GECOMChairawaits oppositionnomineesto fullyconstitutecommission application for 9th permit in Corentyne stabbing at Bamboo Landing ‘Normalise
- Trump threatens
Sixty years strong — culture, heritage and national pride lit up Fort Island, Essequibo Monday evening, as riveting performances ushered in Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in spectacular fashion. (Photos: News Room/ Vishani Ragobeer)
Pres. Ali defends foreign firms ‘flipping’ mining claimsdespiteGuyanagettingnothingfromdeals ...says country operating under global market standards
President Irfaan Ali has defended the transfer and sale of Guyana’smineralpropertiesamong foreign mining companies, arguing thatsuchtransactionsarepartofthe global mining industry and not uniquetoGuyana
Atapressconferenceheldatthe Office of the President last Friday, this publication asked PresidentAli whetherthegrowingtrendofforeign firms ‘flipping’ large-scale mining assetsinGuyanaisaconcerntohis administration, and whether government believes stronger policies are needed to ensure the countrybenefitsdirectlyfromthose transactions
In response, President Ali first challenged the premise of the
question “Can you tell me how Guyana is not benefiting, give me one example,” he said It was then pointedouttothehead-of-statethat G Mining Ventures Corp (GMIN) last month announced plans to acquire fellow Canadian miner G2 Goldfields for approximately US$22B (C$3 billion) The deal will consolidate the two firms’ adjacent gold projects: G2’s OkoGhanie Project and GMIN’s fully permitted and fully financed Oko West Project, into a seven-million-
controlledbyGMIN.
Kaieteur News hadreportedthat the definitive agreement allows GMIN to acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of G2 pursuanttoacourt-approvedplanof arrangement In a similar move, GMIN in 2024, added the 464million-ounce Oko West Gold project to its portfolio following a business combination with another Canadian company, Reunion Gold Corp, valued at US$638M (C$875
million) Reunion was the previous owneroftheOkoWestgoldproject
For his part,Ali questioned the reporteraboutthecompany’scostof explorationforthegoldprojectand howmuchhadbeeninvestedbythe company “So, tell me, tell me everything Tell me, what was the cost of the exploration? How much the company spent on exploration, so that they could have gotten the market value of what asset they have,andwhocarriedthatcost?”he said
President Ali outlined that Guyanaoperatesinaninternational investment environment which allows companies participating in globalmarketstotradeandselltheir shares and companies “They can selltheirshares Ofcourse,wewant maximum benefit to come to Guyana So, tell me about it,” he added AliremindedthatGuyanaisnot uniqueinseeingminingcompanies acquireandsellprojectsafter
Transparency International Guyana Chapter (TIGI) wishestoregisteritssupportfortheproposalforaTruthand ReconciliationCommissionforGuyana.
Transparency International Guyana believes that an independent international individual, probably from South
Growing
60 years Support for truth and reconciliation commission
Sixty years is a long time for a nation, a people, to continuebeingitsownworstenemy Guyanesehavelurched forwardfromonedecadetoanother Despiteclaimingtobe free,thereisstillanabjectseasonofdependenceon,ofbeing subject to, the manipulations and dictates of others. Our English masters were content to yield to more powerful Americanmasters,happytoplaytheroleofsecondfiddlein theyearsbefore1966. Sixtyyearslater,bothstillfunction asmastersofGuyana’senvironment,overlordsdecidingthe destiny of the peoples of this rich land. Guyana is free on paper Inreality,inpractice,notmuchhaschangedbeneath thesurfaceobservationsandcelebrations.
Acountrythisrichshouldneverbesobowed,fromneck toknee. Apeoplesorichshouldnotbeseekingtorunaway andtakeupresidenceelsewhere. Toturnfaceandbackfrom themanygreatgiftsofthissovereignnationamountsalmost to betrayal. One of the curses of this rich and supposedly independentcountryisthatbetrayalshavebeenwritteninto its DNA. Government after government has sold its promiseout. Leaderafterleaderhassavagedtheaspirations ofitspeoples. Greathopeisinevitablyfollowedbygreater disappointment. Guyanaisacountryprimedwithpromise, loadedwith potential. Sixty years afterIndependenceitis stilltrappedhelplesslyinunfilledvisionsofpotential.
Guyana’s leaders, in one long, ragged, unbroken processionhavebeenverygoodattalkinguppotential. Itis part of the performance at which they are so skilled. It’s what comes from long study and longer practice. How to makefoolsofthepeople,withwordsthathavenosubstance, because they lack truth. We at this paper are forced to highlight ‘sanctity of contract.’ There is a scheme to keep thiscountryanditspeopleenslaved. Notinphysicalchains, butinaneconomicstraightjacketthatisfarmorecontrolling and effective than shackles and whips. The beauty of this gutting and limiting arrangement is that the perennial foreign masters get to enjoy the concealment of the shadows, and watch the native-born slavedrivers do their dirtyjobsforthem.
After sixty years of Independence, Guyana should be one of the proudest holders of national sovereignty in the world. Thediscoveryofoiltothetuneofbillionsofbarrels, and more billions probably stuck in layers of trickeries, confirmsadisasterandahorror ItistheGuyanatragedyof a sovereignty without a crown. With oil, every Guyanese hastheassetsintheirhandstomakethemlivelikelordsand ladies,theenvyoftheworld. Withthecowardlyvilenessof ‘sanctity of contract’most Guyanese are forced to live the lifeofserfsandpaupers,whichmakesthemalaughingstock everywhere. Six decades after Independence, one of this nation’smostremarkableproductsisacompanyofleaders withthementalityofslaves.
Sixty years beyond May 26, 1966, there are gleaming towers, long bridges, many more kilometers of roads, and newbuildingsallover Theemblemsofprogress,ofafree nation on the move, many would say We say that when towers and bridges and roads and building increase in numbers, the conditions of the people should be far better, must precede the priority given to the erection of those physical works. More and more of the rich jewelry of Guyana catching the eye, yet many are so hungry, so knowingofpoverty Liketheslavesofyore,poorandtired Guyanese of all colors can identify with that searing line from the great American poet Paul Lawrence Dunbar: “I knowwhythecagedbirdsings…”
Sixty years post-Independence, all citizens should be singing a sweet song. The delicious experience of true freedom tasted and savored. The rich life of people who know real liberty and live in its warm embrace. This is a countrywithtreacherousleaders. Theybargainthewealth that belongs to citizens, born and unborn, for power for themselves. Independence has freed them to enslave the people and enrich themselves. Leaders sell themselves, thentheysellthenationalbirthright. Theyaretoomuchthe
Africa,familiarwiththeprocessshouldchairthecommission. We urge that the truth and reconciliation commission be appointedwithalacrity
Regards, BoardofDirectors
TransparencyInternationalGuyanaInc.
public concerns regarding nightlife regulation, public safety in Georgetown
DEAREDITOR,
Nightlife, entertainment, and hospitality businesses play an important role in Georgetown’s economy by contributing to tourism, employment, investment, and recreational activity Restaurants, bars, lounges, and nightclubs form part of the city’s growing commercial sector and can contribute positively to urban development when operated responsibly and within the framework of the law
However, increasing concernsarebeingraisedby residents and business owners regarding the apparentlackofenforcement of laws and regulations governing portions of Georgetown’s nightlife and entertainmentindustry
Many residents have expressed frustration regardingwhattheydescribe as repeated disregard for l i q u o r l i c e n s i n g requirements, approved o p e r a t i n g h o u r s , environmental regulations, public safety standards, traffic laws, and municipal by-laws governing e n
establishments.
These regulations were establishednottodiscourage business activity, but to maintain a balance between economic growth and the protection of public order, residential peace, environmental standards, andcommunitysafety When businesses allegedly operate outside those legal boundaries without visible e n f o r c e m e n t , t h e consequences can affect nearbyresidents,businesses, public infrastructure, and confidence in regulatory oversight.
Oneofthemostfrequent complaints involves establishments reportedly operating well beyond approved liquor licensing and entertainment hours
Residents in mixed residential and commercial communities have increasingly reported loud music, vehicle congestion, public disturbances, and nighttime activity extending intotheearlymorninghours.
Concerns have also been raised regarding reports that some entertainment establishments, including well-known clubs along
RobbStreetandNorthRoad, allegedly continue nightclub activitiesandalcoholservice untilapproximately5:00AM andlongeronaregularbasis. Members of the public have questioned whether such reported practices comply with liquor licensing conditions, entertainment permits, municipal regulations, and public safet
operationswithinthecity
h
Another growing concern involves reports of excessive alcohol consumption followed by reckless and unlawful driving behaviour in surroundingareas.Residents and nearby businesses have increasingly complained aboutsuspecteddrinkingand driving activities involving p a t r o n s l e a v i n g e
t establishments during the late-nightandearly-morning hours.
Additional concerns have also been raised regarding vehicles equipped with high-powered amplified sound systems continuously circling the RobbStreetandNorthRoad
areas while blasting excessively loud music throughoutthenightandinto the early morning hours. Residents have complained that these repeated disturbances create ongoing noise pollution, traffic disruptions, public nuisance concerns, and potential safetyrisksformotoristsand pedestriansalike.
Noise pollution has become an increasing issue in several areas of Georgetown Excessive amplified music, vehicles parked or driving with highpoweredsoundsystems,and uncontrolled entertainment activities affect not only nearby homes but also neighbouring businesses attempting to operate professionallyduringnormal b u s i n e s s h o u r s Environmental and noise regulations exist because prolonged exposure to excessive noise can negatively impact mental health, stress levels, sleep quality,andoverallqualityof life.
Public safety concerns have also been repeatedly raised.Overcrowding, Continued on page 5
Guyana’s journey over the past six decades has been defined by resilience, perseverance
DEAREDITOR,
As Guyana marks its 60th year of independence, the significance of this milestone resonates with me more deeply than ever This year’s flag raising ceremony—set against the historic backdrop of Fort Zeelandia on Fort Island carries powerful symbolism, particularly as we face Venezuela’s unhinged challenge regarding our territorial sovereigntyintheEssequibo region.
Guyana’s journey over thepastsixdecadeshasbeen
defined by resilience, perseverance and a deepseatedsearchforasolidified, post-colonial Guyanese identity Ourjourneybeyond thesefirst60yearsmustnow be focused on development, unity and – inevitably – a renewed focus on national security and territorial integrity Like many, I was initially confused by the choiceofFortIslandforthis year’s ceremony but after taking a closer look at the history of the island, I realizedthisdecisionwasan especiallypoignantone.
In the 18th century, Fort
willing slave, the proudly enslaved. National sovereignty bartered. When leaders lose courage, they lose their way in grasping at the benefits of freedom. Theirs is the plantation slave mentality, the one inside the house. When they sold Independence and sold national sovereignty, they sold all Guyanesetoaslave’sexistence. Ofthistheyboast:thosewho celebrate,thosewhocondone,refusetochallenge.
Zeelandia on Fort Island stood as the core defense mechanism for Essequibo, withitsformidablewallsand 20 gunports constructed to withstand the strongest artilleryofthatera.Today,as G u y a n a c o n f r o n t s Venezuela’sdisputeoverthe Essequibo, returning to this historicsiteforourmilestone flag raising ceremony is a statement of strength and determination. It highlights our nation’s unwavering resolve to defend its sovereigntyandremindsour people of the enduring spirit that has carried Guyana through challenges past and present.
C e l e b r a t i n g independence at Fort Island is not just an act of remembrance; it is a reaffirmation of national pride and unity at a time
when solidarity is crucial. The flag, raised high above the fort, serves as both a tribute to those who safeguarded this land centuries ago and a rallying call for current and future generations to stand firm in defense of their country As Guyana turns 60, the ceremony at Fort Zeelandia encapsulates the nation’s history and stands as a prelude to an exponentially growing legacy and a statement that all of Guyana belongs to all Guyanese and itisworthfightingfor
When those ferries sail from Parika on May 25th they are meant to take us to witness a piece of history What they will also do is cement our place in the construction of a national legacy Sincerely TimicaEastman
Growing public concerns...
Frompage4
blocked pavements, unsafe
parking practices, obstruction of emergency access routes, reckless driving, and gatherings
spilling onto public roadways create potential hazards for pedestrians, nearby residents, motorists, and emergency responders. In some cases, businesses operating without adequate crowd management measures place additional pressure on police and municipalresources.
Another growing area of public concern involves the
oversight of foreign nationals working within segments of the adult entertainment and nightlife industry Questions have increasingly been raised regarding whether all operators are complying fullywithimmigrationlaws, labour protections, licensing
requirements, and international human rights standards governing the treatment of foreign workers.
There are ongoing
regional concerns throughout parts of the
Caribbean and South
America regarding allegations of vulnerable women being recruited into
entertainment-related
employment under questionable conditions Concerns have also been raised regarding allegations that some nightclub or entertainmentoperatorsmay be retaining passports, immigration documents, identification papers, or travel records belonging to foreign women brought to Guyana to work as adult entertainers.
International antitrafficking organisations
recognisethewithholdingor control of passports and personal documents as potential indicators of coercion, exploitation, unlawful confinement, or human trafficking While suchallegationsmustalways be properly investigatedand not assumed as fact without evidence or due process, these concerns highlight the importance of stronger inspections, immigration
compliance reviews, licensing oversight, and labour enforcement within t h e n i g h t l i f e a n d entertainmentsector
The broader concerns s
disturbances, reckless driving, and possible exploitationissueshavealso raised questions regarding regulatory oversight and
authorities responsible for monitoringtheseactivities.
Several government agencies and regulatory bodies play important roles in the oversight of nightlife
Georgetown,including:
* Mayor and City CouncilofGeorgetown
*GuyanaPoliceForce
* Environmental ProtectionAgency
* Guyana Revenue Authority
* Ministry of Home Affairs
* Ministry of Human ServicesandSocialSecurity
*Immigrationandlabour enforcementauthorities. These agencies are responsible for liquor licensing enforcement, operating hour compliance, environmental and noise regulation, public safety
o v e r s i g h t , t r a ff i c enforcement, immigration moni
protections, anti-trafficking enforcement, and municipal by-lawadministration.
Members of the public have increasingly questioned whether existing laws and regulations are being enforced fairly and consistently, particularly where repeated complaints andvisibleviolationsappear to continue without meaningful enforcement action This growing perception of regulatory inaction risks undermining public confidence in the institutions responsible for maintaining order, safety, andlegalcompliance.
The issue is not whether Georgetown should support nightlife and entertainment activity
A modern and growing capitalcityshouldencourage i
ism, recreation, and economic opportunity However, development must occur within a structured and enforceablelegalframework that protects both business interests and the wider community
A s G e o r g e t o w n continues to modernise and expand economically, authorities must ensure that nightlife growth does not come at the expense of public order, environmental responsibility, public safety, or the lawful rights of residents and taxpayers. A modern capital city requires not only investment and entertainment, but also accountability,transparency, consistent enforcement, and respect for the rule of law andhumandignity
Respectfully, MarkAnthony
Liberation, unity and prosperity
DEAREDITOR,
A New and United Guyana (ANUG) salutes you, the ancestral lineage, the men and women whose sweat, sacrifice, and unyielding hope built this nation- on this historic day 60yearsagowhenthe chains of colonial rule and bondage from our bodies and spirits were ripped asunder
Editor, we celebrate our Diamond Jubilee not merely with fanfare, but with solemnreflection.
