K
Thursday Edition
U.S.-Iran strikes NEWS raise fears of renewed war across the Middle East AIETEUR
September 03, 2026 - Vol. 19 No. 36 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $200 readership yesterday, 41,220
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
AFC demands full breakdown of Stabroek Block expenses ...raises questions over 39.8% profit share announced by Pres. Ali
Cops destroy over $22.8M in $1.6M worth of copper ganja at Canje Creek cable stolen from
Demerara River bridge New La Penitence Market to cost at least $1.1 billion Police set ablaze some $22.8M worth of ganja during an eradication exercise in Canje Creek.
Barima COI opens
- 51 contractors submit bids for project
DPP seeks removal of judge in Haresh Singh murder case
…as salvage questions linger - alleges bias, as …survivors, families, public urged to defence brands motion “despicable” come forward ahead of public hearings and “malicious”
Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif
PAGE 02
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
PAGE 03
Barima COI opens
…as salvage questions linger
…survivors, families, public urged to come forward ahead of hearings The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the disastrous capsizing and sinking of the M/V Barima has formally opened its doors to the public, inviting survivors, victims’ families, civil society and others with relevant information to submit evidence as preparations intensify for public hearings later this month. However, while the fivemember commission has reported significant progress in establishing its procedures, securing a venue and gathering technical and witness information, there was no update in its latest statement on the government’s separate efforts to salvage the 87-year-old vessel from the seabed. The commission, established by President Irfaan Ali under Section 2 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, Chapter 19:03, is chaired by Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith and includes Commissioners Dr. Andrzej Jasionowski, Captain Hamada Fouda, Nyree Dawn Alfonso and Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Hayden Pritchard. According to a public notice issued by Commission Secretary Javed Shadick, the inquiry is mandated to conduct a “thorough, independent, impartial and comprehensive public inquiry” into the circumstances surrounding the capsizing and sinking of the M/V Barima, the loss of life, the response to the disaster and all matters reasonably connected to it. The commission said its work will go beyond determining the immediate technical causes of the disaster, extending to issues of public accountability, institutional performance and possible reforms. It is expected to establish the full sequence of events and determine the direct, contributing and systemic causes of the tragedy, while its technical investigation will take account of international standards, including the casualty investigation code. In an update issued on Wednesday, the commission said that since the commissioners were appointed and sworn in on July 30, it has conducted an initial in-person survey of the accident scene, secured the Arthur Chung Conference Centre at Liliendaal for public hearings and established its secretariat. It is also acquiring and conducting preliminary analysis of information relating to the vessel’s seaworthiness, voyage conditions and crew operations. Records have been requested from key agencies, including the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), the Transport and Harbours Division, the Guyana Coast Guard and the air guard. The secretariat is simultaneously compiling witness
Justice Godfrey Smith, Chairman of the C0I lists, drafting rules of procedure and developing a dedicated website through which official records and information will be made available to the public. The commission said the rules are being developed to ensure that the proceedings remain “open to all, transparent, orderly, fair and effective.” It has urged anyone with relevant information, d o c u m e n t a t i o n o r recommendations to contact the secretariat at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, or via presidentialcommissiongy@gmail .com and WhatsApp at 592-6747473. The commission is also empowered by law to summon witnesses and compel the production of documents. “The commission is committed to conducting its work i n d e p e n d e n t l y, i m p a r t i a l l y, thoroughly and expeditiously, without fear or favour,” the statement said. The panel said the preliminary assessments of technical and witness evidence are necessary before formal hearings begin later this month, while thanking the public for its patience as the groundwork continues. Salvage process advances While the CoI’s latest update was silent on the recovery of the
Embattled Ministers Edghill (left) and Indar sunken ferry, the government has previously said that the procurement process for salvaging the vessel is advancing. President Ali recently disclosed that the Expression of Interest (EOI) period had closed and that several companies were being shortlisted before being invited to submit prices for the recovery operation. “ I t h i n k o n F r i d a y, t h e expression of interest would have closed. They have received a number of expressions of interest,” Ali said. “Those interests are being shortlisted now by the agency, and then those shortlisted entities will be invited to supply prices to have the vessel salvaged.” The president estimated that 10 or more entities may have expressed interest, although he cautioned that he did not have the exact figure. He said the companies were being assessed against established criteria and that there was no distinction, to his knowledge, between local and international firms in the process. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, has meanwhile placed the estimated cost of the salvage operation at between US$8 million and US$10 million. M A R A D ’s R e q u e s t f o r
Proposals documents outline the considerable technical challenges involved in recovering the vessel. The 38.6-metre ferry lies in soft seabed mud at a depth of between 13 and 15 metres, or approximately 42 to 49 feet. Poor underwater visibility, strong currents and tidal streams are among the conditions contractors would have to contend with. Prospective salvors were required to submit detailed methodologies covering the various stages of the operation, demonstrate between five and 10 years of successful salvage experience in Guyanese or Caribbean waters and show the technical capacity to recover and stow the vessel upright on a barge while preserving forensic evidence that may be required by the Commission. The issue of salvaging the vessel has also been a major point of public and political contention. Leader of the Opposition, Azruddin Mohamed previously called on the government to authorise the recovery of the Barima at no cost to the state, using specialised international salvage teams. Mohamed criticised earlier suggestions that the vessel could remain submerged and later be turned into a memorial, describing such proposals as “premature and
President Irfaan Ali (center) and the four COI members that were sworn-in at State House.
wicked” and “an act of cruelty.” “Families have reached out to me saying they want the bodies of their loved ones, even if all that remain are bones. It will bring closure,” Mohamed said. “The government did not exhaust every possible option. They have not sought out international help with the expertise and equipment to recover that vessel. Yet, they are already talking about turning it into a memorial.” Accountability awaits CoI findings The salvage operation is unfolding against the backdrop of mounting calls for political accountability following the July 18 disaster. Ali has previously said that any administrative or executive action regarding calls for the removal or suspension of Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar will depend on the findings and recommendations of the CoI. Speaking at a press conference, the president said he would not interfere with or prejudge the work of the independent inquiry. “An independent CoI has been established to determine everything that you’re speaking about,” Ali said, adding that the commission would make its determinations and recommendations before his administration decides what action should follow. He said the Government would, h o w e v e r, c o n t i n u e t a k i n g immediate measures necessary to address maritime safety while the inquiry is ongoing. The M/V Barima, an 87-year-old stateowned ferry, capsized and sank on July 18 while travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma, Region One. The disaster left 73 people confirmed dead, 76 rescued and at least 30 others still missing and feared dead, making it one of the deadliest maritime disasters in Guyana’s history.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 04
Thursday September 03, 2026
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Competing interests
T
he Chinese Embassy has hit back at a United States State Department official who criticised Chinese projects in Guyana and elsewhere in the Caribbean and Latin America. The response from Beijing is blunt, but there is an uncomfortable truth buried in it: the United States government ought to be very careful about lecturing Guyana on the quality, integrity or wisdom of its development partnerships. This newspaper holds no brief for China. Chinese companies, like American, European, Indian or any other foreign companies, must be judged by the quality of their work, the value delivered to Guyanese taxpayers and the terms under which they operate. But if Washington wants to point fingers at questionable projects in Guyana, it should first examine some of the projects involving American interests and the Guyanese Government. The Wales Gas-to-Energy project provides a particularly embarrassing example. The project was sold to Guyanese as a transformative initiative that would deliver cheaper and more reliable electricity. Instead, it has become a monument to delay, escalating costs, disputes and unanswered questions. Lindsayca/CH4 was awarded a US$759 million contract to construct the 300-megawatt power plant and Natural Gas Liquids facility. Yet Kaieteur News investigations have raised serious questions about the contractor's financial condition and experience when it was awarded the contract. The company was reportedly struggling financially and faced lawsuits, while questions were also raised about whether it possessed the experience required for a project of such magnitude. Then came the disputes. A US$50 million cost-overrun claim went to the dispute process. Government subsequently agreed to an additional US$97 million for soil stabilisation—despite documents examined by this newspaper indicating that the contractor's original proposal had already priced soil stabilisation and related works at more than US$100 million. The project's original US$759 million price tag has now ballooned to approximately US$884 million and counting while the promised 300 megawatts remains undelivered. Government is still considering whether to penalise the contractor for the delays. And there is more. The American connection was heavily promoted when the contract was being pursued, including reliance on US financing. Yet subsequent reporting raised questions about the corporate structure behind the project, including the use of foreign entities and shell companies. Kaieteur News also reported that three cheaper Chinese bids had been rejected in favour of Lindsayca/CH4. So, when a US official points to Chinese projects and declares that Guyana has suffered from foreign-led projects, Guyanese are entitled to ask: what exactly gives Washington the moral authority to lecture Georgetown? And if Washington is genuinely concerned about Guyana's interests, perhaps it should also examine the country's most consequential foreign commercial relationship—the 2016 ExxonMobil Production Sharing Agreement. That agreement remains perhaps the gravest economic injustice perpetrated against the Guyanese people. It gives Guyana a mere two percent royalty, allows up to 75 percent of production to be recovered as costs, provides for a 50/50 split only after cost recovery, contains no effective ring-fencing provision and provides extraordinary tax advantages to the oil companies. In practical terms, Guyana's profit share has been only 12.5 percent before the royalty, while Exxon and its partners recover their costs. This is not some Chinese creation. It is a deal with an American oil giant. The contrast is glaring. Guyana must have the sovereignty to decide whether it wants to work with China, the United States, India, Europe or anyone else.
Manickchand and the Linden Town Council Dear Editor, On 1st September 2026, Local Government Minister, Manickchand, wrote Linden Town Clerk, instructing that the Linden Mayor and Town Council “cease and desist immediately from the imposition and collection of any toll/charges at Kara Kara Public Road.” The Minister's missive stated the Ministry has not authorised the imposition of or collection of any toll/charges at Kara Kara Public Road or anywhere else in Linden, and “further, no By-law or Order was issued and published by any Minister with responsibility for Local Government.”!
On the very day, the Official Gazette published Order No. 172 of 2026 signed by the very (Hon.) Minister, wherein it states under marginal note “Revocation of By-Laws No. 1 of 2016”, “The Linden Town Council (Toll) By-Laws 2016, being By-Laws No. 1 of 2016 and published in the Official Gazette on the 20th day of August, 2016, are revoked.” The only possible explanations for the above contradictory positions, are either (i) that the (Hon.) Minister set out to deliberately deceive the Linden municipality, or (ii) that the (Hon.) Minister's left hand was unaware of what her right hand was doing. The foregoing notwithstanding, the
aforementioned Minister's Order in which she cited Sections 304 and 305 of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Cap. 28:01, as the basis for her revocation, are sections that do not confer any such authority by which she seeks to act. I am reminded that the Minister is an Attorney-at-Law, but it appears that it is a case of her desire to operate as an overlord of statutory autonomous constitutional organs, superseding her obvious knowledge of the law. The Minister would do well to properly acquaint herself of legislative changes which strengthen the autonomy of local (Continued on page 5)
When Compassion Becomes Political Ammunition: President Ali Owes Guyanese an Explanation Dear Editor, President Irfaan Ali's remarks concerning those who travelled to Indigenous communities affected by the MV Barima disaster with hampers and expressions of sympathy are deeply troubling and, quite frankly, beneath the office of the President. To describe people who are taking assistance to families who have suffered such a devastating tragedy as “wolves” simply because they may have political differences with the government is an unfortunate attempt to turn human suffering into a political battlefield.Let us be clear: grieving families do not belong to any political party. Their pain does not carry a PPP, opposition, or
government label. When Guyanese are hurting, the first responsibility of every leader should be to show compassion—not suspicion. If Opposition Leader, Azruddin Mohamed travelled to these communities to offer assistance, food, hampers or words of comfort, the President should be asking how more assistance can reach those families—not attempting to discredit the person bringing it. And if the President believes that someone is using a national tragedy for political purposes or to evade legal difficulties, then he should present the facts and evidence to the Guyanese people rather than relying on political insinuations and metaphors about “wolves.”
The families affected by the MV Barima disaster deserve better than this. They deserve answers. They deserve accountability. They deserve meaningful and sustained assistance. Most importantly, they deserve the dignity to grieve without having their tragedy dragged into political warfare. President Ali should remember that the presidency belongs to the entire nation, not merely to those who support the government. Opposition politicians, civil society organisations, businesses, churches, community groups and ordinary citizens all have a legitimate place in offering assistance to fellow Guyanese in times of crisis. The question Guyanese should be asking is not who
brought the hampers, but why are grieving families still in need of them? Rather than attacking those who show up with assistance, the government should welcome every helping hand and ensure that relief reaches every affected family—regardless of their political affiliation. Guyana needs leadership that brings people together in moments of tragedy, not leadership that uses tragedy to deepen political divisions. Mr. President, these are grieving Guyanese citizens—not political pawns. Their suffering should never become ammunition in a political fight. Sincerely Lorenzo Joseph UWP Activist, Region 10 Trade Union Advocate
The President's speech at the opening of Amerindian Heritage Month showed a lack of empathy Dear Editor, The President's feature address at the opening of Amerindian Heritage month did not begin with a moment of silence in honour of those who died in the recent tragedy. Instead, his speech focused on money spent and investments made by the PPPC over the years. The only exception was a comment buried late in his speech where he stated that "we feel the hurt of the tragedy". After which he
quickly transitioned into a summary of the investments being made in the Amerindian community that he spoke of in detail earlier and asked the audience to look beyond the current crisis. He also did not speak of measures being taken to improve safety. Instead, he spoke of what is going well in other areas. Even though the audience had people dressed in black with faces of sadness the President's address to the audience
The issue should not be which flag flies over the company. The issue should be whether Guyana gets value for money, whether contracts are transparent, whether taxpayers are protected and whether foreign companies are held accountable. China should not receive a free pass. Neither should America. But neither should Washington pretend that Guyana's interests are protected merely because a project carries an American connection. Before lecturing Guyana about China, America should look closely at Wales and perhaps even closer at the Stabroek Block. Guyana needs partners, not geopolitical guardians.
