. iii. Lot numbered 20 (twenty) 21 (twenty-one) and east half of lot numbered 22 (twentytwo) Kashmir Section, in the North Pouderoyen Village District, situate on the west bank of Demerara river, in the Republic of Guyana, the said North Pouderoyen being shown on plan by George Thomas Jack, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated 3rd April, 1857, and deposited the Office of the Registrar on 4th April, 1857, the said lots being shown on a plan by S.S Insanally, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 10th May, 1926, and deposited in the Deeds Registry at Georgetown on the 3rd September, 1926, subject to the Applicant lodging with the Registrar of Deeds for the benefit of the Respondent, the balance of one hundred and fourteen million, seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($114,750,000.00) less incidental expenses associated with the passing of Transports to the Applicant. An Order that the Applicant be authorized to renew and or to apply to the Commissioner of the Guyana Revenue Authority and to the Neighborhood Democratic Council for the requisite Certificate(s) of Compliance to facilitate passing of the abovementioned Transports to the Applicant. Such further or other Orders as the Honourable Court considers fit. C) Costs. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 29th day of September 2026, the Applicant is directed to effect service of this application on you by way of the publication of a notice of the proceedings in two (2) consecutive Saturday Issues of the Kaieteur Newspaper, a newspaper of general circulation in and around the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Application, you must forthwith, within 14 (fourteen) days after the second and final publication, enter an Appearance thereto, and serve an Affidavit in Defence on DANIELLA M. FREDERICKS whose address for service and place of business is at 185 Charlotte & King Streets, Georgetown, Guyana,Email: ramdhanilaws@gmail.com, and file same to this cause in the Registry of the High Court at Georgetown via the High Court’s eLitigation
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Antigua and Barbuda PM defends China ties, calls Beijing country’s top development partner (CNW) Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne says his government will continue to defend the country’s relationship with China despite any consequences, describing Beijing as its most important development partner. Speaking Thursday at the handover ceremony for the Chinese-funded Pelican Court housing development, Browne urged Antiguans and Barbudans to defend the bi-
lateral relationship in international forums and strengthen ties despite geopolitical pressure. “There is no other country that has contributed more to our development than the People’s Republic of China during the last three decades,” Browne said. He said Chinese assistance over the past 30 years had helped the twin-island nation develop its economic and social infrastructure and
improve living conditions, adding that the country owed Beijing lasting gratitude for its support. Browne said the partnership should continue even when defending it carried consequences. “So let us continue to march on with China as our most important development partner,” he said. His remarks came as officials marked the handover of Pelican Court, an EC$50 mil-
lion housing development financed through a Chinese grant. The project comprises 150 two-bedroom homes and forms part of the redevelopment of Booby Alley in the Point community. Browne described the development as China’s most socially impactful project in Antigua and Barbuda to date, citing its potential to improve conditions for vulnerable residents. He thanked the Chinese government on behalf of
prospective residents and the wider country, saying the project reflected his administration’s commitment to improving living standards, including for the poorest members of society. Browne said the redevelopment involved more than new buildings and climate-resilient construction, emphasizing that its ultimate purpose was to improve the quality of life of the people who would live there.
Rodrigues-Birkett pushes multilateralism as path to ending... From page 14 continued her international campaign, engaging members of the United Nations Association–UK (UNA-UK) in London outlining her vision for a stronger, more inclusive and effective United Nations. That engagement brought together civil society representatives and supporters of the UN for a discussion on the state of multilateralism, the role of the United Nations and its Secretary-General, and the importance of empowering civil society, women and young people to contribute to
global solutions. Earlier this year, President Ali announced positioning Ambassador RodriguesBirkett to succeed Secretary General António Guterres, whose tenure ends on 31st December, 2026. The head-of-state tied the nomination directly to Guyana’s rising standing in international affairs. “Over the past several years, Guyana has emerged as an influential voice on the global stage. Our successful election to the United Nations Security Council, and the suc-
cessful completion of our 2024-2025 term on the body, have demonstrated to the world that Guyana can provide leadership at various levels of the global system,” he declared. President Ali said Guyana can provide leadership at various levels of the global system, noting that throughout its 2024-2025 term on the UN Security Council, the country pressed consistently for peace, dialogue and respect for international law. He said Guyana had also carved out an increasingly prominent role on climate
Govt. eyes poultry, high-value crops to... From page 3 challenged the government to move beyond traditional areas of economic activity and explore new opportunities to ensure broader economic success. “I understand that there are a number of farmers who have already indicated and who have already started that online platform with the use of the authorisation code: zY c55v not later than 4 (four) days before the date fixed for hearing of the application, and you or your Attorney-at-Law must appear at the hearing. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to file an Affidavit in Defence and/ or if you fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you notwithstanding your absence. AND IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the matter is adjourned for hearing on the 16* day of October 2026, at 9:30 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Nicola Pierre on Microsoft Teams meeting J o i n : h t t p s / / teams.microsoft.com/meet/ 281718968318764?pJHs61RWZfqWrMCylEN Meeting ID 281 718 968 318 764: Passcode: Aa3He2Li Dated this 5th day of October, 2026
process. We will continue to do that. And if you look at some of the areas that we are looking at, we want to increase coconut cultivation. Coconut is becoming a very lucrative crop now. We want other areas, other highvalue crops,” Mustapha added. The minister also highlighted the need to change negative perceptions of agriculture among young people, noting that the stigma surrounding the sector extends beyond Guyana to the wider Caribbean and other parts of the world. He said some young people view agriculture as menial work or a career for people without formal education, a perception the government is seeking to change
through the modernisation of the sector. Mustapha pointed to the Agriculture Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme, through which young people have become shareholders and are cultivating high-value crops in greenhouses constructed across the country. He said initiatives of this nature are intended to demonstrate that agriculture can offer viable business opportunities and attract a new generation of entrepreneurs. The government’s diversification push is expected to create additional opportunities for farmers and other investors in Region Two, while reducing the region’s reliance on rice as its principal agricultural activity.
