Thesceneofthefatalaccidentat LooCreek-LindenSoesdykeHighway
Driver killed as car slams into truck
Foreman killed as car flips on for letting ferocious dog roam free murderers lose appeal …twosurvivingconvictsresentencedtolife Businesswoman fined
Rockstone trail — as Guyana, Cuba relations questioned
—MethodistChurch,others decryroadrecklessness
Vendors currently operating in frontoftheStabroekMarketwillbe temporarily relocated to nearby roadways as rehabilitation and beautification works begin on the market’scanopy
Thedecisionwasannouncedby the Mayor and City Council as part of a phased plan to repair sections of the market’s roof and improve the drainage system, with works expectedtocommenceonMonday
Mayor Alfred Mentore, who met with vendors on Wednesday, explained that the relocation will allowcontractorstosafelycarryout
the repairs while ensuring vendors cancontinueoperating.
Under the arrangement, vendors occupying the northern canopy area will first be moved to the road entrance. As the work progresses, vendors from the southern canopy will then be movedtotheroadentranceafterthe northernsideiscompleted.
“They are right under the canopy So, what we are doing is bringing them out on the road and we are blocking off the streets so that they can still sell on the road—those who choose to sell,”
Mentoretoldreporters.
“Those who don’t want to sell for the week will wait until the place is fully rectified so that they can move back in,” he added. T
Vendors located under the canopy of the Stabroek Market to be temporary relocated.
m a n d i e d
We d n e s d a y morning after the car he was travelling in flipped several times along the Rockstone Trail,RegionTen.
In a statement to the media police said that an investigation has been launched into the fatal accident, which occurred around10:11hrs. Policesaid that, “Initial enquiries revealed that the motor car was proceeding north along the western side of RockstoneTrailatanalleged fast rate of speed when the driverreportedlylostcontrol of the vehicle. The vehicle subsequently ended up on the northern side of the trail, turned turtle several times beforecomingtoahaltatthe centre of the roadway facing west.”
George who was an occupant of the vehicle suffered injuries about his body, as a result of the incident and was picked up and rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex in an
unconsciousstate,bypublicspirited citizens. He was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty. The body of the deceased is presently lying at the Linden Hospital Complex awaiting a post-mortem examination. Investigations are ongoing, and the driver of the motorcar is currently in policecustodyassistingwith investigations.
M
MethodistChurchinGuyana said in a statement that the country continues to suffer
The vehicle that was involved in the accident.
from tragedies caused by road accidents, leaving families and communities grieving due to careless
viour spe
ng, texting while driving, driving under the influence,
king, neglecting helmets, stunt riding, and other unsafe practices. “Whatever the cause, the consequences compel us, as a Church, to reflect on the sanctity of life. WecommendtheMinistryof HomeAffairsforits“DoThe Continued on page 16
rehabilitation project is expected to begin on Monday, giving vendors until Friday to move to the designatedroadsidespaces.
Theworkswillbecarriedoutin two phases, with the first stage covering the northern side of the market and the second extending to thesouthernend.
“One week for the first phase, from the north side to the centre of the market, and another week from thecentreallthewaytotheend.So, in about two weeks the project will becompleted,”Mentoresaid.
During the construction period, vendors will be required to either
relocate to the assigned roadside areas or remain away from the worksite once scaffolding and safetynetsareinstalled.
To facilitate the relocation, the city council has coordinated with the City Police and the Chief Constabulary to block sections of theroadtoallowvendorstooperate temporarily
Engineers will also mark out restricted zones and install safety nets and scaffolding before contractors begin work. The mayor said the safety infrastructure is expected to be in place by Saturday aheadofMonday’sstartdate.
Continued on page 9
The Ministry of Public Works has announced that there will be a mandatory clearance along David Rose Street, just off of Plaza Bridge,SouthRuimveldt.
All vendors operating within this specified area were required to have their stalls, equipment, and belongings completely removed by no later than 8:00 PM Wednesday “We urge all identified parties to comply with this directive within the stipulated time frame to avoid further enforcement action We thank you for your immediate cooperation,” the releasestated.
Questions on Guyana’s foreign policy related to Cuba were on Tuesday left unanswered as Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh
sought to downplay
statements made by President Irfaan Ali recently during an interview aired by FoxNews.
During that interview, the head of state said he believes that Cuba’s status quomustbechangedbutthat change must occur gradually andthroughdialogue.
During a BBC World Questions programme held
in Georgetown at the Pegasus Corporate Suites, Dr Singh was pointed asked whether Guyana traded its longstanding-relationship with Cuba in favour of the UnitedStates?
The question originated from a member of the audience and put to panelists that included Dr. Singh, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, businessman
a n d P r i v a t e S e c t o r
Commission Secretary
Clinton Urling, and businesswoman and activist AyodeleDalgety-Dean.
BBC correspondent Jonny Dymond cited the recent comments made by President Irfaan Ali on Cuba’sstatusquo.
Dymond also questioned whether Guyana has separated itself from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which is generally seen as more sympathetic towards Cuba.
The BBC journalist posited that the government’s position toward Cuba is being seen by some as ungrateful, given its decades-long relationship with the Spanish-speaking country
Dr Singh, who was the first panelist to respond, rejected the suggestion that Guyana has separated itself from CARICOM on the Cubamatter “PresidentAli’s call was for an improvement in the lives of the Cuban people,” the minister said, noting that in that regard Guyana remains aligned withtheregionalbody
Dymond pressed further, “He said the status quo c a n n o t r e m a i n T h e suggestion people have taken from that is that he supports the U.S. policy of regimechange.Doeshe?”
In response, Dr Singh said he was certain that President Ali made no referencetoregimechange.
D y m o n d q u i c k l y retorted, asking whether the Guyana government
A section of the gathering on Tuesday evening during the BBC World Questions event in Georgetown.
supports a regime change in Cuba.
“He [President Ali] spoke of the status quo and, in particular, improvements in circumstances of the lives of the human beings. I think the President was very clear aboutit,”Dr Singhsaid.
S i m i l a r l y , P S C Secretary, Urling agreed with the minister’s position.
“I think our president has very expertly managed that situation. And for a country, a small country like Guyana, wehavetobeverypragmatic in terms of our foreign relations and how we operate,” the businessman noted.
Urling further argued that states must prioritise their own interests while maintaining diplomatic ties.
“I think states have to support themselves and their own considerations should comefirst.Thewayinwhich the government is operating, and they should operate; if I have to advise them, is to operate where you can still maintain relationships with all your partners. But then you have to take positions currently that benefits you in theshorttermbecausethings can change in three years in the U.S. and then we have a flipsideandthenyouhaveto keep adjusting our foreign policy,”hesaid.
However, opposition MP
S a r a b o - H a l l e y s a i d legislators are not being engaged in discussions on foreignpolicymatters.
“We have asked time and time again what is the foreign policy in relation to different issues that are happening around the world. Andwe,likeeverybodyelse, hear it on Fox News and I don’t think that is the best a p p r o a c h f o r a n y government,”shenoted.
The parliamentarian said suchissuesrequireanational
citizens are aware of the government’s direction. On whether Guyana is failing to support Cuba despite the country’s long history of assistance, the MP said she had hoped the finance
minister would have clarifiedGuyana’sposition.
“Andbasedonwhatheis saying to us, Guyana has not changed its position on Cuba,”sheadded.
However, Sarabo-Halley cautioned against Guyana
appearing to favour one country over another “But based on the perception of the population, it looks as though Guyana is choosing to push Cuba aside in the interest of the United States. If that is what Guyana is
doing, I don’t think that would be right. I don’t think that would be the right approach. I think it has to be more tactical than that,” she said. Meanwhile, DalgetyDeanalsoexpressedconcern about the direction of the country’s foreign policy, while emphasising the importance of sovereignty forallcountries.
“I can say I’m concerned aboutthewaywearemoving because Cuba has supported Guyana’s system,” she said noting that Cuba has long p r o v i d e d m e d i c a l professionals to Guyana whilealsotrainingGuyanese doctors.
“I do not think that is something we could give up It is very new I’m waiting to see what happens, but I do not believe that we should be given up on exceedinglylowfriendships, especially when they bring so much stability to our country,”sheadded.
PrintedandPublishedbyNationalMedia& PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.
Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456
Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS
Tel:225-8465,225-8491. Fax:225-8473,226-8210
ExxonMobil’s latest disclosure that it paid US$1.1 billionintaxestoGuyanain2025maysoundlikeatriumph forthecountry’soileconomy Onpaper,itappearsthatthe American oil giant is contributing handsomely to the nation’s treasury Butwhen oneexaminesthefineprintof Guyana’s2016ProductionSharingAgreement(PSA),that claim quickly collapses into something far less impressive—something closer to accounting theatre than genuinenationalrevenue.
The truth is that ExxonMobil does not pay taxes to Guyana in the conventional sense. Under the terms of the controversial 2016 PSA signed with the Government of Guyana, ExxonMobil and its partners are exempt from most local taxes on income derived from petroleum operations.Article15.1oftheagreementstatesclearlythat thecontractoranditsaffiliates“shallnotbesubjectedtotax, value-addedtax,excisetax,duty,fee,charge,orimpost”in relationtotheirpetroleumoperations,exceptasspecifically providedforintheagreement.
Instead, the contract outlines an unusual and controversial arrangement: the Government of Guyana paysthetaxesonbehalfoftheoilcompanies.Article15.4 stipulates that the Minister responsible for Petroleum will payasumequivalenttothetaxesowedbyExxonMobilto the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). This payment is madeusingGuyana’sshareofoilrevenues.Afterward,the GRA issues a receipt to ExxonMobil indicating that the companyhasmetitstaxobligations,therebyallowingitto avoidtheburdenofdoubletaxationinotherjurisdictions.
Insimpleterms,GuyanaispayingExxonMobil’staxes foritandthenhandingthecompanyacertificatetosaythat it has paid them. It is therefore deeply misleading for ExxonMobil to boast in its 2025 Annual Report to the UnitedStatesSecuritiesandExchangeCommissionthatit paid US$1.1 billion in taxes to Guyana. While the figure may be technically defensible within the structure of the PSA, it gives the clear impression that ExxonMobil is transferring billions of dollars directly into Guyana’s treasury Thatisnotthecase.
Thisquestionablearrangementhasnotgoneunnoticed internationally Reports indicate that three United States senators recently wrote to ExxonMobil’s Chief Executive Officer, Darren Woods, seeking clarification about the company’staxpracticesinGuyana.Theirconcernsreflecta growing recognition that the structure of the Guyana contract raises serious questions about transparency and fairness.
Locally, the issue has also attracted scrutiny from financial experts. Chartered accountant and attorney ChristopherRamhassharplycriticisedwhathedescribesas misleading statements surrounding the company’s tax disclosures.Hehasarguedthatthesituationcouldrepresent one of the most troubling financial distortions in the country’smodernhistory
Ram has raised a fundamental question that remains unanswered:ifthesetaxesaresupposedlybeingpaidfrom Guyana’sshareofoilrevenues,whereistheevidence?The Natural Resource Fund—the sovereign wealth fund that receivesthecountry’soilearningsshowsnocleardeduction reflecting such payments. There is no visible debit, no documented outflow that corresponds with the billions reportedly paid in taxes. If the taxes are being paid, Guyanesedeservetoseetheaccounting.
Transparency is especially critical because the stakes areenormous.TheoilsectorhastransformedGuyanainto oneofthefastest-growingeconomiesintheworld.Billions ofUSdollarsarenowflowingfromoffshoreproductionin the Stabroek Block. Yet many citizens still struggle with underfunded hospitals, inadequate infrastructure, and publicservicesthatremainstretched.
That is why the US$1.1 billion figure resonates so strongly ForadevelopingcountrylikeGuyana,suchasum could finance major national projects: modern hospitals,
Very soon on March 15th,theStabroekNewswill cease publishing. This will beagreatlosstothecountry as a whole, particularly at this time with the rapidly changing situation in the world.
Stabroek News made its appearancein1986.Itwasa time when the struggles of the Guyanese working peopleweregainingground. The Stabroek News was thereforeoneoftheproducts of our struggles for democracyinourcountry It wasoneoftheearliestfruits of that long resistance againstthedictatorialroleof the regime. We must not loosesightonthis. In a way too it was the productofthefightforpress freedom.Thatbattlewasled
by the Mirror alone for a longtimeandlaterjoinedby others, Catholic Standard, Day Clean, etc. Only the Mirror and Catholic Standard survived the onslaught of the PNC regime. However, by 1986, they were both badly damaged.