avoided acknowledging the mood in the community. Instead, he turned his address to the Amerindian community into a political platform where he took the opportunity to speak poorly of his political opponents even though they have offered sincere support to the community during some of the worst tragedies in the history of our country. Money and development do help improve lives, but it is unfortunate that the President continues to sidestep the emotional distress that these tragedies have caused. The President showed that he prefers to focus on other areas that the funds from the oil sector have allowed the PPPC to invest in. Unfortunately, the oil windfall that has provided the funds for investment could be leveraged by any political party in government
that is willing to invest across the country. What will mark the difference between the parties is their ability to sincerely empathise, respect and care for the people they lead. Our beautiful land is filled with immense emotion. Our people are a caring people and every person aspiring for a role in leadership must not discard his or her feelings and sense of justice. These two key aspects of a person's persona are closely connected to our ability to empathise. The further one strays from the pursuit of justice for others the less that person will be able to understand and feel the emotions brought about by another's experience. This appears to be the current situation. We should not throw out the baby with the bath water or in this case, the dead with (Continued on page 6)
Thursday September 03, 2026
We want a transparent Protection Treaty Dear Editor, I was happy to read that your columnist, Peeping Tom (KN of 2026-08-31) recognises the dangers of renting another country's power. The headline and my training led me to think it was about energy, but it is much bigger. Indeed, I have long recognised the reality that might is right in our world, no matter what verbal spin is attached. Over a year ago, I wrote that Guyana needed a proper Treaty with the USA, (https://kaieteurnewsonline. com/2025/03/27/call-for-atreaty-with-transparentcosts/). The USA created our present destabilisation dilemma before Independence in the 1960s by encouraging Venezuela to resurrect a speculative claim on Essequibo, which had been settled by international arbitration in 1899. The propaganda did not stop and now successive Venezuelan governments feel they have to win elections from an electorate indoctrinated in this false belief. The greedy world power, the USA, is seeing this as an opportunity to keep successive Guyana governments in check so that their oil companies can continue the unfair
exploitation. A most recent manifestation of the infestation is the arrant nonsense of the Minister of Natural Resources that silence protects Guyana's interests, which you dealt with in a good editorial. Let me recount some good reasons for a transparent Treaty with another Nation, especially a world power in this age of the United Nations and human rights. It would quantify the protection in terms of economic benefits over time, acknowledging the present needs and status of the parties, with provision for changes in circumstances. Transparency via registration with the UN should ensure that the terms and changes are not 'lost'. It could reduce war and conquest to commerce and minimise secret deals between negotiators that enrich them disproportionate to the national benefit. Even the Venezuelans can benefit. What are they getting for that 65 billion barrels of oil tribute to the USA? This is something Her Excellency Caroline Rodrigues-Birkett could work at should she become UN Secretary-General. Yours sincerely, Alfred Bhulai
Manickchand and the... From page4 democratic organs, and which severely curtail the role of the subject Minister and designed to prevent undue interference. One such change is the insertion of Section 8 A to Cap. 28:01, Act No. 15 of 2013, Municipal and District Councils (Amendment) Act 2013, an amendment passed while the Minister was a sitting Minister of Government. The above-stated section granted municipalities the authority to promote the welfare of the municipality, to develop and evaluate policies and programmes, ensure that the municipality is managed in a professional manner by a qualified Town Clerk, amongst other functions without the necessity of Ministerial approval.Further, I direct the Hon. Minister to the deletion of Sections 157 and 158 as well as the insertion of Sec. 206 (2), to Cap. 28:01, all of which are designed to reduce the Ministerial role as that of a caretaker as opposed to a manager. While I'm at it, I wish to advert to the current undemocratic situation whereby the region itself - Upper DemeraraBerbice/Region 10 – is without a Chairman, one year after General and Regional Elections were held, entirely due to unlawful actions of the Regional Executive Officer. The subject Minister, again who I point out, is a lawyer, is not merely silent in the face of this defiance of the law but part and parcel of the dictatorial and rogue behaviour of the current regime. The intent of the current administration is clear, and it is to deny local government organs their constitutional authority and to starve local councils of a revenue base that allows them to effectively discharge their functions. It is a wicked agenda. Editor, in the interest of brevity, I'll end this correspondence now, though I hardly expect it to be the end of it! Sincerely, Ronald Bulkan Former Minister of Communities
Kaieteur News
PAGE 05
Accountability isn't Optional — Why Norton Owes His Party a Leadership Review Dear Editor, Across the democratic world, a simple rule holds: when a party loses badly, its leader answers for it. Not always by resigning outright, but at minimum by facing the membership in a vote of confidence. Guyana's APNU/PNC, under Aubrey Norton, is now the striking exception to that rule — and the party is paying for it in defections, instability, and a widening credibility gap heading into 2030. Ontario offers a clean example. After leading the provincial Liberals to just 14 seats in the February 2025 election — third place, a result she herself called disappointing — Bonnie Crombie didn't simply carry on. Under her party's constitution, she faced a mandatory leadership review at the annual general meeting, needing majority delegate support to continue even as a rival faction campaigned openly against her. When that review came in September 2025, Crombie cleared the threshold with 57% — enough to survive on paper, but well short of the 67% many members felt was needed to lead with real authority. Political commentary was blunt afterward: a thin majority isn't the same as a mandate. That standard traces back to 1983, when federal Progressive Conservative leader Joe Clark won 66.9% in his own leadership review and resigned anyway, arguing that as a lawyer he felt anything short of 80% wasn't good enough to govern on. By that measure, Crombie's number was even weaker — and within hours she announced she would step down once a successor was chosen, calling it the right moment for the party to
move forward. Assistant Professor Éric Grenier and other Canadian political scientists have noted that a post-defeat leadership review is now treated as a standard, expected mechanism in Canadian parties — not an exceptional one. This isn't a peculiarly Canadian habit. Caribbean parties build the same accountability valve into their own constitutions, and use it even when the outcome is uncomfortable for the sitting leader. In T&T, the United National Congress holds internal leadership elections on a fixed cycle regardless of the party's electoral fortunes. Persad-Bissessar faced that process even after her People's Partnership government was swept from the Tobago House of Assembly in 2013 and lost the 2015 and 2020 general elections — the party did not simply shield her from a vote because the results were bad. And the process has real teeth: in 2022, former minister Fuad Khan directly challenged Persad-Bissessar for the post of political leader, forcing an actual contest rather than a coronation. Whatever one thinks of the outcome, the UNC's members were given the chance to decide whether their leader should continue. Jamaica's two major parties show the same instinct. On the JLP side, Andrew Holness's leadership has repeatedly been put to internal tests after disappointing results — including a parliamentary caucus convened specifically to examine his stewardship after setbacks, and a direct leadership challenge from Audley Shaw that forced him to actively campaign to keep
President Ali should help Guyanese to understand Dear Editor, It is presumed without much doubt, that President Ali, in his remarks at the Amerindian Heritage Month cultural extravaganza at the Amerindian village, Sophia, was referring to Mr. Azruddin Mohammed when he said, "Do not allow your grievances and aspirations to become somebody else's escape route for their own legal troubles. Do not allow your concerns to be used as a ticket to avoid jail".President Ali should publicly explain how it is possible that Mr. Mohamed's actions among the MV Barima tragedy victims will contribute to a ticket to avoid jail. Are the Laws in Guyana not good enough to see that justice is done? Or is this a case of conflation going too far? Sincerely Faiyaz Alli
his own job. On the PNP side, after a string of election defeats, then-leader Peter Phillips faced a formal internal challenge from Peter Bunting, who came close enough that the result was treated as a serious rebuke rather than a formality. In both parties, a bad electoral result did not simply get absorbed and forgotten — it triggered a real internal reckoning, decided by the membership, not by the leader's own sayso. Compare that record to the APNU/PNC. Norton's coalition won a mere 12 seats — fewer than Crombie's Liberals — and was overtaken by a newly formed party, WIN. Yet unlike Crombie in Ontario, unlike Persad-Bissessar's party in Trinidad, unlike the JLP and PNP in Jamaica, Norton hasn't subjected himself to any review at all. The membership has never been given the opportunity to vote on whether they wish him to continue as leader. The result has been a haemorrhage. Geeta Chandan resigned. She is n o w a P P P / C Parliamentarian. Dawn Hastings migrated to WIN, and thereafter held a key parliamentary seat for that Movement. The post of General Secretary — a pivotal role in any political party — has known no stability whatsoever since Norton became leader. This is what happens when a party's constitution allows a leader to insulate himself from the very accountability
that his Caribbean and Canadian counterparts accept as routine. If the PNC — as the dominant component of the APNU coalition — remains headed by Norton without ever having faced a leadership review, why would the coalition expect to fare any better in 2030? I offer this as constructive criticism of a flawed internal process for selecting party leadership, not as personal attack. WIN's General Secretary will quickly discover Norton's limitations in unity talks, just as the AFC did before: even an experienced negotiator like Hughes couldn't make headway with Norton's style of leadership, those talks collapsed, and the AFC had to run alone receiving 0 for its troubles. APNU got 12 seats for its trouble. Primus is “no little gyal in politics” after sitting in Parliament for a year now. She 's young, she's vibrant, she's a go-getter, and she is a n o - n o n s e n s e parliamentarian unafraid to raise her voice.The lesson from Ontario, from Trinidad, and from Jamaica is the same: a party that lets its members judge its leader after a defeat gives itself the chance to rebuild. A party that shields its leader from that judgment risks losing its members instead — one resignation, one defection, one haemorrhage at a time. The records, as always, speak for themselves. Regards, Mohamed Shabeer Zafar
Kaieteur News
PAGE 06
Thursday September 03, 2026
New La Penitence Market to cost at least $1.1 billion ...51 contractors submit bids for project
T
he construction of a new La Penitence Market in Georgetown could cost somewhere between $1.1 billion and $1.9 billion. The construction of market which will be done in three lots is a project being executed through the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. Bids were recently opened for the project, and according to the tender minutes released by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office, a total of 51 contractors have applied for the project. No engineer's estimates were provided in the minutes. However, an examination of the bids submitted by contractors who bid for all three lots revealed the lowest bid stands at approximately $1,172,290,669. This is a calculation of the bid amount submitted by Amaya's Trading. The highest bid amount was $1,954,583,411, and this is based on the bid amounts of all three lots submitted by M&D Investments. It was reported that the construction of this market and
Construction of La Penitence Market Lots 1-3. Bidder
Amount Tendered
Toolsie Persaud Quarries Inc.
Lot1 $528,665,288 Lot2 $484,563,353
Garnet Logistics & Contracting
JK Enterprise Inc.
Lot2 $486,804,039 Lot3 $524,738,100 Lot1 $617,477,620 Lot2 $494,000,000
Lot2 $496,706,118
Eikon Guyana Inc.
Lot1 $625,009,823 Lot2 $502,435,403
Holistic Contracting & Procurement Inc.
Lot1 $628,867,680
Lot3 $537,054,231
Lot2 $507,167,383 Lot3 $489,917,715 A&K Construction & Maintenance Services
Ruyaa Solutions
Singh & Son Construction
Lot3 $496,020,945 Expand Construction Inc. Dundas Construction Inc.
Naven’s Construction
Lot1 $523,781,255 Lot2 $534,543,842 Lot3 $504,020,937
Eco Build Development
Lot1 $565,576,116 Lot2 $455,266,462 Lot3 $478,367,526 Lot1 $559,782,111
Lot1 $624,121,680 Lot2 $502,475,303 Lot3 $538,955,340
Al Ghafa Engineering Inc.
Aronco Services Inc.
Lot1 $625,484,528 Lot2 $501,138,604 Lot3 $538,883,625 Lot1 $599,417,826 Lot2 $586,466,212
The President's speech... From page 4 the sea water, and we must not ignore the fact that the dead exist. Currently, the PPPC has birthed two of the worst tragedies in the history of Guyana's Amerindian community and justice for those affected by these tragedies remains elusive. People may forget what you have done for them, but they will never forget how you have made them feel. This is the unfortunate gap that the current administration is creating between itself and the people of Guyana. CRG once again extends sincere condolences to those affected by the recent tragedies that have caused many deaths in the Amerindian community that could have been avoided. Hopefully, urgent steps will be taken to ensure that tragedies of this magnitude and type will never happen again. Guyanese lives matter! Sincerely, Mr. Jamil Changlee
North Stone Construction & General Supplies
Lot2 $450,000,187 Andrect Engineering & Construction Inc.
Lot1 $621,019,823 Lot2 $498,235,403 Lot3 $535,479,231
J Hussain’s Construction & Supplies
Amaya’s Trading
I&S Sankar’s Importers & Distributors LJS Construction P.D Contracting
Lot1 $583,554,187 Lot2 $469,118,425 Lot3 $503,022,540
Westbrook Caribbean Inc.
Morris Jeffrey Enterprise
Lot1 $591,251,404 Lot2 $498,123,096 Lot3 $530,815,583
Lot1 $570,832,295 Lot2 $481,515,567 Lot2 $512,791,268
D.Chowkai & Sons Construction
Hana’s Construction, Cleaning Service & Supplies
Panko Steel Fabrication & Construction
R.P Construction Agency
-
Lot1 $576,149,847 Lot2 $480,952,552 Lot3 $511,937,066
Lot1 $627,121,950 Lot2 $504,198,914 Lot3 $540,197,805
Lot1 $546,392,480 Lot2 $430,163,000
Kemiesha Logistics & Sales
R&J Construction
Lot1 $625,222,028 Lot2 $500,781,604 Lot3 $536,505,795
RC Construction
Mohabir’s Construction
AMIC General Contracting Services Keystone Builders & Suppliers Inc.
M&D Investments
Lot1 $674,538,442 Lot2 $469,118,425 Lot3 $503,022,540 Lot1 $615,571,950 Lot2 $502,908,914 Lot3 $53,809,805 Lot1 $422,587,979 Lot2 $488,664,039 Lot3 $523,438,700 Lot1 $546,392,480 Lot2 $430,163,000 Lot1 $576,494,078 Lot2 $480,190,929 Lot3 $513,343,761
Lot1 $593,215,763 Lot2 $502,925,848 Lot3 $528,590,108
Lot1 $624,802,028 Lot2 $500,571,604 Lot3 $537,681,375
FN Electrical & General Contracting
Seenarine’s Construction & Landscaping Services
Lot1 $543,988,830 Lot2 $490,616,446 Lot3 $520,699,515
Lot1 $569,142,210 Lot2 $451,664,812
their purpose as vital community and economic hubs,” she said, stressing that poor conditions ultimately hurt vendors' livelihoods and the wider vibrancy of the market. It was reported that with approximately 30 public markets across Guyana, the ministry has been working to implement a standardised model for market infrastructure and management. Priority areas include cleanliness and sanitation, clear walkways, effective waste management, reliable roofing, lighting, water access, and washroom facilities. The model also calls for stronger security and fire safety measures, timely repairs, improved vendor-council relations, support for small businesses, and a more welcoming environment for the community. Below are the companies and their bids:
Engineered Construction Co.
Lot3 $548,249,993 Lot1 $527,837,979
Lot3 $530,000,000 Phoenix Engineering Enterprise
other similar facilities forms part of the $41.9 billion the Local Government Ministry received in this year's budget. The upcoming construction follows a series of site visits by Minister Priya Manickchand since her appointment last year, during which she and her team assessed conditions at markets nationwide and engaged directly with vendors about the challenges they face. A visit to La Penitence Market in February surfaced more pressing issues. Vendors told the minister the facility suffered from persistent flooding during heavy rainfall, deteriorating roof structures, and a general physical decline that has driven shoppers away. Inadequate parking was also flagged as a deterrent to customers. Manickchand acknowledged that these conditions affect more than just day-to-day operations. “Public markets must be clean, secure and structurally sound in order to serve
Pacific Energy & Engineering Inc.
Lot1 $551,929,495 Lot2 $459,334,527 Lot3 $528,269,584 Lot1 $563,842,125 Lot2 $514,596,953 Lot3 $512,362,620 Lot1 $534,956,646 Lot2 $578,099,015 Lot3 $568,006,637 Lot1 $597,736,167 Lot2 $500,835,573 Lot3 $471,909,113 Lot1 $516,097,332 Lot2 $491,773,958 Lot3 $540,698,544 Lot1 $572,636,715 Lot2 $486,721,815 Lot1 $425,159,721 Lot2 $444,138,764 Lot3 $481,443,375 Lot1 $565,049,331 Lot2 $673,879,301 Lot3 $715,654,779 Lot1 $439,867,470 Lot2 $459,211,115 Lot3 $505,261,260
Major Construction & Supply Co.
