K
AIETEUR NIS pensioners NEWS
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
Friday Edition October 02, 2026 - Vol. 28 No. 39
allegedly owed arrears since 2021
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $200 readership
...as unions, Ram threaten legal action
yesterday, 78,312
Chinese businessman confesses to killing boy, 6, over US$3M dispute with parents PAGE
2
Dead: Ifeng Cao
The Ministry of Public Works on Thursday tested the strength of the New Mackenzie- Wismar Bridge ahead of its completion and opening. As part of the load testing five heavy laden trucks totaling 180 tonnes were driven on the bridge putting the modern 220-meter pre-stressed concrete structure to the ultimate test. The four lanes concrete bridge will replace the current single-lane bridge.
GuySuCo worker dies after crushed by forklift at Albion Estate
Dead: Latchman Raghoo
‘Demon’s’ brother charged with abducting Surinamese men ...lawyers question extended detention of suspects
‘Calls grow for Karimbaksh to go’
...Opposition parties, several groups urge independent probe into rape allegations
Woman set Guyana’s oil reserves drop on fire by below 11B barrels- Exxon says husband at ...as company continues to spend on exploration, appraisal Hampton Court
PAGE 02
Friday October 02, 2026
Kaieteur News
Mark Cromwell during his live video
‘Demon’s’ brother charged with abducting Surinamese men ...lawyers question extended detention of suspects Amid mounting allegations of constitutional overreach and police misconduct, 33-year-old driver and contractor Jimol Murphy appeared virtually before Magistrate Shareefah Parks at the Fort Wellington Magistrate's Court on T h u r s d a y, c h a rg e d i n connection with the alleged abduction of two missing Surinamese nationals. Murphy, of Vigilance, East Coast Demerara (ECD), who is the brother of USsanctioned businessman, Mark 'Demon' Cromwell, was released on $1 million station bail shortly before being formally charged. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge and was placed on $1 million court bail. The matter has been adjourned to October 19, 2026. According to a police press release, Murphy was a r r e s t e d o n F r i d a y, September 25, following investigations into the alleged disappearance of 28year-old Van Dalen Lorenzo and 29-year-old Derryl Danillo. The two Surinamese men were last seen on Saturday, August 29, at Rosignol, West Bank Berbice. However, Kaieteur News understands that the legal proceedings have been overshadowed by accusations from the defence team and Cromwell, who
Murphy in handcuffs leaving the Georgetown Magistrates Court
claim that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) engaged in illegal detentions, procedural abuses, and forced charges to cover an incomplete investigation. Speaking with Kaieteur News, defence attorney Siand Dhurjon and his team detailed a series of alleged constitutional violations s u f f e r e d b y M u r p h y, Cromwell's wife, Nafisa Cromwell, and another
associate, Kevin Critchlow. According to the defence counsel team, suspect detentions repeatedly violated the mandatory 72hour constitutional threshold without valid judicial extensions. Defence counsel stated that after Nafisa Cromwell voluntarily presented themselves to the station with legal representation, the initial statutory 72-hour
period expired on Sunday without bail being granted. “They lied and said that they had an extension," defence counsel stated. "They never got an extension until Monday. So, on Sunday, she was illegally detained." The defence further disclosed that court-ordered timelines granted on Monday were subsequently ignored by law enforcement. Despite a secondary 72-hour extension expiring on Wednesday morning at 11:00 AM, suspects remained in custody, forcing defence counsel to file a Writ of Habeas Corpus. Nafisa Cromwell, who was held for over six days without timely extensions, and other detainees were only released late Wednesday night on $1 million station bail each, hours before Murphy was officially charged. Lawyers also alleged that police detained associate Kevon Critchlow without cause after the police requested someone to drive Nafisa Cromwell's vehicle to the station for forensic inspection. Kaieteur News understands that despite police executing forensic sweeps and searching of vehicles for physical evidence, including blood, h a i r, o r D N A t r a c e s , investigators found no incriminating material
linking the vehicles or the suspects to any crime. "There's no proof of the abduction, so he was given bail," the defence emphasised, arguing that the charge was laid precipitously. "The persons are missing, but they're trying to say that it was an abduction without any proof... They were given an alibi and they still decided to charge. Their file is incomplete; it's charged without completing the investigation." The developments prompted an explosive, broadside reaction from Mark Cromwell during a live broadcast on his social media page on Thursday afternoon. Cromwell vehemently denied his family's involvement in the disappearance of the Surinamese nationals, maintaining that neither he, his wife, nor his brother had ever encountered the missing men. Cromwell accused senior officers at Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of systemic corruption, alleging that investigators targeted his family due to personal vendetta and extortion
practices rather than factual evidence. "My wife ain't do nothing, she ain't fear nothing," Cromwell said, recounting how his wife voluntarily accompanied ranks to CID headquarters to assist with enquiries. "They extend this thing to 72 hours after them done lock my wife up... They collect the car, they do forensic, they check for blood, they didn't see nothing." Cromwell insisted that video surveillance confirms his brother was dropping off family members and was not around at the time of the alleged Rosignol abduction, accusing law enforcement of fabricating witness statements and pressuring local drivers to construct a narrative. "They see the video footage, see my brother driving... whatever my wife say and what he say, corresponding," Cromwell asserted. “They know Jimal was in town... You ain't see no blood, you ain't see no hair, but you still charging." Police investigations into the whereabouts of Lorenzo and Danillo remain ongoing as the case against Murphy awaits its next court hearing on October 19.
Chinese businessman confesses to killing boy, 6, over US$3M dispute with parents A 7 6 - y e a r- o l d C h i n e s e businessman Quan Sheng Li has reportedly confessed to killing a six-year-old boy on Wednesday at Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) over a US$ 3 million debt owes by the child's parents. The killer reportedly owns his own business in the United States of America (USA). However, Coa's father and his uncle convinced him to invest with them in Guyana promising great returns on his investment. He agreed but the deal went sour after Cao's parents were not paying any returns on his money. The situation created tension between him and the couple. Things quieted for a while after the couple allegedly promised that they will start
paying as soon as the business “started picking-up." H o w e v e r, t h e s i t u a t i o n escalated again after some time passed. Kaieteur News understands that before travelling to Guyana the elderly man sent a woman to take care of his business relations with the couple and collect his share of money. Reports are that he sent the woman to live with the couple and the agreement was that they would pay her some $US 2,000 per m o n t h . Te n s i o n s , h o w e v e r, escalated further after the woman allegedly informed him that the couple was not keeping their end of the bargain, by paying her any money, despite making profits. As a result, the businessman
Dead: Ifeng Cao
allegedly travelled himself to Guyana to take care of his business and since then there has been a back and forth between him and the couple over the money which ended tragically with the death of their six-year-old son. Sources close to the investigation alleged that the businessman might have intentionally targeted the couple's son as revenge.They alleged that he (the suspect) in his confession to them, claimed that his intention was not to harm the parents but bring them “long life pain”. It is unclear if he told police investigators this too. Nevertheless, Kaieteur was told that Cao was the couple's only child and they cherished him a lot because his mother cannot have
any more children due to difficulties she had encountered during childbirth. Cao's mother Susan Lee in a Facebook post when Cao was born had shared a part of those difficulties she endured with her friends.She wrote, “To bring him into this world, I sacrificed a great deal and lost so much. Yet, what fills me with joy is that he is growing more sensible and understanding every day. Even at such a young age, he already says he wants to help earn money to build a big house and support us in our old age. I must have done something incredible in my past life to have been blessed with such a thoughtful and loving son”. Unfortunately, Cao's journey was cut short on this earth.
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
PAGE 03
Guyana's oil reserves drop below 11B barrels - Exxon says ...as company continues to spend on exploration, appraisal Guyana's oil reserves have dropped below the 11 billion barrel estimate, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) reported this week. The company in a production report highlighted the unprecedented development in Guyana, moving from a “world-class” discovery just over a decade ago, to first oil only five years later which has evolved into one of the fastest deepwater development timelines in the industry. Exxon is currently producing oil at four Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels (FPSOs) in the Stabroek Block. Since 2019, Exxon has already produced one billion barrels of oil. To this end, the company indicated that the country's oil reserves have decreased to less than 11 billion barrels. The company said, “With an estimated resource base of just under 11 billion oil-equivalent barrels and plans for up to eight offshore developments by 2030, the Stabroek Block is helping to meet demands across the Americas, Europe and Asia, contributing to global energy security and market stability.” The issue of the oil reserves here has been a matter of public discussion. Guyana's oil reserves have been stagnated around 11 billion barrels since 2022, despite major new discoveries and according to president of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), Alistair Routledge, this is so because “proved reserves” only increase when a project is financed. In its 2025 Annual Report, Exxon reported that, “Additions to prove reserves include 2.1 GOEB (billion oil-equivalent barrels) from extensions and discoveries primary in the United States and Guyana and 0.1 GOEB related to United States acquisitions.” Back in March, Routledge was asked by Kaieteur News how much of the 2.1-billion increase in reserves were from Guyana. While he did not offer a direct response, Routledge sought to clarify the terms “resources” and “reserves.”
He said, “So this is probably the space where we get into the difference between resource versus reserves. So, every time we fund a project, we move resource to an approved category. So, resource is estimated, as ultimately recoverable, when we drill a well and we penetrate a reservoir, and we say, we think there's this amount of resource that we could recover from that reservoir. But it is founded on a number of assumptions. It doesn't move to prove until you fund a project that can develop that resource.” Meanwhile, when asked whether there was an increase in proved reserves in Guyana, as highlighted in the report, Routledge said that Exxon added to its proved reserves after the Hammerhead project was approved. Be that as it may, the country's estimated ultimate recoverable reserve still stands around 11 billion barrels according to him. He said, “Well, in the reserves, when we approved the Hammerhead project, we added, I mean, I think our share of, you know, roughly 40 per cent of the resource that we said was proved, as we develop the Hammerhead project would then be added into that proved category for us.” C o n s e q u e n t l y, t h e country manager noted, “On the estimated ultimate recovery, it's still, you know, close to 11, is somewhere in that vicinity. But there's a lot of, as we continue to do, appraisal work, and we produce reservoirs and we gather data. There's, you know, puts and takes as we go through that assessment.” In an invited comment, former Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams had said that the company was once again attempting to confuse the country using technical terms. The petroleum engineer argued, “Investors have nothing to do with reserves. That's what this guy is good at-bringing up things to confuse people.” He reminded that in the early discovery days, Exxon offered prompt reserve updates and did not wait for
ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge an investment decision. On resources versus reserves, Dr. Adams explained, “Oil resources is (determined based on) a technical calculation…the reserves add the economic component to it. It says you may tell me there is so much oil and I can technically recover so much of it, however because of the price of oil…right now because of the price of oil this reserve should automatically go up because it varies with oil prices.” M e a n w h i l e , ExxonMobil has already received regulatory approvals from the Government of Guyana (GoG) for seven projects. With four projects already producing, the company is progressing development activities to commence production at the Uaru, Whiptail and Hammerhead projects before 2030. In fact, Exxon is looking to secure at least one other project before the end of the decade. It said, “Looking ahead, Uaru is expected to start up by the end of 2026. Construction is also underway on the sixth and seventh approved projects, Whiptail and Hammerhead, with Whiptail targeted for startup in 2027 and Hammerhead expected to begin production in 2029.” The reserve update from Exxon, highlighting the decrease in oil reserves come amid heavy spending by ExxonMobil to explore and appraise wells in the prolific Stabroek Block. In 2025, the company reported an exploration expense of
approximately US$128M compared with US$109M in 2024. Despite the heavy expenditure on oil exploration, the company has not announced a new discovery since March 2024. The company has not published its expenditure for appraisal activities in the block. Appraisal is conducted after hydrocarbons are discovered. This is a critical phase that allows companies to better under the quality and quantity of resources within the reservoir. This rigorous process involves drilling of wells and testing of fluid properties. The process reduces uncertainty in resource volumes, helping companies to make informed investment decisions. Notably, although Exxon completed appraising the discoveries, it offered no update to the public on these results. In 2025, Exxon appraised two major oil discoveries in the Stabroek Block, Lukanani and Ranger. This was revealed by
CNOOC, a 25% shareholder in the block. The company in its 2025 Annual Report highlighted “fruitful achievements in exploration” with new discoveries and appraisal activities conducted in China and overseas. As part of its overseas basin, the Chinese owned oil company reported, “The Lukanani oilfield and Ranger oilfield were successfully appraised in Guyana.” Although the company completed appraising the discoveries, the country's reserves remain stagnant and have in fact declined since the initial estimate of approximately 11B barrels. The Ranger One discovery was made by ExxonMobil since January 2018. At the time, the oil giant described the discovery- its sixth- as the company's largest on record in Guyana. It explained that it began drilling the Ranger-1 well on November 5, 2017 and encountered approximately 230 feet (70 meters) of highq u a l i t y, o i l - b e a r i n g carbonate reservoir. The well
was safely drilled to 21,161 feet (6,450 meters) depth in 8,973 feet (2,735 meters) of water. Meanwhile, Exxon announced the Lukanani- 1 discovery in April 2022. The Lukanani-1 well encountered 115 feet (35 meters) of hydrocarbonbearing sandstone and was drilled in a water depth of 4,068 feet (1,240 meters). To date, ExxonMobil has made 46 discoveries in the Stabroek Block, since the first discovery in 2015. Notably, oil-producing states around the world, including neighbouring Suriname have blocked oil companies from recovering costs spent to hunt for oil. Guyana on the other hand not only allows Exxon to recover costs for wells successfully drilled, but even dry holes encountered in the process. The sweetheart deal signed by ExxonMobil in 2016 allows the company to recover costs related to its exploration activities, even if those efforts do not produce oil.