Forsixdecades,wehave walked a road of both triumph and tragedy We have tasted the sweetness of self-rule, yet known the bitterness of division, mismanagement, and lost potential.
Lessonslearned
ANUG espouses that political independence w i t h o u t e c o n o m i c independence is a halffreedom. We learned that when race becomes a weapon instead of a bridge, poverty thrives and justice retreats.ANUG learned that corruption, whether in colonial guise or local garb, is the enemy of the people’s trust.
We learned that the cries of our Indigenous brothers and sisters, the struggles of our rural and riverine communities, and the aspirationsofouryouthwere toooftensilencedbytheroar ofpartisanpower
Mistakesmade ANUG deliberates that as a nation: we allowed fear to outweigh fellowship. We permitted leaders to divide usalongcolourandcreedfor electoral gain. We neglected education, healthcare, and infrastructure in the interior We celebrated extraction
without conservation We toleratedimpunityandcalled it stability And in our oil rush, we have sometimes r e p e a t e d o l d errors secrecy, lack of loca
l recklessness instead of chartinganewcourse.
Correctionsunderway
But ANUG believes in resurrection.Wehavebegun, though slowly, to build oversightinstitutions.Weare demanding transparent oil contracts,asovereignwealth fund that serves generations not yet born, and local content laws that turn black
hospitals, roads, and clean water for every Guyanese. We a
p
h
constitutional reform to ensure no single region or race can hold the nation h
championing a united front against domestic violence, land grabbing, and environmentalracism.
Expectations as an oilproducingnation
As we move forward, Guyana must answer a profound question: Will oil makeusservantsagain—this t i m e t o f o r e i g n corporations—or masters of ourowndestiny?
ANUGexpects:
· Full transparency in every oil contract, revenue stream,andexpenditure.
·Asovereignwealthrule that caps withdrawals and prioritizes intergenerational equity
Local content
enforcement so Guyanese workers, businesses, and technologies lead the industrywithinadecade.
· Environmental justice with binding penalties for spills, gas flaring limits, and restoration of affected ecosystems.
· Diversification—using oil wealth to modernise agriculture, eco-tourism, renewable energy, and technology, never becoming amono-croppetro-state.
Above all, ANUG
expect unity without uniformity a Guyanese patriotism that says: your ancestor came on a ship, a plantation, a plane, or walked this forest ten thousand years ago you belong, you matter, and your voice is the engine of change
Fellow Guyanese, independencewasnotagift; it was a conquest True freedomremainsunfinished. ANUG invites you not to a dream,buttoadiscipline:the discipline of demanding accountability, rejecting division, and building a nation where a child from Lethem, Leonora, Linden or Lesbeholden can aspire withoutlimit.
H a p p y 6 0 t h Independence. Let the next 60yearsbeourfinest.
One Guyana One Future.Nolookingback! ANUG is yours in serviceandstruggle, Regards, JonathanSubrian ActingChairman. A New and United Guyana(ANUG)
‘Normalise with Israel or deal with Iran dies’ - Trump threatens Arab world
(AL-JAZEERA) Since reports of a possible deal with Iran started to emerge, pro-Israel advocates in the United States have been warning President Donald Trump against signing the agreement.
Hawkish figures, including some prominent senators, have voiced opposition to any deal that fails to remove or at least severely weaken Iran’s political leadership and destroyitsmilitarypowers.
But after Trump floated the prospect of more Arab countries establishing formal relations with Israel as part of the agreement, some of the critical voices softenedtheirtone.
U S Senator Lindsey Graham was among those politicians On Saturday, Graham a vocal proponent of the war — warned that ending the conflict in order to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would bea“nightmare”forIsrael.
“It is important we get this right,” he wrote in a social media post on Saturday that was shared by the American Israel Public AffairsCommittee(AIPAC), aU.S.lobbyinggroup.
Two days later, on Monday, Trump said it “should be mandatory” for countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Pakistan tosetupdiplomaticrelations
with Israel as part of a U.S. agreementwithIran.
Graham then praised the push, calling Trump’s diplomatic manoeuvre “simplybrilliant”.
“With Saudi Arabia and others like Pakistan making peace with Israel, the region willknowalevelofstability never dreamed of before President Trump,” the senator wrote on the social mediaplatformX.
Normalisation with Israel, Graham added, “will eventually lead to regional integration, making the Middle East a powerhouse for economic opportunity andgoodinsteadofapowder keg”.
AbrahamAccords Pro-Israel political commentator Mark Levin, who is close to Trump, similarly praised the normalisation push on Monday after criticising the potential deal with Iran on Saturday
“This would be a truly massive accomplishment!” Levin said, commenting on Trump’sproposal.
The turnaround came on Monday, after Trump laid out his vision for expanding the Abraham Accords, a seriesofnormalisationdeals between Israel and nearby Arabstates.
“It should be mandatory thatalloftheseCountries,at a minimum, simultaneously,
U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks at a Memorial Day event held on May 25 at the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. [Nathan Howard/Reuters]
sign onto the Abraham Accords,”hewroteonTruth Social, listing six countries, including Turkiye and Egypt, which already have formal diplomatic relations withIsrael.
None of the countries Trumpmentionedresponded to his call. But for years, many countries refused to normalise ties with Israel, especiallyafteritsgenocidal waronGaza.
Saudi Arabia has repeatedly said that it stands by the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, which calls on Israel to recognise the Palestinianstatebasedonits 1967 borders, with East Jerusalemasitscapital.
Trump’s demand on Monday comes as his administration struggles to negotiate a peace deal after the U.S. and Israel launched a war against Iran on February28.
Critics have questioned Trump’s objectives in the war, which started with the idea of regime change in Iran, ending the nuclear programme,andcurbingthe country’s missile arsenal Later,anotherpressinggoal imposed itself as one of the main objectives: to forcibly reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade route throughwhichmorethan20
percent of the world’s oil is shipped
It is unclear whether Trump has the leverage to mandate policy to other countriesintheregionaspart of the peace negotiations withIran.
T h e r e n e w e d normalisation push, however, could soften the blow for pro-Israel politicians who oppose endingthewarwithIran.
Dania Thafer, the executive director of Gulf International Forum, said Trumpistryingtopresentthe war, which has been a “strategic failure” as a success for the U.S. and Israel.
But Gulf states –particularly Saudi Arabia and Qatar – are “not interested” in normalisation at this stage, Thafer told Al Jazeera.
Beyond the Palestinian cause, Thafer explained, Gulfcountries–whichcame under Iranian attacks during thewar–donotwantto“tip the balance in favour of Israeli-ledregionalorder”.
S h e s a i d t h e normalisation push could potentially derail a U S agreement with Iran if Trumpinsistsonit.
“How much is this rhetorical and symbolic
versus how much of this is really the substantive policy position of the Trump administration?Ithinkthat’s the question that we’re unclearabout,”Thafersaid.
Republicancriticism
Since his first term as U.S. president, Trump has made normalising Israel’s foreign relations a top priority
In 2020, with Trump’s backing, Israel signed the Abraham Accords with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco, establishing bilateral diplomaticrelations.
But Trump and the predecessor to his second term, former President Joe Biden,havefailedtoexpand the accords. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also continued to reject the idea ofaPalestinianstate.
Israelhaslongsoughtto separate its efforts to build regional ties from its continued occupation of Palestinian land and its m i s t r e a t m e n t o f Palestinians, which rights groups say amount to apartheid
Forgingmoreformalties with Arab and Muslim nations could boost Israel politicallyandeconomically, while further isolating Palestinians.
Trump faced rare albeit indirect — criticism from legislators in his Republican Party over the weekend,whenthedetailsof a possible peace deal with Iranleaked.
Its terms reportedly included the unfreezing of billions of dollars in Iranian assetsandanendtothewar, with the promise of further negotiations.
Senator Ted Cruz, a staunchly pro-Israel Trump ally,saidonSaturdaythathe was “concerned” about reportsoftheagreement.
“Iftheresultofallthatis to be an Iranian regime —
still run by Islamists who chant ‘death to America’— now receiving billions of dollars, being able to enrich uranium & develop nuclear weapons, and having effective control over the Strait of Hormuz, then that outcome would be a disastrous mistake,” Cruz wroteinasocialmediapost.
AIPACalsosharedapost by Republican Senator Roger Wicker criticising the deal.
“The rumored 60-day ceasefire — with the belief that Iran will ever engage in good faith — would be a disaster,” Wicker said “Everything accomplished by Operation Epic Fury wouldbefornaught!”
Mike Pompeo, who served as secretary of state during Trump’s first term, joined in the criticism, likening the rumoured deal to the 2015 nuclear agreement
negotiated by Democratic officials.
Headdedthatitwas“not remotely America First”, a reference to Trump’s campaignpledgetoputU.S. interestsaboveall.
“It’s straightforward: Open the damned strait Deny Iran access to money Take out enough Iranian capability so it cannot threaten our allies in the region,” Pompeo said “Overdue.Let’sgo.” T h e T r u m p administration was quick to hit back against the former topdiplomat,describinghim asmisinformed.
“Mike Pompeo has no idea what the f*** he’s talking about,” White House Communications Director Steven Cheung wroteonX
“He should shut his stupid mouth and leave the r e a l w o r k t o t h e professionals. He’s not read into anything that’s happening,sohowwouldhe know.”
GECOM Chair awaits opposition nominees to fully constitute commission
By Rehanna Ramsay
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) cannotmoveforwardwithits work until it is properly constituted to represent Guyana’s current political dispensation This is the position of Chairperson Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh.
JusticeSinghtoldKaieteur
NewsonMondaythatuntilthe new leader of the opposition, Azruddin Mohamed submits the names for his nominees from the We Invest in Nationhood(WIN)tofillthe opposition seats, GECOM cannot move forward with itswork.
Accordingtothechair,this includescriticalworksuchas preparations for the Local GovernmentElections(LGE) which were originally slated forNovemberofthisyear,as
well as the filling of vacancies within the commission. Justice Singh recalledduringameetingwith Mr Mohamed last January, thathewastoldtosubmitthe namesofhisnomineesbuthe neverdid
“The new opposition leaderhasnotyet,althoughwe told him he came to visit us We told him, you will then, youhavetosubmitthenames of your commissioners He hasnotdoneso That’soneof themainthings.So,hehasto g o a n d g e t h i s commissionersinthere…He decidedwhen hecamehere, hesaidhehadnames,hehad thepeoplealready,buthehas now named them to us. So, you’re basically waiting on him, and that’s it... We’re waiting on him. He has the nameascommissioners.”
Justice Singh emphasised that as head of GECOM, she
haschosentotreadcautiously given the new political dispensation
“I cannot move forward taking the law into consideration. If I call a meeting,now,thenextdayhe (Mohamed) will carry me to court or something for excludingtheirparty”
Last January, Mr Mohamedannouncedplansto formally request that the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)-appointed commissioners on GECOM vacatetheirseats
The move came shortly after Mohamed’s election as leader of the opposition, a position previously held by the People’s National Congress-led APNU, whose nominees currently occupy thethreeopposition seats on GECOM.
Theoppositionleaderand histeamlatermetwithJustice
Singh and Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud to discuss the appointment of scrutineers and the status of the commissionersfollowinghis election as the new opposition leader which reflects a changed dynamic in parliament. It was noted that the commission must reflect the composition of thenewopposition.
Opposition commissioner Vincent Alexander had stronglyopposedthenotionof stepping down to allow members of the new main oppositiontooccupyseatson the commission He said the law does not provide for them to be removed or resigned Alexander bemoanedthefactthatthelast timethecommissionmetwas
September 7, 2025 “So the commission has not been meetingtoapproveanyofthe critical matters related to the proper functioning of GECOM,”heasserted.
T h e G E C O M
commissioner noted however that even in the absence of those meetings, GECOM submitted a budget estimate which was later approved by theparliament
“That is not even in keepingwiththeconstitutional framework of how the commissionshouldberun At present, there are number of key vacancies including that areyettobefilled So,nowI am unable to say at the
momentwhatistheposition with the local government elections”
Itwasnotedthenwhilethe commission is moving ahead with plans for the LGE, vacancies still exist for the keyofficerswithinGECOM
Allofthesepositions,Mr Alexandersaidarecriticalof the hosting of the LGEs LocalGovernmentElections werelastheldinJune2023.
Pres. Ali defends foreign firms...
Frompage3
explorationincreasesthevalueoftheasset He said,“Guyanaisnotspecialinthisway Yougo toCanadaintheminingsector,someofthese verycompaniesareoperatingthere,theydothe exploration,theygoontheglobalmarket,they raisefinancing,theirassetvalueincrease,they sell the shares at higher price, they sell the company.”
President Ali interrogated the part of the question, which suggested that Guyana does not directly benefit when these transactions occur He pivoted to the forestry sector, arguingthatoneofthebiggesthindrancesfor localclaimholderswasthelackofresourcesto build infrastructure needed to access mining claims On the other hand, Ali said foreign investorsareoftenbetterpositionedtodevelop large-scaleprojectsandthattheirinvestments have contributed significantly to the mining sectorbenefittinglocals.
He further stated that during the 2015 to 2020period,Guyanalostseveralmajorplayers in the sector, which he said severely affected the industry The head-of-state even questionedthereporteraboutdevelopmentsin the forestry sectors under the David Granger administration “I’m asking you, as a dear friend,areyouawareofwhattookplaceinthe forestrysectorbetween2015and2020andin theminingsector?”hesaid
President Ali went on to paint a gloomy pictureoftheforestrysectorduringtheDavid Granger-administration, stating that about 60% of local miners’ assets and equipment were parked because operators could not operate Switching back to gold mining, PresidentAliexplainedthatlarge-scalemining operations require different levels of exploration and investment He stressed that foreign companies enter Guyana’s mining industry legitimately to acquire mining lands anddevelopprojects
However, when pressed on whether his administration believes stronger policies are needed to ensure Guyana benefits directly whenlarge-scaleminingpropertiesaresoldor transferred among foreign firms, Ali responded, “My dear friend, don’t come with preconceived notion and stick to the text on your phone Let us have a nice conversation
You see, one of the beautiful things about journalism is it allows you to interact and prosecuteinrealtime”
President Ali maintained that Guyana operateswithintheglobalminingenvironment and therefore functions under international standardsandinvestmentrules.
“We may not be happy with that, but the realityisthatyouareinaninternationalmarket, so it’s not a happiness index measuring, it’s a reality of the global system we’re operating in Thereareglobalrulesinthatenvironment Thereareglobalstandardsinthatenvironment As a country, we have to, we don’t have a choice,whenyouacceptinternationalinvestor in your country, you may not be happy but it’snotahappinessindex Policymakingisnot necessarily happiness index measuring on everyissue…”hesaid.
