K
Iran and U.S. trade Monday Edition NEWS threats after Houthi attacks escalate regional conflict AIETEUR
September 21, 2026 -Vol. 19 No. 37
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Mohamed alleges
political hand
behind review of
High Court Justice Gino Persaud
Justice Persaud’s U.S. visa Relatives and friends on Sunday night held a candlelight vigil in memory of 10-year-old Gabriela Rodrigues who was killed two Saturdays ago. She was returning home p.from 10 a church missionary event when a juvenile rider attempting to perform a “wheelie” lost control of the motorcycle and slammed into her on Independence Boulevard. The impact threw the young girl into a utility pole, leaving her with severe head trauma and internal injuries, including a punctured lung.
A village left to fend for itself…
Banned miner, heavy equipment force way onto Chinese Landing Titled Lands
LIAT flight turns back to CJIA after engine issue UG Chancellor calls grades delay ‘completely unacceptable’ ...urges action to prevent students suffering
‘Stop blaming ‘sanctity of contract’ for keeping - Chris Ram 2016 oil deal’tells Pres. Ali
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Monday September 21, 2026
Kaieteur News
A village left to fend for itself…
Banned miner, heavy equipment continues to force way onto Chinese Landing Titled Lands By Khadidja Ba Residents of Chinese Landing are raising the alarm as illegal mining operations and heavy machinery have once again breached their titled lands, leaving the Indigenous Carib community to police its own borders without government support. At the center of the renewed crisis is Rylon Adolphus, better known as “Isaac”, a miner previously banned from the area following international human rights interventions, who has reportedly forced his way back onto village territory. Toshao Nikita Miller confirmed that Adolphus, who is employed by the same mining interests with whom the village has longstanding disputes, has resumed his presence despite direct assurances from Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat. “He don't deal nice with people. He's very abusive to villagers, to strangers, anybody… he don't have manners,” Toshao Miller said, describing Adolphus's history of hostility dating back to at least 2021. “When we would go with GGMC, he would curse you... put on he mask and curse you from head to toe. From since the beginning, he's just a problem man.” Miller recalled one incident where Adolphus brought regulatory officers to seize a villager's excavator, which remained impounded at the Moruca police station for an extended period. Despite being cited in representations to the InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and subsequently banned, Adolphus's prohibition appears to exist only on paper. “For quite some time we haven't seen him, but lately he keep coming back to the village again and still presently in the village,” Miller told Kaieteur News. Standoff at Tassawini Adolphus's return is part of a larger, coordinated escalation inside Village Council territory. For more than five straight days and nights, residents of Chinese Landing have been locked in a tense standoff at Tassawini, maintaining a round-the-clock blockade to stop four excavators and a bulldozer linked to coastlander miner Wayne Vieira. While operators claim the heavy machinery was brought in
Adolphus (in the blue ski mask) entering village lands after being banned. strictly to repair local thoroughfares, community members recognize it as a tactical attempt to expand mining inside the contested area. When Stephen Vieira, acting under power of attorney for Wayne Vieira, demanded path clearance while signaling that the machines “are not going back,” the village responded in unison: “NO! Never!” Residents added that the unauthorized roadwork itself has only worsened local conditions. Rather than proper resurfacing, operators are churning up existing terrain. “They using back the same red mud, and when rain fall, it going be a whole soup, pot of soup again,” Miller remarked. “Me ain't know what they trying to do.” Residents confirmed with Kaieteur News that they themselves used to maintain the road but since then these machines continue to destroy the roadway as the miners are only filling the holes with laterite which becomes “soupy”. Faced with a lack of state enforcement, the community has taken monitoring into its own
hands. Teams of villagers recently organized patrols along nearby waterways to track and dismantle illegal operations. “The men went in the creek, the ladies went in the road tracking them where they come out,” Toshao Miller detailed. “The men boys went in the creek... they find the people them saw... collect the saw, throw down trees, and they come out.” Community members confiscated the equipment, brought it back to the village office, and reblocked access roads to prevent further intrusion. Reaffirming the village's legal authority under the Amerindian Act, Miller stated: “They haven't gotten permission from the village. They never seek for permission to enter... If a miner wish to carry out mining on village land, he has to get the consent of the village.” Broken Promises and State Withdrawal The current breach highlights a pattern of government inaction. Community leaders personally raised Adolphus's illegal presence with Minister of Natural Resources Vi c k r a m B h a r r a t d u r i n g a ministerial visit this week. “We
even raised it with him, not in a public meeting but separately, and he even assured us that he has gotten banned from coming inside here,” Miller explained. “But after that talk with him, Isaac arrive back here. We wrote minister letter informing him via even WhatsApp and, you know, for sure they haven't done anything to what we have reported. They just doing nothing about the situation.” "What is the Minister waiting for?" one frustrated resident asked. "Is he waiting for things to result in harm? Why isn't he using his office?" Rather than stepping in to enforce compliance, state regulatory bodies have pulled back entirely. In a letter dated September 7, 2026, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Commissioner Newell Dennison officially informed Toshao Miller that the commission was withdrawing as mediator in the dispute between the Village Council and Wayne Vieira. “I regret that the initiative for a mediated solution between the parties appears to have been overtaken by developments and circumstances affecting both sides,” Dennison wrote in the correspondence, which was copied to Minister Bharrat. Formally terminating the mediation framework established following the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, the GGMC informed the village that it was on its own to seek legal remedies. “Of course, you remain at liberty to pursue whatever legal avenues you deem appropriate,” Dennison added. A history of violence and environmental ruin The ongoing standoff is the latest chapter in a documented history of fear and displacement for Chinese Landing, an Indigenous Carib community of approximately 210 residents across 45 households along the Barama River. The village holds official title to its lands under the Amerindian Act of 1951 (amended in 1976), reissued in 1991 under the State Lands Act, and backed by a certificate of title issued in 2018 under the Land Registry Act. Gold mining, alongside hunting, fishing, and farming, has formed part of their traditional economy since the early 20th century. Three years ago, the IACHR issued urgent
precautionary measures requesting that the Government of Guyana adopt necessary measures to protect the life and personal integrity of Chinese Landing residents. Submissions to the Commission detail years of severe violence by outside miners and armed security personnel. Documented incidents include a 2018 event where a resident was forced at gunpoint by police officers and mine management to abandon his home, farm, and camp under threat of having his house flattened with an excavator while his family was inside. Other reported abuses include an attempted rape of a 14-year-old girl by an armed miner in 2021, a mother holding a baby nearly run down by an ATV during a peaceful protest, armed home searches, physical assaults, and direct threats by mine personnel boasting they possessed over 150 guns to “kill all the Amerindians.” Alongside physical threats, unchecked mining has devastated the local ecosystem. Between 2017 and 2021, the Tassawini area lost 264 hectares of forest, five times the rate of loss recorded between 2012 and 2016. Heavy mercury pollution and uncontained tailings overflowing into Huri Creek and the Barama River have contaminated drinking water, leaving residents with chronic skin rashes, vomiting, and diarrhea. "I Just Tired" Three years after international human rights bodies called for urgent intervention, the residents of Chinese Landing find themselves right back where they started, holding the line on the frontlines while state authorities stand by. Describing the community's resolve despite sheer physical and mental exhaustion, Toshao Miller declared that villagers will not back down from the Tassawini blockade. “The plan right now, on this standoff... we are not moving from here until someone from Ministry of Natural Resources, GGMC or whoever has intervened. We'll be here all the nights, all the days, to make sure that none of those new machinery enter into Tassawini.” Yet, as the standoff stretches on, the burden of defending constitutionally protected land against illegal invasion continues to extract a heavy toll on the leaders and families of Chinese Landing. “I just tired,” residents said.
Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
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Stop blaming ‘sanctity of contract’ - Chris Ram for keeping 2016 oil deal tells Pres. Ali Chartered accountant, lawyer and oil-and-gas commentator Christopher Ram has challenged President Irfaan Ali's repeated reliance on the “sanctity of contract” argument to defend the 2016 Stabroek Block Petroleum Agreement, arguing that the Government has never explained why it cannot simply ask ExxonMobil, Chevron and CNOOC to renegotiate the deal. In the latest edition of his Every Man, Woman and Child Must Become OilMinded column, his 201st article on Guyana's oil sector since the country began producing crude, Ram said Ali has effectively turned the sanctity-of-contract argument into “official doctrine” by repeatedly acknowledging that the a g r e e m e n t i s disadvantageous to Guyana while maintaining that it cannot be renegotiated. Ram drew a distinction between renegotiation and repudiation, arguing that asking the contractors to agree to new terms does not amount to Guyana breaking its contractual obligations. “Reneging means refusing to honour a contract; renegotiation means asking the other parties to agree to different terms,” Ram wrote. He argued that if the parties agree to amendments, the amended agreement becomes the contract that must then be honoured. According to Ram, Guyana has no power to force the contractors to
renegotiate or unilaterally impose new terms, but there is nothing preventing the Government from making a formal request. “What remains difficult to explain i s w h y t h e A l i Administration refuses to ask,” he wrote. 2016 agreement itself was renegotiated Ram pointed to the history of the petroleum agreements as evidence against the Government's position. He noted that the 1999 Petroleum Agreement was replaced by the 2016 agreement, which he said was itself the result of a renegotiation of the contractual relationship. He further pointed to a 2019 amendment concerning the treatment of the two per cent r o y a l t y, a r g u i n g t h a t ExxonMobil and its partners accepted the change and continued investing in Guyana. Ram also recalled that Ali, before becoming President, had publicly committed to reviewing and renegotiating the country's petroleum contracts. In February 2020, Ali had said that everything was on the table for review and renegotiation. Ram questioned whether the President was unaware of the principle of sanctity of contract at that time or whether the principle had subsequently become the basis for maintaining the agreement. 'Companies will walk away' argument challenged
President Irfaan Ali
Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram
Ram also challenged repeated suggestions that the oil companies could leave Guyana if Government sought improved terms. He pointed to renegotiations in several oil-producing countries, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o , Bolivia, Ecuador and Ghana. He said some renegotiations were difficult and some governments sought changes far beyond what is currently being proposed in Guyana, but in most cases the companies remained. Ram said situations where companies actually left generally involved circumstances such as nationalisation, imposed terms or economic conditions that made operations commercially unattractive. “That is fundamentally different from a host government asking for consensual discussions,” he said. He argued that the circumstances surrounding the Stabroek Block have also
changed substantially since 2016. The block, he noted, is now a developed and highly productive petroleum province, with major discoveries, several producing projects, established infrastructure and billions of dollars already invested. “The geological and commercial risks today are vastly different from those existing when the Agreement was signed in 2016,” Ram wrote. He noted that Ali himself has acknowledged that the bargain favoured the oil companies, but questioned why the Government treats the changed circumstances as irrelevant. Ram calls for separate letters to Exxon, Chevron, CNOOC Ram is urging the Government to make a formal written proposal to each of the three companies separately, outlining the provisions it wants to revisit and requesting individual responses. He stressed that
TotalEnergies' offshore project in Suriname on track for first output in mid-2028 PA R A M A R I B O , S e p t 1 9 (Reuters) - French energy company TotalEnergies (TTEF.PA) and its partners in the $12 billion GranMorgu offshore oil a nd gas project in Suriname are on track to inaugurate output mid-2028, the head of state-run Staatsolie, Annand Jagesar, said on Saturday during a tour to oversee the development's progress. "Together, we are not only developing an energy project, we are writing a new chapter in Suriname's history," said Jagesar during the event in Paramaribo, the capital of the small South American nation. Suriname is seeking to follow neighbouring Guyana's transformation into a major oil producer through o ffshore developments led by
international energy companies. While plenty of oil and gas deposits have been discovered in Suriname's waters since 2019, the country still awaits its first offshore oil and gas output. Wood Mackenzie in 2024 estimated Suriname's discovered resources at more than 2.4 billion barrels of oil and liquids and more than 12.5 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas.Companies involved in the project - TotalEnergies, Staatsolie and APA Corp - have already spent about 50% total investment planned, said TotalEnergies' chairman Patrick Pouyanne. GranMorgu will be the first developing Suriname's vast offshore resources. Well head components, tubing hangers and other materials
manufactured in Malaysia are due to be installed soon to control the flow of oil and gas back to the platform via a network of underwater subsea architecture and pipelines, executives said. The project is located in a large offshore area comprising 1.4 million acres known as Block 58. The block has been closely watched as it is adjacent to Exxon Mobil's massive Stabroek block in Guyana. Jagesar also said he hopes to expand the country's offshore oil and gas production in the block, where TotalEnergies is slated to drill four new exploratory wells next year. "I dream of a second project, a second FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) in Block 58," Jagesar said.
Esso, as operator, should not be confused with the broader “ C o n t r a c t o r, ” w h i c h comprises ExxonMobil, Chevron and CNOOC. The agreement, he said, makes the obligations of the companies comprising the Contractor joint and several, while the companies themselves have different ownership structures and commercial interests. “There is no reason to assume beforehand that three separate companies, with different ownership, commercial interests and relationships with Guyana, must inevitably take the same position,” Ram wrote. He also suggested that Guyana could use diplomatic channels in its engagement with CNOOC, given the country's broader relationship with China. “Diplomacy cannot rewrite a commercial contract, but neither should a sovereign state neglect legitimate diplomatic channels where they may assist,” he said. Ram further questioned whether the “sanctity of contract” position represents the considered legal advice of the Attorney General. He pointed out that under Article 112 of the Constitution, the Attorney General is the principal legal adviser to the Government. Yet, he said, the public defence of the petroleum agreement has largely come from President Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat. “If 'sanctity of contract' is being presented as a legal impediment to even seeking renegotiation, then Guyanese are entitled to know whether it is in fact the considered advice of the Attorney General,” Ram argued. He said the Government has previously engaged constitutional and other legal experts from across the Caribbean on specialist matters, but no detailed legal
opinion has been made public on whether the State can formally seek consensual amendments to the multibillion-dollar petroleum agreement. 'Put the proposal to the companies' Ram's proposed solution is for the Government to stop speculating about what Exxon, Chevron and CNOOC might do and formally test their positions. “Put a formal written proposal to Exxon, Chevron and CNOOC separately, identifying the provisions Guyana wishes to revisit, and publish the responses,” he said. If all three companies reject the request, Ram said, Guyanese would at least know that the companies had closed the door. “Until then, every assertion that they would 'walk away' is conjecture being used to justify inaction,” he wrote. Ram ultimately argues that the Government should acknowledge whether preserving the 2016 agreement is a deliberate policy decision rather than presenting it as a requirement imposed by contract law. He pointed to the agreement's two per cent royalty, the cost-recovery mechanism, Guyana's share of profit oil after cost recovery, decommissioning obligations and the arrangement under which Guyana assumes the contractors' income-tax liability. “If Ali intends to leave those extraordinary concessions untouched for another generation and more, then that is his decision,” Ram wrote. He concluded that if Guyanese are to live with the consequences of the agreement for decades, they should be told whether its preservation is truly a legal necessity or a political decision by the Ali Administration and the PPP/C.