change, food and energy security, biodiversity, and the interests of small and developing states, arguing that the country has shown economic growth and environmental stewardship can move together. President Ali said Rodrigues-Birkett brings the depth of experience the office demands. She has served as Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN since 2020 and led the country’s participation during its historic Security Council tenure. Her career spans more than two decades in public service. She served as Director of the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s liaison office in Geneva from 2017 to 2020, as Minister of Foreign
Affairs from 2008 to 2015, and as Minister of Amerindian Affairs from 2001 to 2008, where she championed the rights and welfare of Indigenous peoples. The president noted the next secretary-general must be able to build trust among member states, restore confidence in multilateral institutions and lead with vision, qualities he said RodriguesBirkett has demonstrated throughout her career. Her vision for the UN, he added, centres on strengthening multilateralism, making the organisation more effective and responsive, and keeping it capable of confronting conflict, climate change, food insecurity and emerging threats to peace and security.
Duo remanded for... From page 6 retrieve a further $40,000 from the man’s wallet. They then reportedly proceeded to the family’s shop in front of the house, and made off with that day’s sales and several items from the shop. In addition to taking pieces of jewelry belonging to himself and children, the family was also reportedly tied up and beaten. Arnold told reporters that throughout the ordeal, he pleaded with the men to spare his children, but do with him what they please, as the men were threatening to also kill them. After ransacking the bedrooms in search of valuables, the men reportedly escaped with $375,000 in cash, five mobile phones, jewellery and other valuables. The family was subsequently taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital for medical attention, and was discharged, but the incident, according to the man, has caused him and his family profound trauma.
EU rallies in support of Ukraine amid Trump... From page 15 colder winter months, said Birchard. “But of course, that would mean some European countries potentially compromising their own national security.” ‘We stand by your side’ Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal told the Reuters news agency that the EU would probably have to provide a new loan to Ukraine to help cover its budget gap for next year. “Last winter was already hell, this one will be once again like hell,” Michal said. European Commission
President Ursula Von der Leyen pledged continued EU support for Ukraine through the winter. “Russia is trying everything to destroy the energy and water infrastructure. But we stand by your side. We will support you as we did in the other winters,” she said. Austria, however, urged caution in the debate over new, far-reaching financial commitments to Ukraine. “There are so many figures being bandied about that we now need to put them into context, explain them and make it clear where this short-
fall is coming from,” said Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker. Al Jazeera’s Birchard said the general European solidarity for Zelenskyy was a stark difference from recent messages coming from Washington. “He is once again, at least, among friends,” she said. However, Birchard added that some European officials were said to be appealing to Zelenskyy behind closed doors to “kind of dial down” his public criticism of Trump, which they fear could put Europeans in a tough position.
“Of course, they [European officials] want to show that they are close to Ukraine, that they are supporting Zelenskyy, but they also don’t want to antagonise the US,” she said. Friday’s summit came as Russian strikes killed three people in Kharkiv and left hundreds of thousands of people without power in Ukraine. The Kremlin last week said Ukraine had undermined the possibility of an immediate resumption of peace talks after hitting Moscow with drones during last month’s election.