Over the years, Kaieteur News has spotlighted the growing number of foreign players,particularlyCanadianfirmsoperating intheminingindustry
OnMonday,thispublicationreportedthat 11 Canadian firms are currently advancing goldprojectsacrossGuyana’sminingdistricts, collectively controlling millions of ounces of gold at various stages of development – with some nearing gold production The article highlights that most of these projects are locatedinRegionSeven,theCuyuni-Mazaruni Mining District, a region recognised for its significant gold potential For five of the 11 companies, the Proven and Probable Reserves and indicated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) amount to 15.7 million ouncesofgold.Theremainingcompaniesare still in the exploration stage and have not reached the point of announcing resource estimates.
Like GMIN, some of the other Canadian companies acquired their Guyana properties throughtakeoversormergersinvolvingjunior foreign and, in some instances, local mining firms that previously controlled the assets Back in 2024, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo was questioned on GMIN’s US-multimillion business combination with Reunion Gold, wherehestatedthat‘flipping’isnotunusualin the mining sector and is something governmentcannotprevent
Chairperson of GECOM Retired Justice Claudette Singh
Why should the president be meeting with the leader of the opposition?
Areporterrecentlyasked the president when he was going to “reach with” the leader of the opposition
Now I listened carefully to thisquestionseveraltimes.
I did so partly because I thought perhaps, I had sufferedatemporaryhearing malfunction, and partly because I was hoping there w a s s o m e h i d d e n constitutional doctrine I had missed in school. But no. Thephraseremainedtherein all its mysterious glory: “reachwith.”
I don’t know if the reporter was expecting the presidenttoanswer,“Well,I was planning to reach with him around Thursday, but my calendar is full. But this isnottheanswerthatcame.
Instead, the president said he did not understand the question. Frankly, that was probably the most courteous response available In fact, if anything, the president showedremarkablerestraint. Some men would have questioned the sensibleness ofthequestion.
Theconstitutiondoesnot require the president to “reach with” anybody The president is required, under certain circumstances, to consultwiththeleaderofthe
opposition regarding constitutional appointments. There is no need for the president to ‘meet with’ the leader of the opposition
None whatsoever outside of thosecircumstancesdictated bytheconstitution.
And there is nothing in the constitution that speaks toacourtesycalloraformal meeting of introduction between the president and the leader of the opposition.
The constitution does not state that upon assuming the leader of the opposition a meeting with the President must be held There is, however, a need for consultation when the need arisestomakeappointments tocertainoffices.
And consultation does not necessarily require two persons to sit face-to-face
beneath chandeliers pretending to enjoy each other’s company while photographers around Consultation does not mean face-to-face meetings Consultations can occur through letters, written submissions and through representatives.
But apparently in Guyana, we have entered an era where governance is judgedlikeafamilyreunion. “Butwhytheyain’tmeetup
Dem Boys Seh...
yet?”peopleask.
Nowletusintroduceinto this already surreal equation oneadditionalcomplication. The leader of the opposition is currently facing legal troubles, including indictmentinaforeigncourt and local extradition proceedings. This is not a minorfootnote.
U n d e r s u c h circumstances, it is hardly surprising that the government may prefer to keep interactions, with the leader of the opposition, to o n l y w h e n i t i s constitutionallynecessaryto doso.
I n f a c t , m a n y governments around the world would probably do exactly the same thing. One does not casually arrange warm photo opportunities whileextraditionlawyersare hoveringaround.
Yet some people reacted tothepresident’sresponseas though he had insulted the leader of the opposition Theytookumbrage.
But why the outrage at the president’s response? I foronewouldnotwanttobe seen next to someone who faces such grave legal problems. But the president did not throw any cheap shotslikehisparty’sgeneral
Some Guyanese can’t afford to come back home
Guyana celebrating 60 years of Independence and America preparing fuh celebrate250years.Sorightnow,Guyanese in Uncle Sam waving two flags at de same time like dem confused at a cricket match andaccidentallysupportbothteams.
Dem boys seh in Guyana people decorating roads, planning concerts, and talkingpatriotictillyuhfrighten.Everyman suddenly become historian. One fella who can’t even remember he wife birthday now explaining de constitutional history of 1966 withtearsinheeye.
Meanwhile in America, Guyanese preparing fuh big barbecue, cook-up, seven curry and enough reggae-chutney-soca fusion music fuh wake up George Washingtonheself.
But all de joy get one lil crack in it now because America immigration rules decide fuhaddmoredramatodesituation.
Now some people applying fuh Green Card hearing that dem will have to return home and wait till de paperwork process complete And suddenly “back home” soundinglikeahorrormovie.
One lady seh she can’t come back because she children deh in New York and she husband finally learn how fuh separate white from coloured clothes in de washing machine.Shesehifsheleavehimalonetoo
secretary did when he held pressconferences.
The president merely said he did not understand the question Which is entirely reasonable because the question itself possessed thestructuralintegrityofwet cardboard.
Fewpeoplehavestopped to interrogate the question itself.Journalists,ideally,are supposed to clarify public understanding, not deepen thefog.
There is a larger issue here about journalism in Guyana. The media already operates under immense pressure political, commercial, ideological and social Under such condit
matters. Language matters. Questionsmatter
Instead, too often we get inquiries that sound as thoughtheywereassembled hurriedly from WhatsApp voice notes and roadside gossip.
Apressconferenceisnot a village liming spot where someone leans over a domino table and says, “So when allyuh meeting up?” Yet increasingly, serious constitutional matters are framed with similar casualness.
And then comes the secondary absurdity People are becoming offended by the answer without first examiningthepremiseofthe question.
Surelythepresentreality is obvious Unless there arises, some pressing constitutional necessity
requiringdirectengagement, there is little practical or political incentive for the president to pursue face-toface meetings with the oppositionleader
Not meeting with him is not scandalous. It is not shocking. It is not even especially dramatic. It is not required.
Meanwhile,therestofus are left trying to decipher what exactly “reach with” wassupposedtomeaninthe first place. Meet him for what?Towhatend?Why?
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
long, de marriage gon collapse before de immigrationprocessdone.
Another man seh he nah coming back because he spend twenty years building up heselfinAmericaandifhereturntoGuyana now, people gon start asking he fuh “one small assistance” before he even clear Immigration.
And then dem boys hear about some peoplewhoreallycannotreturn.Notbecause of snow or taxes or children. No sah. Court summons waiting fuh dem here. Some of dem gat outstanding child support wah higherthandenationaldebt.
Some of dem know that if dem come backdemgangattogoinfrontofjudgeand by the time de cases finish, dem gan reach retirementage.Onemanhadnuffgirlfriends in Guyana and he leff without telling them. He know that if he return, dem gan come lookingfuhexplanation.
Dem boys seh some overseas Guyanese now praying harder than when dem did applying fuh visa in de first place. Every immigrationlawyersuddenlymorepopular
So, while Guyana celebrating Independence and America celebrating freedom, some Guyanese caught in de middle like goat tied between two mango trees.
Talkhalf.Leffhalf.
LIBERTY AND LIVING FREE
Free at last! Free at last! We are finally free at last! Unfortunately, it didn’t last, mademuchofadifferenceto agreatmanyGuyanese.Not tomanyinMay1966,notto manyotherGuyaneseonthis May26,2026.
What does a 10-year-old know, can fathom, of such grandpronouncements?Not yetateenager,butabsorbing theechoesofoneofhistory’s grand fighters for freedom, Dr MartinLutherKing.The profound depths of liberty, thennewlyplumbed.
This is the life. From Sir Francis Drake to Forbes Burnham.Theybothbecame famous for helping themselves to lavish dollops of glory From Sir John Hawkins to Dr Cheddi Jagan, who was more in the mold of MLK, but had to taste the salt of his tears during his long wait in the wilderness From those foundations came this prize called Independence The great right to determine nationaldestiny Ithasbeena topsy-turvy sea rippled by damagingturbulence.
In time, Burnham was out. Jagan came into his time. It is a carousel that hasn’t paused for breath, neverquitecomingtoastop.
Remindercomesonceevery five years. We complain to outsiders We call on outsiders to come. Come help us make sense of Independence and democracy Willing hands andwisemindshavehelped. Yet,Guyanaisstillcemented tothepast.
An independent nation with the impotency of the colonised. How to interpret that contradiction? How to appreciate those who suckup to the White man, stoop beneath his pitying paternalising gaze, but still claimto be freemen?If this is Independence, then imprisonmentcan’tbemuch worse, may even be preferred.
Guyanese have all the riches in the world, a small national family Yet many live within the walls of poverty Independence must represent elevation, the convictionthatfreemenand free women are masters of theirownhouse. Hence, there should be instant rejection of giftbearerswhosesoleobjective is to re-enslave, so they can usurp what belongs to the future, the children of now and tomorrow. Where is the manthatisamantothecore
of his soul, who castrates himself and is proud to become a servile eunuch in the chambers of exploiters?
Exploiters who call themselves friends and honest investment partners. Letmesharemythinking. Independence gives me the right to look at any man intheeyeandtellhimheisa damn fool. Because he is. Just look high, then look all across this dreary, dismal land Where is courage, whither honor? Guyanese are living a false existence.
Amid the delirious celebrations, somebody has to point out the naked condition of this country, its grandpretenses.Guyanaisa country living a credit card existence.
Patrimony makes Guyana a good credit. The White Man grab the liquid gold. The Oriental man, the Arabian man, and more of White heritage grab the insatiably greedy leaders of Guyana by the neck, and stuffthemfullofcredit.Free men yoking themselves and nation and people to indebtedness The people will pay And pay Then pay somemore.
One group hauls away the riches. Another set
attaches liens on the riches still remaining. The present squandered and lost. The futuremortgagedinthe21st century version of the new slave trade. Rich resources handed over Beggar’s dole isthereward.
A people stripped first, then tied to a short leash. From Independence to incarceration (and it didn’t take long) From one instrument signed in May, 1966 to another executed in October 2016, to give it all back. Brittania may not rule like before in Guyana. But theAmericanEaglecertainly flies overhead, casts a long, ominouspall.
Allthisiscelebratedina frenzy of forced gaiety Amid droves of hungry people, there is ecstasy No wonder the White Man sensed an opening, and seized Guyana by the ball bearings. Guyana’s political princes can make all the
speeches they want.
Ordinary Guyanese watch as they kneel and kiss the ring. And when backsareturnedinthefaces of leaders, they kiss the behinds that aren’t moving fromtheirnoses.
I take stock. From the hungryanddespairingtothe emasculatedkowtowingand c r e e p i n g , i s t h a t independence? Is that Independence in a country blessed with mountains of metallic assets and lakes of liquid riches? Is this Independence when the people’s elected crawl on their belly like lowly serpents lacking teeth and sting. And those orbs that represent masculinity National sovereignty and sanctity of contract can never be more than blood enemies. The former is of liberty,triedandenjoyed.
The latter is of treachery that’s first lived, the
subver sive’s silver that condemnsmanorwomanto a fate worse than death. From a colony to liberty, then that priceless liberty surrenderedforapenny The pyrrhicvictoryofpowerona shortchain,andGuyananow a penal colony that amputatesthemind.
Listentothoseincharge. Billions of barrels in hand, and they stand: the biggest buffoons to be found anywhere. They play the clown and wear an uneasy c r o w n I f t h i s i s Independence, others are freetohaveit.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the o p i n i o n s o f t h i s newspaper.)
Transparency International Guyana Chapter(TIGC)hascalledforamoreregular convening of parliament, warning that the legislative body cannot continue to operate atthe“whimsandfancy”ofthegovernment if democracy and accountability are to be upheldinGuyana.
In a recent statement, the body said parliament, as the legislative arm of government, is a “vital and equal system of accountabilityandtransparency”andshould notfunctionirregularlyorattheconvenience oftheexecutive.
“Guyana’sparliamentcannotcontinueto operate as if it is a chartered boat cruise to some remote island, occurring every now andthenattheoperator’swhimsandfancy,” the organisation stated, noting that the Government of Guyana must not treat its electoralmandateas“executivefiattodoas it wishes, when it wishes, for as long as it wishes,andforitsconvenience,expediency, andnecessity.”
Apart from concerns over the functioning of Parliament, the group also criticised a developing culture of weak accountability in public life. It said it was troubled that political leaders appeared comfortable receiving salaries while Parliament was not constituted or while parliamentary committees remained inactive.
“Now we have Parliamentarians receivingmoneywhilethereisnoparliament constituted. And even when constituted, there are parliamentary committees that do notmeet,”thestatementsaid.
The organisation further pointed to a series of troubling governance issues, including a corporation allegedly paying no taxes while receiving tax receipts, and a parliamentarianreportedlyadmittingbefore
-TIGC
the Caribbean Court of Justice that he had neverreadtheConstitutiondespiteswearing toupholdit.
According to TIGC, these incidents signal a “settling culture” that could undermine both the economy and social orderifleftunchecked.
The organisation also criticised silence from civil society and national institutions, saying there had been only “a whimper” instead of strong public condemnation. It called on religious bodies, professional associations, the judiciary, and other organisationsto“wakeupandspeakup”on issues affecting governance and accountability
Theorganisationjoinedgrowingcallsfor the National Assembly to have regular sittings supported by “a meaningful work programmeandrobustengagement.”
After more than three months of dormancy,governmentannouncedlastweek thatthenationalassemblywillmeetonJune 5,2026.
The announcement followed recent report by Kaieteur News, where officials of the diplomatic community issued a call for theconveningofthehouse.
The diplomatic missions of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and the EuropeanUnionemphasisedthecriticalrole ofparliamentaryoversight,transparencyand democratic governance amid Guyana’s nearly 100-day absence of parliamentary sittings, stressing that strong legislative engagement is essential during a period of unprecedented economic expansion and nationaltransformation.
In a joint statement, the international partners underscored the importance of maintaininganactiveandfunctioning Continued on page 21
QuestionsmountoverEKAAHRIM’scontinued
Guyanaoperationsamidmulti-yearabuseclaims
ByKhadidjaBa
Serious questions have been raised about Ekaa Hrim Earth Resources ManagementInc continuedoperationof itsstonequarryingbusinessinGuyana’s interior,followingcounter-claimsby37 Indian labourers and a mounting paper trail of regulatory complaints detailing systemic exploitation, forced confinement, and passport withholding datingbackto2024.
The dispute reached a boiling point after the company held a press conference accusing Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed of hijacking and kidnapping its workforce from its operational site in Batavia, Region7.
However,breakingtheirsilenceinan interview with Kaieteur News, the 37 Indian nationals rejected the company’s narrative, revealing that they actively sought refuge from what they describe asindenturedlabourconditions.