ACE Contracting
Lot1 $557,635,796 Lot2 $504,297,199 Lot3 $540,675,818 Lot1 $427,934,346 Lot2 447,261,989 Lot3 $484,783,551
(Continued on page 17)
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
PAGE 07
Bulkan blasts Manickchand over Kara Kara toll row Former Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan has accused Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand of acting as an “overlord” of constitutionally autonomous local government organs, as the controversy over tolls at Kara Kara Public Road in Linden escalates. Bulkan’s intervention came after Manickchand on September 1 instructed Linden Town Clerk Lennox Gasper to “cease and desist immediately” from imposing or collecting any toll or charge at Kara Kara Public Road. But on the very day, the Minister issued that directive, the Official Gazette published Order No. 172 of 2026, signed by Manickchand herself, expressly revoking the Linden Town Council (Toll) By-Laws 2016, which had been gazetted on August 20, 2016. Bulkan described the minister’s two positions as contradictory, asking whether she had deliberately misled the Linden municipality or whether “her left hand was unaware of what her right hand was doing.” The former minister also questioned the legal authority relied upon by Manickchand to revoke the 2016 By-Laws. He pointed specifically to Sections 304 and 305 of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Cap. 28:01,
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand which the Minister cited as the basis for her Order, arguing that those provisions do not confer the authority she sought to exercise. “I am reminded that the minister is an attorney, but it appears that it is a case of her desire to operate as an overlord of statutory autonomous constitutional organs, superseding her obvious knowledge of the law,” Bulkan wrote. His criticism comes as the Linden Mayor and Town Council mounts its own strong challenge to the government’s intervention. Mayor Dominique Blair said the council’s objection goes beyond the Kara Kara toll itself, arguing that
central government has been systematically eroding the m u n i c i p a l i t y ’s i n d e p e n d e n t revenue base without providing sustainable alternatives. The council pointed to the Linden Town Council (Toll) ByLaws 2016, which established tolls for various categories of vehicles and treated the proceeds as council revenue. The toll booth was subsequently reopened in November 2016 to help the municipality meet salaries, National Insurance Scheme contributions, gratuity and other obligations. The council is demanding that government explain precisely how and when those by-laws were rendered ineffective. It is also c h a l l e n g i n g t h e m i n i s t e r ’s description of Kara Kara as a “public road”, demanding that government identify the legal instrument through which the road acquired that status and explain what happened to the council’s previous rights and revenue arrangements. Bulkan meanwhile reminded Manickchand that significant legislative changes were made to strengthen the autonomy of local democratic organs, including the insertion of Section 8A into Cap. 28:01 through the Municipal and District Councils (Amendment)
Act 2013. He also pointed to the deletion of Sections 157 and 158 and the insertion of Section 206(2), arguing that these changes were intended to reduce ministerial interference and leave local authorities with greater control over their affairs. The dispute also comes against the backdrop of the government’s removal of the Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge toll, which the council says generated approximately $70 million annually for Linden. With that revenue already gone, the council is questioning how it is expected to maintain salaries, garbage collection, infrastructure and other municipal services if another revenue stream is removed. “Central government cannot remove municipal revenue while simultaneously expecting the council to continue providing services efficiently,” the council said, describing the situation as “financial strangulation rather than genuine local-government empowerment.” Bulkan further broadened his criticism to Region 10, pointing to the continued absence of a regional chairman one year after the General and Regional Elections. He accused the Regional Executive Officer of unlawful conduct and criticised Manickchand for what he
Former Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan described as her failure to act. “The intent of the current administration is clear,” Bulkan declared. “It is to deny local government organs their constitutional authority and to starve local councils of a revenue base that allows them to effectively discharge their functions.” The Linden Council has called for the minister to provide the legal basis for her intervention, clarify the status of the 2016 by-laws, suspend enforcement of the directive pending legal clarification, and provide a sustainable replacement for municipal revenues removed by central government. It has also signalled that it is prepared to pursue legal proceedings to defend what it regards as its constitutional and statutory authority.
The Americas’ oil bonanza will outlast the Iran conflict By Ron Bousso LONDON, Sept 1 (Reuters) From Canada to Argentina, oil producers across the Americas have enjoyed a windfall during the Iran warby capturing market share lost by Middle Eastern exporters. The renewed focus on energy security globally could transform this emergency response into a lasting structural change. Oil production in the Americas has become a viable alternative to the Middle East’s vast hydrocarbon resources since the outbreak of the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz six months ago, which disrupted roughly a fifth of global oil supplies. The shift is one of the most striking changes in the global energy landscape in decades. The Hormuz closure immediately triggered a scramble to replace lost Middle Eastern barrels, with the Americas emerging as the primary beneficiary. Crude exports from the region, stretching from Canada in the north to Argentina in the south, have risen to a record-high average of 11.7 million barrels per day (bpd) so far in 2026, up from 10.3 million bpd in 2025, and nearly double the volume a decade ago, according to Kpler data. The U.S. leads the pack with exports averaging 4.4 million bpd this year, followed by Brazil at
2.5 million bpd. Asia has absorbed much of the additional crude from the Americas. Imports into the continent from the Western Hemisphere have surged since the Iran war began and are on track to reach a record 5.4 million bpd in August, compared with an ‘average of 4 million bpd in 2025. This diversification was born of necessity, not design. But the shock has exposed the risks of overdependence on Middle Eastern supplies. Given Asia’s wartime scars, the lesson may linger. Even if Gulf exports eventually recover, Asian importers will likely want to avoid becoming too reliant again on any single region – especially one with vulnerable maritime chokepoints and a high risk of conflict. Sourcing a larger share of c r u d e f r o m t h e We s t e r n Hemisphere is more expensive because Gulf crude retains a geographic advantage. But that cost may increasingly be seen as an insurance premium against future geopolitical disruption. AMERICAS ASCENDANT This shift in global energy trade patterns was made possible by the remarkable growth in oil and gas production across the Americas over the past decade. The expansion was driven first and foremost by the U.S. shale revolution, which transformed
Ron Bousso global oil markets and made the U.S. the world’s largest producer in 2018, surpassing Saudi Arabia and Russia. U.S. production reached an all-time high of 21 million bpd in 2025, accounting for about a fifth of global output, according to the International Energy Agency. Elsewhere, production growth has also been substantial. Brazil is on track to raise output to a record 4.3 million bpd in 2026, up 480,000 bpd from last year, according to the IEA, driven by giant offshore fields such as Buzios and Bacalhau. Meanwhile, Canada continues to expand oil-sands capacity. Guyana is rapidly becoming one of the world’s fastest-growing producers, while Argentina is steadily increasing output from the Vaca Muerta shale
basin, one of the largest ‘unconventional resources outside North America. Taken together, North American oil production is expected to average 30.5 million bpd in 2027, while Latin American output is projected to hit 9.3 million bpd. That would represent a 50% gain for the region over the past decade, according to IEA data. The region, particularly North America, has spent years building production capacity, export terminals, pipelines and shipping infrastructure. In many respects, the Middle East crisis could not have come at a better time for its oil producers. A MATCH MADE IN HORMUZ The Hormuz crisis has created a rare opportunity for these suppliers. The Americas now account for roughly 30% of global seaborne crude exports, up from 23% last year, with Asian buyers driving much of that shift. Producers in the Americas will not entirely replace Middle Eastern suppliers in Asia, but could continue to erode ‘the Gulf’s hold on the market. For decades, proximity made Middle Eastern oil the natural choice for Asia’s importers. A tanker sailing from Brazil to Japan can spend up to 60 days at sea, about triple the transit time from the Gulf. These longer voyages tie up fleets, raising freight demand and shipping costs.
Consequently, tanker rates have surged as more crude takes the long route to Asia. Rates for a very large crude carrier (VLCC) carrying 2 million barrels have hit a record high of around $640,000 per day — more than triple their pre-war levels, according to LSEG data. Asian refiners are currently willing to ‘accept significantly higher transport costs in exchange for greater energy security. In an increasingly volatile world, reliability may continue to matter as much as distance. The Americas also offer something else that few producing regions can match: a wide diversity of crude grades. Looking for light, sweet U.S. shale crude or Canadian heavy, sour oilsands barrels? They are available. Want medium, sweet grades from offshore Brazil or Guyana, or light, sweet Argentine shale oil? Those are increasingly abundant. To be sure, ‘the Americas cannot fully replace the Middle East, which boasts far larger reserves and far lower production costs. Still, what began as a temporary response to the Iran war increasingly looks like a lasting realignment of global oil trade — one that could persist long after the missiles stop flying in the Gulf. (The opinions expressed here are those of Ron Bousso, a columnist for Reuters.)
Kaieteur News
PAGE 08
Thursday September 03, 2026
AFC demands full breakdown of Stabroek Block expenses ...raises questions over 39.8% profit share announced by Pres. Ali
I
nterim leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson is calling on the Government of Guyana (GoG) to clearly state the costs that ExxonMobil is still taking the country’s oil to pay for, raising worrying questions about the country’s profit share as announced by President Irfaan Ali. During a press conference last month, President Ali revealed that Exxon has recovered its US$55B investments made in Guyana, thereby increasing the country’s share of profits from 12.5% to 39.8%. The Head-of-State also explained that instead of 75% of oil being used to meet expenses for the operator, Exxon’s costs are now 20%. In response, Patterson raised a series of questions for the President, including a request for a detailed list of the current expenses for the operator. He said, “We need a full break down of the claimed 20% costs - does this include decommissioning costs? If so, where is this fund being held? Who monitors these funds? Does Guyana have oversight on the
President Irfaan Ali
AFC Leader, David Patterson
decommissioning fund, since after all, it our money that they are saving to decommission the well at the end of its life?” Decommissioning refers to the cleanup and restoration of the ocean floor after the commercial life of an oil project. It involves plugging the oil wells, disconnecting
flowlines and removing associated infrastructure. The former minister pointed out that a decommissioning fund could hold billions of US-dollars- an account that would generate significant interest. As such, he suggested that Guyana should be the beneficiary of the interests since Guyana’s oil
money is generating that additional revenue. Perhaps more importantly, the party leader questioned the profit share percentage disclosed by President Ali. He reasoned, “Ali claims that cost oil is now 20%, which means that 80% should be available for profit sharing. In that case our take would be 42% (including royalty) why just 39%!” He also said that government should state clearly whether the 39.8% includes Guyana’s 2% royalty paid by the contractor. Furthermore, he questioned the systems Guyana have in place to verify that costs are indeed 20% of production. According to him, “Who determines that production costs are 20%? Since we have not completed a single audit in the 27 years since Exxon received their first licence - the country has no way of really knowing what their true costs are. Based on their (Exxon’s) public statement that the cost to lift a barrel of oil is around US$10, at current oil prices (US$92 per barrel), that lifting cost should be 11% - why are we paying the additional 9%...how can the country independently verify these claims?”
SRDC backs Chinese Landing, demands respect for Indigenous rights The South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) has issued a statement extending its full solidarity to Toshao Nikita Miller, the village council, and the people of Chinese Landing/Tassawini in Region One even as the physical standoff to prevent heavy mining equipment from entering their ancestral territory has ended but the Village Council remains on high alert. Characterising the confrontation as more than a localised issue, the council emphasised that the situation raises broader systemic concerns regarding Indigenous land rights, local authority, environmental protection, and the rule of law across Guyana. “What is happening in Chinese Landing is not simply an isolated community matter,” the SRDC stated. “It raises important questions concerning Indigenous land rights, community authority, environmental protection, consultation and consent, and the rule of law, issues that have wider implications for Indigenous communities across Guyana.” Highlighting their shared experiences with resource extraction disputes in Region Nine, the SRDC noted that its support stems from long-standing struggles to protect traditional lands, natural resources, environment, and traditional livelihoods, expressing solidarity with the people of
Chinese Landing in light of the difficult circumstances in which they now find themselves. The council rejected arguments that mining permits should automatically supersede community land titles. Pointing out that Chinese Landing has consistently maintained its lands were titled before the current disputed mining interests arose, the SRDC stressed that the legal status of the community’s lands must be given proper consideration. “The existence of a mining license, permit or other authorisation should not, by itself, be treated as resolving all underlying questions concerning Indigenous land rights, the legal status of the lands, environmental protection, community authority, consultation or consent,” the SRDC declared. “Indigenous land rights are substantive rights. They must not be treated as obstacles to economic activity or as interests that can simply be set aside when competing economic interests arise.” The organisation added that any genuine and lasting resolution must take into account the history and status of the title, community rights, the Village Council’s authority, applicable mining laws, environmental considerations, and the principles of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). Addressing ongoing public debate, the SRDC sought to clarify
the legal reach of the 2017 Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) judgment involving miner Wayne Vieira and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). The council noted repeated suggestions that the CCJ ruling established Vieira won the land case, but affirmed that it does not consider that to be an accurate or complete characterisation. The dispute originated from a 2010 Cease Work Order issued by a GGMC officer against Vieira due to the alleged absence of an agreement with the C h i n e s e L a n d i n g / Ta s s a w i n i Vi l l a g e C o u n c i l u n d e r t h e Amerindian Act. According to the SRDC, “The central issue before the CCJ was whether the GGMC officer had the statutory authority, under the Mining Act and Mining Regulations, to issue that particular Cease Work Order by relying upon a requirement arising under separate legislation.” The Court found that the officer lacked that specific statutory authority under the Mining Act. Consequently, the SRDC stressed that the decision “should therefore not be presented as a determination that Wayne Vieira owns Chinese Landings titled lands, nor should it be treated as having resolved every underlying question concerning Indigenous land rights, land title, mineral rights, environmental concerns or the authority of the Village Council.”