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US announces more than US$340M in new Caribbean funding (Trinidad Guardian) The United States has announced hundreds of millions of dollars in new commitments for Caribbean health care, security and digital infrastructure, as Washington seeks to strengthen its strategic ties with the region. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced the funding yesterday at the opening of the US-Caribbean Dialogue in Washington, DC. He called for stronger institutional ties and increased private-sector investment to support long-term economic development. The commitments include US$61.5 million for a regional health-care initiative, US$37 million in new security programming, US$55.5 million to strengthen law enforcement, US$11 million in Foreign Military Financing for Caribbean security forces, and US$175.8 million for secure digital infrastructure through an undersea cables programme. Landau said the dialogue was overdue and reflected a renewed effort by US President Donald Trump’s administration to give the
Western Hemisphere greater priority in American foreign policy. “For far too long, we have been looking at things that are happening halfway across the world, and we have been ignoring things that are happening right in our own neighbourhood,” he said. He described the United States as a Caribbean nation, citing geographical proximity and shared history, family and cultural ties. Washington wanted lasting relationships based on institutional cooperation and sustained economic partnerships, he said. Landau said long-term growth and job creation would depend on private businesses pursuing viable opportunities in the Caribbean, rather than relying solely on government grants. The US plans to launch an investment dialogue next year to connect Caribbean governments with American businesses. He urged regional leaders to identify priority projects, including ports, energy infrastructure, telecommunications and digital networks. The US$61.5 million for ASPIRE, the America Strategic
US Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher Landau Partnership for Independent Regional Healthcare Excellence is intended to help Caribbean countries build stronger, more selfreliant health-care workforces. Landau cited the movement of illegal drugs from South America through the Caribbean towards the United States as a security concern. The US$37 million in new Caribbean Basin Security Initiative programming will support protection of critical digital infrastructure and strengthen port security. The additional law-
enforcement funding and military financing are also intended to boost regional capabilities. He said Washington was prepared to work with Caribbean governments against criminal networks and illicit firearms trafficking. He also identified illegal fishing as a priority and called for cooperation to protect marine resources. The US plans to invest US$175.8 million in secure infrastructure through its Caribbean and Central America undersea cables programme. Landau said it would provide highspeed connectivity and help build resilient communications networks. Saint Lucia Prime Minister and CARICOM chairman Philip J Pierre welcomed the dialogue, saying Caribbean leaders had called for political-level consultations after meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Saint Kitts and Nevis in February. Pierre said the relationship should be measured by improvements in people’s daily l i v e s , i n c l u d i n g a ff o r d a b l e electricity, jobs, investment, safer
Chalkdust recalls Sparrow’s faith at City Hall tribute (Trinidad Guardian) A glimpse of Slinger “Mighty Sparrow” Francisco in his jockey shorts, quietly reading the Bible, was among the memories Dr. Hollis “Chalkdust” Liverpool shared as he paid tribute to his longtime friend and fellow calypsonian during a special event at City Hall, Port-of-Spain, on Thursday. Speaking at the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Museum’s Tribute to the Mighty Sparrow yesterday, on the eve of Sparrow’s funeral celebration today, Chalkdust reflected on an occasion when he visited Sparrow’s hotel room in St Thomas to retrieve a borrowed guitar. “Everybody knows him on the stage, singing, entertaining. But they don’t know him in his jockey shorts,” he said. “Sparrow reading the Bible.” Chalkdust said the image of the calypso icon studying scripture remained one of his clearest memories, revealing a side of the entertainer rarely seen by the public. He said he later recounted the experience to a priest, who had questioned whether Sparrow had sought forgiveness for his sins following his baptism. For Chalkdust, the encounter underscored how little people truly knew about the man behind the public persona. He also remembered Sparrow offering the prayer: “Lord, remember me when thou shall come into thy kingdom.” Veteran journalist Tony Fraser moderated the Reflections on the Mighty Sparrow panel, which featured Dr. Rudolph Ottley, Dr. Pelham Goddard and calypsonian Ann Marie Parks-Kojo (Twiggy). Sparrow died in New York on September 27 at the age of 91. “There are so many misconceptions about Sparrow that we need to set the
Calypsonian Dr. Hollis “Chalkdust” Liverpool record straight,” Chalkdust said. Among the stories he shared was an incident at a hotel pool where white guests reportedly left after a performer from Tobago entered the water. According to Chalkdust, an angered Sparrow responded by urinating in the pool. Chalkdust also highlighted Sparrow’s sharp business instincts. During a trip to St Croix, the veteran calypsonian advised him to collect his performance fee before taking the stage. He followed the advice and received his payment. The next morning, other performers reported that authorities had seized the gate receipts and they had not been paid. Having secured his earnings, Chalkdust said he treated the group to breakfast. Sparrow’s fiercely competitive nature was another recurring theme. Before performances for students in St Thomas, he would ask Chalkdust how many songs he planned to sing. He also recalled Sparrow responding to an invitation to address a university award ceremony by breaking into a rendition of Saltfish. Twiggy remembered a similar display of confidence at a show in East