“We were not kidnapped nor hijacked! We wanted to meet with the Indian High Commissioner and the companyrefusedtohelpsoweaskedMr Mohamed, we just want to go home to ourfamilies!”oneworkerstated.
EkaaHrimClaims
“FullSettlement”asWorkers DecryExtortionTrap
In an official statement released on May25,2026,thecompanyclaimedthe entire labour dispute regarding salaries
- EKAA HRIM Earth Resources Management Inc confirms that all outstanding wages for the months of April and May 2026 have been fully processed and settled. The payments werecompletedonMay25,2026,ahead
o f t h e t i m e l i n e p re v i o u s l y communicated by the Company. Following the completion of the payment process, the Ministry of Labour was formally notified. The Company further confirms that there are no outstanding wage or salary obligations owed to any of the 37 employees referenced in recent allegations against the organization. All payments due and owing to these individuals have been accounted for andsettledinfull.”
Despite the company’s public declarationofacleanslate,the37Indian nationals have strongly countered this narrative The workers state that $2,500 USD per person remains completely outstanding, as this money was forcefully deducted directly from their salariesbythecompanyasamandatory “guarantee” fee Furthermore, the labourers emphasised that despite the company’s claims of resolving the matter with the Ministry of Labour,
thereisstillnowordontheirimmediate repatriation or the funding for their returnflightstoIndia.
ADocumentedHistory:
ThePaperTrailofGrievances
While Ekaa Hrim has attempted to frame the current worker walkout as an isolated incident triggered by external interference,officialdocumentsobtained from India’s Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System(CPGRAMS)andtheMADAD consularportalinthepossessionofthis publication reveal that Indian authoritiesandtheHighCommissionin Georgetown have been receiving detailedcomplaintsaboutthecompany foryears.
Official records corroborate a continuous pattern of systemic abuse, illegal passport retention, and extreme labourexploitation:
1. The Case of Senthilkumar Subramanian(2024–2026)
Subramanian,employedasacrusher manager at the Batavia site from March 2023 to August 2024, filed a formal complaint (Registration No: MEAPD/E/2024/0006528) with the MinistryofExternalAffairsinIndia.He detailedbeingforcedtowork12-to14hour shifts totaling 1,098 hours of unpaid overtime, including on public holidaysandSundays.
Inasubsequentescalationfiledas Continued on page 24
The recruitment company that brought the Indian nationals here
Screenshot from the recruitment website showing Saju Bhaskar as the Registration Certificate holder
One of the many complaints submitted to the Indian High Commission by Indian nationals brought to work in Guyana by EKAA HRM after being recruited by Global Dynamics Talent Solutions
ExxonMobil files application for 9th permit to develop gas project
ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), the operator of the Stabroek
Block, h
o the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), seeking authorisation to pursue a ninthproject-Haimara.
The company currently has seven projects under its belt, wit
ng governmentapproval.
In the meantime, Exxon is pursuing a ninth deepwater development, which according to the project summary, aims to develop the Haimara, Bluefin and Hatchetfish natural gas fields, and other discoveries within proximity if deemed feasible and economically viable.
Exxon explained, “As a naturalgasdevelopment,the primary produced fluid is retrograde gas, from which condensatewillbeseparated on the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO), prior to the remaining gas stream being reinjected into the reservoir for pressure maintenance and increased recovery of condensate.”
Thecompanyaddedthat gas may be exported from Haimara as the market becomes available The anticipated production capacity for the FPSO is expected to be between 1,000 to 1,500 million
Standard Cubic Feet (MMscfd) per day of produced natural gas and 160 to 220 thousand barrels
of condensate per day (kbd) (separated from produced naturalgas).Condensateisa verylightoil.TheFPSOwill be capable of storing approximately two million barrelsofcondensate.
The vessel will also process, dehydrate, compress and reinject gas produced from the reservoir withcapabilitytoexportgas once full reinjection is no longer needed and/or when thegasmarketisavailable.
Theninthprojectwillbe located in the southeastern portion of the Stabroek Block, approximately 222 kmfromGeorgetown.
Exxon plans to develop the project using drill ships to produce retrograde gas from approximately 24 - 60 productionandgasinjection wells. Hamaira is expected to commence production in 2031 with an expected field life of at least 30 years, according to the project summary
Thedocumentexplained that the production facilities tobeinstalledincludesubsea equipment attached to the seafloor as well as processingequipmentonthe ocean’s surface using an FPSO “The subsea equipment will be installed at a depth of approximately 1,200 – 1,700 metres (m). Themaincomponentsofthe subsea kit include the following: production trees, production manifolds, flowlines, risers and umbilicals,”Exxonstated.
At peak, the company anticipatesthattheactivities
will employ up to 1,200 offshore personnel during the well-drilling and SURF/FPSO installation
stages. During the p r o d u c t i o n a n d decommissioning phases, this number will reduce to 210-240. Exxon also noted that a smaller number of personnel will be utilised at the onshore support facilities.
At the end of the project life, the oil company said it will decommission the offshore production facilities in accordance with the abandonment plan a p p r o v e d b y t h e government.
In a notice, EPA informed the public that Exxonhasbeeninstructedto carry out a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposedproject,givenits Continuedonpage24
Family says teen acted in selfdefense in Corentyne stabbing
The mother and
grandmother of a 17-year-old suspect behind the death of a 48-year-old man, which occured over the weekend, said the teen acted in selfdefense
The claim followed the death of Carter Baboolall, of Mandir Street, Nigg Settlement, Corentyne, who was stabbed to death on Friday evening allegedly by t h e t e e n , D a v e L a t c h m i n a r i n e , a construction worker who livesinthesamecommunity
The incident reportedly occurredbetweenthevicinity oftheNiggPostOfficeanda WesternUnionoutlet.
Immediately after the incident, the young man kept himself hidden over the weekend even as police soughthiswhereabouts
OnMonday,relativeswho spoke to Kaieteur News confirmedthathecameoutof hidingafterhewasconvinced to turn himself in Latchminarine surrendered himself to the police in the companyofanattorney
In an interview with this publication, both his mother and grandmother said the teenisusuallyaquietperson, which, according to them, could only mean that he was pushed to the edge. The grandmother noted that the now dead man frequently provoked him, and had even assaultedhimmanytimes.
"He's a very good child
Since he was a baby, I mind him Thismanahmolesthim The two used to work at a wash bay This man always
molest meh grandson
Anywhere he see him Mandir, anywhere The man cuff he up, lash he up with a woodandso"
She said he told her what was happening to him The lasttimehecomplainedtoher wastwoweeksago,tellingher that Baboolall had made threatsonhislife
Thegrandmotheradvised himtoignorethemanandfile a report at the police station, but the teen refused, having lost confidence in the police after a previous report of being assaulted in another matterwasnotactedupon.
Hismotherexplainedthat she was not condoning his action, maintaining that what hedidwaswrong
At the same time, she reasoned that her son felt cornered that evening. He hadtoldherthatthemanonce again approached him with threats, and even punched him, forcing him to defend himself.
"Heisalovingandcaring son I didn't expect that he woulddothis Butthenagain, themanwastemptinghimall thetime I'mnotsayingthatit
was right with what he did He's wrong But for the past fouryearshewastemptingmy son Anywhereheseehim,he molesthim Usedtocusshim, call him all sorts of names The man choked him He choke him at the wash bay, and because of the choking incident,thebossladyknock off this guy (Baboolall), and since he get knock off from the wash bay, that is how things start," the mother related.
A neighbour of the teen also noted that the teen is a relativelypeacefulindividual Latchminarine's mother said her son has been traumatised by the incident
Heremainsinpolicecustody Baboolall was reportedly stabbed multiple times, and was taken to the Port MourantHospital,Corentyne where he was pronounced dead on arrival. He lived alone, and had no known relatives in the country His landlord told Kaieteur News that the man, who had occupied the apartment for nearly seven years, mostly avoided interactions and livedaprivatelife.
Fatallystabbed: Carter Baboolall
Teensuspect: Dave Latchminarine
Map showing the proposed location of the Haimara project
District officials had requested the reaudit due to concerns regarding financial transactions by former superintendent Ian Roberts.
Prosecution recommends 3-year sentence for former Guyana-born Des Moines superintendent
(WeareIowa) DES MOINES, Iowa — Government prosecutorsinIanRoberts’casearerecommendingtheformer Des Moines superintendent serve 30 to 37 months in a US prisonbeforeheislikelydeported
Roberts, a native of Guyana in South America, has been federally charged with providing a false statement of employment and possessing firearms as an illegal immigrant HepledguiltytobothcountsinJanuary
“Defendant’sreputationinthecommunityisbothmitigating and aggravating,” the document reads “Defendant will highlighttheteachers,students,andeducationprofessionalshis workshapedandimproved Nevertheless,Defendantplacedhis self-interestabovethelawandthedutyheowedthepubliche served”
Prosecutors’recommendationof30to37monthsisderived fromfederalsentencingguidelines Robertsfallsintothelowest offivecriminalhistorycategories,andhisoffenselevel,which isintendedtorepresenttheseverityofhischarges,ranksa19out of43 Prosecutorsargueatime-servedsentenceofeightmonths, which would recognize the time Roberts has already spent in jail, “would not reflect the seriousness of his conduct” As justification for this assertion, prosecutors reference the followingunlawfulconductbyRoberts:
Obtaining a counterfeit social security card to gain employment at Des Moines Public Schools Lacking employmentauthorizationforallbut18monthsofhis15-year career in education ‘Us[ing] others,’ namely his spouse, to purchasefirearmsonhisbehalfwhenhecouldnotlegallydoso
Ofthefour-firearmslawenforcementfoundinRoberts’car and house, his spouse purchased three Documents also state that Roberts flew with the firearms actions prosecutors describe as a “separate, serious pattern of conduct.” Furthermore, prosecutors argue Roberts’ likely deportation shouldnotswaythejudgetowardalessersentence
...leadingcauseofdeathfor youngpeopleinthecountry
Guyana’s youth suicide rate still highest in the region
WhiletheAmericasistheonlyregionintheworldwhere suicideratesarecurrentlyincreasing,anewreporthighlights that Guyana still holds the highest suicide mortality rate for adolescentsandyoungadultsintheentirehemisphere.
ThenewstudypublishedinTheLancetRegionalHealth–Americas and released by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) revealed that between 2000 and 2021, thesuiciderateamongGuyaneseyouthaged10–24standsat 21.8deathsper100,000population.
Thisfigureisnearlytripletheregionalaverageof7.84per 100,000. Most critically, while interpersonal violence and roadinjuriesarethetopkillersofyouthacrosstheAmericas, suicide is the leading cause of death for young people in Guyana,thereportpointedout.
Thereportidentifiesauniqueanddeadlypatternregarding themethodsusedinGuyana.Regionally,hangingisthemost common method of suicide, accounting for 58.4% of youth deaths. However, Guyana deviates sharply from this trend; 64.2%ofyouthsuicidesinGuyanaareattributedtopoisoning bypesticides.
Thisisthehighestproportionofpesticide-relatedsuicide deaths among all 35 countries studied, reflecting a specific “contextual influence” related to the easy availability and accesstotoxicsubstancesinthecountry,thereportstates.
Signsofprogress
Despitethesealarmingfigures,thereportoffersaglimmer of hope for Guyana. It was the only country identified as havingasuicideratesignificantlyabovetheregionalaverage while simultaneously showing a declining temporal trend. While countries like Paraguay, the United States, and Uruguayareseeingtheiryouthsuicideratesclimb,Guyana’s average annual percentage change (AAPC) has moved in a negativedirectionsince2000,thereportstates.
Thepathforward
ThefindingssuggestthatGuyanaremainsahigh-priority
Continued on page 21
CelebratingGuyana’sDiamondJubilee andaFutureofSharedProsperity OP:ED Sixty Years of Partnership:
AsGuyanacelebratesits 60th Independence AnniversaryonMay26,Iam honored to reflect on six decades of friendship, partnership, and shared progress between our two nations. President Lyndon B Johnson, welcoming Prime Minister Burnham to the White House just weeks a f t e r G u y a n a ’ s independence in July 1966, captured the spirit of that moment: “A few days ago we celebrated the 190th anniversary of our independence You are embarked upon your first year We know, as you do, that the early years of independence are years of challenge and trial, but they are also of great hope and promise.” This milestone represents more than Guyana’s remarkable journey since gaining independence on May 26, 1966; it also represents 60 yearsofdiplomaticrelations built on mutual respect, democratic values, and a commitment to prosperity for all our citizens. As the United States concurrently prepares to celebrate our own 250th anniversary of
independence this year, we reflect with deep appreciationontheenduring bonds we share with democratic partners like Guyanawhovaluethehardwon blessings of liberty and self-determination.
Our partnership represents a time-tested alliance rooted in a rich historicallegacy Oneofthe most enduring symbols of this early cooperation is the
construction of the
Soesdyke-Linden Highway
Completed nearly six decades ago with U S financing and support, this vital artery remains a primary link between Regions4and10andserves as the essential gateway to Guyana’s interior Just as that highway opened new frontiers for development, our diplomatic bond continuestopavethewayfor integration and economic expansiontoday
The true strength of our relationship extends far beyond government offices; itisvibrantlyalivewithinthe Guyanese American diaspora This thriving community serves as a powerful connection between our two countries. They are making invaluable contributions to the United Statesinfieldsrangingfrom commerce and medicine to academiaandpublicservice. While their achievements strengthen the American tapestry, their steadfast commitment to their homelandcontinuestodrive innovation, philanthropy, and meaningful cultural exchangehereinGuyana.
TheU.S.-Guyanabondis perhaps most visible in our shared commitment to human development. ThroughtheU.S.President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), we have workedhand-in-handtoturn the tide against HIV/AIDS. Ourcollaborationduringthe COVID-19 pandemic, providing vaccines and technical infrastructure, reinforced a simple truth: our security and health are interconnected Through initiativessuchastheUnited States Southern Command’s Lesser Antilles Medical AssistanceTeam (LAMAT), w e e x e m p l i f y t h e unwavering commitment of the United States to the peopleofGuyanatoinvestin thehealthofeveryGuyanese community
Exchangeprogramsarea key part of our partnership, andweareproudtoseeU.S. exchange program alumni makingaprofoundimpactin Guyana. These programs equip Guyanese in a variety of fields - business, community leadership, education, and more, with the skills and contacts to buildabetterGuyana. From the selfless work of Peace Corps volunteers to the academic exchanges that spark innovation in our youth, these people-topeople connections define theheartofourrelationship.
In an evolving global landscape, the security partnership between the United States and Guyana remains steadfast The United States stands firmly withGuyanainsupportofits territorial integrity and sovereignty AsSecretaryof State Marco Rubio emphasized during his 2025 visit to Georgetown, we are committed to ensuring Guyana can develop its resources and pursue its future free from external pressure.