GPL concerned over vehicles crashing into utility poles The Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) has raised concern over the continued spate of vehicular accidents damaging the country's electrical infrastructure and putting lives at risk. The latest incident occurred at around 21:00hrs on Tuesday along the Hope Lowland Public Road, East Coast Demerara, when a black Nissan Juke reportedly crashed into a utility pole while travelling east. According to GPL, the impact broke the pole, causing it to fall across the roadway. Approximately 400 feet of service line and a street light were also damaged. The vehicle reportedly left the scene before GPL personnel and Guyana Police Force ranks arrived. GPL subsequently reported the matter at the Cove and John Police Station and said it is working with the Guyana Police Force as the investigation continues. The company's Transmission and Distribution team has since commenced remedial works to repair the damaged infrastructure. GPL said it is “deeply concerned” about the continued occurrence of vehicular acciden ts in v olving its electrical
infrastructure, warning that such collisions can have potentially grave consequences. “Collisions involving utility poles and other electrical infrastructure can result in severe injury or loss of life, while simultaneously causing extensive damage to the electricity network and service interruptions affecting thousands of customers,” the company said. GPL added that such incidents also expose its employees, motorists, emergency responders and members of the public to dangerous electrical hazards. The company is therefore urging motorists to exercise greater care and caution while using the nation's roads. GPL also reminded drivers that leaving the scene after an accident involving electrical infrastructure does not remove the safety risks created by the damage. “Damaged or fallen electrical infrastructure should always be treated as dangerous,” the company warned. GPL said it remains committed to maintaining a safe and reliable electricity network and will continue working with the Guyana Police Force and other relevant authorities when such incidents occur.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 04
Friday October 02, 2026
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor-in-Chief: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
A small victory a large opening The 2011 Access to Information Act of Guyana can now bear some fruit. Information sought is released to those petitioning. It has been 14 years, long and frustrating years, with access to information, as allowed by law, routinely denied. Now, a small victory comes in a court ruling. It is a big opening, with so much of what democracy flourishes on, access to information, being almost within the grasp. What will the aftermath of this court ruling of Justice Nicole Pierre be like? More dodging and resisting could still follow. We at this paper would hope not. For then what standing the court, what is the law, when neither has any weight, nothing such as compelling power? We still struggle over what it is that the PPPC Government has to hide. When transparency is claimed, then information is the education that follows as to how true that claim is. Access to it, and that information being made available, within the provisions of the law, and the procedures derived from it. This small victory in court can be tracked to the consistent efforts of one civil society activist, Chris Ram, chartered accountant and attorney-at-law. Like almost all others in Guyana that practice either of those professions, he could have spent his time more rewardingly, earning huge sums of money. His efforts (and a small band of others) have paid off with a reward that is likely bigger than any number of millions he could have made practising his skills. The best way that his work can be recognised is by taking advantage of the court ruling. What is now in the environment is bigger than Ram and the commissioner, it is forging ahead in the little openings, so that there is some degree of democracy in Guyana, one that is of a better quality. Information on how the government, its institutions, and its officers work will give the media much to work with, while citizens get to see how well, or poorly, they and their interests are represented. Whover had tried to use the law before and filed a request for information from the Access to Information Office but got stonewalled, they should follow-up on their earlier request. They could consider reviving their request with a polite reminder letter, and all of the prior supporting documents attached. Or, if they have the patience and still have the interest, they should file a new request for information from scratch. One of the objectives would be to test the reaction to the court ruling. Another should be to test respect for the law, and to determine if the charade, the resistance, continues unabated, but in some different form. Civil society activists have had longstanding concerns about the environment and about developments related to oil, gold, and other forms of mining. Others, including Ram himself, were and are keenly interested in obtaining documents from the Information Office pertaining to the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement between ExxonMobil and Guyana, and the study that was done on that agreement. Entities within the media sphere should not leave the pursuit of information to a few civil society activists, but manifest their own interest by filling valid requests for information from the Access to Information Office to see what they get. It is to this country’s loss that a law was passed more than 14 years ago, and it was given short thrift, is as if meaningless. It also reveals much about how a government can talk briskly about the law and its operations and applications. Yet that same government could be such a block that stands against citizens getting some benefits out of it. Government makes itself look shabby, when it conducts itself like this. The Access to Information Office slides into that most deplorable of states: a caricature of a public authority. When the most that petitioners for information got in the past was nothing but the negligible, when they incurred palpable derision for their efforts, this is how the law was mocked and made into a plaything of the idle. The court ruling is a small victory that creates a large opening. Citizens from all walks should walk through it and test it.
Antigua and Barbuda’s UN Secretary-General choice betrays Caribbean solidarity DEAR EDITOR, Antigua and Barbuda’s continued backing of María Fernanda Espinosa for United Nations Secretary-General is an unpleasant and ill-advised development that strains Caribbean solidarity, trust and unity. Supporting a competing candidate while CARICOM rallies behind Guyana’s Carolyn RodriguesBirkett betrays the spirit of regional cooperation. The chronology deserves accuracy, Antigua nominated Espinosa in May, before Guyana nominated Rodrigues-Birkett in June. Nevertheless, CARICOM’s subsequent endorsement of Rodrigues-Birkett created a compelling opportunity to unite behind a Caribbean candidate. Antigua must explain why it continues
to pursue a competing bid despite that collective, regional position. The argument for appointing a woman falls flat, as Rodrigues-Birkett is a female, with strengthened Indigenous heritage, to wit. If selected, she would become both the first woman and the first Caribbean person to lead the United Nations. Her appointment remains undecided, making regional unity particularly valuable at this stage. Antigua has the sovereign right to choose its candidate. It must also accept scrutiny of the diplomatic consequences. How can Caribbean governments confidently seek one another’s support on climate financing, security, territorial integrity and international appointments if collective
endorsements fail to produce coordinated action? The damage could outlast this contest. Such divisions invite doubts about whether regional commitments can be trusted when they matter most. Small states strengthen their influence through dependable partnerships; public disunity weakens their collective voice. Antigua should reconsider its position, consult its CARICOM partners and support Rodrigues-Birkett. Caribbean solidarity requires governments to honour the cooperation they ask others to extend. Charity begins at home, Antigua and Barbuda! Regards, Albert Baldeo
Guyanese Hindus Transplanting Pitri Paksh in USA DEAR EDITOR, Despite the distance from India, Hindus have transplanted their culture where they migrated – from India to Guyana and Caribbean, Fiji, Mauritius, etc., and from there to fast pace of urban America, Canada, UK. The cultural footprint and tradition of Pitri Paksh and other Hindu festivals in the US have been preserved largely by Guyanese and Caribbean American Hindus who introduced the rituals and festivals in the 1960s after immigrating to and settling first in NY and later in other cities. Hindus are currently observing Pitri Paksha, a two-week period of paying homage to deceased ancestors. Observance began on the evening of September 27 and will conclude on October 10 after which begins the period of fasting for ten days. The word pitri means ancestors, and during this period, Hindus are expressing gratitude to the departed generations that help shaped who they are today with special prayers. It is a solemn religious service to celebrate the immense contributions, remember the hardship and legacies of ancestral fore-parents who built the foundations for the current generation. Hindus thank the lineage that paved their path to their being. The pitri puja is performed on the bank of a waterway or in a garden or a backyard or inside homes. Nightly observance is going on at the IndoCaribbean Shri Tulsi Mandir located on 111 Street, off Liberty Ave in “Little Guyana” and “Little Trinidad”, in Queens, New York where a lecture or discourse is held on the
festival and how it is observed. Other mandirs also host discourse on pitri paksh. All the mandirs are known to perform special pitri puja on selected days. Pitri puja is not praying to the dead, as some mistakenly believe. But it is praying for the departed souls and to honour their memories, petitioning the lord to have mercy on their souls, worshipping Jamraj, the Lord of death who oversees the souls. During pitri paksha, people make special offerings in the morning at sunrise for the soul of relatives and ancestors (parents, siblings, grandparents and earlier generations, extended families, etc.) appealing to Jamraj to have mercy on them. The offerings in the morning include water mixed with black til (sesame seeds), flowers, and rice grains as prescribed in the scripture. The water is offered from the palm of both hands and poured out on the right side between the index finger and the right thumb. In New York, from 1980s onwards, Hindus residing in private homes, have used their backyards or gardens at sunrise to make offerings, on a special grass on the dirt (land), a practice known as Shraddha or Tarpan, that last a few minutes. Not every Hindu observes Pitri paksh or perform rituals or puja. And among those that do pitri puja, like this writer, rituals and oblations are not done daily during the fortnight. Some make offerings one or three or five or any other number of mornings. Some Hindus invite a pandit and perform a lengthy pitri puja that lasts hours. A central tenet of the puja is Pinda Daan —
offering sacred powdered rice balls made from ghee, honey, til, among other sweet spices. This writer performed pinda daan for ancestors on the banks of the holy Ganges in Bodh Gaya, Bihar in 2025. After puja, Hindus prepare meals of food items that the deceased like and make offerings at home as well as to available to guests. In pitri puja, the living is expressing gratitude to the ancestors and performing duty in paying homage to them as prescribed in the sacred text. They are repaying the ancestors. The various offerings help with the liberation of the soul to attain peace, salvation (moksha), and progress to higher realms. It is believed that once a person passes away, the soul requires spiritual energy to cross into higher realms. The rituals of Tarpan and Pinda Daan provide symbolic nourishment. These
offerings appease the hunger and thirst of the departed souls, helping them find peace and move closer to final liberation (Moksha). It is believed by Hindus that ancestors act as protective guardians for the family, bestowing blessings of good health, wealth, harmony, and longevity and as such, the reason for pitri puja. During the pitri period, observant Hindus are known to maintain a simple life, avoiding new undertakings and major celebratory events. There are no weddings or parties. In New York, Florida, and other urban areas, there are collective Pitri Paksha puja with families and community gathering on a Sunday morning in a temple or the bank of waterway where there are mass Tarpan ceremonies. After puja, vegetarian meal is served as is also the case for any puja. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
THE MIGHTY SPARROW DEAR EDITOR, I see you soaring admiringly in the sky On your way, away, mighty sparrow Leaving, O legend, your coinage here; That which unite us, Calypsoes... melody of the Caribbean. Calypsoes, the Caribbean unique songs, Special, so special, even now we sing and resing, Body dancing in heart and beauty, Living on to live on, to the musical beats; Your voice drumming its ever-alive melody, You are the Mighty Sparrow. Spreading your wings to entertain, You made us distinctly The West Indian kind, Across Oceans and Spaces, leaving magical resurging touches of music; Live on in spirit, and thank you Thank you Thank you... Sincerely, Krishna Nand Prasad
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
GPSU to Gen Z: Know your worth, prepare for change and leave a legacy DEAR EDITOR, The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) extends best wishes to all Youths across the Caribbean Region as we celebrate the brilliance, resilience and unyielding energy of young people across the region on this Caribbean Youth Day 2026. No matter which island or coastal state we call home, our shared aspirations bind us together. The Young People of Guyana and the Caribbean are being called upon today to consider simple but profound questions: When your time has passed, what will you have left behind? When another generation takes its place, what footprints will you have left in the sands of time? Will you have merely passed through your generation, or will you have served, struggled, created, defended, innovated and built? These are not questions for another generation. They are questions for now. And the answer begins with three principles: know yourself, know your worth a n d k n o w y o u r responsibility. A WORLD THAT HAS ALREADY CHANGED Gen Z is coming of age during one of the most consequential periods in human history. Artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, biotechnology and digital connectivity are changing how people work, learn, communicate and live. The future is no longer approaching. It has arrived. Guyana recently demonstrated the extraordinary possibilities of technology when internationally acclaimed cardiac surgeon Dr. Sudhir Srivastava, operating from G e o rg e t o w n , r e m o t e l y performed heart surgery on a patient in India, nearly 20,000 kilometres away, using the SSI Mantra 3 robotic surgical system. The procedure was described by Guyana’s Department of Public Information as the world’s longest-distance robotic tele-surgery at the time. Think about that. What would previous generations have imagined if they had been told that a surgeon sitting in Georgetown could perform surgery on a patient in India? It is a powerful reminder that technology is breaking down
the limitations of geography and opening possibilities that were once unimaginable. But the same technology that creates extraordinary possibilities will also transform—and in some cases eliminate—traditional tasks. For generations, young public servants entered the service, learned from those who came before them and eventually replaced those who retired. Today, some of those very tasks are being automated. The question is no longer whether technology will change work. It has done so already. The question is: Are you ready? You must reskill, retrain and retool. You must become lifelong learners. You must learn to work with artificial intelligence rather than fear it, while strengthening the qualities technology cannot easily replace: judgment, c r e a t i v i t y, e m p a t h y, leadership, imagination and the ability to serve. You must not merely consume technology. You must create with it. KNOW YOURSELF. KNOW YOUR WORTH There is also a lesson, which young people can draw from the culture surrounding what many call Team Drizzy: identity, confidence and selfawareness. The principle is simple: know yourself and know your worth. What does that mean when someone is denied an opportunity because of race? What does it mean when women are judged differently from men? What does it mean when gender, disability, social status or other differences become barriers to advancement? Yo u r w o r t h i s n o t determined by these differences. You are entitled to dignity, opportunity, decent work and fair treatment. You must know your rights and know where to seek redress when those rights are violated. And when you eventually occupy positions of authority, remember the struggles that m a d e y o u r o w n advancement possible. No generation should close the door behind itself after benefiting from someone else’s struggle to open it. T H E G U YA N E S E DREAM – is being tested. In August 2026, Georgetown’s 12-month
inflation rate stood at 3.6 percent, with food prices up 4.4 percent, transport and communication up 4.1 percent, and medical care and health services up 3.1 percent. Behind those numbers are real lives. Can you afford the home you dream about? Can you raise a family without constantly worrying about tomorrow? Can you find meaningful work that provides dignity as well as income? Can you advance because of your ability rather than your connections? Can you work hard and still have time to live? Housing remains a major concern. As of early 2026, Guyana faced a housing backlog of approximately 75,000 to 78,000 pending applications, with more than 50,000 concentrated in Region Four. These are not merely statistics. They represent young people trying to establish homes, families and futures. Development must therefore mean more than economic growth. The Sustainable Development Goals speak to quality education, gender equality, decent work, reduced inequality, health and well-being, and access to justice. The SDGs may not formally describe a “right to a happy life,” but they point toward the conditions that make a dignified and fulfilling life possible. Development must ultimately be measured by the quality of human life. A GUYANA THAT IS CHANGING Guyana’s oil and gas economy has created opportunities previous generations could scarcely have imagined. Many young people are moving from traditional occupations into the energy sector. But every generation must ask what kind of society it is building. Some jobs require extended periods away from home. A young father may spend weeks away from his children. A young mother may spend long periods away while contributing to the economy. The income may be necessary. The opportunity may be attractive. But what happens when economic success comes at the cost of family connection? What happens when a child grows accustomed to seeing a Continued on page 6
PAGE 05
Kaieteur News
PAGE 06
Friday October 02, 2026
Journalists decry crackdown after Turkey blocks news site over ‘LGBT propaganda’ ANKARA, Oct 1 (Reuters) - A Turkish journalist whose articles were cited among the grounds for blocking independent news portal T24 said the decision effectively treated objective reporting about + people as a crime, as the outlet prepared to appeal the order on Thursday. A court ordered access to T24’s website and social media accounts blocked after authorities said it had published 118 pieces of
content over the past year deemed to constitute “LGBT propaganda”. The decision was taken as part of the “My Family is Safe” investigation, a widening crackdown targeting LGBTQ+ groups which the government says aims to protect children `and family values, but which has drawn sharp criticism from rights groups and European officials. Yildiz Tar, editor-inchief of LGBTQ+ news outlet Kaos GL, and whose
articles published by T24 were among those cited, rejected the authorities’ description of the reporting. “It creates the image that writing about LGBTQI people in an objective way is a crime, because all of the articles I wrote were objective,” Tar said in an interview. “It’s not propaganda. It’s about basic journalism. It’s about reality,” he said, adding that the articles covered LGBTQ+ rights, hate killings and the
Weekly farmers’ market to open at Sophia The Ministry of Agriculture is introducing a weekly farmers’ market at Sophia Market starting Wednesday, giving consumers access to affordable produce while helping farmers to earn more from their crops. Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha announced the initiative at the launch of Agriculture Month on Wednesday being held under the theme “Innovate, Nourish, Grow. Building a sustainable Guyana”. He said the market would operate every Wednesday, alongside monthly farmers’ markets in various regions. The initiative follows instructions from President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and commitments in the PPP/C’s manifesto. “You are invited to go there, and you will have very cheap products,” the agriculture minister said. He said the markets will help address concerns that farmers were not receiving a fair return for the time and effort they invested in food production. “Farmers are early in the field, and late in the evening, they
are still in the field. But sometimes, they are not getting the kind of reward that they have to get. We must now allow the farmers to get their benefit, get their reward,” he said. The markets form part of a wider programme of activities for Agriculture Month, which will give citizens the opportunities to engage directly with farmers and other participants in the sector. The programme includes the inaugural Farmers’ Conference, the annual Honeyfest and World Food Day activities. Minister Mustapha said the observances should reinforce efforts to build an agricultural sector that can withstand challenges, compete effectively and provide opportunities for a wider range of producers. He called for continued collaboration to improve farmers’ livelihoods, strengthen communities and support Guyana’s contribution to regional food and nutrition security. “The future of Guyana’s agriculture is filled with tremendous opportunities. Let us work together to seize these opportunities,” the minister said. (DPI)
experiences of LGBTQ+ people after the 2023 earthquake in Turkey. ‘STATE OF EMERGENCY’ Candan Yildiz, T24’s editor in charge, said the decision further ‘restrictions that began last month with operations against LGBTQ+ organisations and activists. “ We a r e r e a l l y experiencing a digital state of emergency,” she told Reuters. “An authority is telling journalists: you can report these stories, but you cannot report those. This really undermines the foundations of our
profession.” T24’s lawyers were due to appeal the decision on Thursday, Yildiz said. “Journalism cannot be shut down. We `are doing our jobs,” she said. DETENTIONS Dozens of people have been jailed pending trial as part of the investigation, and courts have blocked websites and social media accounts belonging to LGBTQ+ groups, activists and media outlets. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has toughened his ‘anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric in recent years, and last month
at the UN General Assembly said a trend of “global gender-neutralisation policies” could be countered by protecting the traditional family. The European Union has expressed concern over the recent arrests ‘and online restrictions and called on Turkey to uphold freedom of expression and media freedom. The vast majority of Turkish media is seen as progovernment after years of state legal and financial pressure, corporate acquisitions and selfcensorship.