Stabroek News’ appearance was therefore a giantstepforward.
The newspaper became very popular almost immediately led by persons whowereSocialDemocratic in their outlook, opening their pages to the Guyanese people.
The letter section became an immediate hit. It was giving expressions to voiceslongsuppressed.That column remains very popular and has made an
invaluable contribution to public discussions and debates,twoaspectssovital toanopensociety Anand Persaud, as editor, maintained the position of the paper and remained loyal to the best aspects of having a free press. Throughoutitsexistence it has helped to produce some very talented journalists and reporters Anand Persaud himself rose frombeingareportertonow beingregardedasoneofthe topjournalistsinthecountry
Another early reporter who, from the early days showed great promise was Gitanjali Persaud–butmanyothersas well and Sharief Khan’s namecametomind. Itisarealmisfortunethat the SN is going out at this
particular time. The world situationischangingrapidly, and the heavy pressures are being applied on smaller states Indeed, we are approaching a situation where it appears that colonialism is making its appearance once more Sovereignty is being compromised and if this trend continues it could be completely lost In that regard the loss of the Stabroek News is a real tragedy Hopefully the void thatitwouldleavewouldbe filled in a short time. To the workers at the Newspaper I extend solidarity and best wishes in whatever areas you will venture in the future.
Regards
DonaldRamotar FormerPresident
There is an old saying withsomevaliditythatstates “out of evil cometh good”.
Human history has witnessed this apparent contradiction but a truism.
Reading media reports of this tragic Iran US-Israeli war, states that oil prices, with or without the G-7 intervention could increase as much as twenty percent.
Theassumptionistherewill be no significant increase in thecostofharvestingouroil,
speaking with experts, a conservative estimate of the amount the companies will now obtain is an increase of at least thirty million US dollars daily, this is as additional and unexpected revenuetotheoilcompanies operatinginGuyana. That oil is the gift of the Creator to the people of Guyana. My suggestion is that His Excellency the President immediately consultandsummonthefour parties represented in
improved highways, upgraded schools, and stronger publicinstitutions.Itispreciselythekindofrevenuethat could accelerate the country’s development and improve thelivesofordinarycitizens.Instead,Guyanacontinuesto borrow billions of dollars to fund essential infrastructure and development programmes. Loans are being taken from international financial institutions while the country’soilwealthgrowsoffshore.Thecontradictionis striking.
ExxonMobil can proudly highlight a US$1.1 billion taxpaymentinitsglobalfilings,butGuyanesecitizenssee noneofthatmoneyarrivinginthenationalcoffersinany direct or transparent way The optics may serve the company’s international narrative, but they do little to address the concerns of the people whose natural resources are generating those profits. At its core, this issueunderscoresthedeepercontroversysurroundingthe 2016oilcontractitself adealthathaslongbeencriticised as excessively generous to the oil companies and insufficiently protective of Guyana’s national interests. ExxonMobil may be able to boast about billions in taxes paid to Guyana. But for many Guyanese, the reality is painfullydifferent.Thisismoneythecountrydesperately needs. If Guyana were truly receiving such revenues directly, the government would not have to keep borrowingtobuildroads,hospitals,andschools.
That is the bitter truth behind the billion-dollar tax claim:whileExxonMobilreportsthenumbers,thenation thatownstheoilisstillscramblingforthecash.
parliament, and obtain an agreement that he as Headof-State call-in all of the companies harvesting our oil,andrequestthattherebe directtransfertothetreasury of at least eighty percent of this windfall. And further that this sum be made available post haste to be shared and distributed to all government workers and pensioners using an agreed formula, a formula that will notexcludenon-government workers from this bounty Addressing cost of living and inflation is of course anothermatter
The President and his team should first say that if the Middle East crisis is resolved and there is some level of normalcy, then thingsshouldreturnasis.
Thepartiesinparliament
should let the president know that when he engages thosewhoareextractingour oil and, that he has the mandate, and he is speaking on behalf of 99.9 percent of Guyanese, and that he expects no vacillation. Our president must have the gumption to ensure that the poorarenotmadepoorerasa result of the spike in oil prices.
Those of us who lived throughthehorrorsoftheoil crisis of the 70s, which begun after theYom Kippur war of October 1973, must knowthatwearenowinthe glorious group of being a majoroilproducingcountry, unlike in the 70s. Guyana let’s go forward, never backwards.
Sincerely
ElderHamiltonGreen
Broad monitoring of GPL’s operations needed
DEAREDITOR
A s a p u b l i c communications analyst, it has been brought to my attention that an increasing number of customers of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) are experiencing difficulties with their electricity payments due to the continued practice of estimated billing. In many instances, customers are not properly informed that their bills are being estimated, andtheyarelaterconfronted
with unexpectedly large balancesthatplacefinancial strain on both households andbusinesses
M a n y a f f e c t e d customers have voiced frustration over this issue, notingthattheyareoftenleft confused about how their bills are calculated.Without clear communication or timely meter readings, consumers are placed in a position where they must disputechargesthatthey (Continuedonpage06)
EAR
, With Venezuela subjugated, Iran bombed, and Cuba now locked in his crosshairs, Donald
Trump has crowned himself sheriff of the Western Hemisphere The question CARICOM can no longer dodge rings louder than ever: who pinned that badge on his chest?
It’saswaggeretchedina single, chilling refrain Trump invokes time and again—becauseIcan.
From the military abduction of a sitting Venezuelan president, dragged in chains to a New York courtroom, to the slow strangulation of Cuba into submission, his logic is raw, unadorned power
And last Saturday, at the signing of the Doral Charter unfurled amid the glitz of the “Shield
of the Americas” summit in Florida he has forged that bravado into ironclad policy,
commanding small
states to gut their sovereignty: dismantle security autonomy for U S -orchestrated antinarco machines, slam visa gates on “highrisk” foes, slash antiChina ties, chain trade
t o t h e d o l l a r
alone burying the petro-yuan alive and rip out digital lifelines like Huawei 5G grids in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, where China-forged bridges, hospitals, ports, and power plants now teeter under loan recalls and replace-or-ruin edicts
Pause here, let the rhythmoftheempiresinkin. Thisisnohastytweaktoold maps; it’s the grand recalibration of American
hegemony into an ultimate EmpireoftheAmericas.
Trump’s self-named “Donroe Doctrine” doesn’t whisper Monroe’s 19thcentury warning to Europe—it roars it back to life, militarized, monetized, masked as law-and-order Pictureit:U.S.
prosecutors in
Florida’s Southern District, the very engine grinding Biden-era “enemies,” now priming indictments for Cuban officials over deeds on Cubansoil,answerableto Cuban voters, not CongressortheUN
A m e r i c a n l a w stretches like a shadow
over every dollartouched corner of the globe, enforced not by gunboats alone but by the greenback’s unyielding grip transactions
hooked, economies choked, resistance recast as narco-terror or Beijing betrayal
T h i s i s t h e hemisphere Caribbean souls now breathe in a far cry from the postcolonial dawn their founding fathers bled for at Chaguaramas in 1973, birthing CARICOM amid dreams of unity unbroken, or the 1986 Contadora pledge for aZone of Peace, scorning foreign bases, proxy wars, destabilizing shadows
Trump tramples small stateswithimpunity,fueled by Florida’s electoral cheers, grabs for oil veins and sea-lane chokepoints, and the dollar’s throne, where any brush with U S f i n a n c e i n v i t e s extraterritorialfangs Sovereignty?
It withers to a fragile lease renewable only in Washington’sledger But oh, the sting
sharpens when we turn to those leaders who sowed thesethorns.
Nations that bowed with unquestioned
allegiance to this hegemonictide,notinbold
defense of smaller neighbors, but in craven subjugation-ripping out their own roots for a pat on the head from the Empire’s hand.
Their unconditional surrender mocks the fire of Cheddi Jagan, whose West on Trial thundered prophecies now painfully prescient: “Imperialism is on trial before the bar of history,”hewrote,exposing the West’s “monopoly of power” as a “cancer eating into the vitals of mankind.” Jagan’s steadfast pushback against that creeping beast unyielding, visionary—stands in stark rebuke to today’s capitulation.
E v e n F o r b e s Burnham’s legacy, forged in the Non-Aligned Movement’scruciblewhere he and Jagan battled shoulder-to-shoulder for a world beyond blocs, weeps atthisbetrayal.
Theyfoughttirelessly for sovereignty’s flame, not to douse it in dollar deference; their heirs, by contrast, trade it wholesale, planting seeds of subjugation that bloom now asTrump’sbitterharvest.
Yet small states need not kneel in this war withoutbullets.
Mitigation flows from cunning asymmetry, a rhythmic dance of defiance: collective
firewalls through CARICOM and CELAC, spurning Charter chains with unified UN and OAS salvos that resurrect the Zone of Peace; economic
pivots to CBDC pulses, BRICS swaps, gold hoards, and bridges to India, UAE, E U f o r t e c h a n d treasure restructuring China debts before the recalls claw; legal lances at ICJ and WTO, sovereign f i r e w a l l s a g a i n s t extraterritorial teeth, local oil-gas mandates fueling self-reliance.
Guyana’s CRCC
D r a g o n G a s debts these wounds demand velocity: lobby exemptions as in CBI’s s l y s h i p s , p o o l
CARICOM gold for
regional grids and nearshore havens
Tally the ledger in p r o s e ’ s s t e a d y beat dollar locks and recalls countered by CBDCs, BRICS breaths for trade’s unbroken pulse; U S security yokes shattered by mutual CARICOM shields, UN norms reborn; China-tech bans met with India-EU weaves, intra-hemisphere builds; indictments’reach b l u n t e d b y I C J precedents, immunity’s ironlaws
F u l l a l i g n m e n t auctions the soul; lone defiancecourtsthenoose Trump’s badge? Selfpinned, fattened by faint hearts—CARICOM’s hour strikes to flip the script, transmuting the Empire’s hubris into its lonely cage. Jagan’s trial convicts; Burnham’s non-aligned torchendures.
The West stands sentenced by its supreme leader’s own hand the verdict?
Execution denied by leadersboldenoughtoseize therhythmoftruefreedom.
Sincerely HemduttKumar
DEAREDITOR, India blasted its way with the smashing bats, the scorching balls and their scintillating fielding when they made history yesterday in claiming a number of firsts as they celebrated the win as ICC 2026 Men T20 Champion Resoundingly beating a flustered but fighting New Zealand team, India pulverized all its ammunition to defend a humongous 255 for 5 from 20overs.
They eventually but evidently dismissed not a submissive but a surprised team which caved in at 159 alloutfrom19overs.
India continues to storm the international stage as a country not only known for religious beliefs, ecofriendlytourism,wondersof the world, its colorful festivals,foods,peace,truth and non-violence, but a nation progressively challenged to surpass its economic growth(4th wealthiest nation), its technological advancement in the spectrum ofArtificial Intelligence (AI), computer literacy, improvising social media platforms and its space programs(first nation to successfully land on the southernpartofthemoon).
Overnight, India has once again reminded the world that the country earns therighttoberegardedasthe Mecca of cricket, replacing Lord’s,andthelandwhereto become a cricketer, is a major past dream for a number of boys’ and girls’ ambition! Not so much for the lucrative pay, but huggingthecamera,beingin the limelight, touring the world, and being afforded a chance to be in the eyes of the world, is of paramount importance as it is to be a
patriotic citizen to make India proud as a person givenanopportunitytoplay andservethecountry India became the first nation to win back-to-back championships (2024 and 2026) and the first to do so whileplayingathome.
Theyhavecarvedaniche as the first team as a three times champion in the T20 game. They have smacked the highest team total with 255 runs as the first team to attainthisfigure.
With Jasprit Bumrah’s match winning bowling figures of 4 for 15 off his allotted 4 overs, India secured another first as the team with a bowler for the highest wicket-taker in a singleICCmen’sT20World Cupfinal.
Congratulations to India for its perpetual attack and d e f e n s e , C a p t a i n Suryakumar Yadav’s astuteness, the rest of the players’ perseverance, the resilient support from an entiremanagementteamand of course, a roaring and overwhelming exuberant crowd which loyally continued to fill the pavilions, match after match. India has won the world’s appreciation for making the game of cricket exciting, entertaining and envious.
Yoursrespectfully, JaiLall
EAREDITOR, President Irfaan Ali attended the Shield of the AmericasSummitonMarch 7th, hosted by US President Donald Trump and a handpicked group of South American and Caribbean leaders, selected because theyopenlysupportTrump’s fascist and genocidal agenda.