Kaieteur News
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Monday September 21, 2026
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Deportees: Guyana calls the shots We are appalled that President Irfaan Ali embarrasses himself like this. It is now obvious that in their president, citizens have a leader who has lost all care about how he sounds in what he shares publicly. The latest from the president is that Guyana ‘calls the shots’ on third country nationals that have just arrived here, with more additions agreed to for future dumping in Guyana. All too often, Guyana’s president has made contributions into the local environment that lack substance, does not add up. Recall that ugly period with Cubans. After decades of skilled and competent partnership with Guyana, the US said that they had to go, and that was it, they went back to Cuba. Medical professionals of great experience that have served and benefited more than one generation of citizens were kicked out of this country, because the US ordered it. President Ali was clever enough to avoid touching that hot potato, which fell into the lap of Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony. The bottom line is that Cuban doctors and many others had to go back to Cuba, on what had to be some very sad flights. Years and decades invested in Guyana, and then they had to go, because the US demanded it. It should not be seen as an exaggeration, to say publicly that President Ali also may mislead himself into thinking that mass involuntary movement back to Cuba was where Guyana “calls the shots.” Like he is saying about deportees, people with no links whatsoever to Guyana, he may be of same mindset about Cubans now gone. We at this publication have learned to expect the unexpected from President Ali. The unexpected that is palpably outrageous. The unexpected that flies in the face of logic and simple commonsense. The unexpected that can be laughable, so out-of-place are some of his public statements. If the PPPC Government (and the president) could not have said No to the US’ call to get rid of Cubans, then it certainly was in no position to say No to US demands that Guyana take in some deportees. The US has now fallen into the habit of using Guyana and the docile PPPC Government as its doormat. Kick that doormat around (Guyana has to kick out Cubans, as directed). Then the doormat that is walked all over, when a trickle of deportees were dumped on Guyana. A government that is happy to be a doormat to the US is in no position to “call the shots” and resist the arrival of deportees. When has this government shown the guts to stand up to the US, now dominating local life, and pushed back on whatever scheme it has that humiliates Guyana? It has been open door and open surrender by the Guyana Government to whatever pleases the US. Guyana ‘calls the shots’ does not impress at all, since everyone sees through that farce. Anxious citizens are told about robust vetting of the deportees and they are of a non-criminal nature. That would be comforting in a country where the government is not as deceptive and committed to secrecy as the PPPC Government. The record is of a PPPC Government that is more concerned about misleading citizens than sharing the whole truth with them. Due to its own shabby history, confidence in what the government says is as low as low can get. The government has taken the line that the deportee deal between Guyana and the US is clean and aboveboard, with no hidden surprises. Since that is so, it should be the most natural development that the Guyana-US deportee agreement be placed on the public domain. The entire agreement with not one line redacted. The calls of civil society should be heeded, since the deportee agreement stands on such grounds. Keeping that agreement away from the public serves to undermine the very claims made by the government. The US-Guyana deportee arrangement, scheme, has grown into what citizens have had long and bitter experience with. The PPPC Government says what sounds clean and comforting to the public, but is contradicted by the facts, when they emerge, given time. Deportees represent the latest abuse of the public’s intelligence.
Will the GGMC pay more attention to its legal powers over mining concessions? DEAR EDITOR, Almost three weeks ago, the Department for Public Information published a Press release for the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), an advisory notice on the sale and transfer of mining lands (September 01, 2026,https://dpi.gov.gy/pressrelease-ggmc-issues-advisory-on-thesale-and-transfer-of-mining-lands/). This notice followed weeks and months of reports of some kinds of acquisitions of GGMC concessions for exploration and mining of Guyana’s lands, mainly for gold but also for uranium and rareearth minerals. GGMC referred to the need for sellers to have such transactions authorised ‘under the applicable legal and regulatory framework’ but failed to indicate which sections of theMining Act 1989and the numerous Mining Regulations are applicable. GGMC also warned against using irrevocable powers of attorney (POAs) as proof of ownership of lawful tenure. Selling or partly selling mining concessions has been a normal business practice for decades. What appears internationally to be valid and complete acquisition of mining rights in Guyana may be far from the truth. Prospecting Permits cannot be transferred (Mining Act section 58 (2)). Annuallyrenewable GGMC Prospecting Permits may continue to be valid after GGMC Mining Permits for gold extraction have been issued and are in operation. In one case – the Tassawini gold mines inside the fully titled Amerindian Village Lands of the community of Chinese Landing – GGMC has been kept aware of at least some of the series of transactions between concession holder Wayne Vieira and the foreign mining companies. TheMining Act 1989is clear about ownership of medium-scale Prospecting Permits (MSPP), under section 57 (2). The Canadian company StrataGold Corporation created its subsidiary StrataGold Guyana Inc. in 2004 and under Mining Act section 57 (2) (c) could take over the MSPP number PL 14/95 previously held in the late 1990s by Wayne Vieira, renumbered as PL 01/2005. StrataGold Guyana Inc. also acquired the adjacent Prospecting Permits numbered PL 34/2005 Anaturi MSPP in 2005 and PL
01/2011 Koriabo, PL 03/2011 S t . B e d e ’s . Co-ownership of Prospecting Permits is allowed. While the Mining Act 1989 is clear about the categories of permitted owner of Prospecting Permits, the Act is silent on the permitted ownership of Mining Permits. The FAQs for Land Management on the GGMC website stated in May 2024 that ‘…medium scale property titles [including Mining Permits] …are restricted to Guyanese, however, foreigners have been entering into joint arrangements whereby the two parties jointly develop the property. This is strictly by private contract.’ This FAQ appears to imply that joint ventures are tacitly allowed, provided that a Guyanese citizen appears to be in control, even if no more than a silent partner. However, this hands-off approach by the GGMC does not match the claims of Canadian and Australian mining companies reported in the international Press. In Tassawini, Wayne Vieira has a long history of selling some rights to foreign companies while allowing local contractors to continue hydraulic mining, all under the pretence that this is State Land. Chinese Landing Village Land has been in Amerindian ownership since it was recognised in the schedule to the revised Amerindian Act 1976; confirmed by the certificate of grant of title in 1991 under theState Lands Act 1972, confirmed again in 2009 and recorded under theLand Registry Act 1959/2003in 2018. In addition, the GGMC’s own Mineral Property Status online map shows the four Mining Permits Medium Scale (MPMS) embedded in the Chinese Landing Amerindian Village Land (AVL);https://storymaps.arcgis.com/sto ries/790ce0003be5464a815be1862ff59 4d9. In spite of this clear and documented legal history, some politicians in successive governments of Guyana and in government agencies have continued to refer incorrectly to Chinese Landing AVL as ‘State Land’. Given this ignorant local approach to land ownership, it is not surprising that the international mining Press often treats the Tassawini gold mines as under State Land administration. Papers held by the Amerindian
Village Council at Chinese Landing and reviewed in 2024 show a remarkable history of overseas claims to options for ownership of the GGMC-issued concessions for the Tassawini mines: * StrataGold Guyana Inc. for parent company StrataGold Corporation of Canada, 2004-2011. StrataGold Guyana Inc. was sold to Takara Resources Inc. in 2012.Takara Resources Inc. sold the Arakaka concession to Alicanto Minerals Ltd. of Australia in 2012 but let the interest in Chinese Landing revert to Wayne Vieira in 2012. Vieira was in court for a mistaken prosecution by GGMC from 2010, finally closed in 2017.Vieira was negotiating a purchase-option agreement with Marcel Anil Rada and 1092545 BC Ltd. (North Vancouver) of Canada in 2016. This USD 2 million deal was not concluded.Vieira next negotiated with Aventura Gold Ltd., a provider of mining services rather than a miner, while Aventura was in discussion with Vangold Mining Corporation, another Canadian miner, for a deal valued at USD 4 million in cash and CAN$ 12 million in equity.By 2018, Chatradharee Mohan had miners on the ground at Tassawini and in 2021 his company Goldeneye Capital claimed to hold the four Tassawini MPMS and was negotiating to sell to Project One Resources, another Canadian company, which changed its name to Alerio Gold Corporation. The deal included a USD 0.5 million cash payment and a 3% net smelter royalty to Goldeneye under an asset purchase agreement.By November 2021, Alerio Gold claimed to be in full control of Tassawini, confirmed in April 2023, and holding the MPMS which had been renewed to Chatradharee Mohan in June 2023 for five years. Jimmy Reece, Deputy Commissioner for GGMC, stated at the August 2023 ‘fact-finding’ mission to Chinese Landing that GGMC has continued to record Wayne Vieira as owner of the four MPMS, in spite of the continued GGMC errors in permit issue and renewal since 1995; reference my letter inKiskadee Watchon August 28, 2026, ‘All Guyanese should now support Chinese Landing and advocate for a Judicial Review of Vieira’s mining permits’ Continued on page 5
Carifesta Avenue horror show DEAR EDITOR, For those readers who enjoy a good horror movie or get a kick out of suspense series, you could do no better than to sit outside the Marian Academy on Carifesta Avenue at 1500 on a weekday, when school lets out. Here, where a new four-lane road has been built, flatter and faster than the South Dakota Circuit, you can see vehicles being driven directly into families desperately trying to cross the road to their parked vehicles. Here you can watch SUVs come bearing down, as a mother drags her child out of the way at the last minute, here you can watch a
two-minibus race, hurtling down on the school leavers, as they cower to one side, as they pass. And so the lawlessness goes on… I bring this to public and Authority attention as I have sat and watched this last week with my heart in my mouth as each family tries to cross. It is a miracle that no-one has yet been injured or killed and it is almost a certainty that someone will be, very soon, if nothing is done about it. Why are there radar speed signs but no enforcement? Where is the police presence that there used to be at this busy time?
Why are there no signs on the approach and by the gates? AND WHY HAS THE ZEBRA CROSSING BEEN TAKEN AWAY??? If you are a parent please please please exercise the utmost caution when leaving the school. If you are a driver, please please please slow down and have the decency to understand this is a school where our children go to study, children who want to grow up to see their lives through, not carelessly thrown away due to a total lack of common sense outside their place of learning. Peter Bouchard
Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
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Tribute to Dolly Hassan DEAR EDITOR, I learn of the passing of Dr. Dolly Zulakha Hassan (Sep 19), literary critic, a lawyer, a champion of democracy in Guyana, advocating from American freedom soil, during the period of the dictatorship and during the electoral shenanigans of 2020. She has been more than a scholar and lawyer. Her life, like that of a few others, stands as an enduring blueprint for how members of the Guyanese diaspora can successfully integrate into a new society while fiercely advocating for democracy in the former homeland. She was among a few of us Guyanese who came to the US to pursue tertiary education in the 1970s and early 1980s and who publicly displayed concern about mis-rule in Guyana, becoming activists in America for political change in Guyana. What stood out about this academic, and a few other Guyanese like Baytoram R a m h a r a c k , Va s s a n Ramracha, Chuck Mohan, among others, is their refusal to remain inside an intellectual ivory tower. She took her elitist educational background into grass roots activism like a few of us in New York. And like a few of us, she penned articles (gratis) for community publications on legal issues. To those who knew her personally, Dolly Hassan was more than her e d u c a t i o n a l accomplishments. She lived a life with a purpose, serving the diaspora. She was a human being who touched
Political opposition has lives, inspired others, and right. When Paul Nehru advocate for democracy and become a farce in Guyana
demonstrated through her example that compassion and conviction can exist together. As such, her passing is a loss to her family, friends, colleagues, and to the wider Guyanese community. Yet her legacy lives on in the people she helped and in her writings. Had Guyana initiated “Democracy Award”, she would be a viable candidate. She, like a few others in the diaspora, should have been honored by Guyana government a long time ago for championing democracy in the former homeland. I had the opportunity to engage Dolly a few times in person and on the phone. She was an amazing personality, unique in her education – an English Literature major and a lawyer. Dolly, like a few others, actively possessed an extraordinary blend of intellectual rigor, social conscience, and an unwavering commitment to human rights. She not only partook in the prodemocracy struggle for Guyana, she also assisted many Guyanese and others with their immigration issues, helping them to green cards and citizenship. Dolly believed deeply in the dignity of every human being and in the importance of a society where democracy, justice, freedom, and respect for others could flourish. Her humanitarian spirit was reflected not merely in what she said, but in the concern that she showed for others and in her willingness to stand up for causes she believed were
Tennassee was arrested on his arrival in Guyana around 1984 and placed on an ants nest and denied a teaching position at UG, Dolly, like a few others among us, reached out and took quick action. She, as did a few of us, lobbied Members of American Congress and wrote to President Reagan and others about rights abuses in Guyana. She also engaged Dr. Jagan multiple times, supporting free and fair elections. Dolly was also a gifted and thoughtful writer and what made her writing particularly admirable is carefully chosen words and graceful style of writing that revealed a mastery of the craft. Through her writing, Dolly gave expression to ideas, experiences, hopes, and concerns that might otherwise have gone unheard. Her words reflected both her intellect and her humanity, leaving a body of writing, if they can be put together, that will remain part of the legacy she leaves behind. The writings of this outstanding writer are marked by remarkable d e p t h , c l a r i t y, a n d originality. Each article of hers reflected a keen understanding of an issue and she did so with an exceptional ability to express complex ideas in simple but powerful language, written with clarity and purpose. The writer’s words are not merely informative; they are thoughtful, engaging, and capable of leaving a lasting impression on the reader. Before she became an
a lawyer in the latter part of the 1980s, Dolly studied English Literature earning a doctorate in 1986 from the prestigious George Washington University analyzing the works of the celebrated novelist VS Naipaul, a brilliantly written dissertation that was later published in book form, “V. S. Naipaul and the West: From the Outside Looking In”. She taught English at a college in Washington and also in Saudi Arabia, before returning and earning a JD from CUNY Law School. Her studies of Naipaul’s works provided her with a foundational understanding of how fragile democracy can be in young nations like Guyana and how deeply the pain of political upheaval is felt by those forced to flee their homeland, enabling her to become a stronger champion of democracy in her former homeland. She decided to changed career, studying law and passing the bar exams in several territories. She was admitted to practice law in New York, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C. She stablished a law office on Liberty Avenue in Little Guyana. She turned her PhD and JD into a weapon for social equity. She has been a consistent outspoken defender of undocumented Guyanese and Caribbean nationals, warning against the predatory “consultants” and fraudsters who prey on vulnerable, desperate illegals and basement dwellers. And many turned Continued on page 6
Will the GGMC pay more attention to its... From page 4 (https://kiskadeewatch.com/opinion/let ters/all-guyanese-should-now-supportchinese-landing-and-advocate-for-ajudicial-review-of-vieiras-miningpermits/). Clearly, money has been changing hands among Australian and Canadian mining companies, and payments have been made or promised to Wayne Vieira for some of the mineral rights in Tassawini. StrataGold reported that it had paid the renewal fees for the four Mining Permits, apparently on behalf of Vieira. How Mr Chatradharee Mohan of Goldeneye Capital acquired a marketable interest is not clear. What is clear is that, after the departure of the prospector Takara/StrataGold in 2012, the Chinese Landing community has not benefitted from these international transactions, nor has the Guyana Revenue Authority. Instead of issuing a generalised Advisory on sale and transfer, GGMC
should issue a series of simple-language guides to potential sellers and buyers which quote the exact wording from theMining Act 1989and Mining Regulations on the eligibility rules for ownership of mining concessions and on the rules for transfers and sales. GRA will then be able to check if the Guyanese owners are paying the relevant income and capital gains taxes. What do the Amerindian landowners get out of these deals? Little or nothing. What could they get? A lot more than they do now, as soon as GGMC follows its own policies, law and regulations in the issue and renewal of mining concessions. With the exception of one attempt by Minister Pauline Sukhai in 2011, the supervising political Ministers have been grossly negligent, failing to ensure that Amerindian legal rights are respected and that GGMC acts in a legally correct manner. Editor, the four adjacent Mining
Permits Medium Scale at Tassawini total 1,382 hectares (3413 acres), about one-fifth of Chinese Landing’s titled AVL. This account of the many private transactions for Tassawini, involving vast amounts of money, without any benefits accruing to the owners of Tassawini, is not unique. While such trading of mining concessions on State Lands is not prevented by law, Tassawini is within Chinese Landing’s titled AVL since 1976, so the four MPMS, issued in error, should never have been renewed. Elsewhere in Guyana, the customary property of many other Amerindian Villages and Communities is regularly being traded on international stock exchanges, or exchanged locally, without any benefits accruing to the rightful owners. ‘One Guyana’, but only for a select few Guyanese, and their enablers. Janette Bulkan
DEAR EDITOR, The Political Opposition in Guyana has become a farce. This is with regards to meeting with the Democratically Elected President Irfaan Ali. How can they not turn up at meetings with the President and then claim that they have not been consulted? They could simply meet with the President to scrutinise the Government. Yet, they chose to act childish and be obstructionists. Sincerely, Sean Ori
What can be done about the rising cost of living DEAR EDITOR, The cost of living has risen in Guyana. So has the minimum wage. By raising the minimum wage has pushed up the cost of living in Guyana as businesses needed to increase prices to pay for increases in wages. While I favour another rise in minimum wages I have to accept that it will again push up the cost of living. Maybe a solution would be to reduce the Personal Income Tax to 20% thereby giving working people more disposable income which feeds into the Guyanese economy boosting productivity. With Guyana being awash with oil money, the personal income tax can be reduced. Let’s face up to facts: with the Government Revenue from oil increasing the Government will just be looking of more ways to spend money for “development”. Nothing
wrong with that just as long as proper feasibility studies are done to ensure we get the best value for money. Back to cost of living: cost of living is a function of peoples spending and how people spend their hard earned monies. I believe that the cost of living can be contained by increasing the productivity per person. Which means an efficiency drive and more people working. We cannot do much about the worldwide rise in oil prices which affects transportation costs (I understand that the Government has tackled this by reducing taxation). But, we can boost job creation which is where the development bank comes in which is the way to go as long as it is professional and not lend to cronies. Sincerely, Name supplied
Blackout blues DEAR EDITOR, We in this land have had enough with the shoddy planning and ineptitude of the managers of our principal energy supplier. From the president down they have failed us very badly. There does not appear to be an efficient medium term or long term plan for the provision of electric energy to the nation. We seem to be moving from crisis to crisis. Quite recently on a return trip from Berbice, I saw smoke coming from the stack of one of the 17 mobile power sets at Columbia. I was overjoyed that after more than two years we were getting these machines operational. Our major problems are lack of proper planning, preventive and predictive maintenance. We don’t properly know about these aspects of operational activity. Otherwise would be able to predict accurately the mean time between failures and thus set systems in place to keep our machinery going. We have fallen down in that the costs for the power ships could have given us another substantial power station. The gas to energy plant seems dead in the water. Some 60 years ago I was the sole designer of the original Onverwagt, Versailles, Anna Regina and Ankerville, Port Mourant power stations. Ankerville was not constructed. All of these stations had a minimum of 20% spare capacity. It was further planned to increase base load capacity after a stated time span. That’s how we did things then. We avoided unnecessary power outages. Editor when a head of state blames his population for over use of a facility and even overeating, then things have really gone down badly in that nation. Mere talk will not cut it. We need to bring in those persons who can really fix our system. Regards, Cyril Walker
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Monday September 21, 2026
Govt. still searching for solutions to single-use plastic problem Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand said Guyana is actively examining alternatives to handle plastic waste, as the government continues to search for a viable, longterm solution to a single-use plastic problem. Speaking on The Guyana Dialogue, Manickchand detailed the central dilemma facing policymakers: while single-use plastics continue to clog municipal waterways and burden local infrastructure, central government and regulatory agencies remain stalled on how best to transition away from disposable materials without triggering severe economic side effects or unrealistic recycling demands. Addressing queries regarding local recycling options for bottles and cans, Manickchand explained that government assessments keep running into the reality of Guyana’s small market scale. “A lot of the language I’m hearing from recycling providers is that our volume
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand speaking on the Guyana Dialogue.