GPSU to Gen Z: Know your worth... From page 5 parent through a screen? What happens when young people have the money to provide materially but not the time to be present? Development must create wealth without destroying the social fabric that gives wealth its meaning. At the same time, Guyana’s labour market is becoming increasingly international. Venezuelans, Cubans, Haitians, West Africans, East Asians, Chinese, Brazilians and others are increasingly part of Guyana’s changing economic and social landscape. They can be found among doctors and nurses, nursing assistants, customer-service workers, storekeepers, watchmen and workers across construction, hospitality, retail and other sectors. This transformation raises important questions for Gen Z and the wider younger generation. How should you prepare when you are competing in an increasingly global labour market? How can Guyana attract the skills it needs while ensuring that its own young people are trained to participate and lead? How can the country protect both Guyanese and migrant workers from exploitation and discrimination? These questions require mature national policy, not division. Guyana must be able to welcome skills while investing in its own people, embrace diversity while preserving national identity, and ensure that every worker—Guyanese or foreign—is treated with dignity and respect. CHANGE CANNOT BE STOPPED Guyana has learnt that it is, in many ways, a nation of six people—a small population increasingly relying upon people from around the world to meet the demands of a rapidly expanding economy. But this should not become a source of insecurity. It should become a call to action. Every young doctor matters. Every engineer matters. Every teacher matters. Every nurse matters. Every technician matters. Every public servant matters. Every entrepreneur matters. Every worker matters. And change is upon Guyana at a rate that cannot be stopped. Artificial intelligence will not wait. Automation will not wait. Digital transformation will not wait. Globalisation will not wait. Change cannot be stopped. But it can be understood, managed and turned into strength. Gen Z must therefore embrace change and use it to build and protect Guyana—to modernise public services, improve health care, transform education, strengthen national security, protect the environment, create businesses beyond oil
and gas, expand opportunity and preserve national sovereignty. A small population does not have to mean a small ambition. THE RESPONSIBILITY OF YOUNG PUBLIC SERVANTS To the young branch members and leaders of the Guyana Public Service Union, the responsibility is even greater. They are inheritors of a 103-year institution build upon hard work, unity and independence. For more than a century, public servants—those present and those who have gone before—have fought the good fight. They organised, negotiated, sacrificed, pursued collective agreements, advocated legislative amendments and relied upon the courts to establish and defend rights. The protections enjoyed today did not appear by accident. They were fought for, negotiated and derived from great sacrifices. That inheritance is bound up in collective agreements, legislation, amendments, institutions and case law. The young public servants of today must therefore ask themselves: What will they add to that history? Their predecessors gave them a solid foundation. They must strengthen it. Their predecessors fought for rights. They must protect them. Their predecessors built a union. They must make it stronger. And when their generation eventually passes responsibility to those who come after them, the next generation should be able to say: “They left us more than they inherited.” JUSTICE, DIGNITY AND THE RIGHT TO BE HEARD Young people are also inheriting institutions that still require strengthening. Guyana’s Magistrates’ Courts recorded approximately 30,000 criminal cases in 2025, while the Court of Appeal entered 2026 with a backlog of roughly 2,000 matters. Behind those numbers are people waiting for justice. So ask: If you needed justice tomorrow, would you know where to turn? Would you understand your rights? Could you afford legal assistance? Would the system respond quickly enough? The younger generation must therefore insist upon institutions that are accessible, efficient and fair. They must understand the Constitution, their rights, their collective agreements and the mechanisms available to protect them. Citizenship requires more than participation at election time. It requires understanding the institutions that govern people’s lives. Regards, Guyana Public Service Union
Friday Thursday October November 02, 2026 24, 2022
Kaieteur News
PAGE 07 19
Kaieteur News
PAGE 08
Friday October 02, 2026
NIS pensioners allegedly owed arrears since 2021 ...as unions, Ram threaten legal action
Minimum-rate NIS pensioners may be entitled to years of unpaid pension arrears, with several trade unions and attorney-at-law Christopher Ram giving the National Insurance Board seven days to explain why payments have allegedly fallen below the statutory
minimum. In a letter dated October 1, 2026 and addressed to the Secretary of the National Insurance Board, Ram and representatives of several trade union bodies contend that the NIS has failed to comply with a statutory requirement governing the
minimum old-age pension. The letter points to Regulation 4(b) of the Benefit Regulations, which was amended in 2015 to increase the statutory minimum old-age pension from 40 per cent to 50 per cent of the Public Service minimum wage. According
to the signatories, the requirement was last met in 2020, when the Public Service minimum wage was $70,000 and the NIS minimum pension was $35,000. They contend that although the Public Service m i n i m u m w a g e
Attorney-at-law, Christopher Ram
Norris Witter, President of the General Workers Union subsequently increased several times, the NIS minimum pension was not adjusted accordingly. The letter states that the 2026 National Estimates put the Public Service minimum wage at $102,346. Fifty per cent of that figure is $51,173, while the published NIS minimum pension is $43,075. This, according to the signatories, represents a monthly shortfall of $8,098 for every pensioner receiving the minimum rate. The group is demanding that the NIS Board identify every affected pensioner, calculate the arrears owed and make payment. They further argue that subsequent increases in the minimum pension cannot erase arrears which had already accrued. The letter also raises the issue of retroactive increases in the Public Service minimum wage, arguing that where such increases were made effective from an earlier date, the NIS should explain the legal basis for not similarly adjusting the statutory pension from that date. The signatories also point to Section 34(2) of the National Insurance and Social Security Act, which
GTUC General Secretary, Lincoln Lewis
Eslyn Harris, President of Guyana Postal and Telecommunication Workers Union provides that any temporary insufficiency in the assets of the Fund to meet its liabilities is to be met from monies advanced by Parliament. The Board has been given seven days from receipt of the letter to state its position on the alleged underpayments dating from 2021 and to provide a full account of the amounts (Continued on page 9)
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
PAGE 09
Where did the idealism go? There was a time when being young in Guyana apparently meant you wanted to change the country. Imagine being young and looking around and deciding that the country needed to be made better. Imagine believing that democracy mattered. Imagine thinking that governments should be accountable, that citizens should have rights, that corruption was something to be opposed rather than something to be tolerated, and that political power was supposed to serve the people rather than provide a particularly comfortable parking space for the politically connected. In the 1970s and 1980s, there were young Guyanese who actually believed these things. They tried to change Guyana for the better. Some of them paid a very heavy price. They confronted Burnham’s authoritarianism. They protested. They organised. They wrote. They spoke. They went to prison. Some were beaten. Some lost jobs. Many left the country. Some spent years fighting for political change when the sensible career move would have been to keep your head down and join with the establishment. These people were not all saints. They disagreed among themselves. They b e l o n g e d t o d i ff e r e n t political traditions. They made mistakes. Some
pretended to be multi-racial. Some eventually became disillusioned. Some changed their politics. Some became part of the establishment they had once opposed. But whatever their individual journeys, they left behind a question: What was it all for? Because here we are, d e c a d e s l a t e r. T h e dictatorship is gone. Elections are held. Governments change. Presidents come and presidents go. And yet one is entitled to wonder whether we have sometimes accomplished the remarkable political feat of changing the occupants of the driver’s seat without changing very much about the vehicle. The old rulers have been replaced by new rulers. The old political machinery has acquired new paint. The old temptation to confuse government with power remains remarkably healthy. Perhaps this is what happens when political idealism grows up. The young radical discovers the need for job security. The protester discovers a government appointment. The revolutionary discovers that bowing at the feet of the new leaders has certain advantages. The idealist discovers that there is no ideological objection to a nice SUV. Meanwhile, what has happened to the young people who are supposed to inherit the country? Well, some are doing exactly what
young people everywhere do: trying to make a living, build a career and have a good time. There is nothing wrong with that. But there is something worth worrying about when getting rich becomes the dominant definition of success. We now have a country in which a young person can aspire to own a fancy house, the latest vehicle, the latest phone, the latest clothes and enough money to spend every weekend demonstrating that a liver is, in fact, a remarkably durable organ. The money is gushing. Persons who can hardly tell the head of a hammer from the handle are now making money like rice farmers after a bumper crop. When the money is flowing this freely, asking difficult questions can begin to seem less attractive than finding your own piece of the river. Where are the young people who want to challenge the oil contract? Where are the students demanding to know how the country’s natural resources are being managed? Where are the voices asking how is it that we are paying $400M for a bridge that would have been free to us in a few months? Where are the young lawyers, engineers, e c o n o m i s t s , environmentalists, journalists and entrepreneurs willing to say publicly that
Dem Boys Seh...