PresidentAli was one of only two Caribbean leaders invited to the Summit of Fascists as it is being called by various commentators, the other being Trinidad’s KamlaPersad-Bissessar
As if his presence there wasnotshamefulenough,he posedforagroupphotowith the other Caribbean and South American vassals, with Trump at the centre,
grinning from ear to ear, while Sinead O’Connor’s hit, Nothing Compares to You played loudly in the background.
I kid you not, there is video footage. But that was notenoughforPresidentAli, as if to embarrass Guyana even more, he appeared on Fox News where he told the interviewer that there must be change in Cuba to bring about “freedom and democracy”.
Referring to Cuba, Ali told the Fox News interviewer that, “We all agree that the status quo cannotremain,andweagree thattheremustbeanattempt to have the status quo changedandweallareaware that will take time to be implemented.”Wewho?
According to President Ali, this status quo change willallowtheCubans to “benefit from prosperity and democracy”.
As a Guyanese citizen and patriot, the interview was embarrassing to watch, as Ali went on to exclaim that these changes “must lead to better conditions for the peopleofCuba,mustleadto asocietyinwhichtheruleof law, in which democracy, in which freedom is celebrated.”
Really? And being the brilliant political analyst that he is, he simply failed to mention that 60 plus yearsofanillegaleconomic blockade imposed by the USonthisCaribbeannation is the reason for the hardships faced by the
President Ali, I am curiousastowhatfreedom, democracy and prosperity, what change of status quo you are prescribing for Cuba?Isitlikethefreedom, democracy, prosperity and status quo we have in Guyana, where despite oil wealth, 58% of the people live in poverty, and 16 families, a small group of elites, control most of the land and wealth? Is it the kindofprosperitywherethe elderly are found begging on the streets because they are hungry and can’t afford medication?
Or should they look forward to their life expectancy, infant mortality andliteracyratesgoingfrom amongstthehighestnotonly in the region, but in the world,toamongstthelowest intheregion,likeinGuyana, andpleasedonotreferusto fakestatistics–welivehere and know the difference betweenfactandfiction.
Maybe you want the people of Cuba to look forward to the kind of prosperity that our security guards, domestic workers, retail and fast food chain workers, supermarket check-out staff, gas pump attendants and so many Guyanese workers enjoy on the minimum wage, taking home$15,000aweekfora 5 or 6 day working week. Maybe the people of Cuba arewaitingwithbatedbreath to be as under-nourished as so many of the poor masses in Guyana, who survive for weeksontennisrollandtea.
A n d I a m s u r e
President Ali wants the workers in Cuba to enjoy the freedom our workers inGuyanaenjoy
Raise your voice in Guyana about the exploitative working conditions and starvation wages and the freedom is such that you will lose your job immediately, with no consequences for your private sector employer
You can go and lay a complaint with the Ministry of Labour, although most workers steer clear of that, b e c a u s e s o m e h o w “mysteriously” employers getacallandyouarefreeall right – free all day because you are unemployed. It’s calledrepression.
Cuba has one of the loweststudent-teacherratios in the region and one of the highest literacy rates in the world.
Not only are there no tuition costs but textbooks arefreeforallstudentsatall levels. All schools in Cuba areequippedandsubsidized the same way – there are no “badschools”.
Maybe President Ali wouldlikeCubanchildrento enjoy what primary school studentsinGuyanaenjoy–a draconian hierarchical school system where there areso-called“goodschools” and “bad schools”, a system that ensures an elitist, plantation culture can continuetoflourish.
I bet that Cuban childrencannotwaittoenjoy the same benefits that Guyanese children enjoy -
poorly equipped schools, oftenlackingevensufficient basicfurnituresuchasdesks and chairs, and lacking teachers in many subjects, no textbooks because they cannot afford to purchase them – ahh the prosperity andfreedomthatweenjoyin a neo-liberal capitalist, socalleddemocraticcountry
President Ali, you mentioned“ruleoflaw”. Are you wishing for the people of Cuba the same rule of law we have in Guyana, where the rich literally get away with murder, while the poor are imprisoned for stealing textbooks,afewfooditems for their children or a few gramsofmarijuana?
Democracy is a contested term, President Ali. Please tell us – the people of Guyana if you believe that the USA is a democracy and if you do, pleasetellusinwhatyeardid the USA become a democracy? Is Trump a democrat, if so then I suppose you believe that genocide is a component of democracy?
Is Trump and Rubio telling you what you must do,democracy?
If what you dare to publicly prescribe for the peopleofCubathefreedom, prosperity and democracy that I imagine you think existsintheUSAandherein Guyana,thenallIcansayis Godhelpthem.
Sincerely, GeraldA.Perreira Organizationforthe VictoryofthePeople (OVP)
Frompage04 believe do not accurately reflecttheiractualelectricity usage.
In several cases, disgruntledcustomersreport being advised to submit complaints to the Public Utilities Commission in order to have their concerns addressed.
While this is the formal avenue available to consumers, it does little to resolve the root problem if the system that produces these disputed bills continuesunchanged.
At the same time, the nationiseagerlyanticipating the completion of the Gasto-Energy Project, which
promises to improve the reliability, efficiency, and affordabilityofelectricityin Guyana.Thismajornational initiativeisexpectedtoplay a vital role in strengthening
economicdevelopment.
However, until such improvements materialize, m
nd businesses continue to endure frequent blackouts, voltage fluctuations, and b
ies throughout the year These ongoingchallengesnotonly inconvenience consumers but also hinder productivity and confidence in the
country’s largest electricity provider It is therefore my professional opinion that regulatory and oversight bodies such as the Guyana Energy Agency, the Public Utilities Commission, and the In
ernal Quality Department within Guyana Power and Light should m a i n t a i n v i g i l a n t m
nitoring of the operational and service delivery practices of the utility company to ensure greater accountability, transparency, and improved service standards for the peopleofGuyana
Sincerely: Mr.BlaneRBunbury
The Guyana Court of Appeal on Wednesday dismissed the appeals filed on behalf of two deceased convicts in the Bartica Massacre case, while resentencing the two surviving appellants to life imprisonment.
The ruling was handed down unanimously by Justices Jo-Ann Barlow, Rishi Persaud and Dawn Gregory
The matters before the courtinvolvedMarkRoyden Williams, Dennis Williams, Clebert Reece and Michael Caesar, who were convicted between 2016 and February 2017 for their roles in the February 17, 2008 attack at Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
During the attack, a group of heavily armed
gunm
community, killing 12 civilians and three police officers. However, Mark Royden Williams and Dennis Williams died in 2
respectively Despite their deaths, appeals seeking to overturn their convictions were filed on their behalf by Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes. When the m
er indictments were presented in the High Court in 2016, Caesar and Reece pleaded not guilty to murder but guiltytothelesseroffenceof manslaughter Royden Williamswasfoundguiltyof eightcountsofmurder,while Dennis Williams was convicted of seven counts of murder and five counts of manslaughter. The trial
judge imposed the death penalty for the murder c
victions and life imprisonment for the manslaughterconvictions. Appeals after death challenged Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Diana O’Brien had argued that the continuation of the appeals w a s i m p r o p e r S h e contended that the right to appeal is statutory and does not survive the death of an appellant under the Court of Appeal Act She further submitted that proceeding with the matters would amount to a misuse of judicial time and state resources, a position she
Some of the gang members involved in the 2008 massacre.
supported with legal precedent. Counsel for the appellants argued that the appeals should proceed despite the deaths in order to review the integrity of the convictions and vindicate the appellants’ reputations posthumously Counsel for the appellants further contended that issues of fairness and the validity of the conviction do not automatically die with the person, especially where a wrongful conviction might stainthedeceased’sname. Court rejects argument
H o w e v e r, d u r i n g Wednesday’s hearing before the Court of Appeal, Justice Barlow ruled that an appeal is generally a personal act thatcannotcontinueafterthe death of the appellant “There is no right that exists that allows for that appeal to continue,”thejudgesaid.
J u s t i c e B a r l o w
a c k n o w l e d g e d t h e prosecution’scontentionthat continuing the appeals was improper but noted that such matters could proceed only
examining the grounds of appeal, the court found no basis to proceed. “The court found that no such exceptional circumstances existed warranting the continuation of the appeals of the persons after they are deceased,” Justice Barlow ruled.
In delivering her ruling,
Justice Barlow also r e f e r
h e circumstances surrounding Royden Williams’ death Williamsdiedin2023during aconfrontationwiththeJoint Services in Region Seven, weeks after escaping from theMazaruniPrisonduringa May 2023 breakout. It was his second escape from custody, having previously escaped from the Camp Street Prison in 2017 before being recaptured in October of that year on the Weldaad Public Road, West Coast Berbice.
Dennis Williams, meanwhile, died in custody attheMazaruniPrisonaftera
EnergyandmarineconsultancyABLhas been contracted to provide marine warranty survey services for marine operations and installation activities on ExxonMobil’s Hammerhead development offshore Guyana.
The Hammerhead project is expected to be the seventh development in the Stabroek Block, located around 200 km offshore Guyana in water depths ranging from 850 to 1,725metres.
The development includes 18 subsea production and injection wells and a spreadmoored floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit that will offload crudedirectlytoconventionalexporttankers inatandemmooringconfiguration.
Produced gas from the development will be transported through the gas-to-energy
period of illness Justice
Williams had placed himself outside the legal system by escaping from custody “We believe that in the case of Williams he had escaped from custody and so could not be said to be expecting the legal system to work for him because he took himself out of the system and was killedwhileatlarge.Hedoes not stand in any better position because he died while at large, so we therefore decline to exercise ourdiscretiontocontinuethe appeals in the face of the d e a t h s o f t h e t w o appellants,” she explained. The court therefore dismissed the appeals filed on behalf of both deceased men. Life sentences for surviving convicts Meanwhile, the court considered the appeals filed by Reece and Caesar, who had sought to have their sentences reduced. Justice Barlowinsteadimposedlife
Continued on page 16
pipeline system for delivery either to the Unity facility or to an onshore gas-to-energy plant. “The Hammerhead project will be a follow-on from our involvement with ExxonMobil’sLiza1,Liza2,Payara,Yellow Tail and Uaru.All are similar projects in the same development block, with the same philosophy and installation method. Our Hammerhead team blends fresh technical insight with continuous, in-country experienceinGuyana,”saidDavidBallands, ABL’s director of energy services in the Americasregion.
Theprojectwillbe managedfromABL’s Houston office with support from its global network of offices including Calgary, Paris, Rotterdam and Rio de Janeiro. Offshore installation activities are scheduled to take placein2027and2028.
In the latest twist in t h e p o l i t i c a l narrative of the country’s Opposition, there isanunvarnishedattemptto suggest that under the leadership of the PNCR during the period 2015 to 2020, the party’s support basewasneglected.Nothing could be further from the truth.
Thechargethatduringits time in government the PNCR neglected its base, and that this alleged neglect explainsthelossofpowerin 2020 and the party’s subsequenttravails,doesnot standuptoscrutiny.Soletus
begin with the historical record The PNCR that entered the 2006 elections wasapartythathadsuffered a bruising defeat Its parliamentary strength had diminished and its opponents in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) seemed securely enthroned. It was even said back then that its leadership wasunelectable.
It was under the new leadershipofDavidGranger thatthepartybegantheslow and laborious task of political recovery Through the vehicle ofAPartnership for National Unity (APNU),
the party clawed back support that had slipped through its fingers in 2006. The effort culminated in the 2011 elections, when the governing PPP/C, for the first time since 1964 was reduced to a minority in the NationalAssembly It was the same David Granger who later engineered the coalition between APNU and the Alliance For Change (AFC)—a partnership that many pundits at the time dismissed as improbable. In 2015, the 2015 Guyanese general election produced a result that sent a political
Frompage2
Mentore acknowledged that the relocation may cause temporary inconvenience but stressed that the work is necessary to improve the marketenvironment.
“We understand there willbesomeinconvenience. Like I have always said, anytimeyouwantsuccessor betterment, there will be some inconvenience,” he told vendors while adding, “Youmightloseacoupleof dollars,butyouaregoingto bebetteroffattheendofthe day You’ll have a better placetosell.”
He also emphasized the role vendors play in the city’seconomy “Vendingis very important. It is a very important aspect of people contributingtotheeconomy We want to work with vendors, as vendors work withus,”Mentoresaid.
T
he rehabilitation initiative forms part of a
broadereffortbythecouncil to fully restore the Stabroek Market.Meanwhile,several vendors who spoke with reporters said they were willingtorelocatebutcalled for strict enforcement to ensure that all vendors comply with the plan. One clothing vendor who has beenoperatingatthemarket for more than 11 years said she had already moved in preparationfortheproject.