Oursecuritycooperation reached new heights following that historic visit, which culminated in the signing of a pivotal M e m o r a n d u m o f Understanding to deepen bilateraldefenseties. Under thisMOU,theUnitedStates and Guyana have conducted many training engagements together, including on forensic laboratory procedures, crime scene investigation, and maritime domainawareness. Through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) and the Shield of the Americas Coalition, the United States and Guyana will strengthen this cooperation to combat narcoterrorists and transnational criminal organizations, discourage illegalimmigration,and Continuedonpage21
Norwegian RoRo vessel arrives in Guyana with 800 vehicles onboard
Norwegian RoRo vessel, the Höegh Pacific on Monday made its maiden voyage to Guyana at the Guyana National Shipping Corporation (GNSC) Wharf, Georgetown withonboardastaggering800vehiclesfrom Asia.
According to Kestrel, the ship’s Liner Agent in Guyana, Höegh Pacific represents the largest RoRo call to arrive in Guyana to date.
“FullyladenwithvehiclesfromAsia,and with a staggering 800 of them to be dischargedinGeorgetown,theHöeghPacific represents the largest RoRo call to arrive in Guyanatodate.Whatanoccasion.Sheisan amazing example of the Höegh service into the Caribbean and a testament to the incredible economic growth in Guyana,” Kestrelinastatementsaid.
Kestrel shared that Höegh has gained international recognition not just for quality ofserviceandreliabilityofshipping,butfor their ground breaking innovation of the new Aurora class vessels. “They are the world’s largest and most environmentally friendly Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs).
Designed to accelerate maritime decarbonisation, the multi-fuel vessels cut carbonemissionspertransportedcarbyupto 58%comparedtotheindustryaverage,witha goal of achieving net-zero operations by 2040,”theAgentexplained.
Welcomingthevesselatthewharfwhere thecargoisbeingdischarged,wereKestrel’s Country Manager, Allan Newark; Vice President of Kestrel Liner Agencies, Steve Keats; and Regional Port Ops Manager for HöeghRaymondHarmer
The Höegh Pacific arrived in Guyana on Monday at the Guyana National Shipping Corporation (GNSC) Wharf, Georgetown. (Photos: Kestrel Liner Agencies/Facebook)
The unfinished work of Independence OP:ED
ByAmanzaOR Walton,MP
Today,aswecelebrate60 years of nationhood, we honour with gratitude and humilitythosewhofoughtfor independence and selfdetermination Wehonourthe sacrifices of those who dreamedofafreeGuyana,a dignified Guyana, a united Guyana,acountrywhereour people would no longer live under colonial rule but would mould their own destiny with confidence and pride.
Theydreamednotmerely ofpoliticalsovereignty,butof a society rooted in dignity, fairness, unity, opportunity, andhope Theybelievedthat independence would allow Guyanesepeople,regardless of race, class, geography, or background, to stand fully upright as citizens of a republic that belonged equallytoall.
That generation completed one chapter Our generation must now completethenext
The generation that secured Independence understood that nationhood requiredmorethantheraising ofaflag Itrequiredcourage, sacrifice, discipline, unity, and a shared belief in the future.
That spirit echoed throughthesongsandhymns of Independence, songs that reminded us we were “marching towards the shining future,” songs that calleduponGuyanesepeople to become “strong, united, loyal, free.” Those were not merelypatrioticlyrics.They wereaspirationsforthekind of republic we hoped to build.
And perhaps sixty years later, we must now ask ourselves honestly whether we have fully fulfilled that promise
Becausesixtyyearsisnot
merely a ceremonial milestone It is an age of reflection. An age where a nation begins asking itself deeper questions, not merely about development, but about identity, justice, belonging, and the kind of societyitisbecoming.
At sixty years old, a nation no longer asks only survival questions Not, can wemakeit?Canwestandon ourown?Canwesurviveasa sovereignpeople?
At60,anationbegins askingmoralquestions
Who have we become? Who has benefited from our progress, and who has been
left behind? What kind of republic are we building? Whathabitsarewepassingon tothenextgeneration? What wounds remain unhealed? Whatmustnowchange?
These are not easy questions, but they are necessary questions And perhaps no generation of Guyanese has been more compelled to confront them thanours
Because the truth is that while Guyana achieved political independence in 1966,manyGuyanesestilldo not feel fully empowered within the republic we inherited
This is the painful contradiction at the heart of modernGuyana
We are politically independent from colonial rule, yet many citizens still experience a kind of internal dependency, dependency on political connections, party loyalty, state favour, access through affiliation, and sometimes even silence for survival.
Toomanypeoplestillfeel that opportunity depends not simplyonmeritorhardwork, but on proximity to power Too many of us still feel vulnerable for speaking honestly Too many communities still feel unseen and too many of our young people still believe that their future may exist somewhereelse.
Andso,wefindourselves c o n f r o n t i n g a n uncomfortable irony We became politically sovereign as a nation, yet too many people still do not feel fully free, fully secure, or fully empoweredascitizens.
Independence was never meant to replace colonial dependency with political dependency, it was meant to createcitizens,notsubjects
Yet even as these truths exist, another truth exists alongsidethem
Guyanese people are proud, peaceful people. We love our country, we are proud of our achievements, ourresilience,ourculture,our beauty, and our emergence ontotheworldstage.
Perhaps this is what makes this moment so emotionally complex
Because we are carrying contradictory emotions simultaneously Pride in Guyana, excitement about development, hope for our children and grandchildren. But we also carry anxiety about exclusion, exhaustion from our toxic politics, fear of victimization, frustration
about inequality, distrust of institutions and uncertainty about where the country is heading.
Thatemotional contradictionisthesoul ofthismoment
People sense that something profound is happeningtoGuyana Wesee thetransformationallaround them We see the roads, the hotels, the cranes, the contracts, the foreign investment, and the
headlines declaring Guyana one of the fastest growing economiesintheworld.
But we also see luxury beside poverty, we see the massive wealth beside daily struggle, rapid development beside institutional fragility, global attention beside local insecurity
And many are quietly asking themselves whether ordinary citizens truly feel ownership of the prosperity unfoldingaroundthem
Oil wealth has forced Guyana into accelerated adulthood
Theoldexcusesnolonger fullywork,theoldpoliticsno longer fully fit and the old psychologyofscarcityand
As President Irfaan Ali signals the need for national consultations on intellectual property reform, a new regional study by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean is underscoring why the issue may be increasingly urgent for countrieslikeGuyana.
Speaking at a news conference last week, President who was asked to comment on the issue said consultationsareneeded.
“We have to have some consultationastowhatform it will take. And I’m saying
The report argues that stronger intellectual propertyframeworks,linked to broader development policies, can drive higher wages, employment and industrial growth, while warning that weak innovationsystemscontinue to leave Latin America and the Caribbean dependent on foreign patents and external economiccontrol.
thatmaybeit’stimewestart those consultations, because I want to hear Guyana and everyoneonthisissue.Ifeel strongly about it,” the presidentstated.
He floated that consultations on intellectual property reform could be brought forward and possibly incorporated into broader discussions on social media regulation and governance.
“So, maybe we should move this up on the agenda
and start a consultation on that.Somaybewecandothe socialmediaconsultationon thisonetogether,”hetoldthe press.
Ali’s comments were made days after the Economic Commission on Latin America and the Caribbean and the EPO presentedajointstudytitled, harnessing intellectual property for development: Opportunities and challengesforLatinAmerica and the Caribbean, which
offers new evidence on the relationship between the protection of intellectual property and economic activity in nine of the region’s countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay
The publication focuses on the manufacturing industry, as it accounts for almost all patenting activity in Latin America and the Caribbean and offers comparable data across countries on employment, value added, wages and trade.
According to the report, intellectual propertyintensive manufacturing industriesgenerate12.4%of formal manufacturing employment and 13.0% of the sector’s value added. Theyalsopaywagesthatare 32.1%higher
However, according to thestudy,LatinAmericaand the Caribbean’s structural challenges limit the region’s abilitytocapturethebenefits of innovation. As a result, more than 85% of patent applications in Latin
America and the Caribbean originate from outside the region, and intellectual property-intensive industries account for just 9% of exports and 19% of imports.
Investment in research and development (R&D) remains comparatively low in Latin America and the Caribbean and is financed primarily by the public sector and executed in the academic sphere, the documentstates.
“The central message of the joint study is that intellectual property (IP) policy cannot operate in isolation. To unlock its full economic benefit, and to minimize frictions, IP must be integrated into broader productive development policies The strategic advantages of intellectual property are most fully realized when supported by strong research capabilities, effectivetechnologytransfer mechanisms,accesstoscaleup finance, deep universityindustry linkages, and broader policies aimed at production transformation,” thetextconcludes.
One in custody for ganja, cocaine found at Mahdia Arcade
The narcotics being weighed at the police station.
Onepersonisinpolicecustodyfollowingthediscoveryof aquantityofcocaineandmarijuanaattheMahdiaArcadeon Sunday Police said Monday that an investigation has been launched.
“Duringtheexercise,ranksconductedasearchatMahdia Arcade, during which a bulky black plastic bag containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis was found concealed between two plastic barrels. Further checks revealedasmalltransparentplasticbagcontainingawhitish, cube-like, brick-shaped substance suspected to be cocaine,” policesaid.
Amanwithnofixedplaceofabodeidentifiedas‘Gandy’ and said to be between 30-40 years old was fatally stabbed on Hadfield Street on Monday morning around 01:30 hrs.
Police said the deceased was on Hadfield Street when he was approached by a male.Ascuffle reportedly ensued between them. It was during the confrontation that the suspect, who had armed himself with a knife, stabbed the deceased to the center of his chest. ‘Gandy’ fell to the ground and the suspect fled the scene with the knife.
PolicesaidfootageobtainedfromCCTVintheareawill be reviewed as part of the investigation. Gandy’s body is currently at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home awaiting identificationandapost-mortemexamination.Thesuspect is still at large and is being sought as the investigations continue.
Parliament should not function at the convenience of the executive...
From page 10 parliamenttoensureaccountability, public scrutiny and inclusive decision-making, noting that parliamentary oversight remains a cornerstone of any democratic society and warning that prolonged inactivity within the National Assembly could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions and governance processes.
EU Ambassador Luca Pierantoni spoke to Kaieteur News recently about the necessity of active governance. “We look forward to intensive parliamentary engagementthatwillenableGuyana to advance its ambitious reformagenda.TheworkofParliamentisessentialin fulfilling the democratic principles shared by Guyana, the Caribbean Community and theEuropeanUnion,”he said.
The U.S. Embassy in a
statementunderlinedthelink betweenlegislativeoversight and the nation’s ongoing economic boom, noting that, “A well-functioning parliament with legislative oversight is an important part of democratic governance.”
“Such oversight is important to safeguard Guyana’s continued economic growth and transformation and represent the voices of its their citizens,” the embassy continued.
Canadian Ambassador Sébastien Sigouin stressed the importance of the rule of lawandthefunctionalmechanismsofahealthydemocracy during this pivotal era for the nation.
He observed, “As you know, Canada attaches great importance to democratic institutions, parliamentary accountability, media freedom, and the rule of law, particularly as Guyana undergoes
rapid transformation. We would encourage Members of Parliament, across party lines, to make full use of the mechanismsandleversavailabletothemtoensurethatthe National Assembly plays its essential role in considering, scrutinising,anddebatingthe government’s ambitious agenda.”
A spokesperson for the BritishHighCommissiontold KaieteurNewsthat“effective parliamentaryinstitutionsare akeypillarofdemocraticgovernance. The work of Parliament is an important component of Guyana’s ongoing economic growth and inclusive democratic participation.”
Leader of the Forward GuyanaMovementandMember of Parliament, Amanza Walton had also mounted calls for the reconvening of parliament, which last met in February of this year
Guyana’syouthsuicideratestillhighestintheregion
From page 15 area for suicide prevention.
Experts note that because such a high percentage of deaths involve pesticides, scaling up evidence-based means-restriction policies— specifically targeting the availability of toxic chemicals—could be the most ef-
fective way to continue driving down the mortality rate. Furthermore, the report emphasizes that because youth are navigating rapid psychological and social developments,thereisanurgent need for:
* Strengthened schoolbasedmentalhealthprograms
to identify at-risk students early
*Culturalandcommunitybased interventions that addressthespecificsocialpressures and poverty-related risks facing Guyanese youth
*Enhanceddigitalliteracy to protect younger adolescents(aged10–14)fromharm-
The unfinished work of Independence
From page 19
survival is colliding with unprecedented national abundance.
And that collision is becomingimpossibletoignore, because a country cannot continuepsychologicallyoperating as though it is poor, fragile,insecure,andtrapped inperpetualsurvivalwhilesimultaneously becoming one ofthewealthiestcountriesper capita in the hemisphere.
At some point, we as a nation must evolve. Not merelyeconomically,butemotionally, politically, psychologically,morally
That is the deeper challenge before us now
Can we people transition from subjects of political tribes into equal citizens of a republic? Can we build a country where belonging is not conditional? Can we create a society where our people do not feel they must whisper their opinions, hide theiraffiliations,ordependon politicalpatronagetosurvive and succeed? Can we build institutions strong enough to commandpublictrustregardless of who occupies office? Canwecreateaculturewhere disagreementisnottreatedas disloyalty? Can we finally teach ourselves, as our nationalhymnremindsus,“that
WANTED
Wanted skilled mason, carpenters and labourers to workinLinden.$18,000per day.Call701-1998.
Wanted one watchman, seven days a week. Contact 612-2125.
MAI INVESTMENT INC
.Lot 1 Public Road Ruimveldt,wanted salesman/VanDriver.Please contact638-0850or652-7444
Wanted one professional jeweller.Contact:612-2125.
Excavator Operations to workintheinterior.Contact: 223-5273/4,621-5907.
VEHICLES FOR SALE
we are one”?
These are the questions of a mature nation, and perhaps this is the unfinished work of Independence.
Notsimplybuildingroads and skylines but building trust. Not merely extracting wealthfromtheearthbutcreating dignity for the people who live upon it. Not merely becoming richer, but becomingfairer,wiser,freer,kinder, and more united.
At a time when Guyana facesprofoundinternalquestions and external pressures, there is value in preserving the traditions, songs, and civic rituals that once reminded us of our shared destiny and collective responsibility as a people. Because patriotismmustneverbecome shallowperformancealone.It must still carry memory, sacrifice, service, responsibility and love of country deeper thanpartyloyaltyorpolitical tribe.
The generation that fought for political independence gave us nationhood. Our responsibility now is to deepen democracy, strengthen institutions, reducefear,expandopportunity, protectdissent,rewardmerit, and build a republic in which every citizen feels equally seen, equally protected, and
equally entitled to dream.
Because the true measure of Independence is not only thewavingofflagsorthecelebrationofanniversaries.Itis whether ordinary Guyanese feelsecureintheircitizenship, whether young people believe they can build a future here, whether citizens feel protected by institutions rather than vulnerable before them,whetherprosperityfeels shared, whether justice feels fair and whether the republic belongs to all.