Hawks walking on two feet, driving car and riding motor bikes One mother tell dem boys how she nearly forget she daughter running race when she notice a young man watching the sports. But he wasn’t watching the race. He wasn’t watching the high jump. He was watching the girls. Every time one of the schoolgirls pass, he had something to say. The mother move closer to she daughter. This is exactly why every year dem boys does warn parents when school sports season come around. Don’t just send yuh children to school sports and believe everybody there come to watch sports. School sports does attract parents, teachers, old students and supporters. But it also attracts some school sports hawks. Dem boys pass by one secondary school sports and see plenty young men hanging around outside. Some in cars, some on motorbikes, leaning around the gate and throwing nice words at the young schoolgirls as they pass. One even get vex when dem boys holler at him. He start behaving like he wanted to square up. But dem boys seh, why you getting vex when somebody ask what you doing around schoolgirls? If you come to watch sports, go inside and watch sports. If you come to support the school, support the
school. But if you done leave school long time and you spending the afternoon hanging around the gate, watching young girls and trying to make conversation with them, somebody got to ask: “Boss, wha’ you doing here?” And is de Po Po should be asking those questions. That is why dem boys does tell parents every year: accompany yuh children. It don’t matter if the child is 12, 14, 16 or 17. Don’t assume because it is school sports that everybody there has good intentions. The police also need to start paying more attention to school sports. Not only to stop people from stealing phones and bags, but to keep an eye on the grown men who does gather around the gates. School sports should be about talent, competition, school pride and parents cheering for their children. It should not become hunting ground for grown men looking for young girls. So parents, go with yuh children. Watch the races. Watch the crowd too. Because sometimes the most dangerous hawks ain’t flying overhead. They walking around on two feet, driving car and mini-bus and riding motorbikes. Talk half. Leff half.
an extractive economy must also be an accountable economy? Where are the people prepared to ask uncomfortable questions about what happens when billions of dollars begin flowing through a small society? Where are the young people exposing and questioning how some government officials have become so rich? And, perhaps most uncomfortable question of all: Where did the idealism go? It would be unfair to say that it disappeared. There are young Guyanese who I am sure are engaged, courageous and determined to make a difference. But they can sometimes seem strangely lonely. They take a stand, and they are isolated. Even by their own friends and families. Being a radical, they are reminded is a thankless and solitary
profession. Perhaps this is because young Guyanese do not have role models from the 1970s and 1980s. Many of those who challenged dictatorship and authoritarianism in Guyana themselves succumbed and let their idealism recede in the quest to survive. In other words, they betrayed their own idealism and left little moral inheritance and inspiration for the present generation. And that is the tragedy facing our young people today. They have few role models to draw inspiration from. And that should be of concern at present. Because oil can make a country richer without making it freer. It can build roads without improving the lives of citizens. It can, as it is doing, producing overnight millionaires who care little about inequality. And perhaps the greatest
danger is not that young Guyanese will become too interested in money. It is that they will become convinced that money and having a good time are the only things worth being interested in. Sooner or later, every generation gets the government it tolerates, the political culture it accepts and the future it is willing to demand. And if our young people are no longer asking what kind of country they want to build, perhaps the question isn’t where the idealism went. But rather which is the generation that taught them they didn’t need it. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
NIS pensioners allegedly owed... From page 8 allegedly owed to minimum-rate pensioners. “If the Board disputes liability,” the letter states, it should provide within the seven-day period “the precise legal basis” on which it contends that paying below the statutory minimum was lawful. Failure to provide a satisfactory response, the signatories warned, will result in legal proceedings “without further notice.” The proposed proceedings could seek declarations, an account of all sums due, payment of arrears with interest, mandatory orders to ensure continuing compliance, costs and other relief deemed appropriate by the court. “This letter constitutes formal notice of intended proceedings,” the group declared. Among those signing the letter are
representatives of the Guyana Trades Union Congress, National Union of Public Service Employees, General Workers Union, Guyana Local Government Officers Union, Union of Agricultural and Allied Workers, United Minibus Union, Guyana Market Vendors Union, Guyana Postal and Telecommunication Workers Union, GTC/GTT Pensioners Association and Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union. The letter was copied to the Chairman of the National Insurance Board, the General Manager of the National Insurance Scheme and the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance. The letter does not state the total value of arrears potentially owed to affected pensioners.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 10 UTHS
D TR
HAR
HK
BY G
LALL
Friday October 02, 2026
H@RD TRUTHS
BY GHK LALL
Six executions: Get sense Guyanese The hope is that Guyanese, regardless of which side of the political divide they are on, are wise to what's happening. The developments glistening right under their noses. A court battle for and against extradition. The fight and the backup forces. Guyanese are urged to go beyond sensation and drama. Be wise to the fraud worked on them by the PPP Govt. Six execution-style murders now have an alleged owner. A former close friend of the PPP now a foe, now the embodiment of a fiend to be feared. Chew on this first question, my fellow Guyanese: if there was no
fallout among bosom friends, no extradition hustles, would those six murders ever have been heard about, re who the evidence implicated? I stand immovable: there would have been no Perry Mason-type confession (revelation) in a Guyana court. Those six executionstyle murders and the evidence surrounding them, which allegedly led to one person, would have remained secretly frozen forever. In fact, it is surprising that that evidence is still in existence. Several reasons are offered for that position. Firstly, it is unhealthy to
keep what incriminates friends. Secondly, it is unwise to retain what could be self-incriminating, the longer it stays unused. T h i r d l y, n o e v i d e n c e pinpointing anyone means no connection, no trouble, no inconveniences. Fourthly, if the transcript of a MohamedU.S. Marshall interaction c o u l d b e s o s w i f t l y, efficiently, and thoughtfully burned, then that standard had to be maintained. If only for purposes of consistency, and self-protection. I hark back to a prior assertion. The names of people at the top of this country's political food chain and their roles in crimes and the cover-up of
crimes had to be involved. So those notes had to become ashes. Be wise, Guyanese. Or, more colloquially, get sense, fellow Guyanese. Papers burned and evidence voiced in a courtroom about six execution-style murders at the hand of allegedly one man represent multiple farces and frauds being delivered on this country. The sudden disclosure of those murders and their sponsorship, ownership, are not about any belated zeal for crime resolution. Capital crimes, I remind. Nor are they about efforts dedicated to the law being righted, families dignified, society's
debt being paid, and justice triumphing. Absolutely none of those! It is confirmation that the evils that men do, don't live after them. It lives with them and right now. I speak not of alleged murderer, or those who condoned and covered up (above the Police). I speak with universal sweep. Be sensible, Guyanese! The courtroom mystery and miracle involving sixexecution-style murders breaking out of where they have been hidden and chained, IS ABOUT THE PPP-CONTROLLED STATE EMPLOYING THE ASSETS OF THE STATE TO MAINTAIN ITS OWN CORRUPT STATE. It is about how the powers of the State are welded into a whole, then weaponized to cutout and cut down potential competition for command and control of Guyana. Like hell! Is this about crime solving. Senior Supt. Prem Narine's disclosure was about crippling a political opponent, putting to shame a potential, and very real, political usurper in the making. I bypass senior superintendent, commissioner, minister. Evidence finally unfolding before the public is about the
PPP leadership playing their trump card(s) to protect and indemnify the PPP franchise. To have sat on what sounds like open-and-shut evidence on six execution-style murders is a crime by itself. More than six felonies by themselves, and which all point an accusing and damning finger to the pinnacles of the ruling party. It's time for some closing questions. If six murders can be covered up so cleverly, so casually, so criminally at the higher levels in Guyana, then how many more murders covered up? If a series of premediated, coldblooded executions can be covered up, and only revealed in a time of trouble, then what other felonies covered up? Last, if there was no trouble between warring family parties, would Snr. Supt. Narine, or any other, have h a d a n y t h i n g t o s a y, produce? One last time, be wise, get l'il sense, my fellow Guyanese. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Woman set on fire by husband at Hampton Court The Guyana Police Force is investigating an alleged attempt to commit murder following an incident in which a 59-year-old housewife was reportedly set on fire at her home at Hampton Court, Essequibo Coast, on Thursday. According to a Guyana Police Force press release, the incident occurred at about 12:30hrs and involved the woman and her 68-year-old husband, a security guard, both of Hampton Court. Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman was at home when she was allegedly set on fire during an incident involving her husband. Police said a nearby resident heard the woman screaming and rushed to her assistance, managing to extinguish the flames. The woman was subsequently taken to the Lima Regional Hospital, where she was admitted with injuries to various parts of her body. Her condition is listed as stable. The 68-year-old man was subsequently arrested and remains in Police custody. The Guyana Police Force said investigations are ongoing.
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
PAGE 11
ANSA McAL appoints Troy Cadogan as Country Head for Guyana
Discarded cigarette sparks $40M blaze in Corentyne
...as Group deepens ties in Guyana
...family of five homeless
ANSA McAL Limited has announced the appointment of Troy Cadogan as Country Head, Guyana & Suriname, effective October 1, 2026, reinforcing the Group's longterm commitment to one of the Caribbean's fastestgrowing economic regions. In this newly established role, Cadogan will serve as ANSA McAL's senior representative in both territories, providing strategic leadership, strengthening stakeholder engagement and supporting the continued growth, coordination and strategic development of the Group's operations across Guyana and Suriname. He will report to the Group's Chief Operating Officer. The appointment reflects ANSA McAL's confidence in Guyana's future and its commitment to growing alongside the country as it continues its remarkable economic transformation. "Guyana remains a market of tremendous opportunity and strategic importance for ANSA McAL," said Anthony N. Sabga III, Group Chief Executive Officer, ANSA McAL Limited. "As our investments and footprint continue to expand, it is important that we have dedicated leadership on the ground to strengthen collaboration across our businesses, deepen stakeholder relationships and help identify new opportunities for sustainable growth. Troy's appointment reflects both the significance of Guyana within our regional portfolio and our confidence in his ability to lead this important mandate." As Country Manager, Cadogan will work closely with government agencies, regulators, business leaders, community partners and other key stakeholders to support ANSA McAL's strategic priorities, foster partnerships and advance initiatives that contribute to national development. He will also oversee stakeholder engagement, corporate reputation, government relations and business development activities for the Group in Guyana. The appointment comes as ANSA McAL continues to expand its presence and investment in Guyana through several operating companies and initiatives under its "Growing with Guyana" platform, which highlights the Group's
The aftermath of the destroyed house
New Country Head for Guyana and Suriname, Troy Cadogan commitment to supporting economic progress, community development and long-term value creation. A respected business leader with more than 25 years of service within the ANSA McAL Group, Cadogan brings extensive experience in leadership, commercial operations, stakeholder Dead: Keion Wilman management and business development. He most recently served as Head of An early-morning fire on Thursday end. And the breeze was blowing very External Affairs for Guyana at No. 67 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, hard,” she recalled. while also leading ANSA The couple operates a fish-selling McAL Distribution Inc. has destroyed the home of a family of ( A M D I ) a s M a n a g i n g five, leaving them desperately seeking business, with seine and other fishing equipment stored in the yard. Sukhram shelter and assistance. Director. The fire is suspected to have been said the strong wind apparently blew Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships caused by a cigarette that was not the discarded cigarette into the seine, across Guyana's public and properly extinguished before being where the embers ignited the material. private sectors and played an discarded. Geetanjali Sukhram, 41, a “At the same time, we din buy gas to important role in advancing housewife, and her husband, 36-year- load boat to carry over. The gas was right there, and when I the Group's business interests old Sunil Subramanie, had lived in the and stakeholder engagement one-flat concrete house for 15 years go in the house and come back, I see the e f f o r t s . H i s d e e p with their three children, ages 12, 11 fire start,” she said. According to Sukhram, the fire understanding of the local and 9. quickly intensified after the gas Speaking to Kaieteur News, business environment and proven track record of Sukhram said her husband returned ignited, causing explosions and leadership position him well home around 11:00 p.m. and joined her sending flames rapidly through the to guide ANSA McAL's next on a bed on the veranda, where they sat property. She immediately alerted her talking. During their conversation, he three children and rushed them out of phase of growth in Guyana. C o m m e n t i n g o n h i s asked her to bring him his lighter and the house. All four escaped unharmed. Sukhram said firefighters from the appointment, Cadogan said, cigarettes. “I carry his lighter and cigarettes Corriverton Fire Station arrived "I am honoured by the opportunity to serve in this and give he, and he smoke. And when approximately one and a half hours new role and to continue he smoke, he throw away the cigarette after the blaze started. By then, the contributing to ANSA McAL's growth journey in Guyana. This is an exciting period for the country and for the Group. I look forward to working closely with our businesses, employees, Prison Officers from Mazaruni Prison has rescued a partners, customers and miner following a boat mishap on the Mazaruni River in stakeholders to strengthen Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). relationships, create new According to the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), the opportunities and ensure incident occurred around 10:55 hours on Thursday, ANSA McAL continues to October 01, 2026, when the miner was transporting fuel to make a meaningful a mining camp in Itabali. contribution to Guyana's The boat encountered perilous waters and began to development." partially submerge. Fortunately for the miner, Prison Trade The Board, Executive Instructor Jason Acher was heading to Bartica when he L e a d e r s h i p Te a m a n d spotted the miner in distress. The GPS said, “The prison employees of ANSA McAL officer and his team wasted no time extending a lifeline to extend their congratulations the miner, pulling him to safety from the dangerous to Cadogan and look forward waters. He was taken to Bartica.” to his leadership as the Group After the rescue, Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot continues to strengthen its praised the officers' courage, calling them true heroes for presence and invest in their selfless commitment to saving a life in the face of Guyana's future. adversity.
Mazaruni prison officers rescue miner after boat mishap
entire house and its contents, including valuable fishing equipment, had been destroyed. The family estimates their losses at nearly $40 million. Sukhram said the devastation has left the family heartbroken after years of hard work and sacrifice. “The loss is very hurtful, that you work from the bottom and you get everything, and today, everything just burn out in front your eyes. It's very painful and very hurtful to see something like that,” she said. Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald, when contacted by Kaieteur News, confirmed that investigations into the fire are underway. The family is now appealing to members of the public for assistance to rebuild their home, particularly for their three children. Persons willing to assist can contact the family on 6397180 or 611-4113.
PAGE 12
Friday October 02, 2026
Kaieteur News
U.S. court imposes US$7000 fine on Guyana-born woman convicted for role in bribery scheme A former chief executive of the Insurance Corporation of Barbados Limited has been sentenced to time served and fined US$7 000 after pleading guilty in a U.S. federal court over her role in a bribery scheme involving former government minister Donville Inniss. Ingrid Innes, 71, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to two counts of bribery connected with approximately US$36 000 in payments made to Inniss in 2015 and 2016. B a r b a d o s T O D AY understands that Innes, who has been undergoing medical treatment for pancreatic cancer since 2021, had originally planned to contest the charges, but that became untenable because of her health and concerns about the adequacy of medical care she would receive if incarcerated. The case centered on payments Innes approved for the benefit of Inniss, who was then Minister of
Industry and Commerce and had responsibility for the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation, a client of ICBL. The payments were alleged to be bribes intended to help ICBL secure more business. As reported by B a r b a d o s T O D AY o n January 14, 2020, the payments were based on two fraudulent invoices prepared by the company's chief financial officer, Kamante Millar, who later entered into a plea agreement and testified for the prosecution against Innes, other ICBL executives, and Inniss. During Inniss's 2020 federal trial in Brooklyn, New York, Millar testified that she generated two false internal invoices. The invoices – one for US$16 536.73 in 2015 and another for US$20 000 in 2016 – were used to disguise payments that were ultimately channelled to Inniss' US-based dental
company, Crystal Dental Lab. According to Innes, a Canadian national, when she was asked to approve the payments to Inniss, she was told they were for consulting fees. She was also told that in Barbados it was not necessarily illegal or unusual for Members of Parliament to own businesses, including consulting companies, or to accept campaign contributions from government suppliers. It remains unclear whether the payments violated Barbadian law or were intended to influence decisions by the BIDC board, over which Inniss had no direct control. No charges have been filed or pursued to date in Barbados in relation to the case or any of the people involved, despite the US federal indictment citing Barbados' Prevention of Corruption Act. The former CEO told Barbados TODAY that she
East Coast man wanted for fraud Anthony Miguel Nestor
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has issued a wanted bulletin for Anthony Miguel Nestor, of Lot 892 Second Street, Paradise Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara. According to the bulletin, Nestor is wanted by police for obtaining money by false pretense. Anyone with information that may assist in locating Nestor is asked to contact the police on 911, 227-1611, 268-2328, 268-2329, 2263411, 225-8196 or 227-1159, or the nearest police station.