“I’m okay with it so far, butwhatIthinktheyneedto do is enforce the system morestronglybecausesome are moving and some are not,”shesaid.
“I moved since Sunday because I want things to go smoothly If they say everybodyhastomove,then everybodyhastomove,”the vendoradded.
Another vendor, Kota Thornhill, who has been selling clothing at the market for 38 years, also
supported the initiative but urged authorities to ensure proper order during the relocation.
“I love everything about it, but the council police need to enforce that everyonebepushedforward so the work will start and finishandeverybodycanget back to business as usual,” Thornhillsaid.
“I want them to go into the right place as they said, andthepolicecouldbethere to make sure everybody staysinacertainwaysothat customers passing by can have that free flow of traffic ” Despite the temporary disruption, Thornhillsaidmanyvendors welcomedtheproject.
“We all have to understand that it is something for our benefit. We wanted this for a long time,sowearegladthatthey arecomingaroundnow,”he added.
a
Demboyslikegoweddinghouse.Dem boys does go early so that dem can see whendemotherguestsarrive.Nuffofdem peopledoeswalkwithdemwholefamily–wife, daughters, son, uncle, aunty and grandmother Andplentyofdemdoeswalk empty-handed.
Butyuhdoesgatnuffpeopledoeswalk with gift – in gift bag and gift box. Dem boys does play a mental game and try fuh guesswhatindebox.Fromdeshapeofde gift,yuhdoesknowwahdehinside.
Demguestdoesbringplentyclockasif whenyuhmarried,yuhdoesfugetfuhkeep time.Demdoesbringplentyglasswareand plate and bowl sets like dem want confine dewifetodekitchenfuhderestofshelife. Andifyuhseeabigsquareboxnahbother speculate wah inside: is most likely a pressure cooker That is perhaps de most
Caribbean: theAPNU+AFC coalitiondefeatedthePPP/C and ended twenty-three years of uninterrupted rule. That happened under David Granger’sleadership.
This was not the accomplishment of a leader who had lost touch with the party’sbase.Onthecontrary, it was the work of a leadership that had painstakingly rebuilt the party’s electoral reach and r e - e n e r g i s e d i t s organizational machinery
The claim that the PNCR neglected its grassroots while in government is equally unconvincing when one considers the practical record. During that period thepartyupgradedseveralof its regional offices, includingthoseatVreed-enHoop and Agricola, strengthening the infrastructurethroughwhich the party interacted with supporters.
The party also maintained an office in RegionNine,apresencethat wasonlylostafterthePPP/C returned to office in 2020. These are not the actions of an organization that had forgotten where its supporterslived.
In 2016, the PNCR held what many within the party considered one of its most successful congresses Delegates endorsed a programme aimed squarely at strengthening the party’s machinery: revitalising regional structures, expanding membership, improving administrative capacity, and ensuring
r o b u s t g r a s s r o o t s mobilisation. If neglect was theintention,itwaspursued in a remarkably peculiar way
The more plausible explanation for the coalition’s later difficulties lies elsewhere, in a phenomenon that has undone many political movements before it: factionalism.DavidGranger himself warned repeatedly aboutthecorrosiveeffectsof internal division. A party engaged in quarrelling with itself rarely defeating its rivals. Within the coalition government, tensions began to surface. Open criticism from elements within the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) placed additional strainontherulingcoalition. Meanwhile, resentment simmered among some supporters who believed the AFC had been granted too generous a share of influence within the coalition arrangement
Ambition, envy and suspicion began whispering intoomanyearsatonce. These internal disputes did not remain confined to private conversations. They seeped into the public domain, weakening the image of cohesion that any governing coalition must project if it hopes to survive the brutal arithmetic of elections.
By the time the 2020 Guyanese general election arrived,thecoalitionentered the contest burdened not merely by the ordinary difficulties of incumbency but also by the accumulated
weightofinternaldiscord.
Factionalism, once unleashed, rarely retires politely It continued to haunt the PNCR even after David Granger declined to contest the leadership at the party’s 2021 congress Indeed, the very divisions that had been cited as j
departure proceeded to flourish in his absence, proving that the disease had not been cured merely by removing the patient from theroom.
T
A party consumed by internal rivalriesfindsitselflessable to confront its external adversaries.
The political energy that might have been directed towardexpandingsupportis instead spent settling internalscores.
And so, the convenient fiction of “neglecting the base”persists,notbecauseit istruebutbecauseitoffersa painless explanation for complexfailures.
It spares those who advanced the theory the more uncomfortable task of examiningtheirownrolesin theparty’sinternalstruggles.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
expensivegiftwahdoesbegiveninkindat dewedding.
Dem boys does be sorry fuh de bride and groom. Dem spend plenty money fuh host de wedding and all dem getting is kitchenware, bedsheet, and clock. Dat can hardlyhelpthemfuhputtogetherahome. It now costing millions fuh furnish a home fuh newlyweds. The sitting room chairsetaloneisover$400,000anddebed and bedside table is another $300,000. De stoveisaround$180,000fuhagoodbrand andasimilarsumfuhdewashingmachine andrefrigerator Itnahcheapatallfuhstart ahome.Yuhgatfuhgotodebankandteka loan. So next time, y’all get invite to a wedding, nah bother with clock and pressurecooker Givecash.Decouplegan needitfuhbuydemappliancesindehome. TalkHalf!LeffHalf!
The PPP went from ideology to lust for power then love of money The connectingthreadwasabject surrendertoslavery
From Marxism to socialism to capitalism. The latterisaboutfreeenterprise. Alongside free enterprise, there is an endless list of sacred freedoms. Liberty lives large. Regrettably, the PPP Govt. decided that its interests are best served by
capturing the best of two worlds: millions from capitalism for itself; and for itself the total control cherished by Stalinists and fascists. The first domestic target aimed at: neutralize the free media. Muzzle it. Benditintoamoron.
Internationally, the PPP strives for Guyana to be reengineered from a fullfledged sovereign state to a fifth-rate state. Like the
proverbial fifth wheel to a coach, Guyana is pleased to be checked out, kicked about, rolled around, then dragged along for any s h a m e l e s s f o r e i g n adventure Regarding kicked about frequently, that’s to determine how much air remains inside, and what life and utility is left in it. Wheels dry rot; an unwanted burden to fetch around.
A challenge for the PPP and Guyana is to decide if its capital is GT or Washington, DC. A major pursuit of the ruling group is finalizing who is its leader: Donald J. Trump, or Mohamed I. Ali? No one can serve two mastersatthesametime. No place can manage two migraines simultaneously In either case, what is good for the longevity of the party doesn’t necessarily mean thatitisgoodforthecountry
The Guyanese people have been condemned to being perenniallosers.
Thiscountryhascrisison its hands: a sovereignty that is characterized by some fast-fading residual level of credible integrity Or a polity now known globally fornotoriety,infamy,andthe treachery that goes along with the first two; or the unreliability that’s irreducible in that unholy trinity Inthenewlexiconof Guyana: a proven rotten rope, a place known for jaundiced-colored leaders, who lack stones, release a peculiar smell. Fear. On all those, Cubans can be the star witnesses, give the best testimony. What are friends and partners for, if not to be jilted? Trustworthy For oathstobemadebefore,then abandoned when a more luscious attraction hovers into sight. I return to the local lingo to extract ‘sweetmaan and sweet-homan
They usually only last for a time, until a new season and new interests come along and take command of the heart. For thosewhostillhaveanything to do with the sacred Scriptures,thehearthasbeen confirmed as the organ most likely to betray, send into a tailspin,thendumpitsowner inthedrain. Whoisfatherto this piteous Motherland? The real father, local not foreign.
Speaking of paternity, thePPPisclearlyhappytobe trapped in the clutching grip ofinfancy Hence,theastute statesmanlike maturity that is required is so elusive. Infants are soothed when coddled and carried, prettied up and petted, and love remaining in that state foreve
y flourishes in Guyana’s case. Guyana is envied for its patrimony and money, but relative to infancy, there is the squalor of impotency Rock-a-bye baby, on a treetop. Brings its own version of caressing intimacy. In a baby, that’s welcomed, not a cause for concern. Foracountry,it’sa terrible spectacle to stand to the side and watch it being taken advantage of, and then converted to a bleating, blithering idiot. Ever hear someoftheroamingtribunes of this country speak? The education, though of the
wrongkind,isworththetime sacrificed.
Currently, this country marches under the banner of slavery It exchanged the nearby covetous for more distant ones with roving eyes,stalker’smentality,and groping, grabbing hands Canada, Cuba, and Guyana victimized Submit or suffer The PPP is at a crossroad. Just as a man cannot continue with his feet in two boats, so a country that operates under two flags.
Finally, right here, the PPP Govt. made the rich see the poor as their enemy Challengers over who gets, whoshouldget,biggerslices of the oil pie. (A minimum wagethatishuman,notwhat even beasts of burden would reject) Remember this London, Beijing, and Washington have their primary interests. They will sacrifice blood and treasure for those. The PPP had better get some paramount interests for Guyana. Or Guyana will always be a b o w i n g , s c r a p i n g , kowtowing entity A doormatdespiteitsoil.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
A52-year-old businesswoman identified as
Nadira Persaud called “Nanda”, was on Tuesday fined $10,000 for setting unmuzzled ferociousdogtobeatlarge.
According to police, Persaud who hails from Helena #1 Mahaica Village, East Coast Demerara, was arrested lastyear“onSeptember29,2025,inrelationtotheoffence committed on Melissa Ann Bynoe at Helena #1 Mahaica Village, East Coast Demerara, which occurred on September13,2025.”
She pleaded guilty when she appeared at the Mahaicony Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate A. Wilson,beforeshewasfinedG$10,000.
DUBAI/TEL AVIV, March 11 (Reuters) - Iran said the world should be ready for oil at $200 a barrel as its forces hit merchant ships on Wednesday and the International Energy Agency recommended a massive release of strategic reserves to dampen one of the worst oil shocks since the 1970s.
The war unleashed with joint U.S. and Israeli air strikes nearly two weeks ago has so far killed around 2,000 people, mostly Iranians and Lebanese, as it has spread into Lebanon and thrown global energy markets and transportintochaos.
Despite what the Pentagon has described as the most intense airstrikes since the start of the war, Iran also fired at Israel and targets across the Middle East on Wednesday, demonstrating it can still fight back. On Wednesday, three vessels were reported to have been hit in Gulf waters as Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said their forceshadfiredonshipsintheGulf thathaddisobeyedtheirorders.
U.S. President Donald Trump suggested the campaign would not last much longer, telling Axios newswebsitetherewas“practically nothing left” to target in Iran. “Any timeIwantittoend,itwillend,”he said in a telephone interview Oil prices, which shot up earlier in the week to nearly $120 a barrel before settling back to around $90, rose more than 4% on Wednesday amid renewed fears about supply disruption, while Wall Street’s main share indexes fell in morning trade.
Previously, stock markets had rebounded as investors bet on Trump finding a quick exit. But other signs pointed to a continuation of fighting which has seen ports and cities in the Gulf states as well as targets in Israel hit by drone and missile barrages from Iran, adding urgency to calls from Turkey and Europe to end the fighting.An Israeli military official said the military still had an extensive list of targets to hit in Iran, including ballistic missile and nuclear-relatedsites.
‘LEGITIMATE
So far there has been no sign that ships can safely sail through the Strait of Hormuz, the nowblockaded channel along the Iranian coast that serves as a conduit for around a fifth of the world’s oil Trump said on Wednesday that ships “should” transit through the Strait but sources said Iran had deployed aboutadozenminesinthechannel, further complicating the blockade.
The U.S. military told Iranians to stayclearofportswithIraniannavy facilities, drawing a warning from Iran’s military that if the ports were threatened, economic and trade
centers in the region would be “legitimatetargets”.
With prices at the pumps already surging in some countries and Trump’s Republican Party trailing badly in the polls ahead of midterm elections, oil prices have become an increasingly urgent element in the calculations behind thewar
The International Energy Agency, made up of major oil consuming nations, recommended releasing 400 million barrels from globalstrategicreservestostabilise prices, the biggest such intervention in history, which was swiftlyendorsedbyWashington.
But the rate at which countries
can release strategic reserves will vary and the amount released would account for just a fraction of the supply through the Hormuz Strait.
Iranian officials made clear on Wednesday they intended to impose a prolonged economic shock as the war continues. “Get ready for oil to be $200 a barrel, because the oil price depends on regional security, which you have destabilised, ” Ebrahim , spokesperson for Iran’s military command, said in comments addressedtoWashington.