is so small that for it to be profitable for them, we’d have to be producing... a lot more plastic waste, which is not something necessarily we want to do,” Manickchand said. She noted that even a modest processing facility operating locally would e x h a u s t t h e c o u n t r y ’s monthly plastic waste output
in a single day. “People don’t find that to be profitable. So we have to find other ways,” the Minister admitted, pointing to potential measures such as import policy adjustments or an outright ban, while cautioning that “all those things have a cost” and cannot simply be imposed without a workable
Rig worker stabbed to death at Mayaro bar (TRINIDAD EXPRESS) THIRTYONE-YEAR-OLD rig-worker Romario Gonzales died yesterday morning after being repeatedly stabbed during an altercation at a bar at St Ann’s Village in Mayaro. According to police, Gonzales, of Ortoire Village, died while being treated for multiple injuries at the Mayaro District Health facility predawn on Saturday. Relatives said he left behind his commonlaw wife, a three-year-old daughter and several siblings, who were devastated and shocked by the death. Officers were on patrol yesterday when they received information about a serious wounding and were directed to the health facility. Minutes later, Gonzales was transported to the facility with several injuries and was attended to by healthcare workers at the Accident and Emergency Department. At around 1.02 a.m. police were told he had died. Police said that at the facility they also met two Grand Lagoon men who had been injured during the altercation. Speaking briefly to the Sunday Express yesterday, Gonzales’ sister, Karissa, said relatives were told the attack occurred within five minutes of his arrival at the bar. Relatives believe his killing may have been a case of mistaken identity, as one of his siblings had recently witnessed a similar stabbing. However, she said the family was still awaiting information from the police. She described her brother as a loving, kind, and ambitious person who was seeking to make a better life for himself and his family. ‘He always did something to uplift you and make you laugh. No one in this community could say he is a bad person. I am
31-year-old rig-worker, Romario Gonzales
framework in place. While the central government searches for macro-level answers, local authorities in Georgetown have been absorbing the daily consequences of an unresolved policy for years. Walter Narine, Head of the Solid Waste Department at the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), reported to Kaieteur News back in 2022 that single-use plastics, such as shopping bags, straws, and disposable food containers, have created an ongoing municipal crisis that echoes the capital’s historic challenges with Styrofoam. Plastics currently make up approximately 6.7 percent of the garbage retrieved daily from the city’s drains, canals, and road corners, clogging drainage infrastructure and heightening flood risks. “This is a major problem because plastic is not expensive and everyone uses and disposes it as they wish,”
Narine noted, adding that clearing garbage piles and clogged waterways costs the Council nearly $18 million every month. Narine noted that while an effective ban on singleuse items could dramatically reduce municipal operational expenses, city authorities cannot act alone. He stressed that a lasting remedy requires central government leadership, political will, and unified execution among the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), municipal councils, and the public. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had originally set 2021 as a target year to begin a systematic phase-out of single-use plastics, conducting consultations with business groups, tourism operators, and private importers. However, the proposed timeline was repeatedly pushed back as officials recognized the
broader economic implications. EPA Executive Director Khemraj Parsram had reportedly told sections of the media that regulators had to step back and re-evaluate their roadmap, drawing on lessons learned from the 2015 Styrofoam ban, where a lack of locally available, affordable alternatives caused widespread disruption. “There was talk about the ban, but we are saying you know what, we just cannot jump to a ban,” Parsram stated, explaining that the government is expanding its search beyond prohibition to focus on comprehensive pollution management and targeted anti-litter enforcement. “We are now really looking at our strategy... once we identify places where we want to address the problem, I do not think we necessarily have to go to a ban, but that can be part and parcel of the long-term strategy.” As part of the search for alternative avenues, the EPA has explored fiscal mechanisms alongside the Ministry of Finance and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). Among the options under consideration are duty-free incentives for businesses that import or manufacture biodegradable substitutes. Wi t h i n t e r n a t i o n a l studies pointing to the environmental hazards of plastic, including chemical leaching, microplastic contamination in marine food chains, and greenhouse gas emissions from polymer production, pressure remains on decision-makers to deliver a cohesive plan.
Tribute to Dolly Hassan
not just saying this. He was never in trouble and had no bad record, nothing of that sort. He was hustling from a young age, roasting fish, selling crab, trying to make a better life. ‘He worked his way to finish school and get his subjects and paid for his courses to be able to work. He was a hard-working person. He played football, ran marathons, partook in everything in the community to make it a better place. It is heartbreaking to know they took someone like that. His family, his mom, everybody is in a bad state. They took someone really genuine away from us,’ she said.
From page 5 to her. Just like how those of us turned to Moses Bhagwan for legal advice in case we were arrested in Guyana for championing democracy, several sought her legal opinion in New York on protests and immigration law. And while practicing law, she continued her pro-democracy advocacy for Guyana. Dolly was among the civic voices emphasizing that true democracy requires adherence to the rule of law, constitutional supremacy, and transparent electoral processes. She was of the view that democracy does not end with free and fair elections. As a democratic activist, Dolly noted that democracy is sustained not only by elections and institutions, but also by citizens who have the courage to speak, participate, question, and defend fundamental freedoms. Her commitment to these values made her a meaningful voice in Guyanese diaspora in America. She has advocated that Guyana’s
newfound economic wealth driven by its booming oil and gas sector must be coupled with robust democratic governance, human rights protections, and equitable social distribution so that ordinary citizens are lifted out of poverty. As Guyana continues to navigate its rapid ascent on the global economic stage, the vigilance of human rights champions like Dr. Dolly Hassan remains as vital as ever. She teaches us that whether one is analyzing literature from the “outside looking in” or fighting for justice from the inside of a courtroom, the pursuit of human dignity, democratic fairness, and social justice is a lifelong, borderless calling. Dr Dolly Hassan will be remembered as a compassionate humanitarian, a committed democratic activist, and an outstanding writer whose life was devoted to democracy, people, principle, and the power of the written word as has been that of a rare few of us in America. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
Monday September 21, 2026
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Kaieteur News
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Monday September 21, 2026
Mohamed alleges political hand behind review of Justice Persaud’s U.S. visa Guyanese businessman Nazar Mohamed issued a public statement on Sunday asserting that the ongoing review of High Court Judge Gino Persaud's United States visa is the result of direct political influence originating at the highest levels of the Guyanese government. Kaieteur News has confirmed that Persaud's visa is under review. However, no reason has been given. In a detailed statement, Mohamed linked the move against Justice Persaud to a wider, two-year political campaign directed against his family following his son Azruddin Mohamed's entry into politics and subsequent election as Leader of the Opposition. According to Mohamed, his family has faced an unprecedented "sustained mobilisation of political power, State resources, media platforms and public officials" over the past two years. He claimed this campaign intensified during the 2025 election season
when top People's Progressive Party (PPP) officials directly targeted his son. Addressing the situation involving Justice Persaud, Mohamed stressed that neither he nor his son has ever had a personal, professional, or commercial relationship with the jurist. "Our only connection is that matters involving our family came before him as a judge of the High Court," Mohamed stated. Justice Persaud had previously delivered legal decisions averse to the State in litigation concerning the Mohamed family, including vehicle-tax disputes involving high-end imported vehicles such as a Lamborghini and a Ferrari. Following those rulings, senior government officials publicly criticised the judge. Commenting on reports that Justice Persaud's U.S. visa is under review, Mohamed stated "I am satisfied from the information available to me that this did not happen by accident and that the intervention originated at the highest level of government.
Nazar Mohamed and son Azruddin Mohamed A clear and direct message is being sent to any judge or magistrate who rules against the Government in matters involving our family that they too may face consequences for doing so." Mohamed outlined several instances which he a rg u e s d e m o n s t r a t e a coordinated attempt by e x e c u t i v e o ff i c i a l s t o undermine his family's public standing and judicial proceedings. Mohamed referenced U.S. public filings showing
that Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm retained by the Government of Guyana, submitted social media drafts to the office of U.S. Congressman Carlos Gimenez linking Azruddin Mohamed to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Gimenez subsequently labeled Azruddin a "proMaduro puppet", an action Mohamed says cost his p a r t y, We I n v e s t i n Nationhood (WIN), significant votes during the 2025 elections.
Mohamed pointed to ongoing public statements made by Attorney General Anil Nandlall on his programme Issues in the News, where Nandlall referred to funds associated with the family as "proceeds of crime money" while legal proceedings remain pending. He noted that three judges of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) previously expressed concern over Nandlall's p u b l i c c o m m e n t a r y, concluding it created a real possibility of apparent bias and breached the constitutional presumption of innocence. Despite judicial scrutiny, Nandlall recently declared publicly that the courts "cannot stop me from making those comments." Mohamed alleged that State media (including NCN and the Guyana Chronicle) and state-aligned pages (such as Live in Guyana, operated with links to political operatives) have routinely published contextstripped and damaging
allegations against his family. Mohamed expressed grave concern over whether his family can receive an impartial trial under the current circumstances, warning that external pressure on the judiciary threatens the foundation of constitutional rights in Guyana. "Judicial independence means that a judge must be able to decide a case based on the law and the evidence, without worrying about who will be angered by the decision or what consequences may follow," Mohamed wrote. "No judge should have to wonder whether ruling against the Government could affect his career, his ability to travel, his reputation or his personal life." He concluded by reaffirming that he and his son will continue to use every lawful avenue available in court, demanding only a fair trial: "Justice is not a favour to my family. It is our constitutional right.”
Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
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PACE AND SPIN There are governments that take a year to get started, governments that take a year to find their feet, and then there is the second Irfaan Ali administration, which seems to have been in office for approximately three years, seven months and a long weekend, even though it has been only one year. At this rate, by the time the Government reaches the end of its term, the citizens may be entitled to claim retirement benefits for having lived through it. The first year has certainly been hectic. There is no denying that a great deal has happened and, more importantly, that a great deal is still happening. Guyana has become a country where you can leave home and when you are returning home in the afternoon wonder whether you are in the same country. By the time the day is over a new road, bridge, school, hospital or building has been erected. That is how fast things are moving. There is also something refreshing about the fact that much of this development is not merely PowerPoint development, which is the kind where a minister stands before a screen and points proudly at an artist’s impression of a building that does not yet exist. There is physical evidence everywhere, with m a s s i v e p u b l i c infrastructure projects underway and a private
sector that is also investing heavily, creating buildings, businesses, jobs and, one hopes, sufficient parking spaces to accommodate the people who will eventually use them. Public services have also improved in important areas, and the opening of hospitals and schools, together with the increase in internationalstandard hotels, represents genuine progress. A country that can expand access to healthcare and education while simultaneously building infrastructure is doing something right. And it would be churlish to deny this merely because one disapproves of the Government. There is also genuine wealth being created, and this is perhaps the most important change taking place beneath all the concrete, asphalt and ribboncutting ceremonies. Guyana is no longer simply redistributing a small pie among people who have been arguing over the same slice for decades; the pie is getting larger, although we have not yet resolved the philosophical question of who gets the cherry. But prosperity has its own peculiar problem, because when a country suddenly becomes rich, everybody begins looking at the money with intensity. This is where the Government’s report card becomes considerably more
complicated, because alongside the achievements are serious allegations concerning the enrichment of some ministers, overpriced contracts and other forms of corruption. These allegations must not be dismissed merely because they are politically inconvenient. What is required is independent investigations and a willingness by the Government to demonstrate that it has nothing to fear from scrutiny. There is another troubling development in the report card. There is the growing perception that state agencies are being weaponised against political opponents and, particularly, against the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party. The Government therefore faces an unusual situation in which the same report card contains both excellent marks and some very worrying comments written in red ink. It would be easy to celebrate the first and insist that the second were written by jealous people who have never learned to appreciate a properly constructed highway, but governments are not schoolchildren and national progress is not a competition for gold stars. The real test of leadership is whether a government can look at its own failures with the same enthusiasm with which it looks at its achievements.