Orange, New Jersey. A promoter had advised Sparrow that female patrons were tired of hearing Saltfish and recommended he leave it out of the set. Instead, he performed the song and, according to Twiggy, women crowded the front of the stage singing every line. Twiggy also praised Sparrow’s catalogue, naming Lying Excuses among her favourites. She remembered performing No Money, No Love and adapting Elaine and Harry from a female perspective. Her memories also included helping feature Sparrow at Kaiso House while serving on the executive of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO), celebrating birthdays with him in July, and visiting him and his wife, Rose, in New York in 2024 with her family. For Twiggy, the sadness of Sparrow’s passing was tempered by gratitude. “The man lived a full life. Ninety-one, we give thanks and praise for that,” she said. “He lived a full life and he did it his way.” During audience contributions, Allan “Brother Mudada” Fortune recalled knowing Sparrow since his teenage years, when he performed as Young Canary. Brother Mudada remembered accompanying Sparrow to a recording session at the Hilton. Grenadian attendee Irvin Francis reflected on the influence of Sparrow’s father and encouraged fathers to think carefully about their children’s futures. “Fathers, we need to have visions for our children,” he said. A visitor from Martinique, who said he had travelled to Trinidad for Sparrow’s funeral, spoke of the calypsonian’s enduring influence in Martinique and Guadeloupe. “Sparrow is an example. We have to follow this example,” he said.
communities and reliable disaster response. He called for practical commitments on energy, trade, health care, secure infrastructure and action against organised crime and illicit firearms trafficking. He also stressed the need to maintain international attention on Haiti, saying sustained assistance and credible elections with the widest possible participation were essential to restoring stability. Immigration and migration, he added, must also be part of discussions because of their impact on Caribbean communities and people-to-people ties. “The strength of today’s meeting will be demonstrated by what follows it,” Pierre said, calling for sustained technical engagement and clear follow-up arrangements. He said the CARICOM Secretariat would help coordinate the community’s work with national authorities and regional institutions. Pierre said Caribbean countries were ready to work with Washington on a mutually beneficial partnership that respected regional sovereignty and shared aspirations.
Antigua and Barbuda PM defends China ties, calls Beijing country’s top development partner (CNW) Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne says his government will continue to defend the country’s relationship with China despite any consequences, describing Beijing as its most important development partner. Speaking Thursday at the handover ceremony for the Chinese-funded Pelican Court housing development, Browne urged Antiguans and Barbudans to defend the bilateral relationship in international forums and strengthen ties despite geopolitical pressure. “There is no other country that has contributed more to our development than the People’s Republic of China during the last three decades,” Browne said. He said Chinese assistance over the past 30 years had helped the twin-island nation develop its economic and social infrastructure and improve living conditions, adding that the country owed Beijing lasting gratitude for its support. Browne said the partnership should continue even when defending it carried consequences. “So let us continue to march on with China as our most important development partner,” he said. His remarks came as officials marked the handover of Pelican Court, an EC$50 million housing development financed through a Chinese grant. The project comprises 150 two-bedroom homes and forms part of the redevelopment of Booby Alley in the Point community. Browne described the development as China’s most socially impactful project in Antigua and Barbuda to date, citing its potential to improve conditions for vulnerable residents. He thanked the Chinese government on behalf of prospective residents and the wider country, saying the project reflected his administration’s commitment to improving living standards, including for the poorest members of society. Browne said the redevelopment involved more than new buildings and climate-resilient construction, emphasizing that its ultimate purpose was to improve the quality of life of the people who would live there. He pledged to continue deepening relations with China, presenting Pelican Court as an example of the partnership’s contribution to Antigua and Barbuda’s development.
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Saturday October 17, 2026
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Saturday October 17, 2026
Inter-ward rivals confront each other as High-scoring series... Deputy Mayor Cup gets underway tomorrow - Twenty-four villages, five nights and over $700,000 in prize money on the line as the annual nine-a-side knockout championship opens at Den Amstel Den Amstel ground is set to ignite tomorrow evening as some of village football’s biggest rivals meet in the annual nine-a-side interw a r d k n o c k o u t championship, the Deputy Mayor Cup.