Aswecommemoratesixty years of Independence, may we celebrate with pride, but also reflect with honesty May we honour those who came before us not only with ceremonies, but with courage.
The courage to confront what remains broken, to heal what remains divided, to evolve beyond fear, dependency, tribalism, and exclusion and the courage to become the nation we have always claimed to be.
BecausetheworkofIndependencedidnotendin1966. It continues now
And perhaps the defining question of our generation is whether we are prepared to completeit.
Happy 60th Independence Anniversary, Guyana
fulonlinecontent,asthisage group is seeing the fastest growth in suicide rates regionally[
While Guyana has made stridesinturningthetide,the reportconcludesthatwithout sustained, multisectoral action, suicide will continue to be a leading yet preventable causeofdeathforthenation’s nextgeneration.
Multiplepreventablefactors driving the increase
Meanwhile, the report highlightssuicideamongadolescents and young adults in the Americas has increased by 38% over the past two decades, with 18,157 young people aged 10 to 24 dying bysuicidein2021alone.Several factors that may be associated with this increase, include: mental health condi-
tions(suchasdepressionand anxietyappearingatyounger ages), substance use, excessive exposure to digital environments and cyberbullying, social pressures, and easy access to lethal means.
Evidence also shows that manyofthesefactorsarepreventable or treatable, especiallywhenidentifiedearly
“The increase in suicide mortality among younger populationscallsforstronger early detection and interventions in schools and communities,” said Renato Oliveira e Souza, Chief of PAHO’s MentalHealthandSubstance Use Unit. “It is essential to continueexpandingaccessto mental health services and strengthening measures aimed at restricting access to lethalmeans.”
The United States is proud to be Guyana’s largest tradingpartner. AsGuyanatransformsitseconomy,particularly through its emerging energy sector, the United States remainsacommittedpartnerinpromotingresponsibleinvestment and sustainable development.
U.S. leadership in the energy sector continues to play a keyroleinsupportingGuyana’simpressivetransformation. Together,wecanunlocknewopportunities,createjobs,and secure long-term prosperity for both our countries.
As President Trump noted in his 2026 Republic Day message to President Ali, “We are united by our shared interest in building a better future for our people.” This future is fueled by the people-to-people connections, the security cooperation, and the economic partnerships that define us.
As the Golden Arrowhead flies high this month…and every month, the United States stands as a resolute partner, ready to support the next chapter of your nation’s story We look forward to a future of greater security, deeper democracy, and boundless opportunity Happy 60th Independence Anniversary, Guyana. May our partnership continue to flourish for the next 60 years and beyond.
1 Honda CRV, includes TV, musicsystem,alarm,reverse camera,spoiler,lowmileage, PTTSeries(firstowner).Call: 649-0956.
SERVICES
Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada&UK:Graphicsdesign,advertisements,wedding archrentals.Tel:626-7040.
FOR SALE
Three-month-oldBigBread Rottweiler and Mastiff puppiesforsale—$60,000. Call:669-9258.
Forsale:2024SuzukiVitara 18,500km.Call6230133.
Solar System for sale. Contact: 757-1581 / 7159392.
TRUCK TIRES 295/ 75 R22.5 $40K EACH. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL / WHATSAPP: +592-688-3201.
PENPAL
Gentleman seeking a very nice,singlechristianladyfor companionship (50-60 yrs). Tel:695-9599.
General Domestic (4 day work) & experiened handyman,applyatKeyfoodTrading, Mc Doom next to the post office.
Reliablehousekeepingstaff needed. Must be punctual &detail-oriented.Call:2250198
Now Hiring Bus Drivers. Route 47 Zone (can be changed if required). Call / Whatsapp:592-681-8119 VACANCY
Celebrating Guyana’s...
Woman on the run after miner killed at Bamboo Landing
A Spanish-speaking woman is reportedly on the runafterstabbingaminerto the throat on Thursday at Bamboo Landing, Barama River,RegionOne.Theslain man has been identified by his Alias “Alligator” and reportedly hails from Port Kaituma,RegionOne.
18 bids submitted for three Region One schools
victim entered to purchase drinks.
Thewoman,accordingto reports, confronted the man and attempted to remove money from his pockets. He retaliated by pushing her down According to eyewitnesses,shegotupand broke a bottle before stabbingthemantotheneck.
The Regional Democratic Council
(RDC)ofRegionOnereceived18 bids for the construction of three new primary schools in the communities of FiveStar,BigCreekandEyeLash.
remaining six bid between $33,361,006 and $38,010,000tobuildtheschool.
InitsIFBalso,theregionnotedthatthree new teacher’s living quarters will be constructed to compliment the new primary schools, at an estimated cost of $14,419,512 each.
Reports are that the killing took place during the eveninghoursatashopinthe area. The victim reportedly sharedarelationshipwiththe woman and the two have a history interpersonal violence especially during drinkingsessions. OnThursday,thewoman was at a shop when the
The dead man identified as “Alligator”
She then escaped while persons close by tried to assist the victim but he eventually bled to death before receiving medical attention. Investigations are ongoing.
Accordingtoinformationprovidedonthe National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) website, eightbidswerereceivedfortheconstruction of Big Creek Primary, five for Eye Lash Primary, and five for Five Star Primary School.
TheRDCinitsInvitationForBids(IFB), stated that the engineer’s estimate for each project is $38,011,719, bringing the total amountto$114,035,157.
Oftheeightcontractorswhichbidforthe Big Creek Primary School project, one contractor bid amount was identical to the government’s engineer estimate of $38,011,719. For that project also, one contractorbidaboveat$89million,whilethe
Kaieteur News reported that the projects will form part of the region’s $9.1 billion budgetary allocation, of which $4.6 billion wasallottedforeducationdelivery
During the consideration of budget estimatesbackinFebruary,MinisterofLocal Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand disclosed that these communities earmarked for primary school, neverbeforehadschoolsforitschildren.
She noted that these are mining areas wherepeoplesettled.Shesaidgovernmentis now establishing schools so children could pursuetheireducation.
Belowarethecompaniesandtheirbids:
RegionalDemocraticCouncil(RDC)ofRegionOne
ConstructionofBigCreekPrimary
ConstructionofEyeLashPrimary
ConstructionofFiveStarPrimarySchool.
ConstructionofTeacher'sLivingQuarters,
U.S. military launches new strikes on Iran
(BBC NEWS) - The U S military says it has launched new strikes on southern Iran, targeting Iranian missile sites and boats attemptingtoplacemines.
U.S.CentralCommandsaidina statement the strikes were taken in “self-defense”, and were designed “to protect our troops from threats posedbyIranianforces”.
C e n t r a l C o m m a n d spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins saidtheU.S.military“continuesto defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire”.
The strikes come as Iranian foreignministryspokesmanEsmail Baqaisaidsomeprogresshasmade in talks with the U.S, but a deal to endtheconflict“isnotimminent”.
Hawkins said the strikes targetedanareanearBandarAbbas, asouthernportcityandhomeofan Iranian naval base that sits on the Strait of Hormuz, according to the NewYorkTimes.
Iranian state media had earlier reported that local officials in Bandar Abbas were investigating
afterexplosionswereheard.
Iran is yet to respond to the latestU.S.strikes.Itisunclearwhat impact they will have on any potentialpeaceagreementbetween theU.S.andIran.
At the weekend, President Donald Trump had suggested the sideswereclosetoadeal,butlater said he had instructed negotiators “nottorushinto”one.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubioalsosaidanagreementcould
possiblybereachedonMonday
But Baqai responded: “It is correcttosaythatwehavereached a conclusion on a large portion of theissuesunderdiscussion...Butto saythatthismeansthesigningofan agreementisimminent-no-onecan makesuchaclaim.”
The memorandum of understanding being discussed reportedly involves a 60-day ceasefire extension, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a plan
for further negotiations over Iran’s nuclearprogramme.
CBS News, the BBC’s U.S. partner, has reported that U.S. intelligence believes Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei - who was injured in an Israeli strike on the first day of the war which killed his father and predecessor - is holed up in an undisclosed location, making communication with his envoys difficult and therefore delaying paceoftalkswiththeU.S.
According to U.S. media, the discussions will not immediately lead to a final settlement Contentious issues will likely be negotiated later, including details of Iranian sanctions relief, the releaseoffrozenIranianfunds,and U.S. demands for Iran to curb its nuclearambitions.
At the start of the war, Iran is thought to have had about 440kg (970 lbs) of uranium that was enrichedupto60%purity-ashort process away from being enriched further to the weapons-grade 90%, which theoretically could allow it
tocreateanuclearbomb.
On Monday night, Trump said the enriched uranium would either be“immediately”turnedovertothe U.S, or “preferably, in conjunction and co-ordination with the Islamic Republic of Iran, destroyed in place”.
Despitethedownplayingofany breakthroughfromseniorofficials, Iran’s top negotiator and foreign ministerwereinDohafortalkswith Qatar’s prime minister on a potentialdealwiththeU.S,Reuters reported.
U.S. and Iranian forces have observed a ceasefire since 8April. Iran has maintained controls on Gulf shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. Navy has soughttoblockadeIran’sports.
The U.S. and Israel launched wide-ranging strikes on Iran on 28 February, sparking conflict across theMiddleEast.Iranrespondedby attacking Israel and US-allied states in the Gulf, and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz. The move sent oil prices soaring globally
Frompage11 recently as May 20, 2026, Subramanian revealed a terrifyingencounterwhenhe andacolleagueattemptedto seekhelpinlate2024.
“Mr Jeswin Pradeep Kumar & Mr Karthik (project director) and Mr Sivakumar (CEO) of the Ekka company prevented us from meeting with high commission officials and instead locked us inside a room located within a stone quarry During that ten-day period,weweresubjectedto various forms of harassment
and mental anguish Concurrently,theycoercedus intosigningaletteronablank sheet of paper... threatening us with imprisonment if we refused.”
Subramanian was eventually forced to flee Guyana by booking a flight at his own expense, leaving behind thousands of dollars inearnedwages.
2.TheCaseofPaulsamy Pandiselvam(2024)
Another grievance (Regis tration N o: MEAPD/E/2024/0005223)
filed by 50-year-old Pandiselvam described similar grueling conditions
at the Batavia site Pandiselvamreportedthathe wasforcedtowork14hours a day for a year and a half
without being permitted to return home, causing his health to collapse into chronic knee pain and physicaldisability
According to his filing, Ekaa Hrim’s management refused him medical treatment and actively blocked him from traveling to town to purchase necessarymedicines.
3.TheCaseofBangaru Manikkam(May2026)
Themostrecentfilingon the MADAD portal ( G r i e v a n c e I D : GUMSAD900061826), dated May 22, 2026, shows that the alleged abuses have persisted unabated. Manikkam,whoworkedasa crusher manager until May 2 0 2 5 , s t a t e d t h a t management forcefully took five contract letters in their favourandillegallydeducted $3,000 USD from his salary duringhisfirstsixmonths.
Manikkam stated he was left with approximately $6,000 USD in unpaid wages, had his passport lockedaway,andwasforced under duress by company officials Karthik and Jeswin
for illnesses contracted due to poor food and water conditionsatthequarry,only forthecompanytomarkhim absent during his hospital stay
The workers’ accounts expose a highly calculated financial trap orchestrated between Ekaa Hrim and its preferred recruitment agency in India, Global Dynamic Talent Solutions (also operating as Global Dynamics), based in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. A cursory search on the recruitment agency’s website, shows the RC Holder of the recruitment company is Sarju Bhaskar, who is also the Founder and PresidentofTexilaAmerican University and Founder of EKAA HRIM EARTH
R E S O U R C E S MANAGEMENT
companyroutinelydeducted between $2,500 and $3,000 USD from workers’salaries under the guise of a “guarantee” fee. Passports were systematically confiscated by HR. Workers signed ledgers to briefly access their passports for banking transactions or to wire money home, only for the documents to be immediatelyseizedbackthe sameday Ifaworkerfaceda medical emergency or a family crisis back home, company managers allegedly demanded a penalty of $2,500 USD in cashtoreleasetheirpassport. When combined with the $2,500 already withheld from their salary, workers faced an effective $5,000 USD exit penalty, plus the burden of buying their own USD$2,000returnflight.
QuestionsMount OverInaction
questions are being asked about how Ekaa Hrim has managed to avoid severe sanctions, a structural shutdown, or an operational suspensionbyauthorities.
Local sources suggest that shifting market dynamicsmaybedrivingthe company’s desperate labour practices.“Thestonepricein Guyana fell because everyone got a quarry and went into the business. The priceforstoneislow,andthe man running it is tight with money,” a sector insider noted Critics argue that market fluctuations cannot justify the systematic victimisation of an internationalworkforce.
F u r t h e r m o r e , documentationindicatesthat diplomatic channels have failedtoprovideanadequate safety net Right to
repeatedly closing serious grievances with remarks advisingworkersto“takeup the matter with the embassy directly,” a process that Subramanian noted caused t h e s t r a n d e d m e n “significantmentaldistress.”
While Ekaa Hrim insists it has settled its immediate wage obligations for April and May, the remaining 37 workers refuse to step foot back on company property The fundamental dispute over the withheld $2,500 “guarantee” fees and the refusal to fund repatriation flightsremainsunresolved.
Pradeep to write a resignation letter at the company’s Georgetown office
He spent GYD
$300,000 of his own money at the Georgetown Hospital
Labourers reportedly paid recruitment fees averaging 84,000 Indian Rupees ($1,000 USD) to secure what they were promised would be a standard 8-hour workday with proper food, housing, and annual company-paid homeleave.
Upon arrival in Guyana, the trap was sprung, the
Withamulti-yeartrailof continuous complaints,
Information (RTI) replies from the High Commission ofIndiainGeorgetownshow a hands-off approach,
As the Ministry of Labour and legal counsel continue to review the company’s financial records and contract copies, the broader question remains unanswered: How many multi-year complaints must pile up before Ekaa Hrim’s operational licenses in Guyana are formally reevaluated?
ExxonMobil files application for 9th...
Frompage12 potential to significantly impact the environment.
Assuch,membersofthepubliccanmake submissions to the EPA within 28 days, explaining the questions and matters they requiretobe“answeredorconsidered”inthe EIA.
Furthermore,aProjectSummarycanbe viewed on the EPA’s website (see link below).
If government greenlights another projectwithoutimplementingaring-fencing
provision,moreexpensewillbeaddedtothe cost bank which will further delay the country from receiving its full 50% profits intendedunderthepetroleumagreement. To date, Guyana has cleared all the cost relating to the four projects currently producing oil. This means that the country could have already been receiving a higher share of revenue. In the absence of a ringfencingprovision,thecontractorusesprofits that should have flowed to this country, to financetheupcomingdevelopments.
A ring-fencing provision would therefore not only increase revenue flow to Guyana, but explicitly require that each projectpaysforitself.
A US-AF F-35 Lightning II fighter jet pictured in April 2026.