Addressing reports that residents have maintained a round-the-clock physical presence on their lands to prevent heavy mining machinery from entering Tassawini, actions taken without the village council’s consent and following a lack of response from government agencies or Indigenous representative bodies, the SRDC expressed deep concern. “We find this deeply troubling,” the Council stated. “No Indigenous community should feel compelled to place its people physically between heavy machinery and its ancestral land to have their voices heard. The responsibility for maintaining peace, protecting citizens and ensuring that the law is respected rests with the State and its institutions. Communities should not be placed in circumstances where they believe they must assume those responsibilities themselves.” While supporting dialogue and a peaceful resolution, the SRDC outlined strict criteria for any proposed mediation, insisting it must be fair, safe, and meaningful, with all parties on equal footing. The process must recognise the Village Council as the legitimate representative, grant the community access to independent
legal and technical advice, allow sufficient time to evaluate proposals, and address underlying land, legal, and environmental issues rather than merely managing the immediate confrontation. “Mediation must not become a mechanism through which an Indigenous community is pressured into accepting an outcome to which it has not freely and meaningfully agreed. This is where the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent is critical,” the SRDC asserted, adding that FPIC cannot be treated as a mere formality after decisions are made. The council cautioned that “Guyana must ensure that its development agenda does not move faster than the rights and interests of the Indigenous peoples whose lands, resources and communities are being affected.” The SRDC also highlighted the July 2023 precautionary measures Continued on page 15
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
PAGE 09
Bread, circuses and the price of silence Juvenal, the Roman satirist, looked upon his fellow citizens nearly two thousand years ago and wondered what had become of a people who once cared passionately about the affairs of the Republic. “We have sold our votes,” he wrote, before observing that the Roman citizenry had come to desire only two things: panem et circenses—bread and circuses. Juvenal was not merely complaining that politicians were buying votes with food and entertainment; he was making the more unsettling observation that citizens had willingly exchanged the burdens of political responsibility for the comforts of being provided for and amused. The tragedy, in his telling, was not simply that power had become corrupt but that the people had become sufficiently comfortable, distracted and preoccupied to stop caring very much about what the powerful did with it. It is an old Roman observation that has acquired a distinctly Guyanese accent in the oil age, although our bread is no longer distributed from the imperial granary and our circuses are considerably better televised. Our new bread is the walk-in supermarket, the shopping mall, the restaurant, the smartphone and the monthly salary that must somehow
stretch from one payday to the next. Our new circuses are cricket tournaments such as the GSL and CPL, the FIFA World Cup beamed into living rooms and rum shops, the endless spectacle of social media and the comforting national ritual of arguing about who dropped a catch when there are rather more consequential things being dropped elsewhere. None of these things is inherently bad, of course, but there comes a point when entertainment ceases merely to entertain and begins to anesthetise. The question worth asking is whether the modern Guyanese citizen has become too busy trying to survive, earn, consume and provide for a family to spend much time confronting those who govern the country. The mother worrying about school expenses, the father calculating the grocery bill, the young professional trying to secure a better job and the small businessman trying to make the most of the present oil boom may all have perfectly legitimate reasons for deciding that politics can wait until tomorrow. Tomorrow, however, has a habit of becoming the day after tomorrow, and then the next election. Somewhere along the way the citizen who o n c e m a r c h e d , prot ested, debated and
demanded accountability becomes the citizen who mutters his dissatisfaction over breakfast, curses the politicians on Facebook and then gets on with the business of making enough money. This may help explain why there seems to be so little public anger about matters that ought to provoke considerably more of it. Previous generations, whatever their political defects, appeared more prepared to confront a u t h o r i t y, o r g a n i s e collectively and make life uncomfortable for governments that had crossed certain lines. Today, we seem more inclined to complain privately than to challenge publicly, more prepared to share outrage than to risk inconvenience. The supermarket trolley has perhaps become the modern ballot box. We exercise our preferences aisle by aisle while those exercising political power make decisions that may affect generations yet unborn. Consider the oil agreement with ExxonMobil, one of the worst deals ever made on behalf of the Guyanese people. A contract widely regarded as extraordinarily favourable to the investor generated remarkably little sustained mass mobilisation among ordinary citizens, even though the potential value of the resources
DEM BOYS SEH
Money Nah Talking to Poor People Oil come to Guyana and nuff people talking 'bout prosperity. But somehow prosperity behaving like one shy young lady—everybody hearing about she, but de small man can't seem to meet she. De economy growing faster than a bushfire in dry season, but de small man still growing only one thing—he grocery bill. Dem wah doing good and mekking it big are those who already rich or who find demself in de right sector—construction, transportation, logistics and all dem businesses where oil money passing through like a VIP at cricket match. But de small man still gat to hustle. He getting up early, going to work, paying bills and wondering how come de country producing more money but his pocket producing less. And things ain't getting easier. He can't even ride he bicycle to work in peace. Every time he hear a vehicle coming from behind, he got to turn around and check if he going to reach work or become part of somebody's accident report. Then he enter de supermarket. Lord have mercy! De small man does walk into de supermarket with a shopping list and walk out with a receipt. Sometimes he does look at de receipt and wonder if he accidentally buy a refrigerator. Everything going up—rice, chicken,
cooking oil, flour, vegetables. Even de things that used to be cheap now behaving like luxury goods. He see a bed he want to buy and tell himself, “Well, at least I could sleep comfortable.” Then he see de price. He decide that de old mattress still got some life left in it. He see a vanity. He like it. He price it. He decide de mirror on de wall good enough. Because oil money might be flowing, but it ain't flowing into everybody pocket. Because when he check he wallet, it thinner than a pointer. De rich creaming off plenty of de benefits of de new oil economy. Dem buying property, expanding businesses, upgrading vehicles and finding new ways to turn opportunity into money. Dem meeting investors, wining and dining with people in high places and smiling all de way to de bank. Meanwhile, de poor man smiling—but he smiling because he finally manage to pay de light bill before GWI come with another bill. Oil might have changed Guyana. But for de small man, de biggest change so far is that everything costing more. Money talking plenty in Guyana. But somehow, money nah talking to poor people. Talk half. Leff half.
involved is so enormous that the consequences of the agreement will extend far beyond the lifetimes of those currently shopping in our supermarkets. Where was the national uprising over an arrangement that handed away an extraordinary share of the country's petroleum wealth? Where were the thousands marching in the streets, the professional associations demanding answers, the churches holding public forums, the business community insisting upon renegotiation and the ordinary citizens refusing to let the matter disappear. There have been exceptions, most notably Glenn Lall and Christopher Ram, who have persistently challenged aspects of the oil arrangement and demanded a better deal for Guyana. Their persistence deserves recognition precisely because it exposes the uncomfortable question of why so few others have been prepared to sustain the argument with comparable intensity. Perhaps the explanation is not that Guyanese have suddenly become less intelligent or less patriotic but that prosperity, aspiration and anxiety have altered the incentives of citizenship.
When a man is working extra hard to put food on the table, when a woman is trying to keep her children in school, when everybody is trying to improve his/her standard of living, confrontation with political power can begin to look like an expensive luxury. And governments understand incentives. The clever government does not need to silence everybody; it merely needs to ensure that enough people are s u ff i c i e n t l y o c c u p i e d , sufficiently hopeful or sufficiently comfortable that they do not feel compelled to become troublesome. Have you ever asked why the Global Super League went ahead in the midst of the country's worst marine disaster? This is where Juvenal's old Roman warning becomes uncomfortably modern. Bread and circuses do not necessarily require oppression; sometimes they require only that citizens become so absorbed in securing the bread and enjoying the circus that they surrender the time, energy and courage necessary to defend their interests. The danger for Guyana is that the oil age may produce precisely this paradox: a country becoming enormously wealthy in
natural resources while its citizens become poorer in the habit of demanding better governance. We may a c q u i r e b i g g e r supermarkets, more shopping malls, better restaurants, larger televisions and more spectacular cricket while simultaneously losing something far more valuable—the willingness to ask who owns the wealth, who benefits from it and whether the people are receiving what they deserve. Juvenal's great insight was that political power can be surrendered without anyone physically taking it away. The citizen merely becomes too busy, too entertained or too comfortable to exercise it, and by the time he notices what has happened, somebody else has already discovered that his silence is remarkably convenient. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Kaieteur News
PAGE 10 S
UTH
D TR
HAR
HK
BY G
L
LAL
Thursday September 2026 Monday May 02,03, 2022
H@RD TRUTHS
BY GHK LALL
Silence and sloth
The death plunge of the MV Barima qualifies as a national catastrophe; an unprecedented local human tragedy. Obvious beyond argument, above denial. Yet, in its grim aftermath, there’s the reverse of what should be happening. With intensity a n d h o n e s t y. Wi t h frequency in duty to families and country. Where, when, and how have those been? Instead, the strategies and tactics of PPP Gov’t operators have centered on two prongs that sabotage a disaster of this numerical, emotional, grimness. The prongs are silence and sloth. Both have slick, tricky objectives. Both also represent another fork with two pointed horns. Silence in this small country for a tragedy as big as the MV Barima exposes its purveyors. Resonates piercingly in the tiny national echo chamber. From mouth to mouth and ear to ear. Guyana is that interconnected. Everyone is on the same time zone, the same platform. Why silence? What’s there to fear? To hide? The PPP brass should have learnt what other government did
belatedly. Silence doesn’t suppress. Silence attracts attention. Silence intrigues. Why silence after the great, excessive outpouring of manufactured pieties from the head-of-state to those who head nothing, others who can’t account for their own heads? Then, there’s the twin of silence. Sloth is its name. Astonishingly, sloth in the murky wake of 100 dead, and hundreds wrapped in wrenching mourning. Like silence, what purpose sloth? Sloth confirms that there is much to rearrange and reset; much to cleanup and coverup. Sloth buys time and space. Silence furnishes the blanket. I foresee a Commission of Inquiry (COI) on a tortured journey to nowhere. An indication of my contempt re delivery on its terms of reference. Wherever the journey takes, make it look real. Most importantly, chart a course that doesn’t take to the bottom of this Guyana horror s t o r y. I u s e n a u t i c a l expressions. For the MV Barima was of nautical life; and a nautical death that shouldn’t have happened, and what sits like a bloody
crown on the head. Getting to the very bottom of the MV Barima’s death spiral would raise up th e w o r m- eaten , s n ak e bitten, and the bitter. Bodies are not involved. A cruel and inhuman PPP Gov’t is. Recklessness, criminal negligence, orphaned again. Who would own up to such failures? Which leader, which lackey? Hence, silence and sloth flourish. Drag this COI out. Go about its demands, expectations, on the quietest feet. A month after the swearing-in of the COI, hands are still stuck on Bible, Koran Bhagavad Gita. (Or the Devil’s dictionary). Scripture records some struck with dumbness or paralysis. It is clear that both have taken up residence in MV Barima Guyana. The second jagged and twisted horn on the silence and sloth fork is less tangible, less immediate. It is more ordinary, more of the usual that informs about Guyana so brilliantly. The weaknesses of silence and sloth: they don’t fool, don’t work. The deeper the silence, thicker the sloth, the longer that farm and its Garden of Eden inhabitants
avoid the limelight, dodge the spotlight’s harsh glare. Call this whatever pleases. Skepticism. Cynicism. Hair-raising rhythms of Guyana’s political life. Nothing is innocent, pure. Guyanese taught how ulterior motives and hidden agendas are inseparable from official life. I applaud the PPP. A farm shielded, steered from harm’s way. Momentarily only. Silence and sloth on Barima afford space to move around, tidy up, and closeout loose grass on that farm.
Last, silence and sloth facilitate the eerie. Create atmospherics, provide distance, instill dread. Convert the MV Barima into a ghost ship. Ancient superstitions unearthed. Citizens flinch. Speak in hushed, fearful tones. Vo i c e s h e a r d c r y i n g . Shadows screaming for justice. Observers on land shrinking, retreating. Amid a g r e y, g r i m t i m e , remembrance comes. The 1970s Argentinian junta conducted its Dirty War against Argentines. In this
century, the PPP wages that Dirty War on Guyanese. Silence and sloth now weaponised against citizens. To its watery grave went the MV Barima and its human cargo. To its unmarked grave that COI, with silence shrouding, and sloth contributing to its stillborn existence, and ghastly death. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Toy gun bandit arrested Police in Regional Division #3 are investigating an alleged attempted robbery under arms committed on a 16-year-old trainee mechanic at about 11:30hrs on Tuesday at La Grange Old Road, West Bank Demerara. P r e l i m i n a r y investigations revealed that during August 2026, the teen advertised his motorcycle for sale on Facebook Marketplace. A 20-year-old man subsequently contacted him, inspected the motorcycle and indicated that he would return on September 1 to complete the purchase. On the day in question, the suspect allegedly pointed what appeared to be a handgun at the teen and demanded his motorcycle keys and cellular phone. The
The toy gun that was recovered by police.
teen managed to resist and escape before alerting nearby residents. The suspect attempted to flee but was pursued and apprehended. The object used during the alleged incident was recovered and later confirmed to be a toy gun. The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
PAGE 11
$500 million hostel to replace rat-infested Amerindian facility Construction of a new $500 million state-of-the-art Amerindian Hostel is expected to begin shortly, as the Government moves to replace the deteriorating facility on Princess Street that was thrust into the national spotlight last year over reports of rats, poor sanitation, overcrowding and inadequate care. Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Brown-Shadeek announced the development on Tuesday during the official opening of Amerindian Heritage Month 2026, saying the project fulfils a commitment made by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. “I am pleased to update members of the public that the project for the construction of the new Amerindian Hostel is moving ahead, with construction expected to commence shortly,” Minister Brown-Shadeek said. Meanwhile, according to a Department of Public Information release, the existing Amerindian Hostel continues to play a critical role in supporting residents from hinterland communities who require temporary accommodation while accessing services in Georgetown. The deplorable conditions at the Amerindian Hostel on Princess Street were thrust into the national spotlight back in December 2025 when Leader of the Opposition, Azruddin Mohamed and several Members of Parliament responded to desperate calls from residents begging for help. It was high drama at the hostel when the We Invest in Nationhood leader showed up to
listen to complaints from residents of the deteriorating conditions of the facility, that they say is plagued by rats and other infestations and that they are poorly housed and fed. In a subsequent statement, WIN said when Mohamed visited to provide representation, he was denied entry. The party said credible information reaching them is that the Amerindian Hostel is unkempt and in a deplorable condition. “One report is that there is a paralysed bedridden man, an amputee, and another with a stroke, all in an untidy room.” The party added: “while the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs continues to paint the exterior of the building, the condition beneath is appalling. Behind a few coats of paint is an untidy, rundown dwelling for our Indigenous brothers and sisters in the city.” According to WIN after Mohamed and the MPs were ordered to leave the premises by the warden, acting on instructions from the PPP, Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Browne, who had been completely absent until then, suddenly appeared over one hour later. “She arrived to meet nearly 100 distressed Indigenous dwellers and, instead of listening to their cries, attempted to make excuses for the PPP’s ongoing neglect and failure to address their most basic needs.” Among the concerns WIN said it had received were: the hostel is extremely hot; there is a need for fans and air conditioning units;
The sleeping area at the hostel was without proper ventilation back in December 2025.
persons leave sicker after getting there, as the beds are not good and are too close to each other; the mattresses are thin, and people have reported getting scabies after a night there; the washrooms are out of order, and persons have to fetch buckets of water to flush toilets; there are no cleaning supplies in the toilet and that the food served at the h o s t e l i s u s u a l l y s u b p a r. Additionally, WIN said residents at the hostel complained that there is hardly any meat and they are often served sausages and sardines and are allowed only two slices of bread. “The water pressure is unstable and the hostel is infested
with rats,” are the other complaints. WIN had called on the Minister of Amerindian Affairs to address the complaints immediately. Also, at the opening Tuesday evening Minister Brown-Shadeek revealed that, up to the end of August 2026, approximately 1,835 persons from across the hinterland had received assistance through the facility. This support often includes transportation assistance, including flights and other travel arrangements to enable persons to return to their respective villages. The construction of the modern facility forms part of the government’s broader efforts to
Cops destroy over $22.8M in ganja at Canje Creek Prime Minister Ret’d Brigadier Mark Phillips. (DPI Photo) The ganja farm at Canje Creek
R
anks from the Guyana Police Force Narcotics Branch and Regional Police Division #6 on Tuesday destroyed over $22.8M in ganja during an eradication exercise at Long Savannah, Canje Creek, Berbice River. During the exercise, ranks discovered three cannabis farms covering approximately 10½ acres, with an estimated 53,500 cannabis plants ranging from four inches to six feet in height. At the first farm, which measured approximately six acres, ranks found about 30,000 cannabis plants, a makeshift camp,
a drying area and approximately 20 pounds of dried cannabis, police said in a release. The second farm measured approximately four acres and contained about 20,000 cannabis plants. Two makeshift camps and a nursery containing approximately 9,600 cannabis seedlings in 75 trays were also discovered. The third farm measured approximately half an acre and contained an estimated 3,500 cannabis plants. During searches of the area, ranks also discovered a singlebarrel shotgun, four shotgun cartridges and a multi-coloured
This was the condition of the bathroom area back in December 2025.