Twenty-four villages will take the field over five nights of 30-minute matches, with a simple rule: win or go home. With the no offside rule, several teams will have the chance to score more goals and feature in some
exciting comebacks. More than $700,000 in cash will be given away on November 8, when tournament coordinator Lennox Arthur crowns his 2026 champions. The winner will collect $500,000, while
Saturday October 17, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Peace and harmony are in the regularly scheduled program for the day, but there is a good chance that there could be a warring force with strong opinions and vindictive tendencies.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Yo u r u n i q u e a b i l i t y t o communicate with many different groups and personalities will be extremely important today to maintaining a bridge between warring camps, Libra.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) I told you so might be your motto of the day. Try not to rub this in other people's faces, Taurus. Indeed, you have the foresight to witness an action and see the consequences right away.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You might feel like you're getting worked up from all angles today, Scorpio. Find comfort in knowing that things will definitely improve by tomorrow. You might get the feeling that somehow you're all alone.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You may know exactly the right thing to do today, but for some reason, the action required may be a hard thing for you to implement. Take an active role to get involved.
SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Try to rise above the potential tension and rough spots of the day, Sagittarius. Do yourself a favor and don't feel like you have to stoop to another's level. Take pride in your actions and do things with confidence.
CANCER (June 21–July 22) Make sure your opinion doesn't get lost in the frenzy of the day, Cancer. Your words may not quite fit with the things that people want to hear. Try not to take this personally. Realize that this isn't an indication that your words are any less important.
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You might want to escape the frenzy of the day by going shopping, Capricorn. Align yourself with partners and allies who share your views. Try to keep the disagreements to a minimum.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You have two choices today. Either jump into the thick of the mess with both feet or stay out of it altogether. There are definitely two distinct camps setting up their arsenals for battle.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Your mood should be quite good today, although there may be some strong forces at work trying to subvert this positive attitude. Try not to let other people's disagreements bring you down.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may end up being the peaceful savior that calms everyone down today, Virgo. Use your artistic nature and love of beauty and harmony to inspire others to put away their differences and concentrate on the positive aspects.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today's arena is one in which you can find a great deal of material, Pisces. There will be no shortage of energy to work with or opinions coming from you. Realize that your words have a greater potency about them.
the runner-up will take home $200,000. Top four teams will also receive trophies and medals. Tournament coordinator Arthur provided a brief tournament update on Friday. In his comment he urged villagers to come out and witness the action. “The tournament has received enormous support over the years by both players and supporters. Moving back to a place where it initially started (the west side) would be great for the west side teams. I think it’s fitting, considering the current state of community football. In my view, it has been at an all-time low and returning to Den Amstel ground, we expect our faithful Inter Ward supporters to help us reignite the nine-a-side football energy,” Arthur shared. The tournament is being played at two venues. Action begins at Den Amstel ground tomorrow with a tripleheader featuring several west side rivals. Sunday’s lineup includes Beavers taking on Wales in the tournament opener, Zeelugt will also be in action against Stewartville in game two while arch rivals Uitvlugt will face off with No. One Allstars to close the exciting triple header. Kickoff time is 3:00pm. The Annual Deputy Mayor Cup runs from October 18. Den Amstel ground hosts action on October 18 and 25. The Plaisance ground hosts October 24, 31 and the November 8 final. The championship is endorsed by Deputy Mayor of Georgetown Denise Miller and supported by the Office of the CoP. Contributors to the tournament are G Mining Ventures, John Fernandes Limited, Rick’s and Sari Enterprise, Toolsie Persaud Limited, Star Party Rentals, China Trading, Silvie’s Industrial Solutions, Gafoors, Demerara Distillers Limited, Eddie’s Bobcat, Patrick Barton and Edmond Vieria. With the rivals ready and the dates set, the first whistle at Den Amstel will start the chase for the 2026 Inter Ward title.
From page 22 Bengaluru: small boundaries. Unless we get a surprisingly dry pitch with turn in it, he is likely to remain on the bench. India (probable): 1 Abhishek Sharma, 2 Sanju Samson (wk), 3 Ishan Kishan, 4 Shreyas Iyer (capt), 5 Tilak Varma, 6 Naman Dhir, 7 Nitish Kumar Reddy, 8 Axar Patel, 9 Prince Yadav, 10 Mayank Yadav, 11 Arshdeep Singh/Bhuvneshwar Kumar. West Indies might have found their best combination with Jewel Andrew replacing Kamil Pooran at the top of the order and Romario Shepherd back after injury. Despite an economy rate of 14.17 for Shamar Joseph, West Indies are likely to retain him because they don’t have another option with that kind of pace in their squad. West Indies (probable): 1 Shai Hope (capt & wk), 2 Jewel Andrew, 3 Shimron Hetmyer, 4 Rovman Powell, 5 Sherfane Rutherford, 6 Romario Shepherd, 7 Roston Chase, 8 Shamar Springer, 9 Keemo Paul, 10 Shamar Joseph, 11 Gudakesh Motie. Pitch and conditions We know from the IPL that Bengaluru is another batting paradise unless something goes really wrong with the pitch preparation. The weather, though, does not look great. There could be rain interruptions, possibly significant ones.