DEM BOYS SEH
Guyanese Becoming Experts at Mental Arithmetic Guyanese people developing a new skill, and is not cricket, football or liming. Is mental arithmetic, because these days yuh cannot walk into a supermarket without doing calculations in yuh head like yuh preparing for CXC Mathematics. Once upon a time yuh used to push a cart through the supermarket and pick up things without worrying too much. Now every item got yuh stopping, squinting at the price tag and asking, “But wait, this was how much last week?” Inflation done turn shopping into an examination. And there is no calculator allowed, because by de time yuh take out yuh phone, yuh already have three more items in the cart and the cashier looking at yuh like yuh holding up the Commonwealth Games. People now calculating de price of every item plus VAT before putting it in de cart. Some shoppers does even calculate what de total would be if dem remove the cheese, the juice and de biscuits. Others reach de cashier and suddenly discover that some groceries have become “luxury items” and quietly send dem back to de shelf. And bora? Lord have mercy!
Bora now reaching $1,000 for a few strings. A few years ago yuh could buy bora and still have change for a drink. Today yuh does look at a bundle of bora and wonder whether it was grown in a greenhouse at ExxonMobil. At this rate, market vendors gon’ need security guards, because people gon’ start asking for bora on hire purchase. The frightening thing is that yuh can spend thousands of dollars and still come home with a bag that looking like yuh only went to buy toothpaste. The supermarket cashier used to say, “Anything else?” Now yuh does answer, “No, please. I done risk enough.” Inflation has made Guyanese into financial strategists. We comparing brands, calculating unit prices, mentally adding VAT and deciding whether we really need the thing we just picked up. We have become experts at mental arithmetic. The only problem is that the answer always does come out the same: “Put that back.” Talk Half! Leff Half!
This is particularly important with electricity, where Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy is producing demand that is placing extraordinary pressure on the system, resulting in increasingly frequent outages. There is also the less glamorous but more fundamental question of poverty, which has somehow managed to survive the arrival of billions of dollars in oil revenues. Infrastructure is important, hospitals are important and schools are important, but economic growth becomes meaningful only when it changes the lives of people who whose names are unlikely ever to be engraved on a plaque. Guyana therefore needs an anti-poverty strategy that is as ambitious as its
infrastructure programme, because building a bridge to somewhere is not much consolation to the family that cannot afford the bus fare to cross it. The Government must ask whether enough of the new wealth is reaching the poorest households through better incomes, skills, housing, healthcare, nutrition and opportunities for upward mobility. So, after one year, the report card is decidedly chequered. There are excellent grades for infrastructure and important improvements in public services, but there are also some serious questions about corruption, political conduct, electricity and poverty. The Ali administration deserves credit for what it has built and the pace at which it has
managed to do so. But it should also understand that concrete cannot cover every crack in the foundations. The greatest danger facing a Government that has accomplished much is not criticism from its opponents; it is the temptation to believe its own advertisements, because the moment a government stops examining itself is usually the moment somebody else begins doing it for them and usually with a much less flattering pen. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Kaieteur News
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HAR
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BY G
LALL
Monday September 21, 2026
H@RD TRUTHS
Visa review
Haven't heard that one in a long time. Visa review. Certainly not for a sitting judge of Guyana's Court. All that is known right now, is that Guyana's High Court Justice Gino Persaud U.S. visa is under review. He found this out in the worst way. Seemingly, at the point of travel to Jamaica via the U.S. If the intent was to send a cold warning to other travelers from Guyana's justice system and its legal professionals, there was that chilling effect. For now, all I have is a handful of questions. I think they have bearing, particularly when the temperature of the local environment is taken. Where did this “visa review” development originate from: official Guyana or the U.S? It has to be one of the two places, which then raises a next question. What are the grounds for Justice Persaud's
“visa review”? Before proceeding, I clear the air. A U.S. visa is a benefit, not an entitlement. It can be rescinded without any reason given, other than bland, vague sections of U.S. law cited. Did his judicial rulings send some powerful people here or in the U.S. crazy? That is, those decisions interfered with some carefully laid plans and timelines. Did one particular ruling involving one group of Guyanese make him into a marked man? Is he seen as too independent? Is this a move to get rid of him, i.e., off the bench, and out of sensitive people's hair? Whatever the answers to those questions, I have this to say. I have known Gino Persaud since my first months back in Guyana. There was some sharing.
Unfortunately, there was a parting that has lasted several years. Perhaps, that's better for both of us. But this I will say in public, and for the record. Gino Persaud is a jurist of caliber, is a person of integrity, and is one who I believe has been true to his profession, and the callings of his current role. Whatever this “visa review” means, it is where I stand. In view of his place in the hierarchy of Guyanese society, it is surprising that he had to find out about this U.S. “visa review” development and the abrupt (embarrassing) curtailment of his travels in the way he did. How difficult could it have been for the U.S. Consulate to communicate to Justice Persaud that this is where his visa position stands. I think he was owed that courtesy. If the objective was to
bring to a halt and then wring the knife, success has been recorded in both instances. Casting my eyes outside of Guyana, I note that in Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o , several opponents of the government have had their U.S. visa cancelled. The Trinidadian Government has cultivated close ties with the U.S. and is looked upon by Washington as a friend, if not a reliable ally. Were there such official overtures, or influence brought to bear, from Trinidad, that contributed to the yanking of those visas for Tr i n i d a d ' s o p p o s i t i o n members? More pointedly, is there such a situation here in Guyana, where there is a tight country-to-country bond? In asking these questions, I remind Guyanese of the real world. Today's governments are in the business of staying in
$100M Guyana Development Bank to target small businesses, unlock new financing President Irfaan Ali says the Guyana Development Bank (GDB) will go beyond issuing loans, promising to provide entrepreneurs with mentorship, technical support and market access as Government prepares to launch the institution on October 5. A l i m a d e t h e announcement Sunday during discussions with senior banking and privatesector representatives, entrepreneurs and community advocates on how the new bank could help turn small business ideas into viable and sustainable enterprises, the Department of Public Information (DPI reported. The GDB is expected to begin operations with US$100 million in initial capital, with eligible borrowers able to access financing of up to G$3 million, including zerointerest and zero-collateral loans. “This is not a grant. This is your opportunity to earn. This is your opportunity to pay back. This is an opportunity to build your credit,” Ali said. He said the bank will target entrepreneurs at the grassroots level, including those in hinterland and riverine communities, with opportunities spanning
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali agriculture, agroprocessing, tourism, manufacturing, services and technology. According to Ali, applicants will not simply receive financing. They will be helped to refine business ideas, prepare proposals, access technical expertise and connect with existing Government programmes and markets. He said the model is intended to help small operators move away from fragmented production and form larger, more efficient enterprises. Ali cited agriculture as one area where groups of farmers, single mothers and young entrepreneurs could pool resources, access modern infrastructure and technical assistance, and increase production. “The whole intention is to use this opportunity to build something that is long lasting, strategic, strong, and of course, is not in
competition at all with the commercial banks. This is really to unlock more financing,” he said. The President also highlighted the potential for small businesses to supply larger companies, while developing Guyanese brands for the domestic, regional and international markets. Opportunities identified during the discussions included community-based tourism, information technology, food processing, high-value agriculture, poultry production, dragon fruit farming, eco-lodges and packaged Guyanese food products. Ali said the development of businesses that can expand beyond individual operators will be critical to the bank's success. He also stressed financial literacy and responsible financial management, arguing that entrepreneurs must be able
to manage income and build sustainable businesses once they begin generating profits. “It's economic transformation. Financial empowerment. It's about widening the depth of income, adding more disposable income in your pocket, helping in the diversification of our economy and building the grassroots aspect of the economy stronger,” Ali said. Under a planned cofinancing arrangement, successful GDB borrowers could eventually access up to G$7 million in additional financing from commercial banks at favourable interest rates. The institution is also expected to facilitate business consortia, allowing entrepreneurs to pool resources, specialise and share risks. Ali said the initiative will require collaboration among commercial banks, established businesses, mentors, technical professionals and community leaders. The October 5 launch will mark the formal introduction of the development bank as Government seeks to widen access to financing and bring more small businesses into Guyana's expanding economy.
BY GHK LALL
business. The U.S. government is all about business for itself and its people. In sum, whatever the country, whosoever the leader, interests more often that not (if not always) come out ahead of ideals. The visions and emphases are less on what should be done for all their grand outcomes, and more of what must be, if only to keep oneself in the seat of power, and helping self while at the helm. If this visa review holds for a sitting judge with a solid reputation. Where
does that leave the regular man, or anyone, should he or she cross the wrong parties in Georgetown or Washington? As said, a chilling message is sent. Don't mess with us. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Guyana marks 60 years of UN membership, reaffirms commitment to multilateralism Guyana on Sunday marked 60 years as a member of the United Nations, reaffirming its commitment to multilateralism, international law, peace and the principles of the UN Charter. On September 20, 1966, during the 21st session of the UN General Assembly, Guyana was admitted as a Member State by acclamation, months after gaining independence. In a statement government said, Guyana a newly independent nation at the time expressed its determination to be “an active rather than a sleeping member” of the international organisation. The Government said that commitment has remained a defining feature of Guyana's foreign policy, with the country playing an active role in issues ranging from decolonisation and apartheid to disarmament, development, human rights and climate change. From the early years of its UN membership, Guyana was entrusted with leadership responsibilities, including membership of the Council for Namibia, which was tasked with completing the decolonisation process in that territory. Guyana has also served in several major UN organs, including the Security Council, General Assembly and Economic and Social Council. Guyanese representatives have also served on the International Court of Justice, the Human Rights Committee and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women. The country has twice chaired the Group of 77 and China, the main grouping of developing countries at the United Nations. The Government said Guyana has consistently advocated for sovereign equality, self-determination, peaceful settlement of disputes and people-centred development, while also championing international action on climate change. As Guyana observes its 60th year of UN membership, the country has nominated former Foreign Affairs Minister and Ambassador to the United Nations, Carolyn RodriguesBirkett, for the position of UN Secretary-General. The Government described the nomination as a demonstration of Guyana's continued belief in the UN and its ideals, as well as the principle that all member states, regardless of size, should have equal opportunities to serve the organisation. Guyana also expressed appreciation for the support provided by the United Nations and its country team in advancing peace, development and democracy. The Government said it remains committed to the UN Charter and international law and will continue to work with the organisation in the global pursuit of peace and prosperity.
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 L B U . B . . L . . . T B T . . N . N T U Hiding behind L N LU B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U sanctity of contract . . 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 Monday September 21, 2026
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The sanctity of contract argument has become a convenient shield for avoiding the question: why is the Government unwilling to ask Exxon, Chevron and CNOOC to renegotiate the 2016 Stabroek Block agreement? Renegotiation is not repudiation. The agreement now defended as sacrosanct replaced an earlier petroleum agreement, while its terms were subsequently amended.
That history demonstrates that contractual arrangements can change by mutual consent. President Irfaan Ali has repeatedly acknowledged that the 2016 deal is unfavourable to Guyana, yet continues to suggest that “sanctity of contract” closes the door. It does not prevent Government from making a request.The Administration should put its proposals in writing, approach contractors and publish the responses. If the companies refuse, Guyanese would know. Until then, warnings that they might walk away remain speculation. Government must distinguish legal constraint from choice. Guyanese deserve that clarity.
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Monday September 21, 2026
Kaieteur News A LIAT flight was forced to return to the CJIA on Sunday due to engine problems
EU Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni briefing participants
LIAT flight turns EU bicycle tour pedals for back to CJIA after engine issue greener, healthier Georgetown A LIAT aircraft bound for Antigua was forced to turn back to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Sunday after the pilot reported an engine-related issue about 30 minutes into the flight. L I AT F l i g h t 5 L 7 7 0 departed CJIA at 11:55 a.m. for Antigua, but at approximately 12:25 p.m., the pilot notified the Control Tower that the aircraft would be returning to Guyana due to the reported engine issue, the CJUIA said in a press release. E m e rg e n c y s e r v i c e s ,
including the Guyana Fire Service, were immediately alerted and placed on standby as the aircraft made its way back to the airport. The aircraft subsequently landed safely at CJIA, with all 47 passengers disembarking without incident. The aircraft remained at the airport as LIAT's technical team assessed the problem and worked to determine the necessary repairs.The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and CJIA said they were working closely with LIAT on the matter.
The Delegation of the European Union to Guyana on Sunday hosted the 4th European Union Bicycle Tour of Georgetown bringing cyclists and other non-motorised road users together for an early-morning tour through the capital. The tour rolled off just after 06:00hrs from the Vlissengen Road entrance of the Botanical Gardens and was open to participants with bicycles, roller skates and foot scooters, the EU Delegation said in a press release. Participants included Ministers, Priya
Manickchand and Susan Rodrigues, members of the Guyana Cycling Federation and the City Constabulary. In brief remarks EU Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni, highlighted that, cycling is a great way to ease traffic, improve health, spend time outdoors, and perhaps even combine morning exercise with the daily commute. He also thanked the European Chamber of Commerce Guyana and Blue Spring Water for co-sponsoring the event.
Now in its fourth edition, the EU Bicycle Tour promotes healthy lifestyles, sustainable mobility and environmentally friendly transportation, while providing an opportunity for participants to experience Georgetown from a different perspective. The EU Delegation expresses its sincere thanks to the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department for providing support along the route that helped ensure a safe and smooth experience for participants.