Messi suffers injury scare before World Cup
BBC Sport - Argentina starLionelMessisufferedan injuryscarebeforetheWorld Cup, requesting to be substituted during Inter Miami’s Major League SoccergameonSunday Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later suggested the 38-year-old forward’s replacement against the Philadelphia Union was precautionary because of pitch conditions in a wet Miami.
The 2022 World Cup winner came off in the 73rd minute of the game after clutchingthebackofhisleft leg, but appeared to be walking normally as he headed straight down the tunnel.
“As far as I know, we don’thavea[medical]report onthatyet,buthereallywas fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game when asked about Messi’scondition.
“He was tired; the pitch
was heavy and when in doubt,thestandardapproach isalwaystoensureyoudon’t takeanyrisks.”
Messi has not formally confirmed he plans to play for the defending champions in the World Cup, which begins on 11 June,butiswidelyexpected to return for what will be a record-equalling sixth appearance at the finals which are being co-hosted by the United States,
Tuesday May 26, 2026
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
You may need to keep your spaceship idle today and perform a safety check for your crew, Aries. Make sure everyoneonboardisinformed of the destination. It could be that you just picked them off thestreetwithoutreallytelling themwherethey'dendup.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
Thingsmaynotbeasobvious as they first seem today, Taurus. Don't get started on a project until you understand the full scope of what you're gettinginto.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Don'ttrytoforceyourideason anyone,Gemini.It'simportant to maintain neutrality so you can act from a stable state of mind when someone brings you an issue that needs to be dealtwithrightaway
CANCER(June21–July22)
Your intuitive nature is especially strong. You won't have to think about things because you'llhavetheability tojustknowtheanswers Ifany penetrating detective work needstobedone,thiswouldbe anexcellenttimetodoit.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Anyargumentyoustarttoday is likely to erupt into a brutal emotional battle, Leo, so beware. Try not to tread on anyone else's turf, because you'll find that he or she is likelytobepossessive.
VIRGO(Aug 23–Sept 22)
You may find that people are likely to challenge your mental process today, Virgo. Don'tbesurprisediftheyseem to argue with your ideas left andright.
Messi is the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer. (Getty Images)
Berbicians ready to...
Frompage32 growth of amateur boxing inGuyana.Accordingtothe GBA, the move to host events at the National Gymnasium is a direct response to increasing participation levels and the rising number of gyms actively involved in the developmentalprogramme.
GBA President Steve Ninvalle has previously pointedtothisexpansionas evidence of the sport’s positive trajectory at the grassrootslevel.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Thekeyforyoutodayistouse your heart more than your head, Libra. Base your actions onyourfeelingsandyourinner knowingofthesituation.Facts maydeceiveyou.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
Things should go especially wellforyoutoday,Scorpio,so don'tworryaboutathing.Life doesn'tnecessarilygeteasieras you get older You just learn howtodealwiththings.
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
The more attention you try to get from other people today, the more people are going to ignoreyourfancydisplaysand grandiose ideas. Take a much moresensitiveapproach.You'll be able to lead people better whenyouwalkbehindthem.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Takecareofthepeoplearound you. Service to others is an important part of the day, as compassion and caring are at the forefront of your mind. Take this opportunity to become a reassuring caregiver forsomeoneclosewhoneedsa nurturingshoulder
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)
You may feel as if you're sinking into an emotional vortex Be careful about assumingthatthingsareyours. It's important that you not accuse someone of being a thiefwhenyouhavenofacts.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Yourthinkingisquiteclear, and you'll find that your emotions support your mental processes So you should trust any hunch you have The masculine and femininesidesofyourbeingare workingtogether
CanadaandMexico Argentina’s squad is due tobenamednextweek,with their opening game against Algeriaon16June. Since moving to Miami
in 2023, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has carefully managed his workload but has still spent spells on the sideline with hamstringissues.
“ W h a t w e a r e witnessingisthesteadyand encouraging growth of amateur boxing in Guyana. The level of interest from ouryoungboxers,aswellas thecommitmentfromgyms across the country, shows that the future of the sport looksgood,”Ninvallesaid. Recent editions of the D e v e l o p m e n t a l Tournament have seen strong performances from gyms such as Pace and PowerBoxingGym,Harpy Eagle Boxing Gym, Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym(ALBG),andtheNew A
A
r reinforcing the competitive balanceacrossthecountry
Antonelli takes fourth win in a row after Russell retires in Canada
MONTREAL, (Reuters)Formula One championship leader KimiAntonellitookhisfourthwin in a row on Sunday after a power unit failure forced Mercedes teammate and title rival George Russell out of the Canadian Grand Prix.
Russell,startingonpole,fought for the lead with Antonelli in a thrilling wheel-to-wheel battle before coming to a halt by the side ofthetrackonthe30thof68lapsat Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
“NotthewayIwantedtowin.It was meant to be a good fight with George but we will take it,” said Antonelli.
Lewis Hamilton finished runner-up, 10.768 seconds behind the 19-year-old Italian who replacedhimatMercedeslastyear, and embraced his mother after his best finish for Ferrari in a regular grandprix.
RedBull’sMaxVerstappenwas a close third, overtaken by Hamiltonintheclosinglaps,totake his team’s ‘first podium of the season.
TEENAGER NOW 43 POINTS CLEAR OF RUSSELL
Antonelli increased his lead over Russell from 18 to 43 points after five grands prix, all won by Mercedes, and three Saturday sprints.
He is the first Italian since AlbertoAscari in 1952 to win four in a row and also the first driver in the history of F1 to take his first four wins consecutively His podium was the 300th by a Mercedes driver since they returnedtoFormulaOneasaworks
teamin2010.
Russell, who has suffered bad luck already this season but had won the Saturday sprint, was lost for words after his hopes vanished atastroke.
“Just everything turned off all of a sudden,” he said. “Just went into the corner, engine stopped, no electronics,noproperbraking.
“I’m pretty damned frustrated with what’s happened but what morecanIdo?”
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finishedanunhappyfourth,despite a half-spin, as the last unlapped driver with Isack Hadjar fifth for Red Bull — after two penalties — and Franco Colapinto continuing score ‘big points with sixth for
Alpine.
Liam Lawson was seventh for Racing Bulls, ahead of Alpine’s Pierre Gasly, Williams’ Carlos SainzandHaas’sOliverBearman.
NeitherMcLarendriverscored, with Oscar Piastri 11th and penalised 10 seconds for a lap 15 collision that put Williams’ Alex Albon out of the race while
Mercedes now lead Ferrari by 72 points in the constructors’ standings.
A ‘Rain Hazard’ had been declared on Saturday but the conditions, although cold and slippery,werenotasbadasfeared.
reigning world champion Lando Norris retired on lap 38 with a gearboxproblem.
Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes’George Russell and Mercedes’Andrea Kimi Antonelli in action during the race. (REUTERS/Mathieu Belanger)
Slots filling rapidly as registration heats up for One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast
Anticipation for the fourth season of the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast has reached an alltime high since registration officiallyopened.
Tournament organisers, FL Sport, have reported an unprecedented surge in interest, with team slots across various zonesfillinguprapidlyasregional squads rush to secure their participation.
Tournament Director John Ramsingh expressed immense confidence in the trajectory of this year’s tournament, noting the overwhelming response from the cricketcommunity.
“We are well underway for achievingthetotalnumberofteams wewantthisyear–80–andweare confident that by the respective match days, we will have those teams,” Ramsingh stated to the media.
With the stakes higher than ever,organisersareurgingteamsto act quickly rather than delaying their entry while finalising their rosters.
Ramsingh emphasised the urgency of the first-come, firstservedsystem,recognisingthatthe fierce nature of the competition often causes captains to deliberate overtheirlineups.
Tournament organisers, FL Sport, have reported an unprecedented surge in interest, with team slots across various zones filling up rapidly as regional squads rush to secure their participation.
Demerara/Georgetown will have 32teams.
“It is a highly competitive tournament,andweunderstandthat teams may want to lock in players before registering, but we are reminding teams that the registration is first-come, firstserved,andmanyteamshavesofar paid their registration fee and indicated squads will be submitted lateraspertournamentguidelines,” Ramsinghexplained.
To accommodate this, captains can immediately secure their team’s spot with a G$35,000 entry fee and finalise their ultimate 15man talent pools closer to their
The Berbice, East Bank/West DemeraraandEssequibozoneswill haveamaximumof16teamseach, a n d E a s t C o a s t
respectivezonalstartdates.
Registrationformsarecurrently availablethrough the tournament’s officialsocialmediachannelsorvia direct WhatsApp contact at +592 635-2235.
The action-packed tournament is set to bowl off with the Berbice Zone on August 8–9, featuring 16 teams battling across four premier venues: the Port Mourant CommunityCentreGround,No.69 Ground, Welfare Ground (Canje), and the Albion Sports Complex, which is slated to host the zonal finalsonSunday,August9.
Following the opening leg in Berbice, the tournament moves to East Bank/West Demerara on
Leslie Black grateful for Guyana 60th Independence Lifetime Achievement Award
Ex-Athletes and Friends Inc. has recognised former Athletics CoachLeslieBlackwithaGuyana 60th Independence Lifetime AchievementAwardforhisservice tosportsovermanyyears.
Black indicated that, “I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive the Guyana 60th Independence Lifetime AchievementAward.
IextendsincerethankstoLady Ira,theGuyanaAmericanHeritage Foundation,Ms.BurgetteWilliam, and Ex-Athletes and Friends Inc. forthisprestigiousrecognition.
I truly appreciate the acknowledgment of my years of dedication, service, and commitment to supporting others through athletics and community development. This award is very special to me, and I remain proud to have represented, and to continue representing, Guyana withloveandpride.”
This is not the first outing for Black having received a national award Speaking on that achievement he informed, “I am also a recipient of the National
Award, the Golden Arrow of Achievement(A.A.).Overthepast 35 years, I have served in the athletics field as a coach and manager to outstanding athletes such as Cleveland Forde, Alika Morgan, Javina Straker, Reonna Cornette, Kelvin Johnson, and Delcey Dick, all of whom have represented Guyana with excellence on the regional and internationalstage.
Additionally, I served as an executive member of the Guyana Committee of Services, an organization founded by the late Mr JosephRamkumar
The organization played an important role in assisting many athletes and sports personalities over the years, including supportingthesurgeryofGuyana’s world-rated boxer, Mr Clive Atwell, an initiative organized by Ms. Lady Ira of the USA. The organization has also sponsored CARIFTAathletesandmanyother sportspersonalitiesthroughoutthe years.”
“IstronglybelievethatGuyana has lost some of its dominance in
long-distance athletics mainly because of the lack of road competition and consistent sponsorship opportunities for athletes More sponsors are needed, and the relevant authoritiesandstakeholderswithin the sports sector should come forward to support and sponsor more road events. It is difficult to continuously rely on the same individuals and organizations for assistance.
Now is the time to further improve the athletic scene in Guyana, especially as our country continuestomakeprogressintrack events at the CARIFTAlevel. For many years, I have advocated for Guyana to follow the example of several Caribbean nations by invitingexperiencedcoachesfrom Kenyatoworkalongsideandshare knowledgewithourlocalcoaches. I firmly believe that this initiative could greatly help in rebuilding and strengthening long-distance athletics in Guyana,” stated Black as he commented on the way forward for improvement in long distancerunning.
August 15-16, followed by the EssequibolegonAugust22-23.
Inastrategicmovetomaximise fan engagement and support local cricket festivities, the competition will pause during the Caribbean PremierLeague(CPL)window
Action will resume post-CPL with the highly competitive Georgetown/East Coast Demerara leg,spanningSeptember26-27and October 3-4. This all leads toward thehistoricnationalgrandfinaleon October 11, 2026, which will be hostedforthefirsttimeattheAnna ReginaNationalStadiuminRegion Two.
Financial incentives for the 2026 season have reached an alltime high, introducing guaranteed cash prizes for every single team that reaches the quarter-final stage oftheirrespectivezone.
Rewards begin at $25,000 for losing zonal quarter-finalists and scale up significantly, culminating
ina$500,000pursepocketedbythe zonal winners before they advance totheNationalFinals.
The stakes at the national level are even higher, as teams will compete for a massive $2,000,000 grand prize, while the runner-up takeshome$1,000,000.
In addition to the substantial cash prizes, the four national finalists will earn the prestigious right to represent Guyana at the upcoming Global T10 Tapeball BlastthisOctober
Individual brilliance will also be handsomely rewarded throughoutthetournament.
The eventual tournament MVP is set to walk away with $150,000 andabrand-newmotorbike.
Specialised awards for the leading run-scorer and top wickettaker include $100,000 and a new television each, ensuring that personal milestones are celebrated alongsideteamsuccess.
CHAMPSGYrollingoutlocalsportsdigitaldatabase
Guyana has never lacked sporting talent From football pitches in Georgetown to cricket grounds in Berbice, to emerging esports arenas, the country continues to produce athletes defined by natural ability, discipline, and passion. However, whathasbeenmissingisnottalent, but structure CHAMPSGY is beingbuilttochangethat.
CHAMPSGY is envisioned as Guyana’sdigitalhomeforsportand esports. It is being developed as a singleplatformwhereathleteshave verified profiles, clubs maintain official pages, tournaments are properlydocumented,andsponsors gainlong-termvisibilitywithinthe sportingecosystem.
The goal is simple but significant: ensure that what happens on the field, court, or screen does not disappear once the finalwhistleblows.
For many athletes in Guyana, that disappearance has long been thereality Ayoungfootballermay spend years training, competing, and representing his community, only for his journey to fade when the season ends. There is often no permanent record, no centralized statistics, and no digital profile capturingwhatwasachieved.
This issue stretches across multiple sports including cricket,
basketball, swimming, cycling, chess,andesports.Whiletalenthas consistently existed, the systems needed to document and preserve thattalenthavenotkeptpace.
At the end of competitions, records are often scattered across WhatsApp messages, outdated spreadsheets, or temporary social media posts. Clubs move on to the next season, federations prepare newcalendars,andathletesareleft with memories instead of measurablehistory.
Sponsors face a similar problem,withvisibilitythatendsas
CHAMPSGY is being developed to change this by introducing permanence into a systemthathaslonglackedit.
Atthecentreoftheinitiativeis founder Dwayne Bess, whose personal journey reflects the very gap the platform is designed to address.Bess’searlyacademiclife was challenging, marked by disciplinary issues and uncertainty abouthisdirection.Sport,however, became the turning point in his development.
He went on to compete nationally in chess, football as a goalkeeper,basketball,andcricket, gaining discipline, focus, and accountabilitythroughsport.
By2021,whenheaddressedhis graduating class, he described himself as “a national chess participant, a national football player, a possible leader in our society,” and encouraged his peers with the message: “Attempt to outperformyourself.”
Before CHAMPSGY, Bess
launched Bess Gaming
Tournaments in 2019, helping to structureGuyana’sgrowingesports community at a time when competitive gaming had talent but lacked formal systems and documentation In 2024, he established CHAMPS, which later evolved into the CHAMPSGY platforminitiative.