Saturday October 17, 2026
Kaieteur News
Former National Cyclist to sponsor 3rd Mayoral Town Day Cycle Road Race …set for Sunday around New Amsterdam By Samuel Whyte Former national cyclist and overseasbased Businessman, Franco Crawford, will be sponsoring the annual Mayoral Cycle Road race around the town of New Amsterdam on Sunday, October 18. Crawford is sponsoring the event through his Franco Crawford Auto Dealership and Crawford Enterprise Logistics and Transportation Services. The 10-lap 40-mile event is organised as part of observations of the town of New Amsterdam’s 135th Anniversary and the Municipality’s Town celebrations. Apart from Crawford, additional sponsorship is coming from New Amsterdam Mayor, His Worship Wainwright Mc Intosh. The event is organised by the Flying Aces Cycle Club (FACC) of New Amsterdam. It is being coordinated by founder and President of the FACC and veteran coach, Randolph Roberts, and he will be assisted by Crawford and Mayor McIntosh. The event is for cyclists of Regions 5 and 6 only. The race will pedal off from 13:00 hrs at the Junction of Republic Road and Charles Place. The riders will then proceed along Republic Road, turn left into Vryheid Street then left into Main Road, proceed along Main
road through Stanleytown, turn left into Tacama Turn, left into Republic Road for 10 laps before finishing at the point of origin. The riders will be led by Mayor McIntosh as they go for one lap around the town. Immediately after that the riders will be sent on their way by the Mayor. All the top cyclists in Berbice are expected to be on show. The first three finishers will be rewarded along with the top five veterans and other categories. There are also a number of prime point prizes up for grabs Two-time defending champion, Mario Washington, will be looking to hold on to his title, but he is expected to get tough competition from the likes of Andre “Padlock” Green, Sidwell Sandy and the evergreen Junior Niles and Jaikarran Sookhai. Crawford, who once competed on the International circuit including North America and Europe will be donning his racing gear as he looks to be among the top finishers. There will be some special awards given out which will be announced on race day. Mayor Mc Intosh in a comment to the media thanked the FACC, Roberts and Crawford for taking the lead in organising the event.
National Senior Badminton Tournament to conclude today The Guyana Badminton Association’s (GBA) National Senior Badminton Tournament, which commenced on Thursday, October 15, with an exciting opening day of competition, will wrap up the three-day event today. The tournament, which runs from October 15–17, 2026, saw players competing in Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles, with several closely contested matches and impressive performances. Day 1 results In the Men’s Singles competition, top seed Akili Haynes made a strong start, defeating Ronit Gulchand 21-11, 21-5 to advance to the next round. Second seed Frank Waddell also delivered an impressive performance, securing victories over Yonneil Benjamin 21-12, 21-8 and Christopher Jordan 21-5, 21-16. Third/fourth seed Nkosi Beaton progressed with victories over Miguel Angel Jose Vasquez Silva 21-3, 21-2 and Daniel Tan 21-13, 21-18. Other notable performances came from Tyrese Jeffrey, who defeated Ronald Chang Yuen in a thrilling three-game encounter, 2123, 22-20, 21-15, while Ruel Rambiriche secured victories over Jonathan Debidin and Zhu Fang Xu to continue his campaign. In the Women’s Singles competition, Priyanna Ramdhani advanced with a convincing 21-6, 21-2 victory over Mishka Beharry in the quarterfinals. Ashley Khalil
also progressed, defeating Adreanna King 21-2, 21-3. Asiyah Eastman recorded a 21-9, 21-9 victory over Angel Zhu, while Angel Zhu earlier defeated Tei Haynes 21-5, 21-18. The doubles events also provided exciting action, with several established and emerging partnerships battling for places in the later rounds. In Mixed Doubles, Akili Haynes and Priyanna Ramdhani recorded a 21-4, 21-9 victory over Frank Waddell and Angel Zhu. Ruel Rambiriche and Gabrielle Felix also advanced following a 21-9, 21-13 win over Mikkel Wong and Neeharika Shetty. In Men’s Doubles, Ronald Chang Yuen and Javid Rahaman prevailed over Nkosi Beaton and Daniel Tan in a competitive three-game encounter, 9-21, 21-16, 24-22. Meanwhile, Christopher Jordan and Ruel Rambiriche defeated Troxley Cutting and Grandison Robinson 21-13, 21-12. The opening day highlighted the growing competitiveness of badminton in Guyana, with both experienced national players and promising younger athletes demonstrating their skills and determination. The Guyana Badminton Association congratulates all participating athletes on their performances and looks forward more exciting competition as Players battle for national titles. The tournament continued on Friday, October 16, with the finals scheduled for today, October 17.