Bikers getting ready for a ride through Georgetown
Monday September 21, 2026
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Chile's Bachelet drops out of UN race ...as Carolyn Rodrigues slips to second in latest straw poll G E N E VA , S e p t 2 0 (Reuters) - Former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet announced on Saturday that she is withdrawing her candidacy to become the next secretary-general of the Nations, ending a bid that had struggled to gain traction among Security Council members. Bachelet, 74, announced her decision in a video posted on Instagram, saying, "I will now continue, with the same determination as always, my international work." The Misinformation Monitor newsletter rounds up international misinformation narratives, with a "Real or Fake?" quiz in every edition. Sign up here. The two-time Chilean president and former UN human rights chief had positioned h er campaign around defending multilateralism and international law at a time she said both were under sustained pressure. Bachelet's exit leaves seven candidates in the race to succeed Secretary-General António Guterres, who will conclude his second five-year term December 31, 2026. It is still possible for more candidates to enter the contest. Her withdrawal comes just a day after a third informal straw poll, held Friday, showed her support had all but collapsed. The same poll put Costa Rica's Rebeca Grynspan in the lead with Guyanese Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett at second. According to Reuters the third secret poll by the 15-member Security Council came ahead of the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations in New York next week. The first poll in July showed Grynspan narrowly ahead and the second vote last month placed Guyana's UN Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett in the top spot. Eight candidates are vying to succeed Antonio Guterres, who steps down at the end of this year after two five-year terms. It is still possible for more candidates to enter the race. Richard Gowan, director of global issues and institutions at the International Crisis Group, said neither Grynspan nor Rodrigues Birkett seem to be able to make a decisive breakthrough and “it is time for some of the weaker candidates to bow out of the race.” “I think these figures
Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett may encourage any additional candidates who are waiting in the wings to jump into the race quite soon,” said Gowan. Ultimately the five Security Council veto powers the United States, China, Russia, France and Britain need to agree on a candidate. When Guterres was chosen in 2016, it took six straw polls for the Security Council to reach agreement. The UN Security Council will eventually formally recommend a candidate to the 193-member General Assembly for election. The approval by the assembly has long been seen as a rubber stamp. FRIDAY'S NUMBERS In the Council straw polls, which are expected to continue for several more rounds, Security Council members are asked on secret ballots if they “encourage,” “discourage” or have “no opinion” on candidates. Grynspan received nine encourage, five discourage and one no opinion and Rodrigues Birkett received eight encourage, six discourage and one no opinion, diplomats and sources close to the process said. In the more than 80-year history of the United Nations there has never been a female secretary-general. Uganda's Olara Otunnu, a diplomat and former U.N. under-secretary general, received five encourage, seven discourage and three no opinion; Argentina's Rafael Grossi, the high-profile director general of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, received five encourage, eight discourage and two no opinion; while Senegal's former president Macky Sall received five encourage, nine discourage and one no opinion.
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Monday September 21, 2026
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UG Chancellor calls grades delay 'completely unacceptable'
Chancellor of the University of Guyana (UG), Sir Ronald Sanders
...urges action to ensure students don't suffer The Chancellor of the University of Guyana (UG), Sir Ronald Sanders, has apologised to students affected by the prolonged delay in the release of grades for Criminal Law I and II for the 2024/2025 academic year, declaring that the situation is “completely unacceptable.” The delayed results have reportedly caused anxiety and uncertainty for students, particularly those seeking admission to regional law schools or requiring complete academic records for academic and professional purposes. Sir Ronald said the matter was brought to his attention by the President of the University of Guyana Students' Society on September 17, 2026. He said he immediately referred the complaint to Chairman of the Transitional M a n a g e m e n t Te a m , Professor Stafford Griffith, and ordered an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the outstanding grades. However, after being informed that the matter had only been partially addressed by the September 18 deadline, the Chancellor issued further directives to t h e U n i v e r s i t y administration. Among other things, he instructed that all affected students be identified and informed of the status of their grades and the steps being taken to resolve the matter. He also ordered that
urgent measures be put in place to ensure that no student suffers academic or professional disadvantage because of the University's delay. Sir Ronald said he was alarmed to learn that, despite some action being taken by September 18, the issue remained unresolved and some students had still not received their grades. The Chancellor has specifically directed the Registrar and Examinations Division to communicate candidly with affected students, stressing that the marking of examination scripts or submission of mark sheets must not be confused with the official release of approved grades. Where students face imminent application or admission deadlines, the University is expected to provide certified explanatory letters, interim academic documentation or direct confirmation to the Council of Legal Education and relevant law schools. The University will also consider exceptional measures, through the appropriate academic authorities, to prevent students from being prejudiced by circumstances beyond their control. Beyond resolving the immediate crisis, Sir Ronald h a s o r d e r e d a n administrative review into why the grades remained outstanding for such an extended period, why earlier assurances were not fulfilled
and what changes are needed to prevent a recurrence. The Registrar will also be required to determine whether similarly outstanding grades exist elsewhere at the University and report the findings to the Transitional Management Te a m a n d U n i v e r s i t y Council. Sir Ronald said the University's immediate responsibility is to complete the outstanding academic processes, protect affected students and provide accurate information. He said the institution must also establish accountability for the failure and strengthen the systems governing the submission, approval and release of examination results. In an anonymous letter to the press one of the affected students complained about the continued failure of the university to release outstanding grades. “The class of some 100 students (it is likely much more, as there are students who had to resit exams) sat our first examination for this course on December 2, 2024. On October 1, 2025 ten months later a letter was published in the Stabroek News highlighting the unacceptable delay in the release of our Criminal Law I and II grades. The very next d a y, t h e u n i v e r s i t y r e s p o n d e d p u b l i c l y, acknowledging the delay as "regrettable" and assuring the student body that the outstanding grades would be
released "within the next week." That was over eleven months ago. Today, nearly twenty-two months after we sat that first exam, students still have no clear information on the status of those grades, no revised timeline, and no explanation beyond a promise that was never kept,” the student wrote in the latest letter. “This is no longer a minor administrative hiccup,” the staudent continued.” “It is a matter of real consequence for real students. Final-year LLB candidates are, in the coming months, expected to submit applications to regional law schools such as the Hugh Wooding Law School. Incomplete or unverifiable transcripts at this stage put our applications, and by extension their entire professional trajectories, at risk. And the problem is not confined to my graduating class; second-year students, too, remain in limbo over these same grades, with no indication of when or whether that will change. I suspect this issue affects a similar number of year-two students, bringing the total affected students to well over 200.” Compounding the issue, the student said is the university's own resit policy. “Students who are found to have failed a course may resit, but are capped at a maximum grade of C regardless of their actual performance on the resit. For students who are managing
this alongside a full course load and, in many cases, fullor part-time employment, that policy raises serious questions of fairness particularly when the delay is entirely of the university's own making. It is one thing to ask students to accept a capped grade after a fair and timely process; it is another to ask them to accept it after years of institutional silence,” the student noted. The student said that there was a moment, at the start of this semester, when it seemed the university might finally engage with the problem. “The new Head of the Department of Law, Prof. Courtney Abel, met with students and was directly asked about the status of the missing grades. Prof. Abel admitted he was not aware of the outstanding grades and promised to look into the matter and report back to the class. That was the last students heard of it. No update has followed. I do not doubt that individual staff members within the department are acting in
good faith. But good faith from individuals cannot substitute for institutional accountability. Students affected by this delay across two cohorts now deserve more than vague assurances. They deserve a specific date for release of these grades, a clear explanation of what has caused a year-long delay on top of already-broken promises, and a commitment to communicate proactively rather than waiting to be asked, yet again, in the pages of a media entity.” According to the student, the university has, in the past, pointed to the achievements of its law graduates as reassurance of its standards. “Those achievements are not in question. What is in question is whether current students many of whom are now preparing to apply to law school themselves can trust the institution to meet its own basic administrative obligations. On the evidence of the past year, that trust has not been earned,” the letter ended.
Guyana targets stronger youth participation in expanding natural resources sector As Guyana's natural resources sector continues to expand, the government is placing greater emphasis on preparing young Guyanese with the technical and scientific skills needed to occupy emerging employment and leadership opportunities across the industry. Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat said developing a new generation of skilled Guyanese is critical to ensuring that nationals are positioned to manage and participate meaningfully in the country's expanding oil and gas, mining and forestry sectors. During an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) last Wednesday, Minister Bharrat said he intends to place greater focus on encouraging secondary school students to consider careers in science, technology and technical disciplines. He noted that many (Continued on page 16)
Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat with the batch of Youth in Natural Resources Apprenticeship Program 2026
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Largest attack on Moscow sees Ukraine fire hundreds of drones, mayor says (BBC NEWS) Ukraine has fired its largest drone attack on the Moscow region, the mayor has said, hitting the city’s main oil refinery and a residential building. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said 450 drones heading for the capital had been shot down in what he called “the most massive” attack. The region’s governor
said at least two people were killed and 20 injured. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Kyiv had hit a “key” Russian oil facility and a logistics site in the region with drones and missiles, representing “billions of dollars that sustain the war machine”.
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A building in the Moscow region early on Sunday, which Russian officials said had been hit by a Ukrainian drone strike. aggression and supply its military formations”. Sobyanin said the major attack was “an attempt to disrupt” Russia’s parliamentary election, which was in its third day on Sunday. The vote is tightly controlled by the Kremlin and has been dismissed by critics as neither free, fair nor transparent. Russian state media reported that an election official was one of two people killed by a drone attack on a bus in a Moscow-controlled part of Kherson in Ukraine on Sunday, citing the head of Russia’s election commission. Meanwhile, Moscow’s biggest airport Sheremetyevo warned passengers “temporary restrictions” were in place overnight, while at the capital’s Vnukovo airport
all arrivals and departures were halted. Restrictions at both airports were lifted by Sunday morning but each warned some flights may still be delayed. It comes after a mother and her two small children, a boy and a girl, were killed in a Russian attack in the city of Fastiv, Kyiv on Saturday, according to regional head Tymur Tkachenko. He later said a child injured in a separate attack in Vyshhorod, north of Kyiv, had also died in hospital. In the north-eastern Sumy region, four people were killed when a Russian drone hit the car they were travelling in, top local official Oleh Hryhorov said. Russia also struck a monastery in the Kherson region with a drone on Saturday, Zelensky said,
killing one member of the clergy and injuring four others. Both Russia and Ukraine have continued to hit energy infrastructure targets in the past week, despite US President Donald Trump claiming on social media that the two sides had agreed not to do so. Trump signed a sanctions bill on Friday that targets Russia’s economy by implementing tariffs on the biggest buyers of the country’s oil and gas which include China and India. The US legislation gives the US president powers to impose 100% tariffs on major purchasers of Russian energy. Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a fullscale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
40 Guyanese graduate from BIT skills training... From page 11 am looking forward to gaining experience and learning the trade.” Ramdial encouraged other young people to take advantage of opportunities to discover careers that align with their interests. “Make a start. There is always something out there that you can find that you will enjoy working on. I always say to look for a job that is also your hobby.” Facilitator of the Automotive Electrical programme, Amar Ram, said the four-month experience went beyond technical instruction, as he and his students developed a strong
relationship built on mutual respect and support. “These are individuals who started out as students, but very soon into their programme, we became a family. Very respectful, very smart. So that was a big encouragement to me as a facilitator,” Ram shared. Ram said the programme is also focused on developing qualities that can help graduates transition successfully into the workplace, including character development, personal wellness, mentorship and preparation for employment. He explained that his commitment to
helping graduates secure employment stems from his own experience of receiving support early in his life and his desire to extend that investment to another generation. “We not only train, mentor, discipline, we also advocate for them. I actually go to employers and market these bright talents and begin some communication.” According to Ram, several graduates are already employed, while others are being connected with potential employers and prepared for job interviews, with three expected to be interviewed by a local
business in the coming week. He encouraged young people to recognise their potential, set achievable goals and take responsibility for their development. “Each one of us has God-given potential within us. Do careful selfevaluation. Don’t look at others as an excuse for not getting up and getting it. Set one small goal, devise a strategy to accomplish that one goal, and give yourself a timeline.” The graduation represents another step in efforts to equip Guyanese with practical, industryrelevant skills while opening pathways. (DPI)
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Ukrainian officials meanwhile said nine people, including three children, had been killed in Russian attacks in the Kyiv and Sumy regions on Saturday. Russia and Ukraine have recently intensified their strikes, targeting energy-generating and transport facilities, as well as major logistics hubs. A 44-year-old woman was killed in Sofyino on Sunday after a drone hit a three-storey residential building, regional head Andrei Vorobyev said. Another five people including two children - were injured. An elderly man died after a private house was hit in the Orekhovo-Zuevo district, Governor Andrei Vorobyev added. Videos verified by the BBC on social media show explosions in the night skies above Moscow, and a burning warehouse. Mayor Sobyanin said a drone had struck a building near one of the capital’s boulevards and the oil refinery - where Ukrainian military officials said three key units had been damaged. The site supplies more than a third of the Moscow region’s fuel, according to the defence ministry in Kyiv, and some of its petrol, diesel and aviation fuel go to Russia’s military. Ukraine’s defence minister said attacking such facilities “directly undermines the enemy’s ability to continue its war of
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From page 15 students traditionally gravitate towards business, accounting and the arts, while technical and science streams are sometimes viewed as more difficult. “If we don’t address this problem now, we won’t have much young people who are qualified to work in the natural resources sector moving forward,” Minister Bharrat said. He said the expansion of the sector will require Guyanese with specialised qualifications who can take on increasingly technical responsibilities and eventually assume leadership positions. He said a programme is being planned to take the conversation directly into secondary schools, allowing
students to gain greater awareness of the career opportunities available within the natural resources sector. Minister Bharrat, who has a background in education, said his experience has reinforced the importance of exposing young people to opportunities early and challenging misconceptions surrounding technical and scientific careers. He said the objective is not simply to increase employment, but to develop the human capital necessary to sustain Guyana’s transformation over the long term. “I would like to see a lot more young people coming into the sector,” he said, adding that young Guyanese must be encouraged to educate and certify themselves to take up employment and leadership roles. (DPI)
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Monday September 21, 2026
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PM warns: I won’t hesitate to call another SoE ...hits back at PNM, critics of Special Operations Bill (TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar has warned that she will not hesitate to declare another State of Emergency (SoE) if serious threats to the safety and security of citizens re-emerge. The SoE ended at midnight on Thursday, following several months of emergency measures aimed at tackling serious crime and gang activity. Since the UNC-led Government came into office in April 2025, two states of emergency have been declared. The first was declared on July 18, 2025, taking effect just after midnight. It was subsequently extended twice before ending on January 31, 2026. A second SoE was declared on March 3, 2026, following what the Government described as credible threats of attacks against law enforcement officers. Persad-Bissessar ’s latest warning came after the House of Representatives passed the Special Operations Bill early yesterday morning. The legislation
establishes seven policing districts across Trinidad and Tobago and creates a framework for special operations to combat criminal activity. Within those districts, specific locations can be declared “closed areas,” where enhanced law enforcement powers can be exercised for limited periods. Persad-Bissessar said the legislation will next be considered by the Senate and is expected to be passed without amendments. The Prime Minister said the recently concluded SoE had resulted in 3,552 people being charged, which she described as a highly successful operation. She said the passage of the Special Operations Bill would provide another mechanism to deal with threats to national security, but stressed that her Government would be prepared to invoke emergency powers if necessary. “However, if serious threats to the safety and security of citizens re-emerge, I will not hesitate to put the country under another SoE,”
she said. Persad-Bissessar also issued a direct warning to criminal gangs and the illegal drug trade, saying those involved in violent crime could again face detention at facilities including Teteron and the Maximum Security Prison (MSP). “I want the local drug mafia and the violent gangs to understand clearly that the cells at Teteron and MSP await again if you continue your criminal behaviour,” she said. She accused criminal elements of having “tortured and terrorised” law-abiding citizens for three decades and said this situation must come to an end. The Prime Minister also sharply criticised the Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM), along with commentators and other groups who have raised concerns about the Special Operations Bill. Speaking to Guardian Media earlier in the day after the PNM criticised the legislation, PersadBissessar accused the Opposition of siding with criminal interests. “The PNM wants a criminal state so the Westmoorings, Federation
Park, St Clair and other gangs can flood communities with illegal drugs and guns. The PNM acts like a mouthpiece for drug traffickers and criminals in and out Parliament,” she said. “They have no care for the suffering of their own supporters. Law-abiding citizens support the Special Operations Bill. I’m not bothered about the complaints from drug lords and their minions.” Persad-Bissessar also doubled down on her criticism of the Independent Senators. This comes after she claimed in January that two Independent Senators sought personal favours in exchange for supporting the ZOSO Bill. While she did not identify them by name, she said the identities of the two senators were known throughout the Senate and strongly criticised their motives. “The entire Senate knows who the two persons are. They both have become laughingstocks in the Senate. The bill will pass in the Senate next week without amendments,” she said. “If the
Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar President’s senators want to dictate legislation, they should fight elections to earn that right. I have no regard for those deadbeats. They’re only there for selfpromotion and advancement of their scummy personal ambitions.” Persad-Bissessar said her administration would continue to act in what it considers to be the best interests of citizens. “My Government will continue to work in the best interests of our citizens,” she said.