AfterofficesofabankinTehran were hit overnight, Zolfaqari said Iran would respond with attacks on
banksthatdobusinesswiththeU.S. or Israel. People across the Middle East should stay 1,000 metres from banks,headded.
At sea, a Thai-flagged bulk carrier was set ablaze, forcing the evacuation of crew, with three people reported missing and believed trapped in the engine room. Two other ships, a Japaneseflagged container ship and a Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier, were also reported to have sustained damage from projectiles, bringing the number of merchant ships that have been hit since the warbeganto14.
IRANIAN OFFICIAL SAYS MOJTABA KHAMENEI
LIGHTLY WOUNDED
In Iran, huge crowds took to the streets for funerals for top commanders killed in airstrikes. They carried caskets and brandished flags and portraits of slainSupremeLeaderAyatollahAli Khamenei and his son and successor, Mojtaba. An Iranian official told Reuters that Mojtaba Khamenei had been lightly wounded early in the war, when airstrikes killed his father, mother, wifeandason.Hehasnotappeared in public or issued any direct messagesincethewarbegan.
The Iranian military said on Tuesday it had launched missiles at targets including a U.S. base in northern Iraq, the U S naval headquarters for the Middle East in Bahrain, and at targets in central Israel Explosions rang out in Bahrain,whileinDubaifourpeople were wounded by two drones that crashed near the airport. In Tehran, residents said they were growing accustomed to nightly airstrikes that have sent hundreds of thousands of people fleeing to the countryside and contaminated the citywithblackrainfromoilsmoke. “There were bombings last night but I did not get scared like before. Life goes on,” Farshid, 52, told Reutersbyphone.
‘NO TIME LIMIT’, SAYS ISRAEL
Despite calls from Trump for Iranians to rise up, U.S. and Israeli hopes that Iran’s system of clerical rule would be overthrown by popularprotesthavenotbeenborne out. Iran’s police chief,Ahmadreza Radan, said on Wednesday anyone taking to the streets would be treated “as an enemy, not a protester All our security forces have their fingers on the trigger”.A senior Israeli official told Reuters Israeli leaders now privately accepted that Iran’s ruling system could survive the war Two other Israeli officials said there was no sign Washington was close to endingthecampaign.
U.S. and Israeli officials say their aim is to end Iran’s ability to projectforcebeyonditsbordersand destroy its nuclear programme. Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday the operation “will continue without any time limit, as long as required, until we achieve all objectives and win the campaign”. Alexander has over a decade of international reporting experience He is currently a senior correspondent in Jerusalem covering Israel & the Palestinian Territories and was formerly in Dubai where he covered the Arabian Peninsula, including the United Arab Emirates,SaudiArabiaandYemen, often writing about foreign policy, security and economic-related issues.
Keiron Warner, a 31-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene after he was pinned in his vehicle by a lorry, following an accident at Loo Creek, Soesdyke-Linden Highway,onWednesday
Police said an investigation has been launched into the incident which occurred around 06:30hrs, involving motor car PZZ 943 driven by Warner of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden and motor lorry GXX 3002 driven by a 50-year-old male of Half Mile, Wismar,Linden.
“Initial enquiries revealed that the motor lorrywasproceedingnorthalongthewestern driving lane of the highway in the vicinity of Loo Creek, when the motor car, which was proceeding south along the eastern driving lane, allegedly at a fast rate, suddenly swerved in a south-western direction and collidedhead-onwiththemotorlorry,”police said. Warner was pinned in the vehicle as a result of the collision, and received several injuries to his body Shortly after the ambulance services were summoned, a team
Emergency
arrived on the scene and he was pronounced dead. His body is currently at the Linden Hospital Complex awaiting a post-mortem examination.
The lorry is in police custody assisting with investigations. A breathalyser test was conducted, however, no trace of alcohol was detected,policeadded.
International pop icon
R i h a n n a ’s g l o b a l l y recognised beauty brands, Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin, are set to launch in Guyanalaterthismonth.
The products will officially become available from March 28, 2026 at Glamour Beauty, located at MovietowneMall.
According to a press release from Glamour Beauty on Wednesday, the launch marks a major expansion of Rihanna’s beauty empire into Guyana and is expected to bring the internationally acclaimed cosmetics and skincare lines
closer to Caribbean consumers Rihanna expressed excitement about finallybringingthebrandsto the region. “I am so excited to FINALLY bring Fenty Beauty, Skin and Fragrance brands to the Caribbean. I know the community has been waiting a long time and we can’t wait for you to experience the brand and try the products in a place that’s near and dear to my heart,” shesaid.
The release explained that since launching Fenty Beauty in 2017, Rihanna has been credited with transforming the global
cosmeticsindustrythrougha strong focus on inclusivity andrepresentation.
“When I created Fenty Beauty, I wanted everyone to feelbeautifulandrecognized, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, or personal style,” Rihanna explained The brand quickly gained international popularity for offering a wide range of shades designed to suit differentskintones,aswellas formulas tailored for various skin types According to the release, Guyanese customers will have access to several of the brand’s most popular products when the line launcheslocally
These include the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, which features 50shadesandprovideslonglasting, humidity-resistant coverage, as well as the
TheMinistryofHealth’sChronicDisease Unit in collaboration with Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Kidney foundation and the University of Guyana hosted a World Kidney Day Conference at HerdmanstonLodgeonWednesdayunderthe theme “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People,ProtectingthePlanet.”
Delivering remarks, Minister of Health
Dr Frank Anthony highlighted the growing impact of chronic diseases in Guyana, particularlydiabetesandhypertension,which are major contributors to kidney disease. He noted that the ministry established a dedicated Chronic Disease Department in recent years to strengthen prevention, early detection, and treatment services across the country
The minister emphasised the importance of early testing and encouraged the public to utilise the ministry’s health vouchers, which allow individuals to access important laboratory tests, including kidney function testing. These efforts have helped identify more persons at risk and support earlier intervention.
Founder of Fenty Beauty, Fenty Skin; singer Rihanna.
Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, a high-shine lip gloss available in multiple finishes.Also expected to be available is the Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad SpectrumSPF30Sunscreen, designedtoblendseamlessly with different skin tones, along with the Fenty Treatz H y
n d Strengthening Lip Oils, infused with fruit oils and vitamin-richextracts.
Thereleasenotedthatthe arrival of the brands in Guyana reflects Fenty’s ongoingmissiontocelebrate diversity while encouraging c
expressionthroughbeauty
W
, customers in Guyana will now be able to purchase the
experience the brand firsthand.
Dr Anthony also outlined ongoing initiatives to expand dialysis services and strengthen kidney care nationwide Additional dialysis machines are being placed in regional hospitals, while partnerships with non-governmental organisations and international institutions continue to support improved treatment and
training. He noted Guyana’s progress in kidney transplant services, with Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation currently licensedtoperformkidneytransplants.
Meanwhile, Dr. Narine Singh, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), underscored that kidney disease is often referred to as a “silent disease,”asmanyindividualsmaynotrealise they are affected until the condition has progressed.Heexplainedthatchronickidney disease is commonly linked to conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, making prevention and early management of these illnesses critical.
Addressing kidney disease, he said, requires a collaborative approach involving physicians, surgeons, public health professionals, policymakers, and community leaders.Heencouragedparticipantstousethe conference as an opportunity to share knowledge, discuss challenges within the healthcare system, and explore practical solutionstoimprovepatientcare.Hestressed that protecting kidney health begins with awareness, prevention, early diagnosis, and compassionate care long before dialysis or transplantationbecomesnecessary
Among those present were; Director of Chronic Disease Unit Dr Latchmi Lall; Director of Regional Health Services Dr Cerdel Mc Watt; Director of Family and Primary Healthcare Dr Ertenisa Hamilton andotherhealthofficials.
Atotalof123individuals graduated from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) on Tuesday at the Unity Centre in Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, marking the start ofnewopportunities.
Thegraduatescompleted programmes in plumbing, electrical installation, and heavy-duty operation. They gained the practical skills needed to support Guyana’s r a p i d l y e x p a n d i n g construction and industrial sectors.
Heavy Duty Operation graduate, Leslie Rose, said healwayswantedtojointhis field since he finished high school, but was unable to, duetohisfinancialsituation. He noted that during the course the lecturers were considerate and patient “They take their time. They make sure we understand what we were about and everything,”heexplained.
Another Heavy-duty Operation graduate, Joshua Abrams, said that since he was a child, he wanted to get intothisfield.Hereminisced about being able to operate the excavator during the course, and will utilise the
certificate and license to get a job Similarly, Leslie Williams said that the course was a great experience for him, especially since this was his first time engaging with the programme
Additionally, he urged Guyanese to get on board with the courses BIT have to offer
Meanwhile, Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith, at
the simple ceremony, congratulated the graduates and urged them to use their newly acquired skills responsibly as they begin their professional journey
“This certificate represents something very important.
The Board of Industrial Training operates under the Industrial Training Act, w h i c h m e a n s y o u r certification is recognised and carries real value,” the
ministeremphasised.
The minister reminded the graduates that the skills they now possess come with responsibility “Someone will trust you with their property or their project when they hire you In return, you are paid for your expertise. Never misuse or abuse the trade you have been given,” Minister Griffith told the graduates. He also highlighted the
government’s continued investment in training opportunities across the country
In Budget 2026, $2.5 billion has been dedicated to training across Guyana, with significant resources going to the Board of Industrial Training.Additionally,Chief Executive Office (CEO) of the Board of Industrial Training Richard Maughn said the programmes are
designed not only to equip trainees with technical knowledge but also to empower them to build sustainablecareers.
TheCEOencouragedthe graduates to believe in their abilities and use their skills to create pathways for success The graduation marks another step in BIT’s ongoing mission to expand t e c h n i c a l t r a i n i n g opportunities. (DPI)
Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond on Wednesday c
y reconstructed Imbotero Police Station, boathouse and wharf in RegionOne.
According to information provided by the ministry these infrastructure which form part of the Government’s strategy to reinforce law enforcement capacity and protect Guyana’s borders, cost just over $200 million.
Speakingatthecommissioning ceremony, Minister Walrond said “Border communities are not the edges of Guyana, they are the frontline of our sovereignty.” She noted that these facilities will support expanded river patrols, improved monitoring along the Barima River corridor, and faster response to incidents in surroundingcommunities.
“The commissioning reflects the Government’s continued investment in strengthening security infrastructure and ensuring a strong state presence in hinterland and frontier regions,” theministrystated.
This publication understands that the police station was reconstructed for $144.9 million and is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency, strengthen officer performance, and build public confidence in law enforcement.
The government is intensifying efforts to strengthen nephrology services in Guyana by expanding dialysis access, providing financial assistance and improving transplant care for patients livingwithkidneydisease.
These initiatives were highlighted on Monday during a conference held ahead of ‘World Kidney Day’, under the theme “Caring for People, Protecting the Planet.” The event aimed to raise awareness, encourage dialogue and improve care forpeopleaffectedbykidney disease.
Speaking at the event, MinisterofHealth,Dr Frank A
observance provides an opportunity to highlight the growing burden of kidney disease in Guyana and the measures being taken to address it. He noted that several services are already available for patients with kidney problems, including dialysis; however, the government is seeking to expandaccess.
“At the moment,some of the facilities where we have dialysis are operated with external partners Going forward, we have been working to introduce dialysisinsomeofourpublic hospitals,” the minister stated.
Dialysis chairs will soon be activated in the six newly constructed hospitals He
added that 15 new dialysis machines will also be strategically placed in regionalhospitalstobroaden access to treatment.The new $7B Diamond Regional Hospital is one of six regional hospitals to be opened over the next few months “We believe that this is necessary given the challengesthatweareseeing with some of the patients,” hesaid.
assistance for dialysis
y, individuals received a oneoffpaymentof$350,000and were not eligible for further support.“Thathaschanged,” Minister Anthony said,
before stating that, “Now everyyearweareseeingalot of persons coming forward togetassistance.”
Currently, some 650 patients are benefiting from the financial support, which allows them to choose their preferred dialysis provider. The health ministry is also collaborating with treatment centrestoensurepatientscan access necessary laboratory tests through the public health system, as a result of thegovernment’sinvestment in national testing capacity Despite these measures, Minister Anthony stressed the need for greater focus on preventing the progression ofkidneydisease.
“A lot more work needs to be done to delay the onset of chronic kidney failure,” he said, noting that patients must be supported more intensively to prevent the condition from worsening. Guyana has also made
transplant programme, which began in 2011, has expanded in recent years.