Ingrid Innes acknowledged the lapse of judgement that led to her authorising the two payments and has taken responsibility for it. “I understand my actions fell short of the high standards expected of me as CEO,” she said. “I have accepted responsibility for my mistakes, and I look forward to putting this matter behind
me so I can focus on my health and family.” The ICBL case – What to Know The case dates back to 2018. A federal grand jury in Brooklyn returned an indictment against Innes and former ICBL senior vicepresident Alex Tasker on August 22, 2018. The indictment charged them with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and two counts of money laundering. Inniss was charged separately. The former minister was charged in a three-count indictment unsealed on August 6, 2018, and was later named as a codefendant of Innes and Tasker in a superseding indictment. Inniss was convicted in January 2020. A
federal jury found him guilty of two counts of money laundering and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. ICBL voluntarily disclosed the payments to US authorities and received a prosecution declination under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Corporate Enforcement Policy. The insurance company surrendered US$93 940.19 in profits that US authorities said it earned from the scheme. The FBI's New York Field Office and International Corruption Squad investigated the case. In 2015, the FBI formed international corruption squads across the country to address the national and international implications of foreign corruption.
Cause of death undetermined in Philipai woman's case as body decomposes - police The cause of death of 25year-old farmer Marinda Ernest, whose body was exhumed from her parents' yard in Amakokopai Village, Upper Mazaruni River, remains undetermined following a post-mortem examination conducted on Thursday. Ernest's body was examined by Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh after it was exhumed from the grave where she had been buried. According to police, Dr. Singh concluded that the cause of death could not be determined due to the advanced state of decomposition. Following the examination, Ernest's body was handed over to relatives for burial. Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death are continuing. Ernest, a farmer of Amakokopai Village, was found dead along a trail at Philipai Village, Region Seven on August 28, 2026. Police had said that she was believed to have been killed sometime between 19:00 and 20:00hrs on that day. At the time, police were questioning her 23-year-old reputed husband, who told
Marinda Ernest
investigators that he and Ernest had been walking home through a trail after attending a self-help exercise at a farm known as Kayap. According to the man, their home was approximately an hour's walk from the farm. He reportedly told police that he briefly entered the bushes along the trail and, upon returning, could not find Ernest. He said he proceeded home, believing that she had walked ahead of him, but she was not there when he arrived.Police said the man subsequently returned to the trail and began searching for her.
He reportedly later found Ernest dead and naked among bushes near a stream and informed villagers. The matter was reported to police the following day. An examination of Ernest's body at the time reportedly revealed what appeared to be a puncture wound below the left breast, another puncture wound to the back, and abrasions to her back and left leg. With the post-mortem examination now unable to establish a cause of death because of the condition of the remains, investigators continue to probe the circumstances surrounding Ernest's death.
Friday October 02, 2026
Kaieteur News
PAGE 13
Kaieteur News
PAGE 14
Friday October 02, 2026
GPHC records 107 new breast cancer patients in first eight months of the year The Oncology Clinic within the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) --- Guyana's national referral hospital has recorded 528 new cancer patients including 107 new breast cancer patients for the first eight months of 2026. A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e hospital recorded 4115 follow up visits, 321patients who commenced chemotherapy and 214 patients who completed chemotherapy. As Guyana's national referral hospital, GPHC plays a central role in the country's cancer response. Through its Oncology Clinic, the hospital serves as the main cancer treatment centre in Guyana, providing cancer care free of charge to Guyanese. The figures were released to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. The observance started with a powerful Breast Cancer Awareness pinning ceremony, bringing together patients, cancer survivors, healthcare workers and supporters to recognise the importance of early detection, treatment, support and hope. Dr. Latoya Gooding, Head of the Oncology Department, highlighted the progress being made in breast cancer care, noting a decline in latestage diagnoses. She also shared that 107 new breast cancer cases have been recorded at the clinic so far this year, noting that
GPHC launched its month of activity in observance of Breast Cancer awareness increased awareness may be contributing to more people seeking care. “Breast cancer can be detected early, treatment is available, and people know where they can come to get treatment.” Dr. Gooding reaffirmed the department's commitment to providing quality and standardised cancer care to every patient who comes through its doors: “Every patient, once you walk through this door, you will be treated with standardised first-line care that is available anywhere in
the world. And that is our commitment to you.” The awareness ceremony also gave a voice to people who have experienced cancer firsthand. GPHC staff member and breast cancer patient Dr. Gina Chin spoke openly about the fear and uncertainty that accompanied her diagnosis at age 31, while highlighting the support she received throughout her journey. “Because of your support, I face this with a stronger heart, a grateful
spirit, and hope for better days ahead.” Cancer survivor Mr. Goberdhan Ramautar shared a message of determination and resilience: “Life is not meant to be feared. It's your perspective and how you want to accept it. And I choose to fight.” For nine-year cancer survivor and Giving Hope Cancer Ambassador Desiree Edghill, the pink pin represented far more than awareness: “A pin may be small, but what it represents is
powerful. It represents awareness, courage, hope, support, and the promise that no one has to walk this journey alone.” Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Navindranauth Rambaran emphasised that early detection and awareness remain essential in the fight against cancer, encouraging communities to become advocates for screening and early diagnosis. “ We a l s o w a n t t o diagnose it very early and prevent it. It's heartening
now to see that we are seeing these cases at the earliest stage, and that fosters well for better outcomes.” In a release, GPHC noted that Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about breast cancer, have conversations about early detection, seek appropriate screening, and pay attention to changes in their health. According to GPHC, the Oncology Clinic's services are delivered by a dedicated 22member team, comprising doctors, nurses, clerks, Patient Care Assistants (PCAs), a pharmacist and a social worker. The team provides oncology services at GPHC Monday to Friday, supporting patients throughout diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. The clinic also extends its services beyond Georgetown through its outreach clinic in Berbice, Region Six. As such during the January to August period, the outreach service recorded 10 new patients and 360 additional follow-up visits for chemotherapy treatment, helping to bring specialised cancer care closer to patients outside of Georgetown. GPHC also recognised the commitment of every member of the Oncology team who continues to serve p a t i e n t s w i t h professionalism, compassion and dedication.
Guyana, France renew air services agreement The Government of Guyana and the French Republic have reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced bilateral cooperation by signing and renewing the Air Services Agreement. In a statement on Thursday, the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) called the move a significant milestone in aviation relations between the two nations. The agreement was first established in 1976 and over the years has been thoroughly updated to reflect modern international standards and foster new opportunities in air transport. The signing ceremony was officiated by Deodat Indar, Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, and His Excellency Olivier Plancon, Ambassador of the
French Republic to Guyana. According to the GCAA, the renegotiation process began at the technical level during the International Civil Aviation Negotiation (ICAN) conference in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, in 2025, and culminated in the finalised agreement in July 2026. “This progressive agreement introduces comprehensive and contemporary provisions covering a range of areas, including the granting of operational rights, airline designations and authorisations, application of laws and regulations, c o m m e r c i a l o p p o r t u n i t i e s , cooperative marketing, tariffs, aviation safety a n d s e c u r i t y, u s e r charges, and environmental considerations,” the Aviation Authority said.
Deodat Indar, Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, and His Excellency Olivier Plancon, Ambassador of the French Republic to Guyana
It also noted that the renewed partnership underscores the shared vision of Guyana and France to advance mutual connectivity, economic development, and people-topeople ties through modern, secure, and sustainable air transport links.
M o r e o v e r, D i r e c t o r General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority - Lt. Col. (ret'd) Egbert Field, A.A. signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Olivier Boulnois, Director for Air Services – France. The MoU accompanies the new Air Services
Agreement, paving the way for airlines to benefit from the provisions immediately. Notably, while there are currently no direct flights between Guyana and France, the renewed agreement paves the way for airlines to access new markets, enhance competitive air
transport services, and stimulate increased trade and economic growth between the two countries. Key dignitaries witnessing the signing included senior officials from the Directorate General f o r C i v i l Av i a t i o n , France—Jean-Yves Pieri, Deputy Director; Louis M o n t a s s i e r, E x p e r t Bilateral Air Services Agreements; and Loic Lespagnol, Traffic Rights Manager, Air France-KLM. Guyana's delegation featured the Parliamentary Secretary – Ms. Thandi McAllister; the Deputy Director General of the G C A A – D r. S a h e e d Sulaman; and the Director General for the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation – Mr. Alfonso De Armas. Guyana and France established diplomatic relations on June 22, 1967.
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
PAGE 15
‘Calls grow for Karimbaksh to go’ ...Opposition parties, several groups urge independent probe into rape allegations Calls have intensified for Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fazal Karimbaksh to be placed on administrative leave pending full and independent investigation into the allegations of sexual assault. Karimbaksh, the Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), is facing allegations of sexual assault made by a serving female Police Inspector. Several politicians and members of civil society have called for Karimbaksh to be placed on immediate leave pending and independent investigation. According to published reports, the abuse allegedly happened on more than one occasions, and the officer was subjected to threats against her life and in one alleged incident, had a firearm pointed at her. The police have not responded to questions by the media and there have been comments from the Minister of Home
Affairs, Oneidge Walrond. It was reported that the inspector provided a sworn statement concerning the allegations, while media reports state that senior police officials have confirmed that a complaint was received. These are allegations which have not been determined by a court, and Mr. Karimbaksh is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence. In a statement on Thursday, the A Partnership National Unity APNU party said it is deeply concerned by the extremely serious allegations made against Karimbaksh and no was taking by the law enforcement authorities to investigate the crime. “Two days have passed without any appropriate action by the Police Force or the Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond. APNU expected faster, appropriate actions to
Mustapha shrugs off 6.4% other crops contraction as 'minor' Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Wednesday downplayed the 6.4% contraction in Guyana's other crops subsector, expressing optimism that the sector will rebound by the end of the year. Mustapha was responding to questions from the media at the launch of Agriculture Month about the overall contraction in the agriculture sector and the sharper decline recorded in other crops. “I'm quite optimistic that we will rebound. That will rebound at the end of the year because I don't think it's major issues. They were very small, small… minus in certain areas, and I think that was because of certain conditions in the weather,” Mustapha said. According to the Government's 2026 Mid-Year Report, the agriculture, fishing and forestry sectors contracted by an estimated 0.5% during the first half of the year. The report attributed the decline primarily to weaker performance in the other crops subsector, where above-normal rainfall disrupted planting cycles, damaged crops and restricted access to fields across producing areas. The subsector is estimated to have contracted by 6.4% during the first half of 2026, making it the single largest contributor to the overall decline in the sector. “The contraction in the other crops subsector outweighed gains in sugar, rice, livestock, forestry, and fishing,” the report stated. Despite the decline, Government expended $1.6 billion of the $3.3 billion budgeted for the development of the other crops sector during the first six months of the year. Farmers benefited from planting materials, technical support, shade houses and pest management measures.The latest contraction marks a sharp reversal from the subsector's performance during the corresponding period last year.Kaieteur News reported in November 2025 that the 2025 Mid-Year Report had estimated 7.4% growth in other crops, driven by increased production of vegetables, coconuts, fruits, root crops and spices. That growth was attributed to favourable weather conditions, increased acreage under cultivation and an expansion of shade-house farming. Growth in the subsector for the full year 2025 was subsequently projected at 11.9%. Mustapha, however, remains confident that the current decline will be reversed before the end of 2026.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fazal Karimbaksh
address the allegations against Karimbaksh. We are now forced to add our stern advocacy that actions come
fast and the law runs its c o u r s e w i t h o u t interference.” The party noted that a
senior police officer who exercises substantial authority over investigators, subordinate ranks, sensitive information and lawenforcement resources should not remain in an operational command position while allegations of this gravity are being investigated. “However, as of September 30, media reports indicate that Deputy Commissioner Karimbaksh remains on duty and that the Guyana Police Force has not publicly announced that he has been placed on administrative leave.” The APNU therefore called on the Minister of Home Affairs and the
Commissioner of Police to take every lawful step necessary to have Deputy Commissioner Karimbaksh placed immediately on administrative leave pending the completion of a full, impartial and independent investigation. The party stressed that administrative leave is a prudent administrative measure intended to protect the integrity of the investigation, prevent actual or perceived interference, safeguard the complainant and potential witnesses, preserve evidence, and protect public confidence in the Guyana Police Force. Additionally, the APNU (Continued on page 17)
PAGE 16
Friday October 02, 2026
Kaieteur News
GuySuCo worker, 23, dies after forklift crushes him at Albion Estate A workplace accident at Albion Estate, Corentyne, Region Six, has claimed the life of 23-year-old Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) employee Latchman Raghoo, leaving his family and colleagues demanding answers. Raghoo, of Albion Front, Corentyne, was a supernumerary constable attached to the Albion factory and had been employed by GuySuCo for almost six years. According to information gathered by Kaieteur News, Raghoo was injured on Tuesday after he was reportedly struck and crushed by an electric forklift at the estate. He was subsequently hospitalised and died on Thursday morning at the
Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). His death has since prompted calls for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Nathanial Raghoo, the deceased man’s brother, told Kaieteur News that Latchman was stationed at the sugar bond, where a forklift was also in operation. Based on information provided to the family, Raghoo was pinned against a stack of sugar bags by the forklift. “The forklift guy end up and squeeze him into the sugar bags. He was reversing. I can’t really say, because I wasn’t there, but the information we’re having, they say that the guy reverse and braced him into the sugar bags, and he had multiple fractures,” Nathanial said. An ambulance was called and Raghoo was taken to the estate dispensary before being transferred to the Port Mourant Hospital. He was subsequently referred to the New Amsterdam Hospital, but because of the severity
Latchman Raghoo of his injuries, he was eventually rushed to the GPHC. Nathanial said his brother suffered severe injuries, including a crushed right hip and a fracture to his left leg above the ankle. He said Raghoo’s condition deteriorated rapidly, with his organs, including his heart, beginning to fail. “The family is trying to
hold up, but it is not going to go down like this,” Nathanial stated. The fatal incident has also drawn calls for greater accountability and workplace safety. Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) Vinceroy Jordan, who spoke with the bereaved family, called on
GuySuCo to provide thorough answers surrounding Raghoo’s death. Jordan said the incident should not be treated as just another workplace fatality. “A worker went to work and did not return home. His family, colleagues and the wider sugar community deserve answers, accountability and transparency,” the Opposition MP said. On Thursday, shortly after Jordan’s public comments, GuySuCo issued a statement expressing condolences to Raghoo’s relatives and said the corporation remains committed to supporting the grieving family. GuySuCo also said it would ensure that “all relevant internal processes are followed” and facilitate a full review of the circumstances surrounding the employee’s death. Meanwhile, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) said it was “profoundly saddened” by Raghoo’s death and expressed solidarity with his family, colleagues and all those affected.