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Former National Cyclist and overseas-based and businessman, Franco Crawford (L), hands over the sponsorship cheque for the Mayoral Cycle Road race 2026 to Coordinator, Randolph Roberts.
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Saturday October 17, 2026
High-scoring series reaches 14 points stand tense decider in rainy Bengaluru between a First(Cricinfo) - It all started as a bit of a lark. West Indies, not even part of the last ODI World Cup and still fighting to get into the next one, arrived in India three weeks or so ago. A time when India were taking more seriously the Asian Games where no other team had sent their strongest squad. West Indies must forgive us for thinking, two matches in, “now you know why they need to play qualifiers”, “now you know why India can prioritise the Asian Games”. During the third ODI, fresh from the heartbreak of scoring 400 and losing, Shai Hope led a successful chase of 352 with such ease that we went, “Wait a minute, what if they had won the tosses when the series was alive?” Come the T20Is, both sides were reinforced sans the players India must keep in cotton wool. West Indies levelled the series by chasing down 250 in Ranchi, a reminder of what might have been had India not had Jasprit Bumrah in the World Cup semi-final earlier this year. You would have thought India were still the superior unit when they defended successfully for the first time during this tour, but West Indies did them one better by doing so in Hyderabad. Now we have India, not long ago the greatest T20 side put together, vulnerable without Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. And we have West Indies, No. 7 in the ICC’s T20I rankings and No. 10 in ODIs, one win from walking away from a tour of India with honours even. Equally importantly, a first T20I series win for any visiting side in India since February 2019. This could end up as a
on this tour: ones in which India have dismissed Hope and others in which they haven’t. They have won all four in which they have taken Hope’s wicket, they have lost all three in which Hope stayed unbeaten. No visiting batter has scored five centuries on a bilateral tour of India. Hope has four. Sanju Samson has not scored hundreds, but he has looked effortless in scoring two halfcenturies. His success is tactically important for India. They might not have won the game in Hyderabad, but in scoring a half-century inside the third over, Samson absolutely dominated the one bowler who threatens to slow Abhishek Sharma down, Roston Chase. The offspinner has got India’s two highly feared left-hand batters, Abhishek and Ishan Kishan, twice each and gone at under 1.5 runs a ball to them despite bowling extensively in the powerplay. Team news: Arshdeep injured Arshdeep sustained a blow to his bowling shoulder from a Shamar Joseph delivery in what turned out to be the final act of the fourth T20I in Hyderabad. It remains to be seen if he will be fit to play in Bengaluru, but India have added Bhuvneshwar Kumar - who last played an international game in November 2022, and was due to make his comeback during the New Zealand tour later this month - to their squad as cover for Arshdeep. Meanwhile, the reason for leaving Kuldeep Yadav out in Indore persists in Continued on page 24
Shai Hope has hit 260 runs in four T20Is on this tour (BCCI)
series we talk about for years to come. And we have the poor bowlers from either side looking to hang on to any little help they can get. No series or tournament longer than three matches has ever had runs scored at a quicker rate than the 11.49 in this unexpected thriller. And it will all go down in Bengaluru, where we have small boundaries, good bounce, and a high likelihood of dew, which had thankfully been absent in the last two matches. All bets are now off. This has been the tour of Hope: 278 ODI runs off 248 balls, 261 T20I runs off 135 balls, he has gone past Brian Lara as the second-highest ODI centurion from West Indies and past Chris Gayle as the highest in T20Is. There have been two kinds of matches
Ever Dream and an 8-Time King
E
verything is ready at the South Dakota Circuit for a huge showdown. On November 1, engines will roar at the Caribbean Clash of Champions, and the fight for the Group 2 crown is heating up. Shan Seejatan, the eighttime champion, is the favorite. His challenger, Nasrudeen Mohamed, is hungry for his first title. Nasrudeen leads the standings with 50 points, while Shan is close behind with 36. That 14-point gap sets up the biggest high-speed duel of the year. For Nasrudeen in the #125 car, this moment is the result of ten years of hard work. He began racing in 2015, facing blown engines, tough losses, and long seasons without luck. This year, things finally turned around. He won both opening races, but it was a struggle. In the first race, his gearbox broke, leaving him with only three gears. In the second, his gas pedal snapped, cutting his engine power. Even with these problems, he pushed through, held off the competition and won both times.