His mission is rooted in lived experience. Sport helped redirect his life, and CHAMPSGY is now being built to ensure other athletes and gamers are not lost within the samegapsheonceexperienced.
The need for CHAMPSGY is visible across all levels of sport.
Athletes compete without longterm recognition. Clubs lack structured digital identities. Schoolsdonotmaintainpermanent sporting records for student-
athletes. Even major tournaments oftendisappearintoarchivedsocial mediapostsaftercompletion.
Esports, one of the fastestgrowing sectors in Guyana, faces the same challenges, no rankings, no verified records, and no historicalcontinuity
CHAMPSGY aims to address these issues by creating a unified sporting ecosystem. Athletes will haveprofessionalprofilesdetailing their sport, club history, statistics, andachievements.
Clubsandschoolswillmaintain structured pages with rosters, fixtures, results, and historical records.Competitionswillbefully documented with standings, match reports,andaccessiblearchives.
Federations will benefit from centralized visibility of rankings andresults,improvingorganisation and transparency Esports athletes will, for the first time, receive the same level of structured documentation and recognition as traditionalsports.
For sponsors and businesses, CHAMPSGY offers continuity. Insteadoftemporaryexposuretied to single events, brands will be integratedintoalastingecosystem, visible across athlete profiles, clubs, tournaments, and sporting content long after competitions end.
Sinner, Sabalenka enter the fray as
Gauff hopes to find her way again in Paris
(Reuters) -Thetopseeds are set to kick off their French Open campaigns on Tuesday, with Jannik Sinner facing Clement Tabur and Aryna Sabalenka taking on JessicaBouzasManeiro.
Defending champion Coco Gauff will also be in action, playing fellow AmericanTaylorTownsend.
TOP MEN’S MATCH: SINNER V TABUR
With the last two editions’ champion Carlos Alcaraz out due to injury,
Sinner has a golden opportunity to finally win the French Open and complete his career Grand Slam. The number one has left little doubt about his status as the favourite this year, as he has won all five ATP1000 Masters titles this year,includingthreeonclay sincelastmonth.
He has won his last 29 matches,thelongestwinning streakofhiscareer,dropping onlythreesetsintheprocess.
“Yes, I hope to find my topforminParis...I’mlucky tobeinthisposition,”the24year-oldsaidattheweekend.
Sinner will look for a quick win over French wildcard Tabur to conserve energy,buttheItaliansaidhe didnotmindtestingthedeep watersinParis.
“It’salwaysbettertofeel tiredafter`winningalotthan tofeelphysicallyperfectand lose early,” the four-time GrandSlamwinnersaid.
“Best-of-five-set matches are different. You have more time to understand how to beat a player, and even if you start badly,youcanalwaysfinda solution. I’m sure I have some very tough matches ahead.”
TOPWOMEN’S MATCH: SABALENKA V BOUZAS MANEIRO
Reaching the final of the French Open last year was a sign that world number one Sabalenka had started to master the claycourt after years of struggle, during whichshewononlythreeof her24WTAtitlesonclay
But the 28-year-old’s hope to finally triumph at Roland Garros has run into an additional challenge, a
lower back injury that limited her movement at the Italian Open earlier this month, as she suffered a second-round exit Sabalenka, however, insists shehasfullyrecovered.
“Wefocusedonrecovery and made sure that I’m healed everywhere and I’m ready to go. Right now, physically I’m ready to go,” shetoldreportersonFriday
“I know how to play on clay and it’s all bout being physically and mentally healthy,togoforit,andtobe readytofight...Ihopetodoa littlebitbetterthanIdidlast year.”
GAUFF HOPES TO FIND HER WAY IN PARIS AGAIN
Gauff was a set down in last year’s French Open final, when she dug deep to topple Sabalenka in a battle of endurance to claim her secondGrandSlamtitle.
The 22-year-old has playedherbestonhardcourts over the years, but she believes the Roland Garros surface stands out from the rest, and plays into her
penchant for grinding out victories in closely ‘fought matches.
“The clay at Roland Garros is like no other surface.Youhavetopractice like you’re going to win everysinglematchbyapoint or two,” she said in an interview with her sponsor Rolex.
Gauff’s ability to fight through difficult matches was on full display at the Italian Open earlier this month, where she won three matchesafterlosingthefirst setbefore‘losingthefinalto ElinaSvitolina.
“I’m looking forward to
making the adjustments to mygame,slidingaroundand goingforthosecrazyshots,” Gauffadded.
“I often find that at the start of Roland Garros the clay is a little bit rough for me, but I feel like I always findmywayinParis.”
FRENCH OPEN
ORDER OF PLAY ‘ON TUESDAY (prefix number denotesseeding):
COURT PHILIPPECHATRIER(playbeginsat 1000GMT)
1-Aryna Sabalenka (Belarus) v Jessica Bouzas Maneiro(Spain) Alexandre Muller
(France)vStefanosTsitsipas (Greece)
4-Coco Gauff (U.S.) v TaylorTownsend(U.S.)
1-Jannik Sinner (Italy) v ClementTabur(France)
COURT SUZANNE LENGLEN (play begins at 0900GMT)
AdamWalton(Australia) v 6-Daniil Medvedev (Russia)
Laura Siegemund (Germany) v 16-Naomi Osaka(Japan)
22-Anna Kalinskaya (Russia) v Lois Boisson (France)
4-FelixAuger-Aliassime (Canada) v Daniel Altmaier (Germany)
COURT SIMONNE MATHIEU (play begins at 0900GMT)
Marin Cilic (Croatia) v MoiseKouame(France)
Vit Kopriva (Czech Republic) v 30-Corentin Moutet(France)
Hanne Vandewinkel (Germany) v 19-Madison
Keys(U.S.)
Kimberly Birrell (Australia) v 5-Jessica Pegula(U.S.)
Jiaramcrowned Independence DraughtsChampion
Tconcluded at the Transport Sports ClubPavilliononSundaylast.
Once again, Mr Jiaram outplayed his rivals to edge past byonepoint.InFebruarythisyear Jiaram won the Mashramani Tournament. In this Tournament, Jiaram ended on 23 points while L i n d e n p l a y e r F l o y d Cumberbatch, Steve Bacchus and Godfrey George all ended on 22 points.InthefinalroundsGodfrey George, who was behind the top players on 19 points, took three valuable points from veteran championAubreyStraughntojoin thetopplayers.
Earlier, Jiaram, Bacchus and Cumberbatch also mesmerized theveteranAubreyStraughn.
The final standing was Jiaram the winner on 23 points, Floyd Cumberbatch second on 22 points, Steve Bacchus third on 22 points and Godfrey George fourth on 22 points. Jiaram and Floyd
participated in the recent Panam
Paramaribo, Suriname and from records these two are the present dominant force locally in this prestigious board game played worldwideandathighlevel.
All four top finishers were awarded trophies compliments of TrophyStall.
The National Draughts Association would like to thank Mr Ramesh Sunich from Trophy Stall Bourda Market for sponsoring the trophies. M&M Snackette for supplying snacks and Juice Power in Middle Street forthesupplyingofJuices.
Special gratitude is extended to Mr. Ivor English and Charles Greaves from Transport Sports Club in allowing the use of venue for the games. To all the players who participated in this 60th Independence Anniversary Championship to make it a success, your involvement was remarkable, the association stated.
Jiaram (centre) in surrounded by (from left) Steve Bacchus, Godfrey George and Floyd Cumberbatch.
Berbicians ready to make a statement at GBA Developmental Tournament
The stage is set for another exciting evening of amateur boxingthisSaturday,astheBerbice boxing fraternity prepares to make a strong impression at the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Developmental Tournament at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.
The event, which traditionally takes place at boxing gyms across the country, has been shifted to a larger venue due to a significant surge in participation and growing interestamongyoungathletes.
ThedecisionreflectstheGBA’s continued effort to accommodate expanding numbers while providing a more suitable platform forcompetition.
The National Gymnasium will come alive from 17:00hrs, featuring boxers from gyms across Guyana in what is expected to be another competitive and talentfilled showcase of the sport’s grassrootsdevelopment.
Among the key talking points heading into Saturday’s card is the strongrepresentationfromBerbice, where the NewAmsterdam Boxing Academy (NABA) and the Rose Hall Jammers Boxing Gym will combineforcestofieldatotalof12 boxers.
The group includes a mix of youth, junior, and experienced amateur fighters, all eager to test themselves against the country’s best.
Leading the Berbice charge is Caribbean Champion Terron Wintz,who,accordingtocoachJeff Roberts, will anchor a group that blends promise and experience acrossseveralagecategories.
“We have some young boxers whoaretraininghardtobringtothe tournament,” Roberts said in an invitedcomment.
He added that while victory remainstheobjective,thefocushas also been on preparation for all possiblescenariosinsidethering.
“The aim is to win, of course. But I’ve also prepared them for anything that could go wrong, so it’samatterofthemnowexecuting. We’vebeentrainingontheroadand in the gym, so I expect them to do well,”Robertsexplained.
Roberts, a former national bantamweight champion and titleholder himself, believes the DevelopmentalTournamentplaysa
He stressed the importance of consistent performances, particularly from regions like Berbice,whichcontinuetoproduce competitivefighters.
“It’s a very good tournament, and it’s important that we do well, toshowtheworkwe’vebeendoing in Berbice with these young boxers,”Robertsstated.
He also highlighted the significance of representation at this level, noting that exposure
against top gyms from across the country is vital for growth and long-termdevelopment.
The Berbice squad, he confirmed, will feature boxers acrossmultipledivisions,including several youth competitors and junior fighters, all of whom have been engaged in intensive preparation.
“Looking good up to this morning,” Roberts added. “We always come to win, but we also understand the level we’re going into, so it’s about discipline and execution.”
The broader tournament continuestoreflectthesteady Continued on page 25
GBA President Steve Ninvalle
Terron Wintz
Jeff Roberts
Evans’ hat-trick help sink Kuru Kururu as Swan United crush Circuitville
Eight East Bank clubs descended on the National Training Centre on Sunday to kick off the Guyana Football Federation’s Elite League (East Bank) Playoff qualifiers, and the opening double header wasted no time in delivering its own drama Two lopsided scorelines, and a flurry of individual brilliance announced that the 2026 EastBankplayoffcampaign has arrived with serious intent.
The afternoon’s action confirmed one thing above all else: the East Bank Association is in robust health. Both Swan United and Timehri United dismantled their opponents by commanding margins,
servingnoticetoHerstelling, Friendship, Mocha, and Soesdyke United, all of whom are yet to play their openingencounters.
SwanUnitedcrush Circuitville7–0
From the first whistle, Swan United showed the early-season sharpness that will worry their rivals Abram Webb drew first blood in the 13th minute, cappingapromisingopening play, his goal proved the sparkthatignitedarelentless offensive display. Alex Downer was the standout performer, netting twice to embed himself as the fixture’s headline act, while Mark Loncke matched him with a brace of his own, forcing an advantage that
- GFF East Bank Elite League Playoff’s opens
Promotech Guyana Inc. and Danny Auto Sales back another exciting NTFGL Tour Round as Anand Persaud takes overall lead
The National Top Flight Golf League (NTFGL)Tour #2 continued in thrilling fashion on Sunday as golfers battled challenging wet conditions in another highly competitive round of play
The tournament, proudly supported by Promotech Guyana Inc. and Danny Auto Sales, once again showcased the growing competitiveness and excitementsurroundingtheleague,with players producing impressive performances throughout the day Despite persistent rain and soft course conditions, golfers embraced the challenge, with the longer hitters enjoying favourable scoring opportunitiesonthecourse.
Emergingasthestandoutperformer of the day was Anand Persaud, who delivered a spectacular finish to claim boththeOverallChampionshiptitleand BackNinehonours.Anandproducedan exceptional gross 39 and net 31 on the back nine to finish with an outstanding net 66, securing maximum points for the round.Hisdominantperformancenowplaces him at the top of the NTFGL Tour #2 standingswith18overallpoints.
Current NTFGL Tour #2 Standings:
AnandPersaud–18Points
MaximMangra–10Points
VideshPersaud–8Points
MohanlallDindanauth–6Points
The front nine competition was equally intense, with Balaji Vinjimoor capturing Front Nine honours after carding an impressive net 34, narrowly edging several competitors who finished just one stroke behind.
Arnol Deo also delivered a strong performance,finishingsecondoverallwitha net 71 and collecting his first points of the season. Joseph Szeplaki secured third place after winning a tiebreaker against Balaji Vinjimoor at net 72, while Mohanlall Dindanauth rounded out the top performers withaconsistentnet73finish.
With several rounds still remaining, competition for the championship title remains wide open as players continue to battleforvaluableleaguepoints.
The NTFGLcontinues to grow as one of Guyana’spremieramateurgolfcompetitions, providinggolferswithaplatformtocompete at a high level while fostering camaraderie and development within the local golf community
As the league progresses, anticipation continues to build for the upcoming rounds, with players eager to close the gap on the leaderboardandchallengefortophonours.
further gloss in the 57th minute,andChritovRoberts rounded off a composed, clinicalperformancethatleft the scoreboard reading a resoundingsevengoalstonil atfulltime.
“ B o t h w i n n e r s conquered their opponents by huge margins, setting the toneofwhatistocome.”
TimehriUnitedpower pastKuruKururu7–2
The second fixture offered more drama as Michael Correira imposed himself immediately, notching twice in the opening seventeen minutes to hand Timehri a
commanding 2–0 lead Correira’s penetrating runs gaveKuruKururu’sdefence no respite, and the lead was swiftly extended as Akeem James struck in the 34th minute followed by Tyrone Burnette’s effort three minutes later, making it 4–0 beforetheinterval.
The second half belonged entirely to Leroy Evans.Theforwardcappeda virtuoso display with a late hat-trick performance that sealed an emphatic victory, firmly dismissing any prospect of a Kuru Kururu
recovery Their two consolation strikes offered
scant comfort as Timehri United held their East Bank rivalstoa7-2defeat.
Wednesday’s (May 27) second-leg games will see Herstelling, Friendship, Mocha, and Soesdyke U n i t e d e n t e r t h e competition, fully aware of the standards Swan United andTimehrihavelaiddown. Thepathtothefinalruns through an increasingly competitive East Bank field and after Sunday’s breathtaking double header, the 2026 qualifiers promise to deliver exactly the football the region has been waitingfor
Circuitville could never realisticallychallenge. RonaldoFredricksadded
The Evans show powers Timehri United to 7-2 win. Goal scorers in that match were: Michael Correira, Akeem James, Tyrone Burnette and Leroy Evans.
Anand Persaud
Leslie Black (centre) is flanked by Burgette Williams and Stanley Springer.
Swan United delivers dominance in 7-0 win against Circuitville. Here’s a look at Sunday’s goal scorers: Alex Downer, Ronaldo Fedricks, Chritov Roberts, Mark Loncke and Abram Webb.