haversack containing three suspected rounds of ammunition, two suspected 9mm rounds and one suspected .32 round. All of the cannabis plants were uprooted and destroyed along with the makeshift camps, drying area and dried cannabis. The narcotics destroyed had an estimated value of GYD $22,834,696.00 comprising: - Cannabis plants — $13,043,800 - Nursery plants — $1,626,240 - Dried cannabis — $8,164,656 No arrests were made, and investigations are ongoing.
improve access to essential services for Indigenous peoples and further bridge developmental gaps between the hinterland and coastal regions. Minister Brown-Shadeek noted that the government remains committed to ensuring that hinterland communities benefit from improved access to healthcare, education, infrastructure and other essential services. The new facility is expected to provide better conditions and greater comfort for Indigenous residents who travel long distances from their communities to access medical and other services in Georgetown. (DPI)
800 kVA generator to ensure Kwakwani has 24hrs electricity - PM
The Office of the Prime Minister on Wednesday announced that Kwakwani will be receiving an 800kVA generator to ensure that electricity is available 24 hours to residents. In a statement on its Facebook page, it said that the new addition is expected to become operational by the middle of the week, will increase the capacity to 3.1MVA. Prime Minister Ret’d Brigadier, Mark Phillips while giving remarks at the Cabinet Outreach in Region 10, said the intervention is intended to further strengthen the reliability of electricity supply in the community, where demand has recently increased. “The 800 kVA
generator will ensure that we have 24 hours electricity in Kwakwani. We live in an interesting time today in Guyana. We are the fastestgrowing economy in the world, and definitely in this hemisphere… But we don’t just want to be the fastestgrowing economy; we want to ensure that the people in this fastest-growing economy benefit from all the resources and the revenue that is garnered through the economic activities of this country known as Guyana,” he said. Come January 2027, a further 1MW is expected to be added to the community’s generation capacity, in efforts to support its continued growth and development.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 12
Thursday September 03, 2026
China hands over medical supplies to Ministry of Health
C
h i n e s e Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang handed over a quantity of medical supplies to the Ministry of Health on Wednesday. The equipment was handed over to Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health. The medical supplies were donated by the visiting delegation from National Health Commission of the PRC. Ambassador Yang noted that China-Guyana health cooperation is built on a solid foundation and has delivered tangible results. According to a press release by the Chinese Embassy in Guyana, China has continued to offer Guyana support in medical supplies, technical exchanges and personnel training. “For over 30 years, the Chinese medical teams have remained committed to providing quality medical services to the people of Guyana,” the release added. According to the
Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang and Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony and other officials. e m b a s s y, C h i n e s e companies have constructed a number of regional hospitals and other health infrastructure, adding on the efforts of building a Healthy Silk Road between two countries. The ambassador emphasised that China stands ready to work with the Guyanese side to continue i m p r o v i n g p e o p l e ’s wellbeing and bringing
bilateral health cooperation to new levels. Minister Anthony expressed appreciation for China’s longstanding and comprehensive support for Guyana’s health sector. Guyana looks forward to further cooperation with China, so as to make the fruits of the partnership benefit more people in Guyana.
Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang and Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony
$1.6M worth of copper cable stolen from Demerara River bridge The Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge
Duo nabbed with air pistol at Tushen
P
olice are probing the theft of some $1.6 million worth of 4/350 KCMIL copper cable which left LED lights on the southern side of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge without power on Monday evening. The stolen cable reportedly measures some 90 feet. An electrical maintenance engineer reportedly discovered the cables missing on Tuesday September 1, while investigating the reason for the malfunction. At around 18:30hrs, on August 31, he attempted to illuminate the bridge in the colours of the Trinidadian flag in observance of the
A roll of 4/350 KCMIL copper priced at over US$13,000 twin island republic’s 64th independence anniversary when he noticed that only the LED lights on the northern end of the bridge were working. Police said that at around 09:00hrs the following day, the engineer and his team inspected the southern side of the bridge
and discovered that the copper cables had been cut and removed from the metal trunking box. The matter was subsequently reported to the Providence Police Station. Detectives believe that the theft reportedly occurred sometime between 00:00hrs on August 23, 2026, and 09:00hrs on September 1, 2026. According to the engineer, the lights are attached to steel poles along the bridge’s high span and powered by a generator beneath the structure and were last operated on August 23, 2026. Investigators are currently reviewing CCTV footage.
The air pistol that was seized by police ranks
Police in Regional Division #3 have arrested two men after a suspected air pistol was found during a police operation at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo. At approximately 17:30hrs on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, ranks from the Tuschen Police Station acted on information received, proceeded to Sheriff Street, Tuschen. Upon arrival, the ranks observed the two males acting in a suspicious manner in front of a warehouse. Searches were conducted, during which a black and silver air pistol was reportedly found on the 17year-old. The ranks also observed a red and black motorcycle bearing registration number JCA 4 at the location. Both males were arrested and escorted to the Tuschen Police Station, along with the motorcycle and suspected air pistol. They remain in police custody.
Thursday September 03, 2026
Kaieteur News
PAGE 13
Pres. Ali to Amerindians: Judge us by our record President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has challenged Guyana’s Indigenous communities to judge political leadership by its record, actions and continued presence not by who speaks the loudest when trouble comes. Addressing the opening ceremony for Amerindian Heritage Month 2026 at the Sophia Exhibition Centre on Tuesday, the head-of-state said the development taking place across Indigenous communities reflects sustained investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, connectivity and economic empowerment. “In our ‘One Guyana’, the Amerindian community occupies a special place as our First People,” the president said, emphasising the historic and enduring contribution of Indigenous peoples to the c o u n t r y ’s i d e n t i t y a n d development. He noted that government’s investments over the past five years have sought to ensure that Indigenous Guyanese are not left on the margins of national progress, but are positioned to actively participate in and benefit from the country’s economic transformation. “The real test of development is not whether the problem exists. The real test is whether we are using our unprecedented economic growth to
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali at the opening ceremony of Amerindian Heritage Month 2026 on Tuesday evening.
solve them and whether the benefits of that growth are reaching you,” President Ali stated. The president outlined significant investments across hinterland communities, including more than $41.7 billion in villages and communities, $21.7 billion through the Amerindian Development Fund and $14.2 billion through the Low Carbon Development Fund. He also pointed to progress in agriculture, where more than $1 billion has been invested, with approximately 300 tractors now owned across
Indigenous villages. Additional investments have supported transportation, boats, outboard engines, minibuses and other productive assets. In infrastructure, President Ali said 79 kilometres of paved roads and 71 kilometres of asphaltic roads have been delivered in hinterland communities, alongside more than 1,200 kilometres of labyrinth roads and extensive maintenance of road corridors. Significant gains were also cited in energy, education, healthcare, water and connectivity. Hinterland
generating capacity has increased from 1.62 megawatts to almost 17.5 megawatts, while high speed connectivity has been extended to 253 villages. President Ali said government’s investments in ICT have directly benefited approximately 140,000 people, with more than 2,850 residents certified in basic digital literacy and women accounting for 75 per cent of those trained. On education and healthcare, the president highlighted the expansion of primary and secondary education in Indigenous
communities, more than $1 billion in hinterland scholarships and increased access to medical services. He noted that more than 30,000 Indigenous persons gained direct access to healthcare through Cortex within five months of its implementation. The president also emphasised the growing participation of Indigenous Guyanese in the national workforce, particularly in the teaching, nursing, security and other professional fields. Continued on page 16
Kaieteur News
PAGE 14
Thursday September 03, 2026
DPP seeks removal of judge in Haresh Singh murder case — alleges bias, as defence brands motion “despicable” and “malicious”
T
he State has formally applied for the recusal of High Court Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif from the criminal proceedings against four men accused in the Supreme Court of Judicature of Guyana, sitting in the County of Berbice. The application follows a controversial August 24 decision by Justice Chandra-Hanif to sever the trial of the first-named accused, Phillip Anderson, called “Rat man,” from his three co-accused: Joel Gittens, called “Bolo”; Charles Scott, called “Bucko”; and Glaston Henry, called “Gladwin Henry” or “Soldier man.” In court documents filed by State Counsel Praneta Seeraj and Christopher Belfield from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the State contends that a fair-minded and informed observer would conclude there is a real possibility the judge has prejudged critical trial issues. “The State makes this application acknowledging that recusal is not lightly sought and that disagreement with rulings is ordinarily pursued by way of recall or appeal,” the prosecution noted, adding that a combination of
procedural irregularities, errors in law, judicial remarks, and directions encroaching upon prosecutorial discretion “cross the line from robust case management into the appearance of likelihood of bias.” Central to the State’s motion is the assertion that Justice ChandraHanif improperly weighed unadjudicated evidence before the trial had even commenced. The prosecution highlighted that in her August 24 ruling, the judge contrasted the alibi evidence of Patricia Henry and Claudeth Kurtzious, neither of whom has been cross-examined, with the assumed content of Anderson’s unadjudicated caution statement and interview. The State argued that the judge erred in law by relying on the contents of Anderson’s caution statement to grant severance without first holding a voir dire to establish its admissibility, citing the precedent case The State v Dookeran (Vernon) et al (1966). Furthermore, the State pointed to “highly prejudicial remarks” allegedly made by the judge when delivering her ruling, including an
utterance that she was unable to hear any Demerara criminal matters due to the transfer of this case from the Berbice assizes. According to the prosecution, this statement inferred that the judge viewed the trial as an inconvenience. The prosecution also raised concerns regarding strict filing deadlines imposed during Case Management Conferences (CMC). On the August 25 national holiday, counsel for Glaston Henry filed written submissions at 6:02 a.m., with the State ordered to respond the following day. Later that night at 11:37 p.m., counsel for Charles Scott filed submissions, with the State directed to respond by 9:00 a.m. the next morning. The prosecution argued these tight turnarounds severely prejudiced its right to a fair trial. Additionally, the State took issue with comments made by the judge regarding the authority to present indictments. When informed that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) decides which indictment is presented, Justice Chandra-Hanif reportedly asserted that the court holds that authority,
adding, “The court will be very happy with this matter having a final resolution all the way because it has been a practice over the years that has caused some concern to the judiciary…” The prosecution contends these remarks contradict Section 95 of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act, Chapter 10:01, and suggest potential bias, particularly given that the CMC has ongoing for over three weeks without the trial commencing. Citing the governing legal test for bias from Porter v Magill, as adopted by the Caribbean Court of Justice in Lesage v The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd and reaffirmed in Minister of Home Affairs v Nazar Mohamed & Azruddin Mohamed, the State maintained that the cumulative effect of these actions creates an apprehension of pre-judgment. The recusal application has sparked fierce pushback from the defence team. Kaieteur News understands that at a pre-trial hearing, defence attorneys rallied against the State’s motion, describing the filing as “contemptuous,” “despicable,” and a “malicious attempt” to launch an
Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif assault on the reputation of the court. Legal firm, Hughes Fields and Stoby, also publicly weighed in on the matter, issuing a statement regarding the procedural propriety of the State’s motion. “It is a well-established principle of law that the appropriate remedy for a party dissatisfied with a judicial ruling is to appeal that decision to a higher court not to challenge the impartiality of the presiding judge,” the firm stated. “Disagreement with a ruling, however strongly felt, does not in itself give rise to a reasonable apprehension of bias. Perhaps a new day has come in Guyanese jurisprudence.” Justice Chandra-Hanif will rule Friday on the application for her recusal.
Cabinet outreach puts Ituni residents at centre of development planning – PM Phillips
R
esidents of Ituni on Wednesday engaged Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and Member of Parliament Sanjeev Datadin as the government continued its Cabinet outreach in Region Ten, placing community priorities at the centre of its development agenda. The engagement provided residents with a direct platform to identify pressing needs, propose projects and outline their vision for the future of Ituni, with government officials from various ministries and agencies present to hear and document the concerns raised. Prime Minister Phillips said the outreach reflects the government’s commitment to engaging citizens where they live, rather than relying solely on reports submitted by regional and local officials. “We want to come out and meet the people from time to time. We want to reach you in the community, listen to you and identify the projects and programmes that you want us to design
Residents of Ituni during the outreach
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips engaging with an Ituni resident and deliver to your community,” the prime minister said. He explained that concerns requiring further intervention will be formally recorded and entered into a government database, which will serve as a practical framework for tracking the community’s development needs and ensuring that issues are followed through. “That database will become our checklist for development for the
community of Ituni,” Prime Minister Phillips said. The prime minister further emphasised that the g o v e r n m e n t ’s b r o a d e r development objective is to improve livelihoods, expand opportunities and create conditions that encourage Guyanese to build their futures at home. He said the country’s economic expansion must translate into meaningful improvements for communities across Guyana,
including greater opportunities for families and young people. MP Datadin said the outreach demonstrates the government’s approach to participatory governance, allowing policymakers to gain first hand understanding of the circumstances confronting communities. “We can’t make those decisions simply sitting at an office in
Georgetown. We have to actually hear from the people of the communities, what is required and what is needed,” MP Datadin said. He noted that while communities may share common aspirations, each has distinct priorities that must be addressed according to the realities experienced by residents. The Region Ten engagement forms part of a wider Cabinet outreach that
has taken senior government officials into communities across the country, including Regions One, Two, Six and Seven and would continue across the country. The initiative is intended to deepen direct engagement between citizens and policymakers while ensuring that community concerns are translated into measurable development priorities. (DPI)
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
Labour Ministry probes electrocution at Houston construction site
The building where the fatal work-place incident took place. The Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning has launched an investigation into the construction site accident that occurred on Tuesday at Houston, which resulted in the death of a Cuban national and injuries to two others. Dead is 36-year-old Cuban national, Yordan Garcia Roland. The injured men have been identified as Cuban nationals: Troy Estriado, 33, and Yusvani Ramirez, 37. “Occupational Safety and Health Officers visited the worksite shortly after the incident to conduct preliminary investigations. The officers also visited the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where the injured workers were treated,” the ministry said in a press release. The ministry’s investigation remains ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether all required occupational safety and health measures were observed. “As the investigation continues, the Ministry remains committed to its broader efforts to strengthen occupational safety and
health standards and promote safer workplaces across Guyana. These efforts are being further reinforced through the ongoing “Putting Safety First” campaign and its targeted awareness initiatives, including the “Putting Safety First in the Construction Sector” seminar series, which engages employers, contractors and workers on safe work practices, compliance with occupational safety and health requirements, and the prevention of workplace accidents. Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, urges employers, contractors and workers to prioritise workplace safety and take every necessary precaution to prevent accidents and protect lives,” the statement read. The three men, all construction workers, were reportedly carrying out work on a building for Toucan’d Distributors Limited when the scaffold came into contact with GPL’s 13.8-kilovolt (kV) primary distribution lines. It is unclear whether the men were employed directly by the Continued on page 16
SRDC backs Chinese Landing... From page 8 granted by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) in favour of the Indigenous Carib Community of Chinese Landing due to serious and urgent risks to life and personal integrity from mining opposition. The measures called for steps to protect beneficiaries from threats, harassment, and violence, alongside consultation and investigation. “The SRDC remains concerned that the issues which gave rise to those precautionary measures continue to require serious and meaningful attention,” the statement read, noting that court proceedings on specific legal issues do not relieve the State of its ongoing duty to protect citizens. “Indigenous people should not have to repeatedly risk their safety to secure the protection to which all citizens are entitled.” In a direct appeal, the South Rupununi District Council respectfully but firmly called upon the Government of Guyana, the GGMC, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, and all relevant authorities to take concrete action. Specifically, the Council demanded that authorities genuinely engage with the community and respect the Village Council’s legitimate authority, take immediate steps to prevent further escalation and reduce the risk of violence, ensure accurate representation of the 2017 CCJ ruling, and respect Indigenous land rights and FPIC principles without treating mining permits as automatic resolutions of underlying rights. The SRDC further demanded that any
mediation be fair, safe, and free from intimidation; that meaningful effect be given to the IACHR precautionary measures; that legal and institutional frameworks governing mining in Indigenous territories be reviewed and strengthened; that environmental resources such as rivers, forests, farms, hunting grounds, and fishing areas remain central to development decisions; and that damage to community infrastructure, including roads and pathways resulting from the dispute, be fully addressed. Concluding with a broader appeal to Toshaos, village councils, Indigenous communities, and the National Toshaos Council to stand in solidarity with Chinese Landing, the SRDC urged national unity across Indigenous bodies. “We stand for a principle that should concern every Indigenous community in Guyana and should never be compromised: that our lands, titles, voices, cultures and rights must be respected when competing interests arise over our territories and resources,” the SRDC stated. Emphasizing that defending ancestral land involves identity, culture, dignity, livelihood, security, and future generations, the council urged residents to remain peaceful, united, and steadfast. “Guyana can and must do better. Economic development and Indigenous rights do not have to be opposing objectives,” the council wrote, concluding with the warning that “when the rights of one Indigenous community are threatened, the rights of all Indigenous communities are at risk.”