“We are now one of the leading transplant centres in the Caribbean,” the minister emphasised.Newlegislation Continued on page 16
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A 23-year-old gold miner identified as Joshua Hunter of Squatting Area, Helena #1 Village, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, has been granted
bail in the sum of $50,000 for the possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. According to a statement from police, the young man
was arrested on March 8, at the Mahaica Market Area, East Coast Demerara, after he was found in possession of 52 grams of cannabis.
On March 10, he appeared at the Mahaicony Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate A. Wilson, where the charge was read to him.
Bail was granted to the tune of $50,000 subsequent to a not guilty plea, and the matter was adjourned to March 31, 2026.
From page 2 Right Thing” campaign (https://moha.gov.gy/ministry-of-home-affairs) and add our voice to this urgent matter. The Methodist Church in Guyana affirms that life is sacred, divinely given, and upheld across major religions.”
According to the church “as we journey through Lent—a season of reflection, repentance, and renewal—we are reminded that Christ came so we might have life in its
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fullness (John 10:10). Reckless behaviour on our roads is not merely a violation of law but a moral and spiritual concern.
The present disregard for diligence and sobriety on our roads stands in stark contrast to the commendable values of care, caution, consideration, common sense, and courtesy, which underpin the training of prospective motorists in Guyana.
Scripture teaches that we are stewards of life (Genesis 2:15; 1Corinthians 6:19–20), and to drive recklessly is to disregard both our own safety and the lives of our neighbours (Mark 12:31). Operating vehicles while impaired or refusing protective measures neglects wisdom (Proverbs 22:3).”
The church said Lent calls
“us to turn from harmful habits toward discipline, selfcontrol, and love of neighbour (Galatians 5:22–23). Choosing to drive responsibly is a profound act of love and witness. We must not normalise recklessness or dismiss preventable deaths as “accidents.”
“We therefore call upon: drivers, riders, and pedestrians to show courtesy, patience, and restraint; motorcyclists and pillion riders to wear helmets; motorists to respect capacity limits and speed limits; all road users to reject alcohol-impaired driving and texting while driving; parents and guardians to model responsible behaviour and authorities to enforce lifeprotecting laws firmly.”
According to the church during this Lenten season, “may our fasting include ab-
staining from recklessness, our repentance turning from dangerous habits, and our sacrifice surrendering speed, pride, rage, and impatience. Let us honour life, and in doing so, honour the Divine who gives life to all,” the statement concluded.
Also adding her voice to the issue, former government minister, Annette Ferguson said: “It is heartbreaking when families are suddenly thrown into shock and grief after losing loved ones to road tragedies.
As a road user, I witness daily the reckless and careless behaviour of many motorists.
Many drivers appear clueless about how to properly use the so-called “roundabouts.” I often refer to them as circles, since many
lack proper lane demarcations for changing lanes. A typical example is the Jaguar Circle. When traveling southbound on the eastern carriageway and attempting to head west onto Haags Bosch Road, one can observe the chaos. Vehicles on the southern carriageway heading northbound rarely wait or give way to traffic already in the circle. It is madness,” she said. She said too the large trucks, driven by both nationals and non-nationals, who behave as though the road is the Dakota Circuit also contribute to the road chaos. “They show little regard for the safety of others. It is time for the authorities to adopt a comprehensive approach to dealing with these reckless and noncompliant drivers.”
From page 8 imprisonment with possibility of parole. In examining the evidence, the court identified several aggravating factors, including that the killings were gang-related, high-powered weapons were used, and the attacks were premeditated.
The court also noted that the gang invaded victims’ homes, acted out of greed, and displayed a wanton disregard for human life, killing men, women and children. Although Caesar claimed he did not personally shoot anyone, the court noted that he admitted entering homes during the attack while others were firing shots. As a result, the court ruled that Caesar would serve life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 30 years for each
of the eight counts related to the Lusignan killings. Those sentences will run concurrently.
For the Bartica killings, Caesar was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 40 years on each count, also to run concurrently. Justice Barlow noted that the Bartica massacre was the second known set of killings involving Caesar. “This court believes that despite whatever happened in the past, this appellant continued with this callous disregard for life, limb and the property of others,” she said. In relation to Reece, the judge said the aggravating factors were similar, although there was no evidence that he personally shot anyone. However, the court found that he played a key role in the
gang’s activities. “Even though there is no evidence that Reece fired a gun or carried a gun, the evidence is that he provided a vital service for the gang, which is transportation,” Justice Barlow said.
She added that Reece was aware of the gang’s criminal activities. “The Bartica killings were not the first killings by the gang. Given these circumstances a harsh sentence is warranted,” she said.
Reece was sentenced to life imprisonment on each of the 12 counts. However, the judge acknowledged his expressions of remorse. “Reece is sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 26 years on each of the 12 counts. The sentences will run concurrently and will run from November 18, 2016, the date on
which he was sentenced in the High Court,” the judge ruled. On January 26, 2004, the men were involved in the Lusignan massacre, one of the most brutal killings in Guyana’s history. During that attack, 11 people between the ages of four and 52 were shot and killed in their homes. Later, on February 17, 2008, the gunmen attacked Bartica, firing at police officers at the Bartica Police Station and elsewhere in the community. The gang eventually fled using a boat moored at the Bartica Stelling. Before leaving, one of the gunmen opened fire on passengers at the stelling, ordering them to lie face down before escaping. Twelve people were killed that day, including three members of the Guyana Police Force.
From page 15 and regulatory systems have also been introduced in the past four years to strengthen oversight of transplant services. Hospitals must meet strict standards before they can be licensed to perform procedures.
Currently, the Georgetown
Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is the only hospital licensed to carry out kidney transplants.
The ministry is working with other institutions to ensure they meet the required standards.
Minister Anthony added that the government intends to expand specialised ser-
vices beyond the capital to regional hospitals as the health system continues to develop.
Globally, kidney disease affects one in ten people, with roughly 800 million living with the condition.
Experts warn it could become the fifth leading cause of death by 2040. While four
million people currently require dialysis or transplantation, access remains limited. This growing burden prompted the World Health Organisation (WHO) to prioritise kidney disease as an urgent global health concern at last year’s 78th World Health Assembly. (DPI)
The Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation is seeking bids for the rehabilitationoftheViewing Gallery at the Cheddi Jagan InternationalAirport(CJIA), Timehri.
According to an invitationforbidspublished
in this newspaper Wednesday edition, the ministry also plans to rehabilitate the presidential loungeattheairport.
In addition to that, the ministry is seeking the “Lot 1:Supplyandinstallationof 1000Aparallelsupplyinthe DGR power to the new HVAC system in the Commercial Building, Lot2 Power to the Ground Floor Concession in the Existing CommercialBuilding.”
Bids for these projects areexpectedtoopenonApril 2, 2026 at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).
This publication understands that the gallery was traditionally an area at theairportwherefamilyand
friendsoftravelerswouldsit and wait to view them boardingtheplanes.
CJIA currently does not have a viewing gallery and this has been the case since the expansion project began afewyearsago.
It was reported that the contract for the airport expansion project was signed in 2011, under President Bharrat Jagdeo’s tenure, with China Harbour a n d E n g i n e e r i n g Corporation(CHEC).
T h e J a g d e o - l e d administration acquired a US$138 million loan from the China Exim Bank, and usedUS$12millionfromthe Consolidated Fund (taxpayers’ money) for the total project cost of US$150 million. Jagdeo said that the US$150 million contract wassignedwithCHECfora new airport. However, he said it was the coalition government that made changes which resulted in it being a rehabilitation project.
According to reports, upon assuming office in
2015, the David Granger administration deemed the airport plan defective, necessitatingadjustments.
Subsequently, in August 2020, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill expressed dissatisfaction withthecontractor’swork.
C o n s e q u e n t l y , negotiations resulted in additional works being undertaken by CHEC at no extra cost to Guyana. These enhancements included a
superstructure, corridor, and curtain wall While the U S $ 1 5 0 m i l l i o n rehabilitation works by CHECiscomplete,thePPPadministration has substantially increased s p e n d i n g f o r t h e modernisationoftheairport, albeit falling below international standards and expectations.
Part of the additional workbythePPPgovernment included the construction of
Two weeks after survivingabrutal knife attack that left her with more than 25 stab wounds, 15-year-old Tiana Chapman was on Tuesday discharged from the New Amsterdam HospitalinBerbice.
The teenager, who had been fighting for her life in thehospital’sIntensiveCare Unit (ICU), is now able to walk again; a recovery her family describes as nothing shortofmiraculous.
Chapman’s mother, Adisea Andrews, 37, told Kaieteur News she was relieved that her daughter survivedtheviciousassault.
While earlier reports indicatedthatChapmanhad sustained 25 stab wounds, Andrews said the number wasactuallyhigher
The attack occurred on February 24 when 28-yearold Christopher Ali, the teen’s former boyfriend and the father of her child, allegedlyambushedherata friend’s home not far from herown.
Accordingtoreports,the man cornered the teenager
and repeatedly stabbed her before leaving her slumped inachair,severelywounded and bleeding. He then fled thescene.
Forseveraldaysafterthe attack, Chapman remained onanoxygenmachineinthe ICU as doctors worked to stabilise her condition.
Despite the severity of her injuries, she began showing remarkable signs of recovery
On Tuesday, Kaieteur Newsspokebrieflywiththe teenasshepreparedtoleave thehospital.
Thoughshestillshowed signsofdiscomfortfromthe numerous wounds, Chapman appeared in good spiritsandspokeclearly Where she had once been confined to a hospital bed, unable to move freely, s h e n o w w a l k e d independently Her body stillbearsnumerousstitches andstaplesusedtoclosethe wounds inflicted during the attack.
Reflectingbrieflyonthe incident, Chapman said the attackhappenedsuddenly Chapman, the third of
seven children, had grown up in the same community asthesuspect.
Her mother said the two had known each other since childhood, as is common in close-knitcommunities.
However, Andrews stressed that she never approved of any romantic involvement between her daughterandtheolderman.
“How I could ever want thattohappenwhenTianais a child?” Andrews said “That boy grow up right here in this community Everybodyknoweverybody from childhood… but you can’tknowapersonmind.If people did know a person mind, she woulda know he wouldaboreshe.”
Chapmanwillturn16in May Her son, Javed Chapman,isjusttenmonths old.
Andrews explained that when the attack occurred shewasworkingasacookat a mining camp in the Mazaruni. Because of low tides, she was unable to travel immediately and did not reach the hospital until thefollowingFriday
“I never abandoned my children,”thesinglemother said, defending herself against criticism she has receivedsincetheincident.
Sheexplainedthatwhen she travels to work in the interior she ensures that her childrenareprovidedfor.
“I never leave them hungry WhenIleavetogo andworkinthebackdam,I leave money and ration in the house,” she said. “I tell Tiana, ‘Mama, anything y’all short of, you gon’ go and get the money and buy it.’AnybodywhosayIleave my children undone is a liar.”
A n d r e w s a l s o dismissed claims that she supported the relationship between her daughter and Ali.
She said there was a time when she called the police after he lingered at theirhomelateatnight.
However, she claimed the officers’ response allowed him to escape throughthebackyard.
Ali remains at large as police in Berbice continue theirsearchforhim
a new commercial centre, VIP lounge, upgraded tarmac or aircraft parking areas, administrative office, and an improved baggage handlingfacility
In addition, last year, governmentturnedthesod for the construction of a second arrival terminal at theairport Terminal2will feature business lounges, expanded concessions, and facilities to handle the increasingglobaldemand.
upgrades at the airport
and
Minister Edghill noted they were all strategic steps preparingGuyanatobecome amajoraviationhub.
budgeted $3.6 billion towards the CJIA to facilitateseveralprojects..
Thebodyofoneof the two crew members who went missing after a tanker barge transporting molasses sankearlyMondaymorning approximately 9.5 nautical milesoffBuxtonontheEast Coast of Demerara was recoveredonWednesday
Relatives of 22-year-old RavindraBissoondyalbetter known as “Videsh” identified his body after it was retrieved. His fellow crew member, Gregory Singh,52isyettobefound. Kaieteur News was told on Monday that Bissoondyal had contacted his mother before disappearing with sinking barge. His last words to her before going missing were, “I am on the barge and it is sinking,”
Bissoondyal reportedly told hismother
According to the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), the TRADER III reportedly went down around 01:00hrs whiletransportingacargoof molasses from Berbice to Georgetown.
MARAD said it received a distress signal about the incident and immediately activated emergency response operations to search for the missing crew members MARAD’s Emergency Operations Coordinator, Captain John Flores, is leading the search and rescue effort with support from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard andthevessel’sowner
Donald Trump has said that the war with Iran may end “soon” because there is “practicallynothingleft”for theUnitedStatesmilitaryto bomb.
