Kaieteur News

Jordan concedes Guyana was exploited by Exxon

…admits Coalition failed to do homework on company …says Exxon took advantage of Venezuela border controversy, knowledge of failing sectors

ByDavinaBagot

Guyana was taken advantage of during the negotiation of the 2016 Petroleum Sharing Agreement (PSA) with American oil major, ExxonMobil.

This is according to the finance minister at the time, Winston Jordan. During a recent live broadcast, the former Member of Parliament addressed the US$18 million signing bonus paid by the company, andthecircumstanceswhich ledtothethenAPartnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition government accepting the deal.

He detailed that Guyana's neighbour, Venezuela, had been on the nation's back with reactivated claims to the country's Essequibo Not only was the country faced with a border controversy, but failing industries, naming rice and sugar in particular With its back againstthewall,government notonlyacceptedalopsided

agreement, but signed away 600 blocks to the company, insteadof60,asperindustry norms.

“You know how long this reactivated claim by Venezuela has been going on. You know how many measures, different things we have tried…Venezuela washoldingthisthinglikean axe in our head, monkey on our backs,” the former MP noted as he explained Guyana's decision to approach the world court which required finances to defendthecountry'scase.

To this end, Jordan pointed out that the administrationdidnotmeeta loaded treasury, when it assumed office in 2015, but rather, bankrupt agencies such as the Guyana Sugar Corporation(GuySuCo)and a troubled rice industry, whileotherworkerswerenot beingpaid.

“We never cried and so on. We took it on board and start to do it. So, you had to getmoneytoprosecuteyour case, that is why I said this casethatwassoimportantto us,thiscasethatExxonknew was major to us and so they

got two slices of the pie,” Jordanreasoned.

He added, “On the one hand,theywantedtheoilthat they knew was there to replacewhatwastakenfrom them in Venezuelanationalised- Chavez had nationalised all the assets and Maduro anchored down on them so Exxon was the bogey.”

The former finance minister admitted that the administration failed to do its due diligence on the company,allowingExxonto have the upper hand in the discussions.

He said, “Exxon's balancesheetwasn'tlooking too nice but again we didn't do homework where that was concerned, but Exxon knew the reserves were there Exxon knew our impossible position with Venezuela. Exxon knew the tenuousnessofoureconomy sothatwasastackdecked.”

“Signaway”

Jordan noted that while manyare of theopinionthat the Coalition signed away thecountry'sresourcestothe Americanoilmajor,thedeal vastly resembled the 1999

Body of woman found in trench

Police are investigating the discovery of the body of an unidentified female of mixed ancestry, believed to be between 40 and 50 yearsold,whichwasfoundonSundayabout 10:00hrs in a trench between Barbie Dam andLamahaSprings,Georgetown.

Preliminary investigations revealed that thebodywasfoundfloatingfacedowninthe trench with several visible marks observed onthebody

Emergency Medical Technicians were summonedandthebodywasremovedfrom thetrenchandpronounceddeadbyadoctor on duty from the Georgetown Public HospitalCorporation.

The body was escorted to the Memorial GardensFuneralHome,whereitisawaiting identification and a post-mortem examination Several persons were contactedandquestioned.Investigationsare ongoing.

agreement, signed under the JanetJaganPresidency “ T h e c o a l i t i o n government merely inherited a PSA from 1999 and constructed a Bridge to that PSA where we got an additional one percentage point in terms of royaltyfromonepercenttotwoper cent- we got the issue of the signing bonus which really andtrulywerethemoniesfor prosecuting the case,” he detailed.

Further to that, the companywouldalsosignthe

dealtoenjoythebenefitsofa massiveblock,equivalentto the size of 600 oil blocks, insteadof60,asthecoalition maintained the terms of the Janet Jagan arrangement, accordingtohim.

Nevertheless, Jordan alluded to an intangible benefit for the country, one which he believes is not often recognised “But I think what we don't add, the intangible which in our case intangiblecan'tbemeasured butimplied.Wegotsecurity on the shelf and with that

security came investment because once a major like Exxon was on the shelf, Venezuela had to think twice,” the former minister pointedout.

PrintedandPublishedbyNationalMedia& PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.

Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456

Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS

Tel:225-8465,225-8491. Fax:225-8473,226-8210

EDITORIAL

Acting Chancellor on funds

One of the pillars of a functioning democracy is an independentjudiciary Independentinconsistentpractice and not just well-said words intended to disarm. When governmentcontrolsthepursestringsofthejudiciarythat isarecipeforinterferinginandinfluencingtheworkofthe judiciary Itmaybeslowdown,orunnecessaryanxieties generated, caused by the control of those funds, which could lead some members of the judiciary to pause, to think twice. When such circumstances are present, the independence of the judiciary has been impaired, no matterhowsmall. ThefactthattheactingChancellorof theJudiciary,JusticeRoxanneGeorge,wasmovedtocall forfullself-accountingbythejudiciary,aspartofaculture that separates that interpretive body from the appearance ortaintofExecutiveinterference.