PAGE 15
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
Industrial & Medical Oxygen and Acetylene Fast and efficient Services Friendship Oxygen Limited Location: East Bank Demerara Public Road Call/ WhatsApp: 634-3430
Honeywell Refrigeration Gas: R404a $30,000 R134a $38,7960 R410 $33,000 R-448 $77,520 R290 $14,800 R600a $14,800. R32 $30,780 R407c $34,200 VAT Inc. Friendship Oxygen Limited Call/WhatsApp: 6343430.
100 HP Stop and start switches. Friendship Oxygen Limited, WhatsApp #6343430
Air Compressor Friendship Oxygen Limited. Call/ WhatsApp: 634-3430
C Belt Pully, 12 Groove by 18'' Dimensions and other sizes. Friendship Oxygen Limited. WhatsApp #634-3430
2000 lbs., White metal in shape of a boat rudder. Friendship Oxygen Limited Call/WhatsApp: 634-3430
TRUCK TIRES 295/75R22.5 $40K EACH. CALL/ WHATSAPP +592-688-3201.
White Wash Dazzell Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara. Call/WhatsApp: Natasha #655-9846
Helium Gas for Balloons Price 6230 ltrs $136,800 VAT Inc. 9350 ltrs $171,000 VAT Inc. UHP Argon gas, Mix gas and other high purity gas can be ordered. Friendship Oxygen Limited WhatsApp # 634-3430
UHP Argon, helium balloons, Industrial Argon, Mix Gas, and Refrigeration Gases. We also source Gases upon request. Friendship Oxygen Limited. Call/WhatsApp: 634-3430
Caterpillar Generator Caterpillar D342C Engine in good working condition WhatsApp # 634-3430
Liquid Nitrogen Tank 45 Gallons. Taylor Wharton Friendship Oxygen Limited. Call/WhatsApp: 634-3430
2-100 HP Motor 3 Ph 440 Volts MAI INVESTMENTS INC. 1-75 HP Motor 3 Ph 440 Volts Now in stock Garlic, onions, WhatsApp # 634-3430 potatoes, cheese, sausages, chicken wings and fries. 1234yf $14,799 VAT Inc. Tel#625-7634 WhatsApp # 634-3430 Granular Chlorine 100 lbs $77,520 VAT Inc. Chlorine Tablets 40 lbs $72,960 VAT Inc. Friendship Oxygen Limited Call/WhatsApp: 6343430. Aluminum Sulphate $13,700. Soda Ash $18,200. Pool Salts $13,700. Caustic Soda Pearls $18,000. Copper Algaecide $11,400 VAT Inc Friendship Oxygen Limited Call/ WhatsApp: 634-3430 PAG 46 $22,800 RPO 32 Oil $22,800 RPO 68 Oil $22,800AC Flash Flush $22,800 VAT Inc. Friendship Oxygen Limited Call/WhatsApp: 634-3430 Sulphuric Acid 5 gal $34,200 Nitric Acid 5 gal $34,200 Hydrochloric Acid 5 gal $34,200 VAT Inc. Friendship
investments we are making for the benefit of our Indigenous brothers and sisters is what it means to translate economic growth into development and to ensure that the Indigenous peoples of Guyana are not spectators in our country’s transformation but participants and beneficiaries of it,” President Ali said. While acknowledging that challenges remain, Dr. Ali said development is a continuous process and that government’s focus must remain on delivering tangible improvements in communities. He urged citizens to look beyond temporary political narratives and examine the record of those seeking their support, particularly during times of difficulty. “Representation is not merely about who speaks the loudest when trouble knocks. Representation is about who stands beside you when the trouble is over,” President Ali said. As Amerindian Heritage Month 2026 is observed, the president said the country must continue building a Guyana in which Indigenous peoples occupy their rightful place at the centre of national prosperity, while preserving their culture, knowledge, tra-
Honda CRV fully functional in perfect working condition. Contact #225-6701/225-8451 WANTED One cook preferable form the East Bank.Contact #616-5700 or 748-0359
LAND FOR SALE 1000 acres mining lands in Cuyuni, 9 acres Craig, Silver hill 20 acres and mining land for quarriable materials in Mazaruni. Contact Ray Realty #627-9685
SERVICES Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040.
‘Observing Our Cultural Heritage During Our Diamond Jubilee: Honouring Our Traditions, Culture and Contributions.’ The theme reflects on the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples while commemorating the country’s 60th Independence anniversary. Delivering remarks also at the opening ceremony, Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Brown-Shadeek said the observance provides an opportunity for Guyanese to celebrate Indigenous traditions while recognising the important role Amerindians continue to play in shaping the country’s national identity.
call to action for all Guyanese to support the preservation and promotion of Indigenous culture. The minister urged citizens to participate in the various activities planned throughout September and to take the opportunity to learn more about the traditions, ancestral knowledge, and way of life of Guyana’s First Peoples. “We must continue to support and invest in the preservation of Indigenous culture and heritage,” she stated. Minister Brown-Shadeek also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of Indigenous communities while preserving their rich cultural traditions. She pointed out
the importance of unity and community, particularly during difficult times, noting that Heritage Month serves as a reminder of the need for Guyanese to come together in reflection and solidarity. Also, in attendance at the ceremony were Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, government ministers, members of the diplomatic corps and other officials. Amerindian Heritage Month is celebrated annually throughout September, with activities being held across Guyana to promote greater recognition, appreciation and respect for the culture and contributions of the country’s First Peoples.
Labour Ministry probes electrocution... From page 15 distributing company or by a construction contractor. The accident reportedly occurred around 08:15hrs. According to reports, the scaffold began rolling while the men were on it after its wheels allegedly were not locked in place. It subsequently came into contact with the live power line, resulting in the men sustaining severe electrical burns and being thrown from the scaffold. One of the men reportedly fell near the scaffold, which remained in contact
with the power line, and was repeatedly subjected to electrical shocks, resulting in his death. Cellphone videos recorded in the aftermath showed two of the injured men lying a short distance from the scaffold, while the deceased man remained near the structure as it continued to make contact with the live wire. In a statement posted on its Facebook page, GPL confirmed the incident, saying it “regrettably resulted in the death of one person and injuries to at least two others.”
The company extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased before issuing a warning to contractors, workers and members of the public. “GPL strongly reminds contractors, workers and members of the public to exercise extreme caution when operating near the company’s electrical lines, poles and other network infrastructure. Appropriate safety measures must always be maintained to prevent similar tragedies,” the company said. Investigations into the accident are ongoing.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 17
New Amsterdam celebrates 135 years New Amsterdam will mark its 135th anniversary with a month-long programme of religious, educational, sporting and cultural activities, with Town Day once again serving as the centerpiece of the celebrations. The festivities, which will run from September 18 to October 31, were unveiled on Monday by Deputy Mayor Kirk Fraser, who h e a d s t h e To w n D a y planning committee, ahead of the statutory meeting of the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council (M&TC). This year's celebrations will also contribute to the continued enhancement of the town's historic Esplanade Park.Fraser said funds raised from last year's Town Day activities are being used to improve the park, with work already underway. “If you can take a visit to the park, you would see that we have already mounted the poles for our floodlights. We
have already procured those floodlights, and it's now at a phase of installation,” Fraser said. He said the council intends to again channel funds raised from this year's activities towards improvements that would allow residents to better enjoy the park's natural surroundings. The council is also seeking funding for a more c o m p r e h e n s i v e redevelopment of the facility, including sports, recreational and familyoriented amenities. Those plans, however, come as the central government has unveiled its own vision for the Esplanade Park. President Irfaan Ali and Minister of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh recently presented government's concepts for the redevelopment and repackaging of the facility. Meanwhile, the 2026 Town Day programme will
Mayor, Wainwright McIntosh
Deputy Mayor, Kirk Fraser begin with the second annual food festival from September 18, following the success of last year's inaugural event. The festival will be followed by a Gospel Concert on October 3 at the Berbice High School auditorium, featuring local talent under the theme, “Praise and Thanks.” The educational component begins on
October 5 with adjudicated impromptu speeches and an essay-writing competition at the council's chambers. A football competition will run from October 9 to 11, followed by a new joint services debate competition on October 12 and 13. An all-inclusive domino competition for clubs in the town is scheduled for October 16.The town week “jumpstart” will take place
U.S. oil giant Chevron to expand Venezuela operations (AL-JAZEERA) Chevron will invest more than $7bn through its Venezuela joint ventures to double oil production to about 600,000 barrels per day over the next five years in the South American country, the United States oil giant has said. Chevron, the only US oil company that has a major presence in the country, said on Wednesday that it has been assigned additional acreage in the Orinoco Belt, where the company has an established position and where its Petroindependencia joint ventu e will expand to include two adjacent areas in the Carabobo region. “Chevron's history in Venezuela spans more than a century, and our expanded position reflects our confidence in the country's deep resource potential and its ability to compete for investment within our portfolio for decades,” Chevron CEO Mike Wirth said in a statement. The announcement comes just days after US President Donald Trump unveiled an unprecedented deal involving a fifth of Venezuela's oil reserves, with the US government taking an equity stake in a private oil firm operating there. Chevron's expansion is separate from that endeavour, but it further cements Trump's efforts to expand output in Venezuela.Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserves, but its current output is only about 1.25 million bpd, down from the more than 3 million bpd it achieved two decades ago, following years of mismanagement and underinvestment by state-run oil firm PDVSA and US sanctions. Venezuela's total oil output is expected to reach 2 million bpd by the end of this decade, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on
Venezuela has the world's richest oil fields [File: Chico Sanchez/EPA]
along Republic Road on October 17, while a basketball competition is scheduled for October 20 to 23. The popular “big people party” will be held on October 24, while the celebrations will culminate with the annual street fair on October 31. Other activities planned for September and October include an all-black party and a car show. The celebrations have so far received support from the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) and the Guyana Public Service Co-
operative Credit Union (GPSCCU), with other potential sponsors also indicating their support. This year's Town Day is being held under the theme, “New Amsterdam 2050, A S m a l l To w n R i s i n g , Bridging Heritage and Innovation.” The theme is intended to foster greater unity among residents while encouraging members of the New Amsterdam diaspora to reconnect with the town. M a y o r Wa i n w r i g h t McIntosh reflected on the municipality's history and paid tribute to those who contributed to its development over the decades.“I want to thank those persons who would've served this beautiful town of ours before. The platform they would have set, even our first mayor in 1891—Mr. Neil Ross McKinnon—we stand firmly on his shoulders, and all those individuals who would have contributed to the growth and development of this town of New Amsterdam,” McIntosh said. New Amsterdam attained township status on September 1, 1891, and is recognised as Guyana's oldest municipality.
New La Penitence Market... Mohamed Rafi Yusoof Construction
Lot1 $546,708,288 Lot2 $454,921,981
Blue Print Builders Inc.
Lot1 $454,052,041 Lot2 $474,331,446 Lot3 $527,900,531 Lot1 $568,939,329 Lot2 $452,399,476 Lot3 $495,708,959 Lot1 $627,380,670 Lot2 $504,417,785 Lot3 $540,542,520 Lot1 $458,508,456 Lot2 $479,517,086 Lot3 $533,554,014 Lot1 $447,331,826 Lot2 $468,159,436 Lot3 $516,469,947 Lot1 $648,861,045
4A Engineering Enterprise Wednesday.Chevron said its new agreements also provide enhanced fiscal, commercial and legal terms to protect the long-term investments, adding that total production costs are expected to be less than $20 per barrel. The joint venture's infrastructure is in good shape, and development in the new areas will build off of existing facilities and pipeline infrastructure, Wirth said in a CNBC interview. “Our ability to grow at low cost is quite different than if we were going into a greenfield area that didn't have roads, that didn't have water, that didn't have power,” he said. Besides Chevron, oil producer ENI, investor KEO Capital and energy firm Primavera, a firm cofounded by billionaire Fred Ehrsam to invest in Venezuela, are among the companies set to sign energy agreements in Venezuela as soon as Wednesday, two sources close to the preparations told the Reuters news agency. Most pacts imply project expansions that have been in negotiation as part of the migration of dozens of energy contracts to new terms under a sweeping oil reform approved in January.Wright, who arrived in
Caracas late on Tuesday, and Venezuela's oil minister, Paula Henao, are expected to oversee the signing of the contracts, officials have said. US pushed energy investments Following the US abduction of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from office in January, Trump pushed a $100bn reconstruction plan for Venezuela's energy sector, urging US oil companies to invest in the country.While Chevron's Venezuela operations have continued uninterrupted for at least 100 years, fellow oil producers ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips exited the country in 2007 when their assets were nationalised under the previous government of President Hugo Chavez, and have remained on the sidelines.Chevron has operated in Venezuela since 1923 and has three joint ventures in the country. Petroindependencia and Petropiar operate in the Orinoco Belt, while Petroboscan operates in western Zulia state. The additional Carabobo sites expand existing operations where joint ventures are increasing extra-heavy oil production, Chevron said.
BM Property Investment Inc.
Sheriff Construction Inc.