GAWU said the loss of any worker in the workplace is a serious concern and called for a “full, transparent, and comprehensive investigation” into the incident. According to the union, the investigation should establish the facts surrounding Raghoo’s injury and subsequent death, identify any underlying causes or safety deficiencies, and determine whether existing occupational health and safety procedures were adequate and properly implemented. The union further called for clear recommendations and corrective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. GAWU also urged GuySuCo to strengthen occupational health and safety protocols across all its estates and workplaces, including ensuring that workers and other personnel are adequately protected, properly trained and provided with the necessary safety equipment. “The union believes that occupational safety must remain a fundamental priority in the sugar industry,” GAWU said.
‘Demon’ denies role in Surinamese men’s disappearance WANTED One cook preferable form the East Bank.Contact #616-5700 or 748-0359 Reliable housekeeping staff needed. Must be punctual and detail oriented. Call 2250198 Reliable deskstaff needed. Must be punctual. Call 2250198. Reliable Receptionist needed. Must be punctual. Call 225-0198
SERVICES Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040. PEN PAL 51 year old male of African decent looking for future partner of any race within the age group of 40-50yrs. Call #603-6400
FOR SALE TRUCK TIRES 295/75R22.5 $40K EACH. CALL/ WHATSAPP +592-688-3201.
U.S.-sanctioned businessman Mark Cromwell, also known as “Demon,” has denied any involvement in the disappearance of two Surinamese men, while accusing members of the Guyana Police Force of corruption and attempting to frame him. Cromwell made the allegations during a Facebook Live broadcast on Thursday, hours after police released several of his relatives, including his wife and brother, on $1 million station bail each following questioning in connection with the disappearance of 28-year-old Van Dalen Lorenzo and 29year-old Derryl Danillo. His brother, Jimol Murphy, was later taken before the Fort Wellington Magistrate’s Court, where he appeared virtually and was charged with alleged abduction. During the broadcast,
...accuses police of corruption Cromwell accused the police of targeting him and claimed that some senior ranks had previously visited his home and that of his “late boss” to collect money. “It get some police officers wa deh in the police force wa more corrupt and crooked and bad mind and envious and jealous,” Cromwell alleged. He further claimed that one officer, whom he identified as “Zar,” had recently gone to collect $25 million from an unnamed individual but was forced to return the money because the person had to be released. Cromwell also claimed that he had received advance information that police intended to search his Vigilance, East Coast Demerara residence. “Before them even come up by me I done get the call
that them coming by me because remember how I does live, just how them get friends, I get friends,” he said. According to Cromwell, his wife agreed to be questioned because she had nothing to do with the disappearance. He also rejected suggestions that he is involved in drug dealing and other criminal activities, claiming that police routinely associate crimes with him because of his reputation. “Dem hollering that I is a drugs dealer, I does kill, I is all a duh,” he said, before alleging that police officers previously visited his former boss and collected money. Cromwell also referenced Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, alleging that police officers had similarly collected money from him. He provided no evidence to substantiate the allegations. He further accused police of covering up crimes and claimed that officers at Police Headquarters were involved in concealing information about kidnappings. Questions vehicle linkz Cromwell sought to distance himself and his family from the vehicle police reportedly identified as being connected to the missing men. The vehicle was reportedly registered to his wife. Questioning why anyone planning a serious crime would use a vehicle linked to themselves or a family member, Cromwell argued that a
U.S.-sanctioned businessman, Mark Cromwell, also known as “Demon.” perpetrator would instead use an unrelated vehicle. He also claimed that the vehicle was on the East Bank of Demerara on the day police believe the Surinamese men were picked up in Berbice. Cromwell said police wanted to search his home for video footage, but argued that his experience as a former police officer led him to believe that a criminal would not take an abducted person to his own residence. “Now if I had video footage by me you ain’t feel it would have done move 10 times aready?” he said. He further alleged that investigators wanted to enter his residence to plant evidence and frame him and his brother. “All of a sudden when I burn (unrest at Vigilance) because I don’t want them guh by me because I don’t trust them because them could put thing by me dem wicked,” he
claimed. Cromwell also accused police of attempting to make his brother a scapegoat in the investigation. While he was making the allegations during the Facebook Live, Murphy was appearing virtually before the Fort Wellington Magistrate’s Court to answer the abduction charge. Cromwell maintained that both he and his brother are innocent and said he intends to expose what he described as corruption within the Police Force. He also alleged that the killing of political activist Courtney Crum-Ewing was among cases involving police corruption, but provided no evidence to support that claim. The allegations made by Cromwell have not been independently verified, and there was no immediate response from the Guyana Police Force to his claims.
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
PPP activist slaps Rubis pump attendant to ground after she refuses to load gas bottles Scene of the assault incident
A female pump attendant was slapped to the ground on Thursday by a male PPPC activist at the Rubis Gas Station at Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, after she refused to load seven filled gas bottles into his Canter truck. The incident was captured on the station’s CCTV cameras. The footage reportedly shows the man approaching the woman from behind following what appears to have been a verbal exchange before slapping her, causing her to fall to the ground. She was subsequently assisted by colleagues. The attendant was identified as Ashley Romacindo, who reportedly lodged a police complaint against the man on Thursday evening. According to reports, the man was subsequently summoned to the police station, where he reportedly lodged a countercomplaint against Romacindo before being released on station bail. In an interview with Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, Romacindo recounted the incident and alleged that the man had verbally abused and threatened her before striking her. Romacindo said the man initially visited the gas station to purchase cooking gas and gave her money to pay at the cashier. “He came to the gas station to buy cooking gas and he give me the money to go to cashier to pay for the gas. I did, I come back with his change and he checked it and he say $1,000 missing,” she recounted.
PAGE 17
Health Ministers approve new regional strategy to prevent and control dengue and other arboviral diseases in the Americas Washington, D.C., 1 October 2026 (PAHO) – Member States of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) approved a common regional framework aimed at strengthening surveillance, prevention, preparedness and integrated response to dengue and other arboviral diseases across the Americas over the next decade. The document, adopted during PAHO’s 63rd Directing Council, establishes a regional roadmap to help countries address an increasingly complex epidemiological landscape characterized by larger outbreaks, the simultaneous circulation of multiple arboviruses, and the geographic expansion of disease vectors. Its adoption follows a decade marked by increasingly frequent and widespread epidemics. In 2024, the Region of the Americas recorded more than 13 million dengue cases and over 8,400 deaths, the largest epidemic on record. In recent years, the Region has also faced major chikungunya outbreaks, the spread of Oropouche virus disease beyond its traditional transmission areas, and an increase in yellow fever cases in new geographic locations. The simultaneous circulation of multiple arboviruses, together with climatic, environmental and social factors and increasing population mobility, highlights the need to strengthen countries’ capacities in surveillance, laboratory services, clinical care, vector control, risk communication, community engagement and epidemic preparedness. “The scale of dengue and other arboviral diseases requires countries to strengthen their ability to anticipate risks, act early, and
protect the most vulnerable populations,” said Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO. “This document provides a common roadmap for strengthening surveillance systems, health services and integrated response capacities to tackle outbreaks that are becoming increasingly frequent and complex.” The strategy establishes four priority areas for action: strengthening integrated arboviral disease management; enhancing epidemiological, entomological and virological surveillance; improving health system capacity for early detection, diagnosis and clinical management; and modernizing integrated vector management through more sustainable and innovative approaches. A key objective is to help countries move from predominantly reactive responses to more anticipatory, risk-based approaches. To achieve this, the strategy promotes the integration of epidemiological, entomological, virological and laboratory data to strengthen early warning systems, improve risk assessment and support more timely decision-making during outbreaks and epidemics. “The strategy builds on lessons learned over the past decade and incorporates new tools to strengthen collaborative surveillance and improve coordination among surveillance systems, laboratories, health services and vector control programs,” said Dr. Sylvain Aldighieri, Director of PAHO’s Department of Communicable Disease Prevention, Control and Elimination. “This will help countries respond earlier, in a more coordinated way, and more effectively to emerging threats.”
‘Calls grow for Karimbaksh to go’ Ashley Romacindo (centre) sharing her story with Opposition Leader, Azruddin Mohamed and one of the members of his WIN party.
She said she took the money back to the cashier, corrected the change and returned it to the man before proceeding to remove the filled gas bottles from the storage cage. “I take out seven bottle Tex gas and I continued to put back the empties and he was there standing in his Canter tray still looking at me,” Romacindo alleged. She said she then asked the man whether he intended to collect the gas bottles. “He tell me no, I must hand [give] the bottles to him. I told him no, that is not my job,” she said. Romacindo said she contacted the station manager and explained the situation. She claimed that the manager advised her to walk away from the man. A c c o r d i n g t o Romacindo, she followed
the instruction but the man began cursing and threatened to slap her. “I told him he can’t be a human being, he is monster,” she recalled. Romacindo alleged that the man then climbed down from the Canter truck and followed her as she walked towards the pumps. “…And he slapped me down,” she alleged. She further claimed that this was not the first time the man had behaved aggressively towards her, alleging that he had previously threatened to slap her when he arrived at the gas station in a car. The man is reportedly a member of the Community Policing Group (CPG) attached to the East Bank policing district. Police investigations are reportedly continuing.