In an interview with AxiosonWednesday,theUS presidentemphasisedthathe canmakethedecisiontostop the fighting whenever he likes.
“Any time I want it to end,itwillend,”Trumpwas quotedassaying.
His statement coincided with comments from Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, suggesting that the timelineforendingthewaris open-ended.
“The operation will continue without any time limit, as long as required, until we accomplish all objectives and achieve victory in the campaign,” Katz said, according to The TimesofIsrael.
In his remarks to Axios, Trump reiterated his view that the war is proceeding aheadofschedule.
“The war is going great. We are way ahead of the timetable. We have done more damage than we thoughtpossible,eveninthe original six-week period,”
Trumpsaid.
The US president has r e p e a t e d l y m a d e pronouncements about the war ending soon, but Washington has not providedacleartimelinefor concluding the military offensive.
Itisalsounclearwhether
People in Tehran attend a funeral ceremony for Iranian military commanders killed in US-Israeli strikes, March 11 [File: Majid Asgaripour/WANA via Reuters]
Tehran would abide by a ceasefire announced solely bytheUS.IranianPresident Masoud Pezeshkian laid out on Wednesday Tehran’s conditions for ending the w a r , i n c l u d i n g compensation for the USIsraeli assault and “firm” internationalguaranteesthat Iran would not be attacked again.
On Tuesday, the news outletCNBCaskedTrump’s envoySteveWitkoffhowthe war may end. He said, “I don’tknow.”
TrumptoldTheTimesof Israel earlier this week that ending the war would be a “mutual” decision with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that the US would not pull out of the operationunilaterally
Hormuzwarning
Officials in the Trump administration have been boasting about the war efforts, stressing daily that Iran is receiving heavy blows and that its military capabilitiesarereceding.
The US and Israel have launched thousands of bombsagainstIran,killingat least1,300people.
Still, Tehran has continued to fire drones and missilesagainstIsrael,while also targeting US assets across the Middle East as well as energy and civilian sitesintheGulfregion.
Despite Trump’s repeated threats, Iran has also managed to keep the StraitofHormuzlargelyshut to commercial shipping, disruptingtheflowofoilout of the region. The blockade
has sent oil prices soaring and spread economic uncertaintyacrosstheworld.
Earlierthisweek,Trump warned Iran of “death, fire and fury” if it continues to blockshipsinHormuz.
ButonWednesday,three vessels were attacked near thestrait.
Past statements by Trump about opening Hormuz and ending the war have calmed economic markets and brought down oil prices, but only temporarily
Trump previously suggested that the US Navy mayaccompanycommercial ships through Hormuz, but the Iranian military said it would“welcome”themove, suggestingthatitisprepared to attack US troops in the waterway
On Tuesday, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright wrote on the social media platformXthattheUSNavy had escorted an oil ship through Hormuz, then quicklydeletedthepost.The White House subsequently confirmedthattheclaimwas not true. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi lateraccusedUSofficialsof “posting fake news to manipulatemarkets”.
On Wednesday, the US militarycalledonIraniansto stay away from ports near thestrait.
“Iranian dockworkers, administrative personnel, and commercial vessel crews should avoid Iranian naval vessels and military equipment, ”
Command,whichfocuseson the Middle East, said in a statement.
“Iranian naval forces have positioned military vessels and equipment within civilian ports serving commercial maritime traffic.”
Warobjectives
Trump initially said that his aim was to bring “freedom” to the Iranian people. But as the ruling system in Iran showed no signs of collapsing, US officials have articulated other goals for the campaign: destroying Iran’s nuclear, missile and drone programmes as well as the country’snavy
Trump’s aides have repeatedly said that the US
president alone will decide when these objectives are met.
Last week, Iran’s Assembly of Experts chose Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the opening US-Israeli strikes on February28.
Thedecisionwasseento proclaim Iran’s defiance of the US. Trump had opposed the younger Khamenei’s selection as leader, and he had repeatedly asserted that the US must have a role in shapingIran’sgovernment.
Asked on Wednesday whether he could declare victory against Iran while Mojtaba Khamenei is in charge,Trumpsaid,“Idon’t wanttocommentonthat.”
With the Iranian regime stillintact,somecriticshave questioned what the US would do, should Tehran rebuild its military capabilitiesafterthewar
After a classified briefing with administration officials on Tuesday, Democratic Senator Chris Murphysaidthatthegoalof the war appears to be “destroying lots of missiles and boats and drone factories”.
“But the question that stumped them: What happens when you stop bombing and they restart production?” Murphy wrote onX.
“They hinted at more bombing Which is, of course,endlesswar.”
The family of popular tourist guide, Leon Bairdcalled‘Rasta’whowas murdered in January in the RupununiSavannah,Region Nine, is proceeding with a secondautopsy.
Aclose relative of Baird told Kaieteur News on Wednesday that the autopsy willbeconductedinLethem by a pathologist from Trinidad and Tobago on Monday
Asked the reason for a second post mortem examination, the relative said the family is “not satisfied” with the first one thatwasdone.
As part of the police
investigation into his death, government pathologist, Dr NehaulSinghgavethecause of death as burns and indicatedthatthevictimwas alivepriortothefire.
The relative said the family has been “hearing a lot of things” surrounding Baird’sdeath. Itisbelieved that the second autopsy will bringclaritytothelingering questions.
The family member added that based on the results, they would know how to move forward with the case or proceed with the burial.
Kaieteur News had reportedthatthe49-year-old community relations officer
ofRegionNinewascharged with the murder of the Rupununitouristguide.
The accused, Ken Faria of Culvert City, Central Rupununi, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty where the charge was read to him. Faria was remanded to prison and is expected to returntocourtonMarch31, 2026.
It was reported that Baird’sbodywasdiscovered onJanuary25,2026between Wichabai Ranch and Sand Creek Village He was reported missing two days earlier after leaving the Wichabai Ranch where he
lived and worked as a caretaker
Baird’s colleagues disclosed that before his deathsomeoftheanimalshe cared for on the ranch went missing. As a result, they suspectthatonJanuary23he leftinsearchoftheanimals.
Further, the deceased’s colleagues told Kaieteur Newsthatcattlerustlinghas been a major issue for years and the matter was reported to the police on numerous occasions.
“This rustling thing has been going on down here in the Rupununi for so many years and so many reports havebeenmadetothepolice from ranches not just our
ranch, villages, individuals and from the South Rupununi District Council for years, about the same peoplewhoaregoingaround and killing animals and sellingthemeattoLethem,” one of Baird’s colleagues explained.
Additionally, Kaieteur News was told that Baird was threatened by persons suspectedtoberustlers.
The Guyana Police
Force (GPF) in a statement dated January 30, noted that investigators discovered the remainsoftwocowscloseto where Baird’s body was recovered.Itissuspectedthe animalswereshot.
“Items of evidential value, including a knife and spent shotgun shells, were recoveredandlodgedaspart of ongoing examinations,” the police said in a statement.
The Caribbean has been handed a crude test: stand by a health programme that saves lives or bow to the threat of losing a United States visa. To their credit, leaders like Mia Mottley, Keith Rowley and Ralph Gonsalves answered with backbone. They made it clear that their citizens’ health is worth more than travel privileges.
Guyana, however, has responded with an uncomfortable silence. The quiet collapse of the Cuban medical programme raises troubling questions about whether pressure from Washington has already achieved its goal.
For decades, Cuban doctors have filled vital gaps across the region. Their work has meant surgeries performed, clinics staffed and lives saved.
If Guyana has stepped back because of visa threats, that would be a poor bargain. Sovereignty should never be traded for convenience. A visa is a privilege; national dignity and public health are not.
“Welcome to the
F u t u r e ” I n s y n c Therapeutics in partnership withitscorporatepartnersis proud to announce the launchofitsinauguralSpeed Camp, a high-performance training initiative designed for footballers seeking to improvespeed,acceleration, and overall athletic performance. The three-day
camp will take place at the National Training Centre from Friday 13th to Sunday 15th, running daily from 10:00AMto12:00Noon.
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
You'll find that things are slipping nicely into place for you today, Aries Your persuasivemannerandgentle nudges are just enough to get peoplewhereyouwantthem.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
When faced with ten entrees onthemenu,itmightbehard for you to choose just one. Feelfreetoordertwoormore, Ta u r u s D o n ' t l e t indecisiveness slow you down.Atthesametime.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Your dreams won't come true unless you believe in and act onthem,Gemini.Nooneelse is going to do it for you. Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take mattersintoyourownhands.
CANCER(June21–July22)
If people hassle you or give you a hard time about your appearance today, pay them nomind,Cancer Youhavethe righttoliveyourlifeanyway youwantto.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Reachforthepotofgoldatthe end of the rainbow, Leo. It's closerthanyouthink.Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach, and there are huge forces at work helping you achieve your goals.
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
Today is your day to dream and dream big, Virgo. Think aboutwhatitisthatyouwant most out of life. Aim your arrow to the stars and pull back your bow as far as possible. There's no limit to howfaryoucango.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra.
There's an
edible opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm.Followthemusic.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov.21)
Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Scorpio, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you'll find that you can use this feeling of fantasy to your advantage. Try to bring moremagicintoyourlife.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)
Today is an excellent day for you,oneinwhichyou'llfinda great deal of strength in your emotions, Sagittarius Trust that your instincts are serving youwell.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Things might get a bit confusing for you today, Capricorn. Don't feel like you needtomakesenseofitall.In fact, this task may be impossible. Just be yourself. Let your creative nature shine through.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Mixyourrealitywithabit of fantasy today, Aquarius. Allowyourfeettocomeoffthe ground for a little while. Give yourselfarest.Takesometime to meditate and clear your mindofyourdailyworries.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Let yourself go into high creative mode and drift into a whole other world, Pisces. Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through any sort of artistic endeavor Dreamasbigasyour mindallows.
Speed is one of the most decisiveattributesinmodern football. However, it is not merely an inherent trait—it isatrainableskillthatcanbe developed through targeted strength and conditioning, improved sprint mechanics, and neuromuscular training. TheInsyncSpeedCampwill introduceselectedathletesto evidence-basedperformance methods commonly used in elite sport environments to enhance acceleration, explosive power, and sprint efficiency
Throughout the camp, athletes will participate in s t r u c t u r e d d r i l l s , biomechanical analysis, and performance testing designed to improve how they produce force, accelerate, and move efficiently on the field Participants will also gain exposure to modern sports performance technologies usedinprofessionalfootball to assess and monitor athleticdevelopment.
According to the organizing team at InSync Therapeutics led by current Lady Jaguars Team Physiotherapist, Natisha Mokutnauth and Managing Director Neil Barry- “This initiative represents an important step toward introducing structured highperformance methodologies tolocalfootballers,”.
“ B y c o m b i n i n g physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and objective performancetesting,weaim to give athletes the tools to better understand and develop their physical capabilities.”
The Speed Camp will host a small, selected group of footballers to ensure a f o c u s e d t r a i n i n g environment where athletes can receive individualized feedback and coaching. The camp also features exciting Nutrition, Recovery and Hydration stations, powered by Deja Brew Cafe, Gateau Catering and Rainforest Water
Through initiatives such as the Speed Camp, Insync Therapeutics continues to promote the integration of sports medicine, strength
and conditioning, and applied sports science to support the development of competitivesportinGuyana.
T
welcomely supported by
Ascorching halfcentury from Andrew Lyght
Jr guided Headquarters to a commanding 7-wicket victory over Region #5 in yesterday’s opening match of the Commissioner of PoliceT20Cup,playedatthe Police Sports Club Ground, EveLeary Batting first, Region #5 got to 147 for 9 from their allotted20overswithTrevon
Action in yesterday’s opening round between Headquarters and Region #5.
Charles spanking 39 with two fours and three sixes, whileGriseanGrantchipped inwithout22(4x42x6).
Headquarters bowling was led by Ameer Mohammed who snared 316 from 4 overs, while Kanha
bagged 2-36 runs from his 4 overs. In reply, Headquarters a
w lawmen by reaching 150 for 3 in 14 3 overs, after a devastating knock from Lyght who smashed 82 from39balls,with12fours and3maximums. Former West Indies o p e n e r S e w n a r i n e
Chattergoon stroked a classy 34 runs, which featured four fours and one six, to help support Lyght who finished unbeaten
Led by a classy fiftyfromKevlon Anderson, the Presidential Guards sped to an easy 7-wicket victory over the GPF Academy when Round One wrapped u p i n t h e 2 0 2 6 CommissionerofPoliceT20 Cup played at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary
Batting first, GPF Academy made a modest 127 for 9 from their allotted 20 overs, with middle-order batsman Chaitram Rajroop (31)andopenerJulianCraig contributed (18) leading the scoring.