Urban Edge Builders Inc.
r De Putron General Construction
Lot2 $523,405,575 Lot3 $560,548,590 Digital Design Construction, Logistics & Supplies
Lot1 $577,619,847 Lot2 $480,952,552 Lot3 $523,466,696
NP Contracting & Transportation Service
Lot1 $600,479,618 Lot2 $488,162,326 Lot3 $516,305,160
R&R General Construction & Supplies
Lot1 $616,615,965
Kaieteur News
PAGE 18
Linden Mayor, council defend legal right to toll revenue
T
he Linden Mayor a n d To w n Council on Wednesday defended its legal right to revenue from the tolls at the Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge and the existing toll booth at Kara Kara. In a statement to the press, the council said it met with the president on Wednesday to discuss the removal of its revenue from the Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge, which is governed by the Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge Act, and the existing Kara Kara toll booth, which was gazetted in 2016. “The meeting provided an important forum for the council to articulate its concerns and to seek clarity regarding the implications of the proposed changes. Preliminary information was provided on current income and financial arrangements. H o w e v e r, a d d i t i o n a l information was requested and this would be provided in a subsequent meeting to be held tomorrow (today),” the release stated. Advancing its position, the council reaffirmed the constitutional provisions relating to local government. It pointed to Article 75, which provides that local
democratic organs are to be autonomous and capable of making decisions binding within their jurisdiction; Article 76, which provides that Parliament may make provisions for regional councils to raise and dispose of their own revenue for the welfare of their areas; and Article 77, which provides for regional development programmes to be incorporated into national development planning, with Government allocating funds to facilitate their implementation. “In keeping with these provisions, councillors remain resolute in their advocacy to preserve the revenue streams which are critical to the council,” the statement said. According to the council, the issue goes far beyond fiscal figures, as the revenues directly support its ability to maintain essential services, fulfil its statutory responsibilities, sustain employment and address the needs of communities across Linden. “We will therefore continue to press for transparency, clarity, and a sustainable arrangement that accounts for the council's financial position and the
Mayor of Linden, Dominique Blair impact on the daily lives of our citizens, consistent with the autonomy and financial responsibilities enshrined in the constitution,” it added. The Linden Mayor and Town Council said it remains committed to constructive dialogue while continuing to firmly advocate for the interests of Linden and its residents. Further updates are expected following the conclusion of today's meeting. The council's position comes amid a directive issued by Minister of Local Government and Regional
Development, Priya Manickchand, instructing the town clerk to immediately cease imposing and collecting tolls or charges on the Kara Kara Public Road. According to a statement issued by the council and signed by Mayor Dominique Blair, the council considers the minister's position to be legally questionable, internally inconsistent and contrary to the constitutional principle of local democratic autonomy. In the directive addressed to Linden Town Clerk Lennox Gasper and copied to Blair, Manickchand said the ministry had not authorised the imposition or collection of any tolls or charges at Kara Kara Public Road or anywhere else in Linden. She said no by-law or order had been issued and published by the minister responsible for local government authorising such charges. According to Manickchand, any toll or charge imposed and collected by the Linden Mayor and Town Council, either directly or through its servants or agents, is “null, void and unlawful.” She therefore instructed
the council to cease and desist immediately from imposing or collecting any tolls or charges at Kara Kara Public Road. The minister also warned that failure to comply could result in legal proceedings against the council and/or individuals responsible for the alleged unlawful imposition and collection of the tolls. In response, Blair said the council's objection centres on the continued erosion of its independent revenue base by central government. “At the heart of the council's objection is the continued erosion of its independent revenue base by central government. The council maintains that the government has repeatedly removed or restricted legitimate sources of municipal revenue while failing to provide a sustainable alternative to finance the statutory responsibilities of the elected local authority,” the statement said. The council also challenged the minister's assertion that there was never any by-law or legal order authorising the imposition and collection of tolls at Kara Kara.
According to the statement, the council's records point to the documented history of the toll arrangement, particularly the Linden Town Council (Toll) ByLaws 2016, which were approved by the government of the day and gazetted on August 20, 2016. “Those by-laws established tolls for various categories of vehicles and expressly treated the proceeds as revenue belonging to the town council. The toll booth was subsequently reopened in November 2016, with the then mayor explaining that the revenue was required to meet municipal obligations, including salaries, National Insurance Scheme contributions, gratuity and other expenses.” Blair said the minister cannot simply disregard this history by asserting that no legal instrument existed. “If the government's position is that the 2016 bylaws have since been repealed, revoked, superseded or otherwise rendered ineffective, the minister should identify the specific legal instrument by which that result was achieved,” she said.
US-Iran strikes raise fears of renewed war across the Middle East (Reuters) - Fears of renewed escalation gripped the Middle East on Wednesday after the United States and Iran exchanged their biggest barrage since July, with Washington striking Iran's southern coast and Tehran firing at U.S. bases across the region. With the U.S. threatening further strikes, Iran accused Washington of hitting a wedding party, killing four people and wounding dozens. Its health minister later said 18 people in total had been killed and 108 injured in the latest wave of U.S. strikes. The U.S. military said it struck air defences, radar systems, maritime assets, mine-laying capabilities and communications sites on Tuesday. Iran reported hits on multiple targets near the Strait of Hormuz. The flare-up threatens to deepen a conflict that has dragged on since the U.S. launched strikes on Iran in February, disrupting global energy supplies and drawing opposition from a majority
of Americans ahead o f November's congressional elections. "Last night was like the end of the world," Mahmoud, 38, a municipal worker in Sirik County along the strait, told Reuters by telephone, describing attacks on the area that includes the city where the wedding was reported to have been hit. President Donald Trump said the U.S. hit Iran "very hard" and that Iran only responded with a "love tap." "It was a very heavy attack last night, and we're prepared to do another one any time we want," Trump told reporters at the White House. Iran struck what it said were U.S. assets in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait and Iraq, and said its aim was now to drive U.S. forces from the vast network of military bases they have maintained for decades across the Middle East. "American evil in the region will be met with heavier, more widespread, and devastating responses,
and a ny country that cooperates with the aggressive American army must accept its dangerous consequences," Iran's military command said. Iran said it killed U.S. forces in Jordan and at a base in northern Iraq, but U.S. officials told Reuters there had not been any casualties, according to initial assessments. In Kuwait, Iran said it had carried out a missile and drone attack on the U.S. Ali Al Salem air base and on a residential complex used by a U.S. commander. Kuwait's fire service said it put out a blaze at a residential complex hit by a drone. Qatar, home of the largest U.S. air base in the Gulf, said it held Iran responsible for attacks and their repercussions. Bahrain, which houses the regional headquarters of the U.S. Navy, said Iranian drones were intercepted and destroyed. Iran also said two tankers had been struck by mines while being steered through the Strait of Hormuz by U.S.
personnel. Washington says that despite Iranian attacks it is guiding ships through the strait. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said than 17 million barrels of oil exited on Monday. Iran blacklisted 11 more ships, bringing the total number of such vessels to 56, a government website showed, meaning it would consider them subject to fines, confiscation or detention if they try to sail through the Strait of Hormuz without Tehran's permission. Trump repeated his assertion that the strait, which handled 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments before the war, was open to shipping. IRAN SAYS WEDDING STRUCK Iranians were fearful that the new strikes signalled war could restart at full scale. "It's very difficult to live like this. We don't know when America will strike,” Mahpari, 28, a woman in the southern port city of Bandar
Abbas, told Reuters by phone. Iran said four people including a 4-year-old were killed while celebrating a wedding at a home in Sirik. Iranian media said as many as 68 people were wounded there, and released images of injured children in hospital. Reuters was unable to independently verify the incident. U.S. Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for Central Command, said: "We are aware of reports, which originated from Iranian state media. The U.S. military never targets civilians, unlike the IRGC," referring to Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Video shot by Iran's West Asia News Agency at the purported site showed rubble strewn across rooms and a courtyard. A pair of strappy women's dress sandals lay abandoned on a blood-soaked carpet. "I am j ust glad the casualties weren't even worse," said Ali Molahi, identified as the father of the bride.
CONFLICT DRAINING BOTH SIDES The exchange of fire was the worst since July, when Trump abruptly halted two weeks of intense bombing of Iran after warnings from his military brass that they were using up munitions and running out of meaningful targets. Trump has yet to achieve the aims he set when launching "Operation Epic Fury" in February — to end Iran's nuclear programme, deprive it of the ability to strike its neighbours and create conditions for Iranians to topple their rulers. But the U.S. has seriously degraded Iran's conventional military forces and taken a toll on Iran's already weakening economy, U.S. officials say. Sources have told Reuters Trump aides are trying to keep the war quiet for now to avert a defeat in the midterm elections in November. Polls show Americans oppose the war by more than a two-to-one margin.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 19
PAGE 20
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
Thursday September 03, 2026
Kaieteur News
PAGE 21
Valley Boys of Trinidad and Tobago donates cash to “Cricket gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana” Valley Boys Sports and Cultural Club Over50 cricket team provided cash support to this noble joint initiative between Anil Beharry and Kishan Das of the USA. Being in existence for over 60 years, the oldest cricket institution in Trinidad and Tobago, just concluded a goodwill cricket tour to Guyana. At the conclusion of the game against North Soesdyke, the team presented the donation. Speaking on behalf of The Valley Boys, Pramesh Seheult said that they are very impressed with the initiative and the amount of young cricketers that benefitted from it over the years. Beharry spoke on behalf of the project and expressed gratitude for the contribution. He added that the cash will surely assist the work of the project. Over the years, many
Beharry pose with members of Valley Boys cricket team.
Thursday September 03, 2026 LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19 Your mood may be a bit Your mood should be good detached and scattered today, today, Aries, although you Libra. This attitude could get should be careful not to rub it you into trouble if you aren't in others' faces. If people careful. Make sure you keep at don't feel like being cheerful, least one foot on the ground. don't force it on them. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) It isn't a good idea to talk behind other people's backs today, Taurus. If you have an issue with someone in particular, bring it up to that person directly. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Put some of your fantastic ideas to good use today, Gemini. It's one thing to be a genius with plenty of masterpieces floating around in your head. CANCER (June 21–July 22) This is a good day to follow through on projects, Cancer. Leaving many unfinished matters in your life only creates clutter that keeps other things from entering the picture. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) There could be some restrictions on your emotions today, Leo. You'll find that a practical, grounded force is working against your intuitive understanding of whatever issue concerns you. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) An unexpected career break could come your way, Virgo. It should be exciting and encouraging - and a little scary! Don't let apprehension get to you.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Seek the counsel of someone older and wiser today, Scorpio. Whether you want to or not, you may encounter someone with authority who's likely to tell you what he or she thinks. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Flamboyant shows of emotions may not be as welcome as usual today, Sagittarius. Realize that you may need to put a damper on things in order to earn the respect of the people around you. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) There may be some tension today as you try to stabilize your emotions, Capricorn. There could be a force at work out there that's rather impersonal and detached.. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) The tricky things to balance today are your emotions and sense of duty. Try not to let the stress of having to complete a task leak into your state of mind. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) There's a practical grounding today that may cramp your style, Pisces. More than likely you'll be aware of the time restrictions that point up your own limits.
Guyanese cricketers benefitted from this project, some of whom went on to represent West Indies at different levels. This project will continue to improve the lives of youths in every community. We are pleased to be part of the development of young cricketers in Guyana. Our aim is to keep them off the streets and get them actively involved in sports, cricket in particular. Total cricket related items received/purchased so far: $843,146 in cash and various cricket equipment. In addition to the above, gear with value of over $600,000 was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former National wicket keeper/batsman. All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time. To date, one hundred and seven players, male and female, from all three counties of Guyana have benefited directly from cash and donations of cricket gear. In addition, clubs from the Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard, Cold Fusion Cricket Club, RHCCCC among others have received gear from the initiative. Gratitude has been extended to all donors and the media for their assistance in making the programme a success. Distribution will continue. Anyone interested to contribute can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.
Youth Ensemble Programme U13 & U15 Finale set for this weekend The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will stage the Under-13 and Under-15 Youth Ensemble Programme Finale. The nationwide youth football initiative, which was launched in May 2026 by the GFF in collaboration with FIFA, was created to transform the structure and delivery of youth football nationwide through a c o o r d i n a t e d , y e a r- r o u n d competition framework. With over 2000 Player Registrations, 123 Club Entries, 9 Regional Associations and months of competition, three clubs will compete for the title of Champions. Date & Time: Saturday, September 5th, 2026 @10:00AM (U13) Sunday, September 6th, 2026 @10:00AM (U15) Venue: National Training Center
Thursday September 03, 2026
Kaieteur News
PAGE 22
Senegal forward Ibrahim Mbaye (20) controls the ball against France during a Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent CarchiettaImagn Images
Premier League clubs smash summer transfer spending record LONDON, (Reuters) The Premier League has smashed its summer spending record for a second successive season, with outlay by England's topflight reaching around £3.46 billion ($4.67 billion). The spending spree continued right up to the final hours of the transfer window on Tuesday, with several more big-money deals completed before the 11 p.m. deadline. Manchester City capped their spending by signing Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea for a reported British recordequalling £125 million on Tuesday. They also signed Senegal winger Iliman Ndiaye from Everton for a reported £65 million. L a s t s u m m e r, t h e combined spending of the league's 20 clubs breached the £3 billion barrier for the first time. Five years ago, the total stood at £1.13 billion. In addition to Fernandez, three other transfers breached the £100 million mark during the window. City signed midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116
Manchester United's Carlos Baleba is presented in front of fans before the match. (REUTERS/Jon Super)
million, Morgan Rogers s witched from Aston Villa to Chelsea for £117 million and Liverpool agreed to pay an initial £107 million to Paris St Germain for France forward Bradley Barcola with that deal likely to rise to £123 million. Tottenham Hotspur also broke their club transfer record to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United in a deal that could reach £100
million. Of the 11 most expensive signings in Premier League history, four -- Fernandez, Anderson, Rogers and Barcola -- have arrived this summer. A s t o n Vi l l a a l s o announced their 11th signing of the window with £47 million purchase of Senegal winger Ibrahim Mbaye from PSG, while Newcastle paid £51.4 million to bring in
England drop fast bowler Carse for final Pakistan test England's Brydon Carse reacts after bowling to Australia's Jake Weatherald. (REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/File Photo) (Reuters) - England have left fast bowler Brydon Carse out of their squad for the third and final against Pakistan at Edgbaston, the England & Wales Cricket Board said on Wednesday. The 31-year-old Carse missed the second test after being arrested following an incident outside a Derby nightclub. He remains under investigation by Derbyshire Police, British media reported. Carse's replacement, 23-year-old leftarmer Sonny Baker, retained his place in the
squad after England secured an unassailable 2 -0 lead in the series by thrashing Pakistan an innings and 103 runs at Headingley and by 194 runs at Lord's. England are bidding for a series sweep in the last test starting next Wednesday. England squad: Joe Root (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Sam Cook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue.