CDB-Supported Water Project to Strengthen Climate Resilience in Saint Lucia 18 September 2026 CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA: The Government of Saint Lucia and the Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO), together with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB / the Bank), Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the Government of Italy, have officially launched Ninth Water (John Compton Dam Raw Water Pipeline Replacement) Project (NWP). This initiative, financed through a US$22.83 million partnership package, serves as a transformative initiative to improve the reliability of WASCO’s water supply by reducing the risk of disruptions due to leakages and pipeline failure. Upon completion of the project, it is envisioned that potable water supply will improve, accompanied by reduced water outages. The NWP will replace and upgrade five kilometres of aging pipeline between the Millet and Vanard pumping stations. Service delivery to over 58% of WA S C O ’ s c u s t o m e r accounts is expected to be improved, impacting homes and economic activity including the tourism sector. Ultimately, more than 56,000 residential and
Officials at the launch of the project commercial customers are expected to benefit from improvements delivered through the project. “This project is an important investment for CDB. It will advance Saint Lucia’s water security and resilience by modernising critical infrastructure to better protect communities and economic activity from future climate risks, while helping to secure resilient and sustainable water services for generations to come,” said Mr. Cavon White, Portfolio Manager, Economic Infrastructure Division, CDB. “Let me put this project in clear terms. It is about people. It means fewer dry
mornings in Castries and fewer nights for families in the north not knowing if their taps will run in the morning,” said the Honourable Keithson Charles, Minister of Physical Development and Public Utilities, Saint Lucia. “Infrastructural projects like this one are not abstract engineering exercises, as much as they are real demonstrations of care for our people,” said the Honourable Dr. Shanda Lee Harracksingh, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and representative of the Honourable Philip J. Pierre, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Constituency Development,
People Empowerment, Justice and National Security. “Projects of this scale are not undertaken simply to solve the problem in front of us. They are investments in the Saint Lucia we expect to become, in the communities that will grow, the businesses that will be established and the generations that will depend on it long after those of us gathered here have moved on,” said Mrs. Zilta George, Chief Executive Officer, WASCO. The investment will improve transmission reliability, cut service interruptions and water losses, boost WASCO’s
operational efficiency, and strengthen network management through bulk meters and a modern Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for real-time monitoring. The NWP reflects the value of collaboration and builds on CDB’s decadeslong partnership with Saint Lucia’s water sector by combining financing, technical expertise and implementation support. It also advances Saint Lucia’s goals for climate adaptation, sustainable development and longt e r m w a t e r s e c u r i t y, marking an important step towards a more resilient,
modern water system, and a safer, more reliable supply for the people and communities who depend on it every day. The project’s financing package comprises US$10.69 million from CDB’s Ordinary Capital Resources, US$5 million from AFD through CDB’s Second Credit Facility, US$5 million from CDB’s Special Development Fund (SDF 10), and EUR2.01 million (approximately US$2.14 million) from the Government of Italy. The Government of Saint Lucia and WASCO are providing the remaining US$7.16 million in counterpart funding.
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Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
Iran and U.S. trade threats after Houthi attacks escalate regional conflict DUBAI/WASHINGTON, Sept 20 (Reuters) - Iran and the United States exchanged new threats on Sunday, with President Donald Trump warning Iran would fail economically or face its leadership being wiped out if it didn’t make a deal, and the Iranian military saying it would retaliate harshly to any fresh attack. The conflict has looked stalemated for months, with no sign either side was ready for concessions even as it has deepened a global energy crisis, cratered swathes of Iran’s economy and spilled over into new regional escalations. In a phone call with a Fox News reporter, Trump said Iran’s leaders should make a deal, rot economically or be wiped out, the reporter said. However, with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian expected in New York this week for the United Nations General Assembly, Trump said he would be open to meeting him, the Fox reporter added. Trump has repeatedly made vague threats of major military escalations during the conflict that began with US and Israeli strikes on February 28, without carrying them out. Earlier, Iran’s military central command said any new attack would trigger sustained retaliation against US bases and interests and that Washington’s regional allies would be considered parties to the conflict. The Iranian military added that it had information that an attack was being prepared, without elaborating on what that information might be. HOUTHIS TARGET RIYADH
Members of Iranian militia forces (Basij) attend a military march in Tehran, Iran, September 18, 2026. US Gulf allies have already been badly scarred by a war that the US and Israel launched with no warning, bringing their cities under Iranian fire and hammering their economies with the crucial Strait of Hormuz waterway blockaded. On Saturday their predicament worsened further, with Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi group launching missile and drone strikes at the Saudi capital after having made sudden military gains in Yemen’s reignited civil war earlier this month.
Reuters video showed a massive plume of black smoke billowing from the area of Riyadh’s main international airport following booms . The US State Department issued a security alert citing the Houthi hostilities. It said there was potential for unforeseen escalation in the Middle East, and Americans should exercise more vigilance and be aware of possible flight cancellations and airspace closures. Saudi Arabia did not comment on the
incident, though a Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthis said it had foiled other attacks on the kingdom. Recent escalation by the Houthis has forced Riyadh into a painful dilemma: continue airstrikes on the group to stop it seizing more Yemeni territory or step back in the hopes of averting drone strikes on critical ‘infrastructure. ENERGY EXPORTS BLOCKADED The Houthi gains along the coast mean the group’s forces now sit on the Bab elMandeb Strait, giving them easier control over shipping travelling between the Red Sea and Asia and the ability to blockade the crucial waterway. With Iran already having blockaded most shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, the oil-rich Gulf’s energy exports are now almost entirely cut off from global markets, adding to pressure on oil prices. A US blockade of Iranian ports is meanwhile stopping Iran from selling its own oil, contributing to major problems in the Islamic Republic’s economy. Despite the economic damage, there is little sign of a return to the interim ceasefire agreement that was struck in June but fell apart in July amid disputes over its terms. Iran reiterated on Sunday that it would not reopen the Strait of Hormuz until the terms of that June agreement, as it interpreted them, were met. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Iran would have to keep on fighting as well as negotiating, to push back its enemies and to consolidate any gains with diplomacy.
AfD leads as Merz rues ‘disaster’ in worst state election result in postwar Germany SCHWERIN/BERLIN, Germany, Sept 20 (Reuters) - The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) took first place in state elections in northeastern Germany on Sunday, voting projections showed, delivering the worst result for Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s mainstream conservative party since 1949. “It’s a disaster,” Merz said after exit polls were published, although he signalled he would fight on as chancellor and continue his reform agenda after speculation that a bad result could prompt him to resign. The AfD was set to win 38.3% in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, ahead of the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) at 35.4%, according to projections on ARD public television. Both parties were far ahead of Merz’s conservatives, who at the latest count had fallen to 4.9%, below the 5% threshold needed to enter the state parliament and indicating they may be excluded altogether. Sunday’s result has given the AfD its second top-place finish this month at the state level. The party leads in national opinion polls but has been kept from power by the other main parties’ refusal to work with it. In another election on Sunday in the capital Berlin, the far-left Linke party was at 25.3% while the vote share of Merz’s conservatives, who currently govern the state in a coalition with the Social Democrats, tumbled to 19%. The AfD also gained in strength in the typically liberal city, hitting 16.3%. It is the first time Linke has topped polls in the state, where it wants to nationalise housing from corporate landlords and cap rents.
MERZ VOWS TO CONTINUE WITH REFORMS Sunday’s results may not prove a knockout blow for Merz, but his low approval ratings, unpopular reforms and the triumph of the AfD in an earlier state election in SaxonyAnhalt have left his future in the balance. “It will now become even more difficult for the federal government to muster the courage and political support for a fundamental reform programme,” Marcel Fratzscher, president of the Berlin-based DIW research institute, told Reuters. If the ruling coalition parties stick to their red lines, he said, “political paralysis will become entrenched, economic weakness will persist, and the likelihood of an AfD election victory in 2029 will rise further.” The SPD’s popular state premier in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Manuela Schwesig, had climbed in the polls ahead of Sunday’s vote by openly criticising both the AfD and the Merz-led federal government’s reforms. Schwesig also said the AfD had won votes by criticising Germany’s support for Ukraine. She had supported the Nord Stream pipelines carrying Russian gas through her Baltic Sea coast state into Germany before they were blown up in 2022, but later changed her position. But Merz instead doubled down on a reform agenda he says will revive sluggish growth in Europe’s largest economy. “What needs to be done now requires backbone, steadfastness, and patience,” he said. “I would go so far as to say that these reforms are the antidote to the authoritarian poison that is
People walk near election signs for Christian Democratic Union (CDU) top candidate Stefan Evers and Die Linke (the Left) top candidate Elif Eralp, ahead of state elections in Berlin, Germany, September 19, 2026. penetrating ever deeper into our society, driven by the allure of authoritarianism.” The elections in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, a largely rural state in the formerly communist east, and Berlin follow the September 6 election in Saxony-Anhalt, where the AfD came close to the rare feat of winning an absolute majority. In just over a decade, the party which wants to take tough action to deport foreigners with no right to stay in Germany, restore energy ties with Russia and quit the euro has transformed itself from a fringe euro sceptic movement to the country’s most popular party. Its success in Saxony-Anhalt, which it sees as the first step towards winning federal elections due in 2029, has sent shock waves through Europe. Sunday’s results underscore the advances the AfD has made in recent years and raise fresh questions over the “firewall” strategy, under which the other main parties refuse to enter coalition agreements with it. MERZ HAS STRUGGLED
Elected last year on a promise of reforms to return Germany’s stagnant economy to growth, Merz has struggled to win over voters, as a stream of communication missteps served to compound resentment over unpopular pension, tax and healthcare reforms. Disillusion with his government has hung over the campaigns in both Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Berlin, where voters have focused on soaring energy and housing costs. Merz presented a consumer relief package on Friday that included tax cuts on gas and diesel. Several people who voted in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania said living costs were a major concern. “Here in Schwerin, with these wages, you can hardly afford anything anymore,” voter Carlotta Heick told Reuters in the state capital. One elderly man criticised funding for foreign aid. “We need our money here, for our country, for children and pensioners,” he said, asking not to give his name.
Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
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40 Guyanese graduate from BIT skills training programmes Forty Guyanese are now equipped with skills in Automotive Electrical, Electrical Installation and Cosmetology, following their graduation from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) at a ceremony held at the Regency Inn Hotel. The graduates completed four-month training programmes designed to provide them with marketable skills and greater opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. The Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke with several graduates and the facilitator of the Automotive Electrical programme, who highlighted the value of the
Sheanyu Sealey receives her certificate from BIT CEO, Richard Maughn training and the opportunities it has created. Among the graduates is S h e a n y u S e a l e y, w h o completed the Automotive Electrical course after developing an interest in
mechanical work through her family's background in the field. Sealey said the programme not only strengthened her technical knowledge but also provided
17 children to undergo heart surgery in Guyana
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali alongside children who will receive specialised paediatric cardiac care Seventeen children are set to undergo complex heart surgeries at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) beginning September 28. The initiative, which brings an international specialist team to Guyana, forms part of a wider effort to ensure that children requiring congenital heart surgery can access critical interventions without the added burden of travelling overseas, the Department of Public Information (DPI) has reported. President Irfaan Ali, who on Saturday hosted the parents of the children at State House, said the initiative reflects government's commitment to expanding world class healthcare while addressing urgent needs during the continued development of the country's health infrastructure. “One of the things that we promise every Guyanese is to invest in healthcare, invest in world class healthcare,” he said. The president said the programme was developed with a clear objective of eliminating the waiting list for children requiring specialised cardiac procedures. “I want to bring to zero, to nil, all of the cardiac, specialised cardiac surgeries required by children, by babies, toddlers, children generally,” he noted. The first five-day surgical mission will run from September 28 to October 2, with Apollo Health Systems of India providing a specialised team to work alongside Guyanese doctors and other healthcare professionals at GPHC. President Ali said the programme is ultimately about ensuring that children have access to the treatment they need and the
opportunity to grow into healthy and productive citizens. “This is the type of investment we are making in our children. This is the type of investment we are making to have your kids have a beautiful, rewarding future like any other child.” Meanwhile, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, explained that the decision to expand the specialist team followed assessments by Guyanese cardiologists, who identified several cases requiring a higher level of technical expertise and specialised intervention. “We need a more, a bigger team with all these capabilities,” Dr. Anthony said, noting that the complexity of some cases required additional specialists and technical personnel to be present during the procedures. He said government subsequently engaged Apollo Health Systems, an established international healthcare provider in India, to undertake the surgeries in Guyana, allowing patients to receive advanced treatment while remaining close to their families. “Here it is, we are bringing an entire team to Guyana and they'll be operating using our facilities here in Guyana.” Approximately 40 children are currently awaiting specialised congenital heart surgery. Following the September mission, government plans to facilitate a second mission in December, targeting another 10 children. Dr. Anthony noted that Guyana's relationship with Apollo extends beyond cardiac surgery, with the institution having previously supported training for local doctors and collaboration in other areas of healthcare.