Nasrudeen Mohamed Now, Nasrudeen is not coming to South Dakota to play it safe. He does not want to just protect his points lead. He respects Shan’s achievements, but he knows past wins do not help in the current race. Nasrudeen wants to win, take the championship, and set a new track record. Across the paddock, Shan Seejatan is smiling. The driver of the #275 car is not used to chasing anyone, but this challenge motivates him even more. In the last round, his real Group 2 race car was not ready, so he had to use a heavier street car with regular fuel. Shan said it felt like being unprepared for the competition. Still, with his driving skill, he finished second in both races, right behind Nasrudeen. Now, Shan will have his real race car. His team has worked nonstop to finish his true Group 2 machine. With full power, the eight-time champion has made it clear to everyone: he will brake late, make bold moves, and push hard in every turn. Shan is racing for victory and is ready to do whatever it takes to keep his title. This is the final battle. It is ten years of hard work against eight championships. Nasrudeen wants to make history and begin his own winning streak. Shan is determined to defend his title and show he is still the best. Neither driver will give up and both will push to the limit. When the lights go out on November 1, the race will begin. The track will shake, tires will smoke and both drivers will speed into the first turn. Only one will become champion.
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Saturday October 17, 2026
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Three Riders, One Crown:
Elwin Chase
Fierce Streetbike Finale expected Fitzpatrick Augustus
The Streetbike Championship will be decided in one last round on November 1 at the South Dakota Circuit. With just 14 points between the top three riders, the Caribbean Clash of Champions promises a fierce contest. Salim Azeez (#555) leads with a perfect 50 points after winning both races so far. Despite his lead, Salim says he won’t slow down or play it safe. He believes riding defensively would let down the fans and himself, so his only aim is to win again. Still recovering from an injury, Salim is focusing on fitness and smooth riding instead of changing his bike. But he faces a challenge at Turn 1, which he admits is his slowest and most frustrating part of the track. This gives the riders behind him a real chance to catch up. Close behind are Elwin Chase (#104) and Fitzpatrick Augustus (#108), who are tied for second place with 36 points each. For Chase, just making it to the starting line
is a big challenge. In his last race, he crashed hard and destroyed his bike. With limited funds, he needs a new bike before November 1. Still, as a former rugby player, Chase is known for his strength, heavy braking, and aggressive riding. If he gets a bike, he’s aiming for first place. He has studied Salim and says he knows two spots on the South Dakota track where he can make a winning pass. Fitzpatrick Augustus stands in his way, but he takes a different approach. Augustus is known for his smooth, clean riding and strong starts. Once he gets ahead, he is very hard to pass. Tied with Chase, Augustus is not just trying to hold second place. He wants to take the lead early and go for the title. When the race begins on November 1, safety plans will be set aside. With Salim battling Turn 1, Chase working to get a new bike, and Augustus aiming for a fast start, the winner will be the rider who pushes the hardest.
Master Z, Js Racing stables set for feature race at Showdown of champions The stage is set. The weather has been favorable. Five supreme horses will do battle in tomorrow’s (October 18) feature race at the Port Mourant Turf club. Guyana Cup runner-up horse I’m Sam, former Guyana Cup winner Dataman, Stat, Mapa Do Brasil and Santorini are the horses confirmed for the feature race at the Showdown of Champions Stakes. Entries confirmed that close to 100 horses will run at Sunday’s Showdown of Champions. General admission for the race meet is $3000, and 10 exciting races are on the cards. The juvenile invitational two-year-old race will be in honour of the late Carlton “Blackmouth” Pluck. The feature race will be the Doodnauth ‘Shook’ Shivmangal Memorial Clash at the Big Yard stakes, where the total purse is $1.6 million. The top horses will be fresh and ready for the first competitive race
since the Guyana Cup back in August. Below are some of the entries on the program: Clash at D Big Yard Stakes Bourbon Beltz (Tri) (G1) Novo Sol (Brz) (E2) Royal Rocks (USA) (F1) Second City Saint (USA) (F1) Oy Vey (USA) (F1) Here Comes Heidi (Tri) (G3) Daring Move (Tri) (G3) Showdown of Champions Stakes Santorini (USA) (C3) I’m Sam (USA) (C1) Mapa Do Brasil (Brz) (C2) Dataman (USA) (A3) Stat (USA) (B3) Jockey Winners of 1 since Aug. 2025 Monica Time (L) Storm Again (L) Scars of Glory (L/2) Doctor J (L) Perfect Trip (L) Spank Me (R)
Top horses confirmed for Showdown of Champions
Gudakesh Motie struck off consecutive deliveries in the 4th T20I. (BCCI)
High-scoring series reaches tense decider in rainy Bengaluru s t r o Sp
Three Riders, One Crown:
Salim Azeez
Fierce Streetbike Finale expected
Shan Seejatan
14 points stand between a First-Ever Dream and an 8-Time King
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