forward Matias FernandezPardo from Lille. The trend for clubs to buy from English top-flight rivals continues to rise with around 38% of deals made between Premier League clubs -- up from 30% last summer. City led the way with £458 million in spending as
new manager Enzo Maresca assembled his first squad, while Chelsea also spent heavily, shelling out £349 million to back new boss Xabi Alonso. Tottenham splashed out £303 million as they rebuild after two successive seasons close to being relegated. According to website Transfermarkt, promoted trio Ipswich, Coventry City and Hull City spent more than a combined £400 million to prepare themselves for life in the top flight. Sunderland landed
highly rated Belgian winger Malick Fofana, 21, from Olympique Lyonnais in a reported £30 million deal after beating Crystal Palace to his signature. Some deals failed to go through on deadline day. British media reported that Everton's move for Folarin Balogun collapsed after the U.S. striker decided against proceeding with the transfer, while Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara remained at Monaco after his reported £47.1 million move to Chelsea fell through. ($1 = 0.7406 pounds)
Steve's Jewellery named official Jeweller of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026 The Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) is pleased to announce Steve's Jewellery as the Official Jeweller of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup being hosted in Guyana 2026. This partnership unites an international tournament hosting 16 teams across 72 matches with Steve's Jewellery, recognized as one of the most reputable and premier jewelers in Georgetown, Guyana. As the Official Jeweller, Steve's Jewellery will serve as the trusted destination for products of this establishment for players, officials, and supporters attending the event. Steve's has been well known for its excellence and quality standards and his partnership in this regard is intended to be presented to the Player Of The Tournament for the entire World Cup. “We are delighted to welcome Steve's Jewellery as our Official Jeweller,” said Raj Singh, Tournament Director of the World Cup, “Steve's represents Guyanese craftsmanship and enterprise, offering an excellent platform to showcase the quality of our local businesses to an international audience.” The collaboration was formally recognized during a presentation at Steve's Jewellery in Georgetown, where Raj Singh was presented with a stunning gold chain
featuring a cricket-bat pendant adorned with diamonds to commemorate the partnership. This gold and diamond chain was individually crafted by the master himself, Steve Naraine.Steve's Jewellery is conveniently located at 301 Church Street, South Cummingsburg Georgetown, opposite the Bourda Mall. They offer both local and foreign customers exciting choices from a dazzling array of exquisitely designed gold and diamond jewellery. You can choose special gift items in the comfort of a cool and spacious atmosphere assisted by friendly staff.Their main materials used are, white and yellow gold ranging from 12, 14, 18 and 22 karats, and Sterling Silver. Diamonds and other gemstones are hand-set. State of the art equipment is used to define the true meaning of creativity and craftsmanship. Certification: Since 1999 Steve's Jewellery has been stamped with the approval of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards so you are positive that our jewellery are of the highest standard and best quality. Aw a r d s R e c e i v e d : P l a t i n u m Manufacturer Award for Quality, from the Guyana National Bureau of Standards Website: www.stevesjewellery.com | Telephone: +592 223-9641. (Source: Press Release)
Kaieteur News
Thursday September 03, 2026
PAGE 23
Zverev soaks up pressure to advance, rain plays spoilsport at US Open NEW YORK, (Reuters) - Alexander Zverev weathered a storm from Lorenzo Sonego to reach the U.S. Open second round on Tuesday and keep alive his bid to reach a third straight Grand Slam final, after relentless rain wreaked havoc with the schedule at Flushing Meadows. Americans Madison , Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz earlier powered through under the roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium before new crowd favourite Alexandra Eala underlined her growing promise with a near-flawless display. French Open champion and Wimbledon finalist Zverev, handed top billing in New York in the absence of injured world number one Jannik Sinner, was taken the distance by Sonego but came through with a 6-4 3-6 6-7(7) 7-5 6-4 win. "He is an amazing tennis player," Zverev told reporters after the four-hour, 53minute battle. "He has an amazing serve and forehand, and he can return so quickly. "I would say I have one of the fastest second serves on tour, and he was attacking it all the time. I have to give credit to him, but I'm happy I managed to win in the end. "Funny enough, I think I missed a few more backhands than I usually do tonight ... Overall, it was a great battle and a match that I needed after the last couple of weeks." Zverev was two points from defeat at one stage but kept his composure when it mattered to set up a clash with Quentin Halys. Keys, the runner-up in 2017, was undone by debilitating nerves in the first
round a year ago but found the right formula this time around in the main showcourt opener as she defeated Alina Korneeva 7-5 6-4. "It's so hard to play the first round of a Grand Slam. So nervous and wanting to do well," said Keys, who meets Hungarian Anna Bondar next. "So grateful I was able to fight through that." FRITZ BACK TO HIS BEST Ninth seed Fritz had an easy time in the second match of the day at the showpiece stadium, moving past 18year-old compatriot Darwin Blanch 6-3 6-2 6-4. The 2024 finalist had an up-and-down run-up to the
year's final Grand Slam, winning in Washington before losing his opener in Montreal last month and making the Cincinnati quarter-final, but he was back to his usual best on Tuesday. Fritz is the top contenders to end a 23-year American wait for a men's Grand Slam singles champion after Andy Roddick's win at Flushing Meadows. "It's super important for me," Fritz said. "I'd be pretty disappointed in the end of it if I wasn't able to achieve that. In my life, any time I have set a big goal for myself, I've always done it." At Louis Armstrong Stadium, men's fifth seed Flavio Cobolli survived a
Coco Gauff of the U.S. in action during her first round match against Turkey's Zeynep Sonmez. (REUTERS/Brendan Mcdermid)
Germany's Alexander Zverev celebrates after winning his first round match against Italy's Lorenzo Sonego. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Geoff Burke TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY) gritty encounter with Francisco Comesana 3-6 2-6 6-3 6-4 6-4 while women's fifth seed Mirra Andreeva advanced with a 6-2 6-2 win over Janice Tjen. Gauff earlier beat Zeynep Sonmez 6-3 6-4 to begin her quest for a third Grand Slam crown before Eala, another of the hottest tickets of the day, mowed down qualifier Mary Stoiana 6-1 6-2. RAIN LEAVES ORGANISERS WITH HEADACHE Thousands of ponchowearing ticketholders wandered around the grounds earlier in the day, as rain forced a long delay to the start of the action on the outdoor courts. Among those closely followed was American teenager Thea Frodin, who served as the tennis-playing double for a young Serena Williams in the 2021 film "King Richard." She earned the praise of the home crowd but did not get a Hollywood ending in her WTA Tour-level debut against second seed Elena Rybakina, who played down
Tucber Park whip Cotton Tree in U23 match by 129 runs Zeynul Ramsammy impresses with century and a 4wicket haul Tucber Park Cricket Club of New Amsterdam continued their good recent form with an easy win over Cotton Tree Die Hard in a recent match. Asked to take first strike, the Tucber Park CC U23 blasted the Cotton Tree bowlers all over the place as they galloped to 266-9 in their 50 overs. The assault was led by National allrounder Zeynul Ramsammy, who struck a superb 126 from 135 balls. He received valuable support from U19 all-rounder Jayhayden Rohlehr who was
unbeaten on 30 and Gavin Kisten with 18. Cotton Tree Die Hard in reply struggled against the dominant TPCC bowling and were dismissed for 137 in 32.2 overs to lose by 129 runs in a one-sided affair. Shoaib Gaffoor scored 61 with Damian Viyakanand making 23. Bowling for TPCC, Ramsammy crowned a fine all round performance by returning with the ball to take 4 for 31. He was well supported by Carley DeJonge 2 for 3, while Gilbert Griffith had figures of 2 for 17. (Samuel Whyte)
Zeynul Ramsammy had a good match with a century and 4 wickets.
serious injury concerns with a clinical 6-3 6-2 win. Lorenzo Musetti then followed on the largest of the outdoor courts with a comprehensive 6-3 6-3 7-5 defeat of Briton Arthur Fery, who made a surprise run to the Wimbledon semi-finals. Alex de Minaur was slated to c lose out t he programme on Grandstand against Italian qualifier Andrea Guerrieri but his was among several matches
cancelled for the day when the rain returned in the evening. Organisers will have to complete a total of 14 firstround matches on Wednesday, including those that were suspended. French showman Gael Monfils celebrated his 40th birthday with a 2-6 6-1 6-2 6-0 win over A dolfo Daniel Vallejo to keep his farewell Grand Slam campaign alive.
Georgetown Mayor takes in the action at LGC Greensome tournament
Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore and Statistician Charwayne Walker were at the event on Sunday last.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 24
Thursday September 03, 2026
Patriots rally to hand Tridents third straight defeat CPL - St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots produced a batting performance for the ages, chasing down 218 to defeat the Barbados Tridents by six wickets in a pulsating Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) clash at Warner Park. Johnson Charles and Andre Fletcher were the standouts for the home side, but they were backed up superbly by their teammates in a battle between two sides at the bottom of the table. For the Tridents, Quinton de Kock's brilliant 106 ultimately went in vain. Sent in to bat, the Tridents got off to a rocky start when Brandon King departed after just eight balls. That setback did little to slow the visitors, however,
as Zachary Carter and de Kock took charge during the Power Play. Carter was particularly destructive, regularly finding the middle of the bat and using his powerful frame to launch the ball to all parts of the ground. He cleared the ropes seven times, while de Kock matched his scoring rate through a more classical approach, finding gaps with remarkable consistency. The pair put on a 116-run partnership before Carter was dismissed for 57. During that period, the Patriots were their own worst enemies, putting down three routine catches and struggling to find an answer to the Tridents' assault. The Tridents maintained
Briton Brennan triumphs in Vuelta stage 11, Mas retains red
(Reuters) - Briton Matthew Brennan prevailed in a chaotic sprint for the finish line in stage 11 of the Vuelta a Espana on Wednesday, as the 21-year-old Visma-Lease a Bike rider claimed third stage win in his maiden Grand Tour. Brennan, who also won the second and fourth stages, beat Bryan Coquard (Cofidis) and Jordi Meeus (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe) in a photo finish in Lorca. Red jersey holder Enric Mas (Movistar) retained his overall lead, remaining a minute and 18 seconds ahead of four-times winner Primoz Roglic (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe) as nearly the entire peloton crossed
a scoring rate of around nine to 10 an over throughout the innings, with de Kock continuing his onslaught alongside Sherfane Rutherford. The Patriots struggled to keep the in-form South African off strike as he repeatedly punished the bowling attack. De Kock reached his century from just 54 balls, becoming the fourth player to score a hundred in the CPL this season. Having earlier been among those to spill a chance, Navin Bidaisee redeemed himself spectacularly, producing a stunning running catch to finally end de Kock's innings. Chris Green and Rivaldo Clarke saw out the innings, taking the Tridents to 217 for
4. There was little for the Patriots bowlers to celebrate, with Wanindu Hasaranga the only bowler to finish with a single-digit economy rate after bowling more than one over. His 1 for 22 was the best return of the seven-man attack. The Patriots knew they needed a flying start in the chase — and Charles delivered. The opener attacked from the outset, finding his rhythm during the Power Play. Then came a bizarre moment when Charles lofted a full toss towards deep midwicket and was caught. The Patriots bench were furious that a no ball wasn't given as Charles headed off. The third umpire
Team Visma | Lease a Bike's James Matthew Brennan celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win stage 5. (REUTERS/Bruna Casas)
the finish line together after the 153.8km ride from Cartagena. Points classification leader Wout van Aert expertly led teammate Brennan to the front after the final turn and he overtook Coquard and crossed the finish line with his hand raised in victory. "We took the initiative again today... it was fantastic work in the last 10 km to keep us in the right place," said Brennan, who won Britain's National Under-23 Championships last year."I'm with team full of massive champions... I'm thankful that they go full gas for me." UAE Team Emirates-XRG, whose leader Tadej Pogacar withdrew from
intervened and overturned the decision, sending Charles back to the crease. To make matters worse for t h e Tr i d e n t s , C h a r l e s promptly smashed the resulting free hit for six. Charles and Kyle Mayers continued to keep pace with the required rate, but the Tridents eventually got a breakthrough through a slice of fortune. Rutherford deflected Charles' straight drive onto the stumps, leaving Mayers stranded and run out. T h e Tr i d e n t s t h e n appeared to take another major step towards victory when Charles was finally dismissed for a superb 78 by Mujeeb Ur Rahman. But the Patriots refused to buckle. Instead, they dug deep and ensured they did not surrender cheap wickets. Dasun Shanaka, Jason H o l d e r, F l e t c h e r a n d
Hasaranga all made valuable contributions to keep the chase alive and propel the Patriots towards what became the fourth-highest successful run chase in CPL history. Fletcher has been the man the Patriots have repeatedly turned to when they need someone to finish the job — and once again, he delivered. The veteran smashed a towering six to bring up a sensational six-wicket victory with five balls remaining and sparked wild celebrations at Warner Park. The Patriots will complete their home leg in two days' time when they face the Saint Lucia Kings, while the Tridents return home to begin their own run of home matches on beginning on Saturday against defending champions Trinbago Knight Riders.
AJM Enterprise and Sawh Construction Inc. Join Forces with DCB for T10 Fundraiser Tournament
the race after a crash in stage eight, could have lost another rider when Kevin Vermaerke went down in a crash with Hamish M cKenzie (Jayco AlUla).American Vermaerke got back up, however, and carried on as the peloton shut down all the early attacks, reaching speeds of nearly 46 km per hour going into the last 10 kilometres of the mostly flat stage. The peloton was together amid a frantic battle to stay ahead in the final kilometre, but the Visma-Lease a Bike riders successfully collaborated to set up Brennan's dash to the finish line. The race returns to the mountains on Thursday with a 166.6-km ride from Vera to Calar Alto.
The Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) has announced its partnership with AJM Enterprise and Sawh Construction Inc. for the upcoming DCB T10 Fundraiser Tournament, scheduled to be played at the LBI Ground on November 22, 2026. This exciting tournament will feature eight franchise teams competing for the top prize of $1 million, promising thrilling cricket action and vibrant community engagement. All proceeds from the event will directly support the growth and development of boys' and girls' cricket at the grassroots level. At the presentation held at DCB office on Regent Street, SCI & AJM Enterprise reaffirmed their commitment to cricket development. Procurement Officer Mr. Jonte Thomas presented a financial contribution to DCB Chairman of Competition Committee Mr. Avishkar Ramgobin underscoring the company's dedication to cricket development.
Sawh Construction Inc has evolved from a local enterprise into one of Guyana's leading construction firms. Specializing in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, the company is recognized for its commitment to quality, integrity, and sustainability, shaping Guyana's development through modern construction practices. AJM Enterprise: AJM Enterprise has grown into a trusted name in highway, street, and bridge construction, as well as transportation and machinery services. With over three decades of experience. AJM Enterprise continues to uphold its reputation for reliability, safety, and innovation. The DCB expresses its deepest gratitude to AJM Enterprise and Sawh Construction Inc. for their partnership. Together, this collaboration represents a powerful step toward building a stronger future for cricket in Guyana.
Thursday September 03, 2026
Aces Cricket Club crowned ORSCA Premier 10-10 champions Aces Cricket Club were crowned champions last Sunday after beating Fuzion by 64 runs at the Emancipation Park, Brampton in this year's Ontario Round-Arm Softball Cricket Association (ORSCA) 10-10 final. Aces Cricket Club took first strike after winning the toss and rattled up a formidable 118-7 at the expiration of their 10-overs. Fuzion, in reply, only responded with 54-5 when the 10-overs ran out. Opening batsman Krishna Shawn Persaud cracked a blistering 54 to lead the way for Aces Cricket Club. Persaud belted two fours and five sixes during his 21-ball show. The right-handed Persaud and Richard Rossan gave Aces Cricket Club a flying start with a 50-run partnership. Rossan contributed 25 as experienced bowler Sanjeev Ramnarine churned out an impressive, bowling performance for Fuzion grabbing 3-20 from his maximum two overs. Fuzion's innings never gained momentum with Rossan returning with the ball to claim 3-7 (2). Persaud was named at the Most-ValuablePlayer for his awesome, batting display. Meanwhile, Aces Cricket Club recently won the T20 trophy as well having gotten the better of Young Warriors at the same venue.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 25
Aces Cricket Club strikes a pose.
Steve’s Jewellery named official Jeweller of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026 Johnson Charles led the chase with help from Andre Fletcher. (CPL)
Patriots rally to hand Tridents third straight defeat Tournament's Director Raj Singh, left, receives the player-of-the-tournament prize from Steve Naraine, owner of Steve Jewellery.
s t r po
S
AJM Enterprise and Sawh Construction Inc. Join Forces with DCB for T10 Fundraiser Tournament Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.