Presidential Guard’s bowling was led by Mark Jeffers who raked in figuresof3-18withStarof the match Anderson bagging3-30
The Guyana Harpy Eagles middle-order batsman Anderson then dug in for his top score of 59 which was enough to see his team to 129-3 in17 overs. Action continues today with the Regional Police Division #10 playing the Regional PoliceDivision#3inGame 1from09:30hrs
The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) is pleased to announce a pool of players selected for a series of practice matches under the Guyana Harpy Eagles programme as preparations intensify for the upcoming regionalseason.
The programme forms part of the Board’s strategic preparation for the next edition of the West Indies Championship, with the selected players given the opportunity to showcase their readiness for possible selection to the Guyana HarpyEaglesseniorteam.
The players selected for the preparation matches are Tevin Imlach, Veerasammy Permaul, Raymond Perez, Kemol Savory, Kevlon Anderson, Nial Smith, Isai
Thorne, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Matthew
Nandu,SylusTyndall,Junior Sinclair,JonathanVanLange, Richie Looknauth, Antony Adams, Brandon Jaikaran, Keemo Paul, Mavendra Dindyal,ZeynulRamsammy, Thaddeus Lovell, Shamar Apple, Golcharran Chulai, Afraz Ali Budhoo, Tomanni Ceasar, Sachin Balgobin, Chanderpaul Ramraj, Micah Amsterdam, Darwin Joseph, Navindra Persaud, Yudestir Persaud, Kevin Sinclair, NityanandMathura
The Board further advises that Kevin Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson, VeerasammyPermaul,Afraz Ali Budhoo, Sylus Tyndall willjointhesquadfollowing the completion of their commitments in the Berbice Cricket Board Two-Day Final scheduled for this weekend.
Junior Sinclair will join the squad upon recovery
same venue.The preparation matchesalsoformpartofthe Guyana Harpy Eagles’ build-up for a three-match bilateral series against the Windward Islands Volcanoes in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines under a new competition structure confirmed by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Thursday, March5,2026.
from an injury sustained recently
In the interim, Aryan Persaud, Bruce Vincent, Joshua Jones, Richard Ramdeholl will replace the aforementioned players duringtheinitialphaseofthe preparationmatches.
A total of three practice matches will be played as part of the preparation programme.
Matcheswillbeplayedat Everest Cricket Club Ground and Georgetown Cricket Club Ground, with all matches scheduled to bowloffat9:30hours.
The first match will be played from March 12 to 14 atEverest.
Thesecondmatchwillbe played from March 17 to 19 at the Georgetown Cricket ClubGround,Bourda,while the third match is scheduled for March 22 to 24 at the
The 2026 Cricket
West Indies (CWI) Regional 4-Day Tournament will feature this season’s competitionbeingresizedto ashorterversion,withfewer teams with action bowling offfromApril12.
What was dubbed as a “newcompetitionstructure” by the CWI last week, the morecompactversionofthe competition is a result of financial challenges faced byCWI. The financial hurdles havesomewhatforcedCWI to scale back a few of their regular teams like the West IndiesAcademy (WIA) and the veteran Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) unit, which have beenunfortunatelycutfrom this year’s tournament; resulting in players from bothteamsreturningtotheir respectivehomefranchises.
which in turn reduce cross Caribbean travel, with possibilitiesofevenhosting theentiretournamentwithin a single country; which further plays into the costcuttingmeasures.
Whiletheoldermodelof the tournament was basically being a straight shootout among franchises withtheteamfinishingwith the most points being crowned champs, the 2026 version will see a change fromthepreviousseasons. CWIhavealsosoughtto tighten the playing venues
Despite the CWI rolling out this new structure in a bid to revamp their current financial state, measures to expand the regional basin across all levels, coupled with a reinforced sports science department which aims to address any grey areas as West Indies cricket continues to grow (CliftonRoss)
It is finally here, the long-awaited East Bank Inter-Village Football Tournament is set to kickoff this Saturday with a double header, at the Eccles EE CommunityCentreground. However, preceding the start of on-field action there willbeaGrassrootsFestival, before the March Past of all
twelve (12) participating teamsat17:00hrs.
Organised by Sports Extra, all the ‘big’names in the sport from communities located on the East Bank of Demerara and the Soesdyke Linden Highway have confirmedtheirparticipation and fans could expect riveting clashes throughout
thecompetition.
According to a release from the Organisers, the teams have been placed into four groups of three with Agricola, Kuru Kururu and Mocha making up GroupA, while Group B consists of Herstelling, Lower SoesdykeandSwan.
GroupCcontainsGrove, Circuitville and Upper Soesdyke, while Timehri, KanevilleandFriendshipare stationedinGroupD.
Intheopeningencounter Kuru Kururu go up against Agricola in what many pundits believe will be a grueling contest and this clash will be followed by Herstelling colliding with LowerSoesdyke.
Sports Extra’s Franklin Wilson in comments about the staging of the
tournament, said that the communities along the East Bank and Soesdyke Linden Highway corridors have been starved of organised football for quite some time and this Festival aims to serveasastimulustogetthe sport playing once again amongthevariousvillages. He pointed to the Government’s vision for a ‘One Guyana’ as added incentive to boost the relationships among the teams and community by
extension,addingitcanalso serve as talent spotting and much needed economic activities.
The tournament carries cash prizes and trophies totalingmorethan$3million along with prizes for outstanding individual performances.
The first prize set at $1million, while 2nd, 3rd and4thprizesare$500,000, $250,000 and $150,000 respectively along with individualaccoladesforBest
Most Valuable Player and Highest
Goalscorer
Thecompetitionresumes the following day with another doubleheader at the same venue. In the opening game, Grove take on Circuitville from 17:00hrs and this will be followed by the feature clash between TimehriandKaneville.
F a n s f r o m t h e participating communities are being urged to come out andrepresenttheirstars.
ArcheryGuyanaisproud toannounceitsparticipation in the IV South American YouthGamesPanama2026, where two promising young athletes will represent the Golden Arrowhead in the sportofarchery
Guyana will be represented by Brandon Cummings in the Individual Recurve category and Ravish Singh in the Individual Compound category Both athleteshavebeenengagedin an intensive training programme under the guidance of World Archery Level2CertifiedCoachRyan McKinnon, who will accompany the athletes to Panama to provide technical support and mentorship throughouttheGames
The archery competition isscheduledforApril15–18, 2026,andwillbeheldatthe Estadio de Tiro con Arco at theCiudadDeportivaIrving SaladinoinPanamaCity
TheGamesareexpectedto bringtogethermorethan1,500 athletes from 15 National Olympic Committees of the Organización Deportiva Suramericana (ODESUR), representing countries including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, Suriname, and host nation
Panama,amongothers These Gamesserveasamajormultisportplatformfortheregion’s emerging athletes and promote excellence, friendship, and the Olympic spirit. In preparation for the event,CummingsandSingh have been undertaking focused training sessions aimed at sharpening their technical execution, mental focus, and competition readiness. Their preparation reflects Archery Guyana’s continued commitment to developing athletes capable of competing at the highest regional and international levels.
The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana also wishes to express its sincere appreciation to President Godfrey Munroe and the Executive Committee of the G u y a n a O l y m p i c
Associationfortheirsupport in facilitating the country’s participation in these Games The Association looks forward to travelling alo
l represent Guyana and proudly showcasing the nation’s talent on the internationalstage.
Logistical preparations for the delegation are currently being coordinated with Chef-de-Mission Ms. Carolyn Garraway, as final arrangements are made to ensure the athletes are well supported throughout the competition.
ArcheryGuyanaextends its best wishes to Brandon Cummings and Ravish Singh as they prepare to compete and represent Guyana with pride in Panama.
The2026editionof the Ministry of E d u c a t i o n (MOE) National Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships official commencedyesterdayatthe National Track and Field Facility in Edinburgh, West CoastDemerara.
Followingthemarchpast and torch lighting, which commenced the opening programme, several Government dignitaries addressed the athletes from over 130 schools, urging them to put their best foot forward when the opportunityarises.
Yesterday’s morning session set the stage for a thrillingsetofshowdownsin the afternoon. The 100m
preliminaries were the first set of races to take centre stagefollowedbythe1500m finales.TheDiscusandHigh Jump events in a few age g r o u p s w e r e r u n simultaneously Morning session1500Mevents
Thesewerethefirstsetof finals to be contested
Stewartville’s Areanna Bart (5:32.25s) won the Girls’ Under-15 event ahead of Bartica’s Shanally Russell (5:35 73s) and South Ruimveldt’s Alyse Jacobs (5:36.59s), while Zeeburg’s Akroy Desantos (4:44.98s) wontheBoys’eventaheadof SandCreek’sLovellBernard (4:51 35s) and Dolphin’s EdenanHercules(4:52.42s) In the Girls’ U17 event,
New Silver City’s Nadia Williams (5:24.95s) copped Gold ahead of Zeeburg’s Ayesha Austin (5:44 31s)
(5:53 32s) of Mahaicony For the Boys, Corey Speede (4:32.68s) of Tutorial High narrowly claimed victory ahead of Bryson McBean
The athletes lined up to take the opening address of the
( 4 : 3 2 6 9 s ) o f Christianburg/Wismar with Keiron Hamilton of Corentyne finishing third withatimeof4:42.40s. Th e G ir ls ’ U 2 0 showdown was won by Adanya Glen (5:11.12s) of North Georgetown, while EstherMcKinnon(5:21.94s) of Uitvlugt was second and Christianburg/Wismar’s AkilaButcherwasthirdina timeof5:38.72s.
McKenzie High’s Ebo McNeil (4:17.36s) won the Boys’ U20 battle, while Jonathan Bristol (4:34.35s) and Jamain Favourite (4:37.71s) of GTI and New Central High, were second andthird,respectively
Afternoon Session –100Mevents
The afternoon session was heated as well with all the 100m finals lined up, before the start of the 400m and 4x400m Prelims, which endedthedayonthetrack.
Onesi Dunn of Chase’s Academic Foundation and Nyoscie Wright of New Amsterdam Multilateral claimed the titles of fastest on the track following their triumphs in the Boys and Girls U20 100m finals, respectively Dunn clocked 10.58s to beat Ezekiel Millington (10.61s - Mahaicony) and GordonThompson(10.62s–McKenzie to the Gold. For the Women, Wright clocked 12.74s ahead of Leanna Fraser (13.30s – MTVTC) and Malia Primo (13.79s –NorthGT).
Omari Welch (10.93s), Malique Kendall (10.95s) and Davian Hutson (11.01s)
secured medals for Corentyne, Soesdyke and TutorialHighintheorderin the Boys U17 event. For the
Girls U17, Angel Jeffery (12.05s – C/W) won, while Quinyla Burnett (12.45s –Mah)wassecondandShania Thompson 12 48s –Bishop’s)wasthird.
The U15s began the 100m battles in both sessions C/W’s Tesianna Harris was the first to cop Goldforthesprinterswitha timeof12.03s,whileGolden Grove’s Kasia Batson (12.94s)finishedsecondand South Ruimveldt’s Alysa Jacobs finished third with a timeof13.07s.
IntheBoys’U15,Jumeel Corenette of Covent Garden ran 11.13s to finish first, while Corentyne’s Ajani Rock (11.74s) was second and President’s College’s Nyron Holder (11.83s) was third.
FieldEvents
Wins in the field in the morning session were secured by Charlestown’s Shanea Moore (U15 Girls’ Discus – 24 56m), St Stanislaus’ Kaiyra Scott (U17 Girls’ High Jump –1.43m), Tutorial’s Rondel Thomas (U15 Discus –24 79m), C/W’s Kelerah Peters (U15 Girls’ High Jump – 1.36m), Guysuco
Training’s Emmon Goodluck (U20 Boys’ Discus – 35 82m) The remainder of results from DayOnewillbeprovidedin tomorrow’sissue.
Today the action resumes at the same venue from 9:00hrs with 800m finals and 200m prelims billed for the morning session while the afternoon session will feature the 4x400m finals and 4x100m prelims Tomorrow, March 13, the 3-day championship culminates
Onesi Dunn won the Boys U20 100m final out of lane 5 (Photo: MoE)
Cricket West Indies Regional 4-Day Tournament this season has been resized to a shorter version startingApril 12. shorter