Article222AoftheGuyanaConstitutionspeakstothe independenceof certainbudgetagencies,which includes the Supreme Court of the Judicature. Specifically, “the expenditureofeachoftheagenciesshallbefinancedbya direct charge on the Consolidated Fund….” Through Section 80B (1) to (4) to the Fiscal Management and Accountability (Amendment) Act, the APNU+AFC Coalitionin2015hadremovedtheExecutive’sroleinthe budget proposals of constitutional agencies and placed that in the legislative realm. In 2021, the PPPC Government moved to court and was able to reverse its predecessor’saction,whichputbudgetsubmissionsback into the hands of the responsible minister, a part of the Executive. Itseemsthatthishascreatedalevelofunease inactingChancellorGeorge. Forhertospeaksoclearly and openly on this issue signifies more than her unease. It’s of someone who in the role of chief administrative judge thinks that the judiciary is constrained to some degree, and that brings its full independence into the spotlight.

The acting chancellor said, “Most importantly, I reiterate, the judiciary looks forward to full compliance with article 122Aof the Constitution of Guyana, and the return of the judiciary to being a self-accounting entity which manages its tender processes with full accountability to Parliament regarding how it spends its budgetaryallocation.AsfarasIamaware,Guyanawasthe firstterritoryinCARICOMtoprovideforsuchautonomy to the judiciary Therefore, full implementation of the fiscal management provisions is necessary to fulfill the constitutional mandate and retain our leadership in this regard.”

It is out of character for Chancellor George to be so forthright, so pointed in her language, in the public domain. She is chaffing under what she interprets as restraints or, at least, the steps reintroduced by the executivein2021thathaveanimpactonhowthejudiciary performsitsfunctions. Wenoteherfull-throatedcall(“I reiterate”) “full compliance with Article 122A of the Constitution of Guyana. That may be a slip of the keyboard, since it is likely that the reference is toArticle 222A. And further, with the judiciary being “a selfaccounting entity with full accountability to Parliament…” Full compliance and full accountability are strong positions from anyone, but when taken by the acting chancellor of the Judiciary in Guyana, it takes on evenmoresignificance,particularlyintheconcernsabout theconstitutionalentity’sindependence. Involvementin and efforts at control of, the allocation of funds for the judiciary should be handled with the greatest delicacy, if notleftuntouchedaltogether. IntheUS,courtbudgetsare channeledtotheOfficeofManagementandBudget,andis includedinthe president’soverallbudget. Butthereistheimportant qualifierthatnochangecanbemadetowhatissubmitted totheCongressforreviewandapproval.

Guyana’s political legacy, loyalty and leadership

DEAREDITOR

,

Comically ironic, perhaps, is there “Much ado about Nothing” in Shakespear’s play, drama or theatrics, “All’s well that ends Well?” In life, in order to attain the helm, there are many hills to climb, encountering many hurdles while traversing. But in the end, we do have to descend to the bottom in order to participate with our ‘roots andgrounding!’

So, is it worth the while, or, as Guyanese say, “anything sa do,” in our passing phase while paraphrasing our daily encounters in this dear land ofmanypeoplewhoarebusy going places while being passionately proud, or, protectively pretensive, or, pervasively pernicious? Being potently poor further reduces the limitation of choices.

Guyana is feverishly

approaching another milestone next month with the anniversary of the 56th year since Guyana brokered with Republicanism She severed the British monarchy in 1970 although enjoying membership as a Commonwealth nation Barbados followed suit in 2020 but Jamaica and other small islands remain nonRepublic.

The benign or baneful wooing of friendships and the barefacedness or impropriety of vices, have scribed the famous and infamous trails, trials and traits of Guyana’s history in a l l i t s g l o r y a n d ingloriousness, honour and dishonour and dignity and indignity There is nothing dishonest about being honest!

SinceGuyanabecamean independent nation in 1966, m a n y c o u r t s h i p s , companions and companies

DEAREDITOR,

There is a video circulating on Facebook showing Guyanese workers being fired by a Chinese companybuildingoneofour schools. There is also the very upsetting issue of workers not receiving their promised pay at GuySuCo, and most importantly the ongoing issue of the nonpayment of the cash grant, which is now being declared as unsustainable. Overall, the concern for workers’ rights is declining and promises made by politiciansareturningoutto belessthandependable. When a compensation agreement is made it should reflect the taxes owed to the government and employers should be insisting on NIS contributionssoworkersare able to gain a pension after theyretire.Foreignandlocal companies should be held accountableformakingsure

that our workers’ rights are protected Unfortunately, thishasnotbeenhappening, and the Ministry of Labour must take the necessary actionagainstthecompanies involved For transient workers, policies must be put in place to protect their rights Guyanese workers are starting to point out that they are being replaced by Spanishworkerswhowilldo the same work for less pay Companies are taking advantage of these refugees and not paying the required amount to the government due to poor documentation of these workers. An issue that must be corrected as soonaspossible.