Riyaad Allie ( right), a BIT graduate receives his certificate an encouraging environment in which she felt supported as a woman entering a traditionally maledominated field. “If a man can do it, you can do it as well. It's all about a mindset. If you can put yourself to do it, you can do it. Don't let anyone tell you, you can't,” Sealey stated. For Electrical Installation graduate Antonette Tinnis, completing the programme was particularly significant
as a single mother of four who travelled to attend classes. Tinnis said the opportunity allowed her to gain the practical experience needed to build on her existing interest in electrical work, while motivating her to pursue further training. “It is better to learn more, grasp what you can grasp, and at least I can actually teach my children certain things, because skill is built,” she explained. She also welcomed the
opportunity provided through the Ministry of Labour and BIT, noting that similar training elsewhere could come at a cost. Automotive Electrical graduate Riyaad Allie said he entered the programme with little prior knowledge of the field but gradually developed a strong interest after receiving support from his facilitator and classmates. “Everybody was so kind. If you don't understand, he can go back at it till you understand.” Fellow Automotive Electrical graduate Aditya Ramdial described the training as an important first step towards establishing a career in the field. Having entered the programme without prior knowledge, he said he now feels ready to seek employment, gain experience and eventually acquire the tools needed to work independently. “I would say, I feel comfortable with saying I'm a beginner. I (Continued on page 16)
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Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
Kaieteur News
Monday Thursday September November21, 24,2026 2022
2026 Republic Bank CPL finals…JK vs. ABF
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Jangoo and company put on clinic as Falcons soar to 2026 CPL title following comprehensive 8-wicket drubbing - Jangoo (57*)/Moqim (4-14) eclipse Sadaqat's magical 114
Sufyan Moqim collected 4 wickets to help set up an easy win for the Falcons
Monday September 21, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your goals are lofty—but that doesn't mean they're out of reach! If anything, you may find yourself quite a bit closer to them by the end of the day, if your mental energy has any say! TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You and a friend or colleague are struggling over some new rule or plan that doesn't seem to make much sense to either of you. It's good in the long run, as things should be much clearer as a result. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your big brain is bursting with ideas and plans today, and while not all of them will pan out, you should at least see if you can work out a few of them. Get some help to see them through. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Money is a bigger deal than you may realize today—so make sure that you are paying close attention to its comings and goings. If your mate is also watching, the two of you can make a real difference. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your pride is a good thing on most days—but today, it could go either way. It may make you more susceptible to emotional injury, or it could help you find an answer to a thorny problem. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may find that your old tools aren't quite up to the job today, so it's time to stop, take a step back and think things through. The good news is that your clever mind can dream up something new and wonderful soon.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You should find that you're having much more fun than usual today—so ramp it up and include others in the shenanigans! Your amazing social energy is great at coming up with new tricks. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You need to deal with that problem at home—even if it's a total drag! Your energy is just right for fixing things, dealing with kids and neighbors, or even finding a new place to live, so hop to it! SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Chat up everyone you know today—post online until your fingers are numb, get on the phone until the battery dies, or just sit down with your besties and gab until the sun is long down. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Cash interests you insofar as it can be used to do things you want to do or acquire things you need in your life—and today it's on your mind quite a bit. Puzzle it out and make a difference! AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You could power cities with your mental energy today! On the off chance that you're not hooked into the power grid, try instead to do some good for the world at large. You've got all night! PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You need to feel useful in the grand scheme of things, and on a day like today, you can make a real difference in real people's lives. Volunteer or speak up bravely to the right people.
The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons stormed to the 2026 Maaz Sadaqat smashed a 50-odd ball R e p u b l i c B a n k C P L hundred in a losing effort last night championship title after putting on a clinic last night against the Jamaica Kingsmen, despite an immaculate maiden hundred from Maaz Sadaqat as part of last night's thrilling final. The Kingsmen posted 1709 in their first innings, dominated by opener Maaz Sadaqat, who played a spectacular lone hand and smashed 114 off just 58 balls. His explosive knock included 8 fours and 9 towering sixes, anchoring the team while wickets tumbled around him in a flurry. 2x6) and Evin Lewis carved 38 (5x4 2x6) to Only Saim Ayub offered any notable help set the tone of the chase. resistance, scoring a steady 29 off 22 balls. After a solid start, the Falcons then Aside from their partnership, the handed the keys to Amir Jangoo, who Kingsmen's star-studded batting lineup counterattacked with an aggressive yet classy collapsed dramatically under pressure. 57* off 34 with four fours and a trifecta of Big names like Kirk McKenzie and sixes, and Hasan Nawaz (47*), who played captain Rovman Powell were both dismissed the ultimate supporting cast role with 3 fours for ducks, while Keemo Paul managed only 3. and 3 sixes, one of which sealed the game. Bowling for the Falcons, spinner Sufyan The pair kept things cool up until the very Moqim bagged exceptional figures of 4-14 end, not giving up anything to the Kingsmen, alongside pacer Alzarri Joseph (2-27), while who had already lost the game by the 15th Shadab Khan kept things tight with 1 for 28 to over, thanks mainly to the stability provided restrict Jamaica to a chaseable target. by the duo as they two eventually celebrated a Falcons then hit cruise control as magical moment with the rest of their team. Rahkeem Cornwall smashed 20 off 6 (2x4 (Clifton Ross)
Ellis and Inglis break Zimbabwe... From page 22 had crossed the milestone in 12 innings, since January 2023. Kaia and Ervine got Zimbabwe into a good position and when Kaia retired on 148 for 3, it was up to Raza and Ervine to accelerate. They brought up the Zimbabwean 200 with 10 overs to go but the final flourish never came. Ervine was eager to up the ante but could not clear Renshaw at long-on and Madhevere sent an Ellis slower ball to cover to give Australia two wickets in two overs. Evans showed glimpses of his finishing skills with back to back fours off Johnson but then top-edged a short ball to give Johnson a second wicket and Cremer was out lbw to a pinpoint Ellis yorker. Raza reached fifty soon after that and farmed strike for the final five overs to end unbeaten on 81 which gave Zimbabwe a competitive total, but agonisingly not quite enough.
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Monday September 21, 2026
Ellis and Inglis break Zimbabwe hearts to secure one-wicket thriller (Cricinfo) - Australia concluded their first Zimbabwe to 12 years with a clean sweep of the hosts, who were unable to deliver a consolation win to a festive Harare crowd, as Nathan Ellis held his nerve alongside No. 11 Spencer Johnson in a match-winning tenthwicket stand of 27. Zimbabwe do not have any internationals at home for the rest of the 2026 and, after posting their second-highest total batting first against Australia, saw the match slip from their grasp in the dramatic closing stages. Pressure changed sides throughout the last quarter of the contest. Australia were cruising on 162 for 3 in the 26th over, when Brad Evans removed Alex Carey for the third of his four wickets and set the cat among the pigeons as wickets fell regularly. Josh Inglis was holding the chase together with his second ODI hundred but when he fell 45 were still needed. Then Ellis, who had earlier taken 3 for 50, put together a superblymeasured 36 not out to secure a thrilling win. Their chase was built largely on the efforts of Inglis, who was the third Australian to reach a hundred in the series, after Matt Renshaw in the opening match and Travis Head in game two. In contrast, Zimbabwe did not have a centurymarker, though Sikandar Raza and Craig Ervine scored two fifties each, including in this match and were the leading run-scorers across the three matches. Zimbabwe also had two of the three top bowlers and will know that it was in moments, not personnel terms, that they lost to Australia. In this match, there were four major ones. The first came
Australia celebrate their clean sweep (AFP/Getty Imgaes)
when Innocent Kaia, batting well on 55, had to retire hurt with what looked like a hamstring injury to interrupt an 80-run fourth wicket stand with Ervine and stall Zimbabwe. The second was when Ervine, on 59, tried to accelerate with 10 overs left to go and holed out to long-on to spark a collapse of 4 for 22 which left Zimbabwe short of the 300 that was in their sights. Then, in the field, Inglis, on 48, cut Ernest Masuku in the air to backward point and Wessly Madhevere leapt to his right but could not hold on. The drop proved costly even though Madhevere took a stunner to dismiss Carey. Madhevere’s biggest mistake was still to come. In the penultimate over when Ellis launched Masuku to deep midwicket, Madhevere got under the ball and spilled the chance. With nine runs needed off the
last six balls, Raza then gave Madhevere the ball, even though Graeme Cremer had an over in hand having caused problems in his first ODI in 2018. The first ball went for six and left Madhevere inconsolable at the end. Inglis was in early after Evans struck twice in his first two overs. He had Head caught at deep backward square when he flicked off his pads and then found Mitchell Marsh’s inside edge to leave Australia were 25 for 2 in the fourth over. Inglis announced himself with a swivel pull that went for four and was brutal through the point area. He greeted Cremer’s return by sending his first ball - a full toss - through mid-on for four. But Cremer came back well and bowled Cooper Connolly with a classic leg break to announce his return in some style. Inglis and Carey put on 85 for
the fourth-wicket to keep Australia in control and Inglis’ big challenge came when Australia started to wobble. They were on 203 for 5 after 35 overs, 69 runs away from victory, and in the space of two overs Raza had Ollie Peake out lbw and Cremer got Xavier Bartlett with a googly. Then, Blessing Muzarabani was brought back to keep Australia under pressure and bounced Ellis, who fended him skywards but the chance fell out of B r e n d a n Ta y l o r ’ s r e a c h . Muzarabani finished the series wicketless. Inglis reached his century with a strong sweep against Cremer off his 94th ball and victory was still 55 runs away. When Raza bowled Inglis in the 42nd over, Zimbabwe were ahead in the contest but the management of their attack towards the end will raise questions. Muzarabani was bowled
out after 44 overs and Evans with two overs to go. Cremer, despite his experience, was overlooked for his final over. That won’t be the only area Zimbabwe will leave with questions. Their batting line-up underwhelmed in parts, especially after they chose to put runs on the board in the final match. They started off reasonably well and were on 34 without loss after six overs before their opening pair gave way. Ben Curran’s poor returns in white-ball cricket continued when he gloved Johnson down leg and was caught behind for 7. His partner Brian Bennett didn’t fare much better. After showing promise with classy flicks off the pads and crunching pulls off short balls, Bennett skied a Ellis delivery to Head at midwicket to depart for 30. Bennett has not crossed 40 in his last eight ODI innings, despite getting several starts. Zimbabwe were 57 for 2 at the end of the powerplay. Taylor took his time to get to a 16-ball nine before he was bowled by an Adam Zampa flipper and his form will also be a concern. Kaia, whose first runs had come off a thick inside edge, offered a chance on 27 when he was out of his crease early as Renshaw fired in a delivery down leg. Inglis fumbled and recovered but could not stump Kaia, who put the early jitters aside to play some classy strokes. He drove Renshaw through mid-on and pulled Johnson flat and hard to bisect the fielders in the deep. His fifty came just after the innings’ halfway mark, off 59 balls, and marked the first time he Continued on page 21
Elvira loses nerve as Spaun triumphs at Wentworth (BBC Sport) - Golf can be a cruel game. As Spain’s Manuel Elvira choked back the tears on Sunday, just a short distance away an elated JJ Spaun celebrated becoming only the third player from the United States to win the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. The 2025 US Open champion joins Billy Horschel and the legendary Arnold Palmer on a storied list of winners that also includes Tony Jacklin, Sir Nick Faldo, Seve Ballesteros, Jose Maria Olazabal and Rory McIlroy. However, it was hard not to feel sympathy for Elvira, the unknown 30-year-old from Santander. Ranked 294th in the world, this had looked like being the moment he had longed for when he stepped on to the final tee with a first victory in his sights - straight off the back of outrageous eagle on the 17th. Having twice made birdies on the friendly par five this week, a third was hardly implausible - while a par would have ensured a play-off with Spaun, already in the clubhouse at 17 under par. Instead Elvira, who opted for an iron off the tee, found a fairway bunker when he took the conservative option to lay up.
Spaun’s wife Melody (second from right) held up a Jeremy Clarkson mask as part of celebrations - with the man himself not making it to Wentworth (Getty Images) To compound matters he then missed the green with his approach, almost finding the grandstand, and duffed his fourth into the sand after being given a free drop.
Once he escaped he took a further two putts, and his double-bogey seven finish deprived him of even ending the tournament in outright second place.
“[It was] devastating that I hit the wrong shot at the right time on the lay up and left myself the toughest shot in the fairway bunker, and wasn’t able to pull it off,” Elvira said. “I’ve played some of the best golf probably of my life.” While it was not at the level of Jean Van de Velde’s implosion at the 1999 Open Championship or, more recently, Jordan Spieth’s misadventures in the 2016 Masters it nevertheless made for difficult viewing. And his brother Ignacio - who had earlier finished in a tie for 44th - was left to console his younger sibling as they walked off the 18th green. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, former Europe Solheim Cup player Trish Johnson said: “It’s a truly awful feeling. No more than 20 minutes ago he’s got this huge dream. “To watch that unfold on 18 was really, in golfing terms, quite tragic. What he has to remember is how he put himself in that position. “In a big event like this the chances are we’ll never see him in that position to win this calibre of tournament ever again, and that’s very sad.”
Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
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Man City battle past Sunderland in eight-goal thriller (BBC Sport) Manchester City were pushed all the way by Sunderland but came through to win an eight-goal thriller to go three points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Enzo Fernandez put City in front after nine minutes with his first goal since his £125m move from Chelsea, whipping a free-kick in at the near post. But Sunderland, who had s t a r t e d b r i g h t l y, s o o n responded as Enzo le Fee picked out Brian Brobbey with a brilliant pass and the Netherlands striker slipped the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma. Sunderland remained more than a match for Enzo Maresca’s side but were caught trying to play out from the back and ruthlessly punished as the ball was worked to Rayan Cherki, who finished smartly into the bottom corner. Again the Black Cats hit back though, with Le Fee splitting the defence again, this time to Thomas Meunier, who unselfishly squared for Brobbey to finish into an empty net. A lengthy VAR check for
offside followed but the goal was given and it was no more than Sunderland deserved. The visitors dropped off slightly as the first half progressed, allowing City sustained possession in the Sunderland half for the first time. They retook the lead two minutes from half-time through Antoine Semenyo’s sweetly-struck shot after Sunderland failed to deal with a cross from the right. For once, Regis le Bris’ team could not muster a quick reply and City should have doubled their lead in first-half injury time only for Erling Haaland to skew his shot wide with the goal gaping after good work by Iliman Ndiaye. The second half began rather more calmly and City’s fourth came from nothing, and with a little fortune, as Marc Guehi’s pass - intended for Haaland found its way to Semenyo, who drilled a left-foot shot into the far corner. Just two minutes later, Sunderland were back in it as Granit Xhaka’s clever pass found Nilson Angulo and he put the ball across goal for Brobbey to bundle it home
and complete his first senior hat-trick. City tried to take the sting out of the game, controlling possession to decent effect, but Sunderland were going nowhere and Donnarumma already gifted them the equaliser. The Italy goalkeeper failed to claim a high ball into the box, Ruben Dias’ loose touch saw the ball bounce back towards goal and the City captain had to be quick to recover and hook it off the line. Donnarumma looked suspect again from the long throw-in that followed but City survived and finally put the game to bed nine minutes from time as Haaland slid in at the back post to convert Josko Gvardiol’s cross. As with his goal at Old Trafford last weekend, it was initially flagged offside but Gvardiol had timed his run to perfection and the decision was overturned. It means Haaland has now scored against every Premier League side he has faced, while City - despite an uncomfortable afternoon go into the international break top of the pile with a
100% record. Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola made a winning return to Bournemouth as his side signed off for the international break with a narrow victory at Vitality Stadium. ISAK NETS LIVERPOOL WINNER Alexander Isak’s fourth Premier League goal of the season settled a poor game and left the Cherries seeking a first top-flight win of the campaign going into October. A determined run by Cody Gakpo ended with a ball into the box that Bournemouth failed to deal with and Sweden forward Isak tucked home from close range. Isak was mobbed by Liverpool’s travelling fans after running over to celebrate with them and was booked by referee Michael Oliver. Iraola, who secured European qualification for Bournemouth before leaving to take charge of Liverpool
Alexander Isak gives the Liverpool fans the thumbsup after scoring a second-half winner. (Reuters)
in the summer, received a warm welcome from the Cherries fans on his return. But he was on course to suffer a frustrating afternoon in Dorset until Isak pounced in the 57th minute. B e f o r e t h e n Bournemouth had gone closest to scoring through Evanilson’s 18th-minute flick which Alisson did well to put behind for a corner. At the other end, Florian Wirtz skied an attempt over the bar from close range that
was flagged offside when replays showed he was, in fact, onside. Meanwhile, expensive summer signing Bradley Barcola forced Djordje Petrovic to save with his legs, while Dominik S z o b o s z l a i ’s 2 5 - y a r d dipping free-kick dropped just wide. Liverpool climb to sixth with nine points from five games, while Bournemouth have three points and drop to 17th.
IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026
The New Doctor’s Clinic joins Asian Games: Chamari Athapaththu’s World Cup as Bronze Sponsor 83* leads Sri Lanka into final
(Cricinfo) - Chamari Athapaththu hit six sixes in an unbeaten 50-ball 83 to lead Sri Lanka into the final of the Asian Games Women’s Cricket Competition. Her innings helped Sri Lanka equal their highest total in a successful chase, after fifties from Shawaal Zulfiqar and Ayesha Zafar had helped Pakistan set them a target of 178. Athapaththu was quiet at the start of her innings, and she could afford it because her opening partner Imesha Dulani gave Sri Lanka immediate impetus in their chase, hitting five fours in the first four overs before falling for a tone-setting 21-ball 27. At that point, Athapaththu was batting on 4 off 9. By the end of the powerplay, she had moved to 7 off 12, and hadn’t hit a single boundary. The change of gear took place in a 20-run eighth over, in which she tonked Momina Riasat for 6, 4, 6, 4. The second six was a fortuitous one, a slog-sweep that Fatima Sana caught at deep midwicket only to step on the rope while attempting to toss the ball back into the field of play. A clean catch would have sent Athapaththu back for 18 off 19 balls. Instead, the left-handed Athapaththu continued to take full toll of her match-up against left-arm spin, hitting two fours and a six off Nashra Sandhu in the 10th over to bring the equation down to 90 off 60 balls. It was still far from straightforward, but Sri Lanka were unstoppable, with Hasini Perera catching up with her captain’s rate of scoring by hitting Tuba Hassan for two sixes and a four in the 13th over. Hasini fell at the end of the 14th
Chamari Athapaththu hit seven fours and six sixes (Getty Images) over for a 26-ball 42, having put on 95 with Athapaththu in 56 balls. When Hasini fell, Sri Lanka needed 47 off 36 balls; Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama needed just 23 of those balls to finish the job. Sent in to bat, Pakistan posted their highestever T20I total against Sri Lanka, but they may have ended their innings feeling they had left a few runs out in the middle. Zulfiqar scored her second T20I half-century, but her 54 consumed as many as 50 balls. The impetus for Pakistan’s total came from Zafar, who came in at No. 4 and smacked 71 off just 40 balls, hitting nine fours and two sixes. Zafar and Zulfiqar put on 115 for the third wicket in 70 balls, and nearly all the heavy hitting came from one end, with Zulfiqar contributing 37 off 30 to the partnership.
CWIMA welcomes the New Doctor’s Clinic to the Tournament’s sponsors The Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) welcomes The New Doctor’s Clinic as a Bronze Sponsor of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026. The clinic joins the growing list of businesses supporting Guyana’s hosting of the tournament, which will bring together 16 teams for 72 matches from Oct 17, 2026 to Oct 31, 2026. The West Indies will compete on home soil, with the Cup Final scheduled for the Guyana National Stadium at Providence. The New Doctor’s Clinic’s sponsorship contributes to CWIMA’s preparations for the competition and the arrival of visiting teams. CWIMA thanks the clinic’s management and staff for supporting international masters’ cricket and taking part in the effort to stage the World Cup in Guyana.
The tournament gives cricketers aged 40 and over a platform to continue competing internationally. Their participation reflects the lasting place of sport in their lives and gives supporters the opportunity to enjoy experienced players representing their teams. For Guyana’s cricket community, the World Cup will bring international competition to local grounds and create opportunities for residents and visiting supporters to come together around the game. CWIMA welcomes The New Doctor’s Clinic to the tournament’s sponsors and appreciates its contribution to an event that celebrates continued participation in cricket. Business enquiries: +592 231 0430 or +592 629 2969. Fixtures and tournament updates: worldcup.windiesmasters.org.
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Monday September 21, 2026
Pixel Perfect Productions aims to become Guyana’s leading Live Streaming and Videography Entity By Samuel Whyte Celebrating over three years of Professional Media Coverage in sports and other events in Guyana, the Pixel Perfect Productions Group located in Palmyra East Coast Berbice aims to be the leading live Streaming, Video and Photography entity in Guyana. Its expertise is in providing professional photography, videography and live-streaming services for sporting, cultural, corporate and private events across Guyana. Founded by Michael and Naomie, the company began from humble beginnings about 15 years ago with a simple Cell Phone. It has now blossomed into one of the leading photography, videography and livestreaming entities in Guyana. According to Michael, it was 3 years ago that the Company began to progress with high quality videography and photography, covering high quality sporting events like Horse Racing, Cricket and Motor Sports, among others.
They have expertly provided live broadcast of the Guyana Cup Horse Racing events, Car and other racing events from the South Dakota Circuit, live cricket coverage and the annual Berbice Exposition, among others. Beyond sports, the Company covers cultural Programmes, graduations, Concerts, weddings, birthday celebrations, corporate functions and events organised by nongovernmental organisations. Each production is planned according to the client’s needs, the venue and the intended audience. Pixel Perfect
One of the vehicles and some equipment used by the Pixel Perfect Productions Group It now has over a dozen cameras including the latest equipment in the industry. Contact can be made on 623-2288 or 623-6910 for further information and booking. P r e s e n t l y, i t u s e s modern, up-to-date production equipment to
deliver high-quality video, clear audio and dependable live broadcasts. Its technical team includes engineers trained in the United States. The company also receives specialised hardware support from the USA. According to Michael, the company plans to expand
and they are working assiduously with Companies out of the USA to acquire newer equipment for every event. The main aim and objective of the Company is not the pursuit of money, but the passion they have for videography.
Tucber Park hammers West Berbice by 122 runs
Garfield Benjamin
Tucber Park Cricket Club put on a comprehensive all round performance to beat West Berbice by a commanding 122 runs in Berbice, recently. Tucber Park batted first and posted an impressive 330 before being dismissed in 48.1 overs. National allrounder Zeynul Ramsammy led the charge with a well-played 101 from 88 balls. He received admirable support from Garfield Benjamin, who narrowly missed out on a century,
Micah Amsterdam
Zeynul Ramsammy
scoring a valuable 97 from 112 deliveries. Seon Glasgow was also among the runs with quick fire 44 from 27 deliveries as they propelled their team to the formidable total. Bowling for West Berbice, Shamar Angel picked up 4 wickets while there was one each for Justin Doobay and Chitram France. In reply, West Berbice were dismissed for 208 in 33 overs. Devindra
Lalsa contributed 66 while Doobay returned to make 33 and Shelton Ramsey contributed 32. Bowling for Tucber Park, National U 19 fast bowler Micah Amsterdam was in good form as he troubled the batsmen with his pace to end with figures of 545. He was and was supported by fellow National U19 player, left arm spinner Gilbert Griffith with 2 while Ramsammy returned with the ball to snare 1. (Samuel Whyte)
Productions provides the full package includingprofessional photography, video recording, editing, digital signage and LED display rental services. Over the years the Company has remained committed to capturing important moments, promoting local events and helping businesses and organisations communicate with wider audiences. With continued investment in modern technology and technical development, Pixel Perfect Productions is positioning itself as a trusted and versatile media-production company serving Guyana.
Guyana Open Chess Team victorious in Round 4 In a dominant Round 4 performance, the Guyana Open Chess Team secured a resounding 3.5–0.5 victory over Macau, China, on Saturday, September 19th, at the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Leading the charge on Board 1, National Chess Champion Candidate Master (CM) Sachin Pitamber delivered another impressive result, drawing against CM Tong Kuan Mak to extend his unbeaten run. On Board 2, National Junior Champion Kyle Couchman opened his winning account in style after navigating a tough series of opponents in the opening rounds, securing a dominant win over Seak Hin Leong. Commanding the White pieces, Couchman dictated the pace with an ironclad grip on the centre. The turning point came after a series of hasty minor-piece exchanges that left Black with a distinct structural flaw: a vulnerable backward pawn on d6. As Couchman relentlessly applied pressure, his opponent’s king was drawn into the centre, setting up a series of sharp, elegant tactical opportunities. Couchman ruthlessly exploited these chances to spawn three uncontested passed pawns, forcing an immediate resignation. CM Taffin Khan continued the momentum on Board 3 against Joao Car Bartilotti. With both players castling queenside in a quiet middlegame, Khan patiently strengthened his positional edge by centralizing his knight. When his opponent launched an overly aggressive attempt to break the centre, Khan pounced. Capitalizing on the fatal tactical error, Khan seized the initiative, gaining a favourable exchange and an extra pawn. In the resulting endgame, Khan comfortably outmuscled his opponent to claim the full point. Completing the dominant performance on Board 4, Keron Sandiford utilized superior opening play with the White pieces to force David Sun into conceding significant positional weaknesses early on. Mid-game liquidations transitioned into a rook-and-pawn endgame that offered only the superficial appearance of parity. Sandiford’s connected kingside passed pawns made light work of the endgame, enabling him to convert the position into a victory, bringing his individual tally to an impressive 2/3 early in the tournament. The 3.5–0.5 triumph over Macau brings the Open Team’s total score to 4/8 match points, an admirable start to their Olympiad campaign. The Women’s team encountered a tough test against higher-seeded Hong Kong, ultimately dropping all four boards. Round 5 continues on September 20th, 2026, at the Silk Road Exhibition Centre in Samarkand. The Open Team faces a formidable Luxembourg Team, while the Women will go up against Somalia in the eleven-round International event, which will conclude on September 27, 2026.
Kaieteur News
Monday September 21, 2026
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FESUPO 2026 Chile…
Junior Sinclair
Ten debutants in 17-member team as competition commences
Overs BCB/KSM Investment 50 First Div. Tour nament…
Anderson and Sinclairs lead RHT into semifinals National Players Kevlon Anderson, Kevin Sinclair and Junior Sinclair spearheaded Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour to an easy 183 runs victory over the Berbice Police Team in the Berbice Cricket Board / KSM Investment Inc 50 overs tournament. The emphatic victory secured a semifinals berth for the team in the tournament after an easy victory last Saturday versus Upper Corentyne at the No. 69 Ground. Playing at the Area ‘H’ Ground in very heated weather, the home team won the toss and elected to take first strike. They were rocked early when West Indies test player Kevin Sinclair was brilliantly caught at slip off the bowling of off spinner Rocky Hutson for 08 in the first over with the score at 8 for 1. National senior player Junior Sinclair and national Under 16 player Leon Reddy then added 103 for the second wicket in sixteen overs before Reddy was run out for a well played 35. Sinclair was then caught at the long on boundary for 69 at 127 for 3 in the 20th over. Sinclair innings contained two sixes and five fours. Kevlon Anderson contributed a classy 74 with four fours and three maximums and he was supported by former national player Eon Hooper, who scored an even fifty, national youth player Raffel McKenzie (22) as Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt
Flour ended their innings on 304 all out off fifty overs. Hooper and Anderson added 60 for the eighth wicket. Hooper struck one six and five fours in his responsible knock. The best bowlers for the Lawmen were Rocky Hutson with 3 for 61 from 9 overs and left arm spinner Joel Seitaram, with 2 for 46 from 10 overs. Needing to score 305 runs from their allotted fifty overs to secure their first ever first division victory over Rose Hall Town, the visitors were given a good opening stand of 53 in eight overs by t h e a t t a c k i n g Vi s h a l Williams and Aldy Grant before Jayden Grant trapped Grant leg before wicket for 23. West Indies off spinner Kevin Sinclair then dismissed Ravindra Beharry for 0 as the Lawmen slipped to 55 for 2. They never recovered as Sinclair spun web around the remaining batters. He dismissed Vishal Williams, formerly of the Port Mourant Cricket Club for a well played 33, Simeon Gaffoor (06), Philserg Wilburg (38), Leroy Williams (03) and Paul James (02) to bowl out Police for 121 in 25.3 overs. The talented Sinclair ended with 6 for 31 from 9 overs while he received support from fellow off spinner Junior Sinclair with 3 for 15 (3.3 overs) and Gaupat, 1 for 20. The victory ensured the powerful Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour ended as winner of Group A.
Navindra Tamasar
Janica Savory
Franklyn Brisport-Luke
Guyana’s athletes to the 2026 South American Powerlifting Championships under the auspices of the South American Powerlifting Federation (Fesupo) in Santiago, Chile, opened their quest for medals on Sunday, September 20, when three of the 17 athletes took to the platform. Competing on the opening day were Brazilian-based Janice Savory (57kg female open classic division), and another debutant, Navindra Tamasar (66kg equipped competition), while the other is veteran Franklyn Brisport-Luke who will challenge the 66kg master’s 11. The Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) through its P r e s i d e n t , F r a n k l i n Wi l s o n i s expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, National Sports Commission, Guyana Olympic Association, Industrial Safety Supplies, and Space Gym for supporting the Federation’s quest at this year’s
championships. “The GAPLF on behalf of all the athletes and officials here would like to express thanks to our main sponsors as listed above for showing the confidence in this group of athletes, a mixture of seasoned campaigners and many first timers.” “It is always important to ensure that the young athletes are afforded the opportunity to rub shoulders with the experienced lifters as they too hope to have successful careers. This trip, I must say, is a collective effort between our sponsors, the federation and the athletes. We are promising to make the nation proud so that all who have invested in some way, shape or form, would be happy,” Wilson posited. Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil, Columbia, Bolivia, Suriname and the host nation will be battling for individual and team glory over the next seven days. The other athletes representing the
Golden Arrowhead are Meshach Alexander (83kg junior, classic open), Joshua John (93kg open, classic), Olsen Batson (93kg junior, classic open), Omali Vancooten (93kg, open classic), Seretse King (105kg, open classic), Kezia Joseph (76kg, female open classic), Matthew Maycock (83kg, masters 1 classic), and Tremel King (93kg, masters 1 classic). The other seasoned competitors are Demetri Chan (83kg, open classic), Keisha Abrigo (76kg, female open classic), Nadina Taharally (76kg, females masters 11), Roger Rogers (120kg, masters 11 classic), Duarte Hetsberger (83kg, masters 1 classic), Bjorn Williams (105kg, masters 1 classic). Referees with the team are Edwin Gordon Spencer, Franklyn BrisportLuke, Roger Rogers and Andrew Austin. Team Coach is Kerma Singh with Franklin Wilson serving as Manager.
Team Guyana meeting on Saturday evening at the Bonaparte Hotel ahead of opening day competition
2026 Republic Bank CPL finals…JK vs. ABF
JANICA SAVORY
rts o p S
Jangoo and company put on clinic as Falcons soar to 2026 CPL title following comprehensive 8-wicket drubbing - Jangoo (57*)/Moqim (4-14) eclipse Sadaqat’s magical 114
FESUPO 2026 Chile…
Ten debutants in 17-member team as competition commences Guyana Open Chess Team NAVINDRA TAMASAR
New 2026 Republic Bank CPL champions Antigua and Barbuda Falcons celebrated their maiden title last night alongside Barbados PM Mia Mottley as well as Antigua PM Gaston Browne.
victorious in Round 4
Members of the Guyana team at the 46th Chess Olympiad. (Photo: FIDE 46th Chess Olympiad) 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.