From page 15 has called on the Minister of Home Affairs to ensure that the complainant is protected against intimidation, retaliation or occupational disadvantage; that all relevant records, communications and potential evidence are immediately secured; and that investigators assigned to the matter are institutionally independent of the officer against whom the allegations have been made. “No police rank is too senior for investigation. No office is too powerful to be held accountable,” the party said in the statement. Similarly, Tamùkke Feminists, a women’s right group in a release said that they find it deeply disturbing that serious allegations of rape and death threats made against Karimbaksh are being met with silence and non-action by the Guyana Police Force and the state. “We strongly denounce this as both silence and inaction emboldens perpetrators of such acts. A woman has come forward at great personal risk, and the institutions charged with protecting the public, including her, have offered no public word, no assurance, and no visible action. That silence is not neutrality! It sends a message to the survivor, to every woman in the Force, and to every woman in Guyana: that power will be protected first.” Tamùkke Feminists reiterated that silence and inaction emboldens perpetrators. When those accused of sexual violence remain in positions of authority, untouched
and unquestioned, it signals that abuse carries no consequence. It deters survivors from reporting and erodes public trust in the very system meant to deliver justice. As such, the group called for an immediate independent investigation which is free from the influence of the Guyana Police Force’s chain of command. The statement outlined that Karimbaksh must be sent on administrative leave pending the outcome. The group explained that “This ensures that he holds no authority over the complainant, witnesses, or the investigation, urgent protective measures for the survivor including guarantees of her physical safety given the reported threats against her life, and protection from retaliation, reassignment or intimidation within the Force.” Additionally, the Tamùkke Feminists called for immediate access to confidential, trauma-informed psychosocial support for the survivor, provided independently of the Police Force. Moreover, the group wants a clear public statement from the Guyana Police Force and the Government on the steps being taken. Earlier this week, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Member of Parliament, Toshana Famey-Corlette, Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) Member of Parliament, Amanza Walton, the Alliance For Change (AFC) spoke out against Karimbaksh, calling for him to be relieved from operational duty pending a full, independent and thorough investigation into the allegations.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 18
Friday October 02, 2026
Iran readies harder retaliation if attacked as diplomacy faces long odds DUBAI, Oct 1 (Reuters) - Iran is preparing a broader and more forceful response if the United States resumes large-scale military attacks, sources said, while continuing a diplomatic push that Iranian officials privately see as unlikely to succeed. The planning reflects a conviction within Iran’s leadership that any renewed US campaign must be met with a stronger response than before, even as Tehran seeks to avert escalation through talks. Senior commanders are reviewing plans to expand potential targets US-linked assets to countries that support US military operations and possibly to locations outside the Middle East, according to three senior Iranian officials and an insider familiar with the discussions. Since President Masoud Pezeshkian returned from N e w Yo r k l a s t w e e k , commanders and senior
officials have focused on the scope and timing of any response if Washington strikes again. No final decision has been made, but planning has intensified as neither side shows signs of willingness to compromise. The deliberations follow seven months of conflict that began with US-Israeli attacks on February 28. Although an April 8 ceasefire ended the 40-day w a r, h o s t i l i t i e s h a v e continued sporadically since then. Hamidreza Azizi, a senior Iran analyst at the International Crisis Group, s a i d Te h r a n r e m a i n e d uncertain whether President Donald Trump would launch another major campaign or opt for more limited attacks, such as strikes on nuclear facilities. “But they seem determined not to respond symbolically to a symbolic move and instead to escalate in the `hope of reestablishing deterrence,” Azizi said. Tehran is also weighing
the political risks for Trump of a prolonged conflict. Polls show the war has been unpopular with Americans, while higher fuel prices remain a concern ahead of the midterm elections. Two of the officials said Tehran had instructed allied groups in Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq to be ready to support Iran in the event of a renewed largescale US attack. The guidance, they said, was to prepare for a coordinated response stretching “from the Strait of Hormuz to US interests in the region and outside the M i d d l e E a s t . ” b I r a n ’s Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. DIPLOMACY AND ESCALATION However, Tehran is still keeping open a channel for negotiations even as it readies for a wider war. U n d e r l y i n g I r a n ’s calculations is a second concern: whether its
Putin says Western companies could get their Russian assets back if things go well M O S C O W, O c t 1 (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Western companies could get their Russian assets back “a favourable scenario” came to pass. The Kremlin chief was referring to the Russian state’s decision to place a slew of European companies under what Moscow ‘has called temporary external administration. Speaking at the Valdai Forum of international experts, Putin said that Russia was merely responding in kind to the West’s seizure of Russian a s s e t s . “ We h a v e n o t nationalised anything from anyone. Yes, we are placing
Russian President Vladimir Putin
certain enterprises under `administration. But in some European countries, they have simply, in a blatant breach of every conceivable and inconceivable rule, seized huge enterprises `from us – for example, in
the Federal Republic of Germany,” said Putin. Asked if European companies could ‘have their assets returned if a favourable scenario unfolded, Putin said: “Yes, they would ‘get them back”
economy can withstand a prolonged confrontation under a US blockade that has cut off oil exports, a critical source of revenue. Years of sanctions and mounting economic hardship have already placed growing pressure on ordinary Iranians. At last week’s United Nations General Assembly i n N e w Yo r k , Te h r a n submitted a proposal to Washington through Qatari mediators that, if accepted, could reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt hostilities across the region within seven days. Iranian authorities say the proposal calls for an end to fighting, the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, the release of at least $12 billion in frozen Iranian funds and a waiver of oil sanctions. Trump said on Saturday he had rejected the proposal. Iranian state media reported, however, that US ‘response was delivered to Tehran through Qatar on Tuesday and is now under review. Iranian sources said Washington wants Iran’s disputed nuclear programme included in negotiations, but Tehran insists that the nuclear talks can only begin after its seven conditions are met, not before. “Even if Iran does not reject the US response outright and indirect talks continue, it is very unlikely that the two sides will reach an agreement,” said one of the officials. Alex Vatanka, director of
the Iran program at the Middle East Institute in Washington, said prospects for diplomacy remained limited. “Iran cannot afford continuation of US blockades that could be a major game changer essentially taking the oxygen out of the lungs of the regime...escalation at this point is conceivable,” Vatanka said. THE COST OF ANOTHER WAR Since hostilities began, the conflict has alternated between lulls and renewed strikes, killing ‘thousands of civilians, degrading Iran’s military capabilities and damaging an already fragile economy. For the United States, the war has failed to achieve Trump’s shifting goals while depleting the Pentagon’s missile stockpiles. Iran and its allies have sought to raise the cost for Washington by widening the conflict across the region, disrupting oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz and increasing risks to global energy markets. Iran has launched drone and missile attacks against US allies in the Gulf, while its Houthi allies in Yemen have targeted Saudi interests. The Houthis’ advance toward Bab el-Mandeb has opened ‘a second pressure point on global energy routes, giving the Iranaligned group leverage over the southern gateway to the Red Sea. An insider close to the decision-making process
said the combination of military pressure and economic restrictions was becoming increasingly difficult for the clerical rulers to sustain. FEAR OF UNREST AT WARTIME That strain is also fuelling concerns within the leadership about domestic stability. A former senior reformist Iranian official said the leadership fears a repeat of the nationwide protests that erupted in January, when worsening economic conditions ‘triggered unrest across the country. Authorities ultimately crushed the demonstrations, killing thousands of protesters. “Facing unrest at home - while the system is under US pressure and bombs - could pose a very serious challenge to the legitimacy of the ruling establishment,” he said. As the anniversary of January’s unrest approaches, the authorities have tightened controls while attempting to maintain public mobilisation, encouraging loyalists to return to nightly gatherings. Rights groups say the government has intensified its crackdown on dissent during the war. Amnesty International said in May that more than 6,000 people had been arrested since hostilities began, while a September report by UN investigators cited mass arrests, torture and increased use of the death penalty.
Ukraine deploys FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat for first time, Zelenskiy says Oct 1 (Reuters) - Ukraine has deployed its FP-7 tactical ballistic missile combat for the first time, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Thursday. “Ukrainian tactical ballistic missile FP7. First combat use,” Zelenskiy wrote on Telegram. “Thank you for the result. Next production.” He did not say ‘where the FP-7 had been used in combat or against what target. Russia frequently uses ballistic missiles in strikes on Ukrainian targets, and Ukraine has viewed development of its own tactical ballistic missiles as an important element in ensuring its defence needs. Zelenskiy praised the test results of
tactical ballistic missiles earlier this year, ‘they showed good potential for their use by the military. Ukrainian military analysts describe the FP-7 as a short-range missile with a range of about 200 km (125 miles). The missile’s ‘manufacturer, Fire Point, says it is being developed as a ballistic interceptor within the European missile defence programme Freyja launched ‘this year. Ukraine wants a prototype for the Freyja European anti-ballistic system to be ready in the ‘first half of next year, Davyd Aloian, deputy secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council said in July.
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N T B . U . L . L T B . N . U . N U T L N B . U . T . L N T U N B . N U . L U L LUNT. B . T . . T T N N B U B . U . L . L T B . B . . N . . . T U T L N N T U U L N Child's life cut L B U . B . . L . . . T B T . . N . N tragically short T U L N LU B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . NT LUNT...B NT...BLU N U L B . . B . U . . T L . N T B . . U N . L N T B U N . . L . U T B L . . N B . . . T U . L N T B U . . L . UN T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . UN .BLUNT.. UNT...BL T...BLU . L N . T B U . . L B UN .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N . LU ...BLUNT LUNT...B NT...BL T B U . . L N . T B BLU T...BLUN BLUNT... UNT...B . . L N . T B U . . B BL T...BLUN BLUNT. . . . T N U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T BB T...BLU U N L U B L . . . B . T . N . N T T U L U N L B U T...BLU U B . L . N . B T . . . N T U N N N L U U U B L . L . B T LUNT. UNT...B BL Friday October 02, 2026
Kaieteur News
There are some tragedies for which words seem wholly inadequate. The death of six-year-old Ifeng Cao is one of them. A child who should have been learning, playing and growing into the promise of a long life instead became the victim of a horrific act of violence at Parika.
For his parents, no explanation, investigation or eventual court proceeding can erase the pain of losing their child in such circumstances. Their grief is one no parent should ever have to endure.
The circumstances surrounding Ifeng's death must now be thoroughly investigated, and justice must follow wherever the evidence leads. The arrest of a suspect is only the beginning; the truth must be established through a careful and impartial process. But beyond the investigation is a painful reminder: children depend on adults for protection. Guyana must mourn the loss of this little boy and recommit itself to protecting its children.
PAGE 19
PAGE 91 EGA 20 P
sKaieteur weN ruetNews eiaK
2202 ,4Friday 2 rebmOctober evoN ya02, dsru 2026 hT
Kaieteur News
Friday Thursday October November 02, 2026 24, 2022
PAGE 21 19
International Circuit Championships...
Jumbo Jet Event’s VVIP Paddock Club set to redefine luxury on Nov. 1 Racing enthusiasts will have an historic opportunity to experience motorsport from an elevated level of luxury at Jumbo Jet Event’s VVIP Paddock Club, an ultra-exclusive hospitality experience for the November 1st International Circuit Championships at the South Dakota Racing Circuit. This ultra-premium section was designed to offer
an exclusive combination of premium trackside viewing, privacy, comfort, security and personalized hospitality. There will be 24 booths going on sale on Friday 2nd October 2026 on a first come first serve basis due to the limited spaces available. Each booth will cost $500,000 Guy dollars. Each booth will feature, secured internal parking, premium furniture seating
for 15 persons, elevated unobstructed aerial viewing of the racing circuit, complete separation and privacy between individual booths, private boardwalkstyle entrances and a dedicated usher assistance. There will limited optional premium catering and personalized waitress services, available at an additional cost The VVIP Paddock Club
Friday October 02, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You may feel as if your smile is unwelcome today, Aries. It may seem to you like there's some sort of gloom and doom to people's attitudes that makes them unwilling to accept any sort of good news.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) There may be a great tension between you and someone older today, Libra. Perhaps there's someone who's adopting a sort of "parent knows best" personality that's starting to annoy you.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Keep careful track of things today, Taurus, for you will find that the smallest detail will make the biggest difference. Don't hesitate to go with your hunches when something simply doesn't sound right.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) There's apt to be a comfortable feeling about today that should make you feel quite secure and nurtured, Scorpio. Perhaps you're feeling protected by a strong force, maybe an internal one, that's reminding you that as long as you stay within the lines, everything will be fine.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You may feel as if your hands are tied today and you're faced with absolutely no options. Don't despair over a situation that seems insurmountable. Think of yourself as a terrific magician who can burst out of the strongest chains. CANCER (June 21–July 22) This is a good time to take a stand on an issue that you may have been vacillating about lately, Cancer. People will lose confidence in you if you can't seem to make up your mind. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today is one of those days in which you will be bursting at the seams to share big news with your friends, Leo. Perhaps you just received an important package or piece of information and you can't wait to spread the news. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your reluctance to speak could get you in trouble today, Virgo. You may hesitate to share what you know for fear of what others might think. You should realize that you're using this as an excuse to hide what's really just selfishness.
SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) You could feel like a rat in a maze today, Sagittarius. Walls and long, narrow corridors take you around corners and through doorways, yet there's no indication that you're going in the right direction. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Don't get so stuck in your ways today that you insist on having the one true answer without really considering the options. You must be aware of a lot before you commit yourself one way or another. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Quietly step into the background if things aren't going the way you'd like, Aquarius. Don't try to stick your nose into someone else's business, even if you think you know the right way to proceed. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may have gotten yourself tangled up in a deep mental drama over a series of recent incidents. Your mind may be working overtime in order to solve the riddles. You're simply making a big deal over nothing.
This ultra-premium section was designed to offer an exclusive combination of premium trackside viewing, privacy, comfort, security and personalized hospitality. will also feature a dedicated food court showcasing an array of local delicacies complemented by a wellstocked bar, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy local flavors and refreshments throughout the championship experience. For guests seeking an even more personalized experience, optional catering and dedicated waitress services will be available at an additional cost. The Paddock Club’s surround-sound system will be provided by Power Tech International, ensuring guests remain connected to the excitement and atmosphere of the championships while enjoying the comfort of their private hospitality space. Professional ushers will be positioned throughout the VVIP area to welcome guests and ensure that all patrons are efficiently
directed to their respective booths. With only a very limited number of VVIP booths available, the Paddock Club is designed for guests seeking an exceptional race
day experience combining exclusivity, privacy and premium hospitality. To reserve a VVIP Paddock Club booth or obtain further information, call 639-1235.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 22
Friday October 02, 2026
Clean sweeps all round as GMR&SC Stages National C’ships Round One GEORGETOWN, Guyana, October 1, 2026, — Several classes saw clean sweeps in Sunday’s opening round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) National Championships at the South Dakota Circuit. A premature end to the day denied a ‘three-peat’ for many competitors after an oil spill rendered the South Dakota Circuit unfit for further racing, despite one of the largest clean-up efforts to date. Shan Seejatan swept both races in the Sports Tuner
1600cc class. Seejatan won Race 1 ahead of Mohamed Saifudeen Roshandin and the Street Tuner 1500cc entry of Amjad Rahaman. He returned to victory in Race 2 with a time of 9:48.264. Roshandin finished third overall and second in the Sports Tuner class, while Azaad Hassan retired. The Street Tuner 1500cc class saw Amjad Rahaman take the Race 1 victory, with Jad Rahaman second and Ryan Ramoutar third. In Race 2, Ryan
Rahaman took the Street Tuner class victory, followed by Amjad Rahaman and Paul Jiwanram. Kevin Persaud dominated the Superbikes Open class, winning both races. Persaud won Race 1 in 7:47.037, with Adrian Mohar second in the class. Alain Hopkinson was classified second overall. Persaud again took Race 2 in finishing ahead of Alain Hopkinson and Adrian Mohar. Matthew Vieira swept the Superbikes 600cc class
ahead of Elan Rahaman and Junior DaSilva in race one, with a carbon copy of the result for race 2. The Street Class Bikes saw Salim Azeez take both race victories. He won Race 1 in 8:08.698 and Race 2 in 8:19.776. Elwin Chase finished second in Race 1 and third in Race 2, while Fitzpatrick Augustus was third in Race 1 and second in Race 2. Nicholas Sawh won both races in the Rookie B Class. Sawh won Race 1 in 9:14.523, finishing ahead of Rookie A Class driver Joshua Ramdehol and Female Class winner Malicia Lawrence. In Race 2, Sawh again led the field with a time of 9:19.004. Ramdehol was second overall, while Phillip Paruag was third. In the Rookie B Class, Race 1 saw Sawh followed by Devesh Singh and Phillip Paruag. Race 2 finished with Sawh first, Paruag second and Singh third. Ramdehol won the Rookie A Class in both races.
The J’s Supermarket KTM driven by Tommi Gore. (Zeyaad Razack Photo)
Meanwhile, Malicia Lawrence continued her strong showing in the Female Class, taking victory in both races. Her Race 1 performance placed her third overall among the combined Rookie and Female field, while she finished fourth overall in Race 2. Tommi Gore swept the Local Group 4 2WD class, taking both victories. Gore won Race 1 in 7:43.217, ahead of Andrew King and Rameez Mohamed. He returned to the top in Race 2 again ahead of King who finished second in both races, while Rameez Mohamed completed the Race 1 podium. In Group 3, Anand Ramchand won Race 1, finishing ahead of Danny Persaud. Ramchand also won Race 2, with Persaud retiring after five laps.
In the group two class, Nasrudeen Mohamed snagged both the Local Group 2 victories. Mohamed won Race 1 in 9:48.228, finishing ahead of Shan Seejatan and Damian Singh, with Mohamed returning for race two, again ahead of Seejatan in second, followed by Mohamed Shairaz Roshandin. Anand Ramchand also picked up a pair of wins in the Starlet Cup. Ramchand won Race 1, with Da Silva second with another repeat of the podium results in race two. Results of the Vitz ‘A’ class were under review following a discrepancy. In the ‘B’ Class, Navin Singh won Race 1, followed by Ryan Ramoutar and Shivan Raganauth. Singh also took Race 2, finishing ahead of Ryan Ramoutar and Devesh Singh.
Registration opens for One Guyana InterRegion Softball Cup The much-anticipated Guyana’s Biggest Open Softball Cricket Tournament, the One Guyana Inter-Region Ten10 Softball Cup, takes the country by storm from 18th October to 8th November at venues across the country, while the national playoffs will be held on 14th and 15th November in Region 3. According to RS Sports, this year’s tournament is Bigger and Better and will see over $5 million in cash and prizes up for grabs. This tournament is set to see the winner in the regional male category walking away with $100,000 and a trophy, while prizes will be awarded to the runner-up, best bowler, best batter, MVP, and player of the final. In the female category, the winner will take away $50,000 and a trophy, while other prizes will be awarded to the runner-up, best bowler, best batter, MVP, and player of the final. In the national playoffs, the Winner in the men’s category will take home $1.3 million and the winning trophy; the runner-up $300,000 and trophy; the Player of the Tournament (MVP) $70,000 and trophy, along with other prizes: Player of the final $30,000 and trophy, Best bowling figure in an innings $20,000 and a trophy, Batsman with the highest individual score $20,000 and trophy. While in the female playoffs, the winner will take home $500,000 and the winning trophy; the runner-up $200,000 and trophy; the Player of the Tournament (MVP) with
$50,000 and trophy, along with other prizes; Player of the Final $30,000 and trophy; Best bowling figure in an innings $20,000 and trophy; Batsman with the highest individual score $20,000 and trophy. Entrance fee is $20,000 per team. Teams are encouraged to register early by filling out the registration form and submitting it via WhatsApp at 725-7829. With millions of dollars in prizes, regional pride at stake, new opportunities for interior players, and a strong focus on community unity, the stage is set for another major chapter in Guyana’s grassroots softball cricket. “This is more than just a Tournament. It is A Celebration of Talent. It is A Celebration of Togetherness. A Celebration of Sports & It is A Celebration of One Guyana.”
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
Petra, Beharry Holding launch 7th KFC International Goodwill Football C/ship
T
h e P e t r a Organisation, in collaboration with Beharry Holding, launched its flagship programme, the KFC International Goodwill Football Championship, on Wednesday at the Cara Lodge. First staged in 2018, the tournament has grown significantly in both participation and competitiveness. Regarded as the most competitive schools championship of its kind, it has drawn teams from Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Brazil and The Bahamas. Barbados is also set to make its debut this year. The seventh edition will feature eight schools, three of them from host nation Guyana. The championship runs from December 13 to 20. Schedule includes; March Past on December 13, followed by Culture Day on December 14, before culminating on December 20 with the final. Expressing gratitude for the renewed sponsorship, Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca thanked Beharry Holding for partnering with organisation to bring another edition of the tournament. In his featured remark, Mendonca acknowledged main sponsor KFC for its continued confidence and investment in making the programme possible. He also recognised the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, whose support, he said, reflects a shared c o m m i t m e n t t o development, education and sport. ”This tournament, as you know, is far more than just playing on the football field,” Mendonca said. ”Through this tournament we are able to
Petra Organisation Director, Troy Mendonca bring together several countries from the Caribbean and Brazil. Affording players the opportunity to encounter different cultures and build friendships.” He explained, “On the field, players have the freedom to express their talent, discipline, creativity and teamwork, while representing their country through their respective schools.” Reaffirming its commitment, KFC CEO Paul Subryan said the company is proud to support the tournament. Sharing the platform with Nicholas Fraser of the Ministry of Education’s Allied Arts Unit, Subryan stressed the value of competing against opponents from other countries. “We each have one particular style of play, and it is only when we compete against other countries, with other skill sets, that we really learn, and we learn from each other,” he said. “That is why KFC is so proud to support this tournament, because we’re all about community development. We’re all about youth development through sport.”
Addressing the players directly, he added: “This tournament is your opportunity. Give your best for your school and for your teammates. Enjoy the competition, respect one another, and be proud of the effort it took to get here.” Subryan wished Petra a successful seventh year of competition. The tournament is expected to be highly competitive and a showcase of diverse cultures and playing styles. Several schools, including Naparima College and Excelsior High School, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to compete. Also during the launch special mention was made of Percy Samlal of Naparima College (Trinidad and Tobago); Carl Donor of Excelsior High School (Jamaica); Wilfred Gallant (Suriname); Warren Ramsay (Barbados); Jonathan Joseph, representing the Brazil team; and Orlande Chase of the Chase Academy Foundation. Also recognised were Coach Frank of Annai S e c o n d a r y, S h e l d o n M ah araj, th e regio n al coordinator and Narada Wilson.
Golden Jaguars topple Dominica 5 – 1... From page 25 Quillon Roberts. Jalen Jones attempted to recover, but the Guyanese defender’s clearance came after the ball had already crossed the goal line. The setback did not derail the Golden Jaguars. Slingerz FC winger Kelsey Benjamin restored Guyana’s three-goal cushion in the 79th minute, converting his eighth international goal after De Rosario once again provided the assist with a timely layoff inside the box. With the result effectively settled, Enoch
George added further gloss just before the final whistle. The SVV Scheveningen midfielder found the net to complete a comprehensive 5-1 victory and cap another impressive night for the Golden Jaguars. Guyana will face Dominica again on Sunday in Puerto Rico, with another opportunity to strengthen its position at the top of Group A. After completing their matches in Puerto Rico, the Golden Jaguars will return home to face Puerto Rico and the Cayman Islands.
PAGE 23
PAGE 24
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
CWI welcomes Barbados’ High-Performance Centre Initiative ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Cricket West Indies (CWI) has welcomed Prime Minister of Barbados, Hon. Mia Amor Mottley’s call for greater investment in cricket and her commitment to the development of a HighPerformance Centre (HPC) in Barbados. The Prime Minister’s comments came following the conclusion of the 2026 Caribbean Premier League Final at Kensington Oval, where she highlighted the importance of sustained investment in sporting infrastructure and confirmed that funding for a highperformance centre is moving forward. CWI sees the proposed facility as an important step in strengthening the region’s cricket infrastructure and an opportunity to complement the High-Performance Centre currently being developed by the regional body at its Headquarters at Coolidge in Antigua. Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehring said investment in highperformance infrastructure has become increasingly important as cricket’s major
nations continue to strengthen the environments in which their players are developed. “The global cricket landscape has changed, and the investment being made in high-performance infrastructure, sports science and recovery facilities and technology is raising the bar on player development. All constituents of West Indies cricket need to build that capacity in order to give our cricketers at every level the chance to properly develop their skills” , he said. “We therefore welcome Prime Minister Mottley’s vision and her recognition of the need for meaningful investment if the region is to build on its proud legacy and create new opportunities for the next generation.” Dehring said CWI’s own HPC development in Antigua is being designed with a similar objective; that of creating a modern environment where players have state-of-the-art f a c i l i t i e s , t e c h n o l o g y, expertise and support systems required to perform at the highest level.
“West Indies cricket needs investment in modern training and development infrastructure. These facilities are key components of a re-engineered player production pipeline and ecosystem. Our goal is to establish a network of HighPerformance Centres across the Caribbean, connected by technology and a common vision. That will be transformative for West Indies cricket and expand the opportunities for our players as the global game continues to expand.” The development of complementary highperformance facilities across the region can strengthen the pathway from emerging talent to the senior level, while also creating opportunities for collaboration among national cricket boards, governments, coaches, sports scientists and other specialists. CWI said it looks forward to continued dialogue and collaboration with stakeholders across the region as the Caribbean explores new opportunities to invest in the future of West Indies cricket.
Some of the lads putting in work during the recent coaching clinic hosted by the MCYS at the Affaiance Ground.
Region 2 youths enjoy fruitful coaching clinic Youths across the Region 2 zone recently participated in a friutful cricket coaching clinic hosted at the Affiance Community Centre Ground on behalf the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports. The session focused on developing fundamental skills while promoting teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship among participants. The activity forms part of the President’s Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG) Programme, an initiative of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport through its Youth Department. As such, the programme is designed to empower young people by providing opportunities for personal development, leadership, skills training and active
community engagement. The coaching session also reflects the Ministry’s continued commitment to expanding access to sport at the community level. Through sustained investments in the rehabilitation and development of community grounds and recreational facilities across all regions of Guyana, the Ministry is creating safe and accessible spaces where young people can train, compete and develop their talents. Such investments, coupled with structured sporting programmes, are helping to strengthen grassroots sports development while encouraging healthier, more active communities.
Kaieteur News
Friday October 02, 2026
PAGE 25
118 teams set for ExxonMobil Guyana Under-18 Schools Football Tournament
Representatives of several participating schools pose with the championship trophy and officials during the launch of the ExxonMobil U18 School’s Football tournament. The Vurlon Mills Football Academy (VMFA) has officially launched the ExxonMobil Guyana Un18 Schools Football Tournament, with a record 118 male and female school teams set to compete in a nationwide straightknockout competition. The tournament, launched yesterday at Cara Lodge, will bring together 68 male and 50 female teams from eight of Guyana’s 10 administrative regions, making it one of the country’s largest grassroots school football initiatives in recent years. Competition kicks off Friday, October 2, in Bartica, before the wider programme gets underway across the other participating areas from October 9. The scale of the tournament has been made possible through a
major investment from ExxonMobil Guyana, which has backed the initiative as part of its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young people and strengthening community development through sport. VMFA Director Vurlon Mills said the tournament was conceived to address a critical gap in the development pathway for young footballers as they approach the end of their school and youth careers. “We cannot allow a young player to reach the end of his or her youth football journey and ask, ‘What happens next?’” Mills said. “That is the gap, this competition seeks to address.” The tournament is intended to establish a pathway linking school football with academy and club football and, ultimately, the senior
game, while reinforcing the importance of education. Mills said academics and school attendance were considered important components of the initiative from its inception. “Football must not exist separately from education,” he stated. Nicholas Fraser of the Ministry of Education’s Allied Arts Unit welcomed the initiative, noting that school football in Guyana is at an all-time high and describing the tournament as another important addition to the country’s schools football landscape. Guyana Football Federation General Secretary Pushpargha Chattopadhyay also pledged the Federation’s support and revealed that talent scouts will attend matches throughout the
tournament. He said the competition could provide opportunities for promising young players to be identified and advance within the national football development system. Meanwhile, ExxonMobil Guyana Community Relations Supervisor Ryan Hoppie said the tournament’s broader impact on young people would be more significant than the results on the field. “The real victory will be the impact that the tournament creates for young people across Guyana,” Hoppie declared. Hoppie said the initiative is helping to strengthen Guyana’s football culture “one school at a time, one community at a time,” with its success ultimately measured by the opportunities created, students inspired and
stronger football foundations established across the country. Assistant Director of Sport Franklin Wilson also addressed the launch, highlighting the importance of creating meaningful developmental opportunities for young athletes. Beyond the competition itself, the tournament will take football directly into communities, giving families, schools and supporters an opportunity to become part of the action while allowing young players to represent their schools on a national platform. Mills thanked the teachers, coaches and other stakeholders supporting the participating players and expressed appreciation to ExxonMobil Guyana for investing in a vision that extends beyond competition.
Golden Jaguars topple Dominica 5 – 1 to stay perfect in Nations League …third consecutive win for Guyana in League B By Rawle Toney The Golden Jaguars strengthened their grip on Group A of League B in the Concacaf Nations League yesterday, cruising to a convincing 5-1 victory over Dominica in Puerto Rico to register their third consecutive win in the competition. The result keeps Guyana unbeaten in this year’s Nations League and firmly on course to qualify for the 2027 Concacaf Gold Cup in Mexico and promotion to League A. Head coach Marco Bonofiglio entered the contest having already guided Guyana to victories over Puerto Rico (1-0) and the Cayman Islands (2-0), with his sights firmly set on securing a place at
Concacaf’s flagship national-team tournament next year. The Golden Jaguars made a perfect start through their two leading attacking threats, Osaze De Rosario and Omari Glasgow. De Rosario opened the scoring in the 27th minute, rising to head Guyana into the lead and register his 13th international goal. Glasgow then doubled the advantage four minutes before halftime, curling a well-struck freekick beyond the Dominica defence for his 22nd international goal, further extending his status as Guyana’s all-time leading scorer. Guyana carried a 2-0 advantage into the break before Bonofiglio made a series of changes, introducing Darron Niles, Enoch George, Leo Lovell, Curtez
(L-R) Guyana's goal scorers, Deon Moore, Omari Glasgow, Kelsey Benjamin, Osaze De Rosario and Enoch George (GFF photo) Kellman and Imani Barker for Raushan Ritch, Omari Glasgow, Nathan Furgeson, Liam Gordon and De Rosario. The changes did little to disrupt Guyana’s momentum.
Five minutes into the second half, De Rosario, before being substituted, found Deon Moore inside the penalty area, and the Torquay United FC forward made no mistake, finishing clinically to
score his sixth international goal and put Guyana three goals clear. Dominica responded when Troy Jules pulled one back after his effort beat advancing goalkeeper Continued on page 23
From left: Tyrone Tyrrell, Pushpargha Chattopadhyay, Ryan Hoppie, Vurlon Mills and Franklin Wilson following the presentation of ExxonMobil’s sponsorship cheque.
118 teams set for ExxonMobil Guyana U18 Schools Football Tournament
rts o p S
Golden Jaguars topple Dominica 5 – 1 to stay perfect in Nations League
Guyana stormed to a 5-1 win over Dominica to stay perfect In League B’s Group A in the CONCACAF Nations League.
…third consecutive win for Guyana in League B Edition Seven of the Championship will commence on December 13
Petra, Beharry Holding launch 7th KFC International Goodwill Football C/ship Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.