As for the promised compensation at GuySuCo and the long-awaited cash grant, politicians must be held accountable for their failure to deliver GuySuCo is dependent on their workers and any decision to

WethinkthatactingChancellorGeorgestandsisright on the issue of funding and accounting. To remove even the appearance of executive overreach, the chancellor’s appealshouldbelistenedtobythePPPCGovernment,and given clearance. For a government that emphasises the constitution so much, and highlights the return of democracyoften,itwouldbetoitscredittostandaside,and allow judiciary budget requests to go directly to parliament, with full reporting following. When the government inserts itself in the judiciary’s budget, questionsofthelatter’sindependencegaintraction.

ensued prior, during and after, in order to campaign for th

s country’s

vereignty (Cheddi/ Forbes/Peter); govern this state (PPP/ PNC/UF); and, the declaration of a Cooperative Republic (Communism/Socialism).

From dust to dust, the three-party leaders have returned; the three parties haveburnttheiroriginalityto ashes; and, Capitalism has metamorphosed as a common ideology. New leaders have been molded with different concepts; the three parties are either vibrant or dormant and the economic engine is now business oriented with a foreignfame,flameandflair

From the birth of British Guianatothisdayonearthin Guyana’s dirt, there is no dirth (dearth) of scandal, skepticism and suspicion, as weresideinthisheavenlyor hellish abode. Now it is so

embarrassingly difficult to believeordisbeliefanything and everything from everyone and anyone! It’s the facts of life and not only fromthemediabutalsofrom thehorses’mouths!

As Guyanese prepare to “mash” next month, in a mirror of reflection, we reminisce on Guyana’s Heads of State. The first President, Arthur Chung, also the first ethnic Chinese President, hailed from Windsor Forest in Region 3. Coming from the judiciary, he was powerful but remained powerless Ostensibly formal, he remained ceremonial from 1970to1980.

Guyanese will confirm thatPNC’sBurnhamlefthis people,partyandpolicywith thedisdainfullegacyof“feel the sharpness of his steel,” when he stated that, “the gauntlethasbeenthrown

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Payment of our workers

should be agreed to prior to an announcement and a formal contract must be made with the Union to ensure the compensation of workersisbudgetedfor

More importantly, the underlying issue affecting ourworkforceistheincrease in the cost of living, which canbereducedwithreduced government spending and increased saving rates offered at the banks to help control inflation The President has recently complained over the lack of dependable labour to staff themultitudeofgovernment projects being undertaken. By reducing the level of government spending to match the availability of labour a higher level of dependablelabourwillresult andthosewhotrulydesireto work will make themselves available for any additional work.A35% turnout rate as mentioned by the President should be reflected in the reduction of government expenditure for 2026. Thus, resultingin35%to50%less unskilled labour (work requiring minimal training) dependent projects being undertakenduringthisfiscal period.

The issue of the nonpayment of the cash grantisamajorone,andfor

thePresidentto say thatitis not sustainable is quite a surprise. CRG respectfully disagrees with his excellencyonthismatter As previously stated, with prudent investment of the NRF funds the gains will easilysustainanannualcash grant program for the long term, and as the fund increases in value the r e q u i r e d r e t u r n s significantly reduce We must also keep in mind the economic multiplier that occurs from the injection of these funds from the cash grant into the economy The benefits are substantial and willhelptocontinuetofoster economic growth The government does regain a substantial level of funds fromsucheconomicactivity via taxes. The spending on infrastructure must be balanced with the needs citizens have for more disposable income. The use of the funds within the NRF should be a key item of discussion in the upcoming budget debate, and the budget must reflect an investment posture that enablesanannualcashgrant, increasedgrowthoftheNRF and prudent achievable investment in critical infrastructure.

Bestregards, Mr.JamilChanglee

‘The Parliamentary opposition in context’

DEAREDITOR

Walter Bagehot, the nineteenth century English journalist, claimed that the British parliament was no morethanatalk-shopofidle people dominated by the executive, and this has remained so in Guyana, where, since independence and even after the so-called ‘return to democracy’ in 1992, the system has been underpinnedbymajoritarian ethnic voting. It is precisely this contextual ignorance, whichprioritisesformrather than substance that also explains why a quarter centuryafteramajoreffortat constitutionalreforms,there are still persistent calls for more inclusive political arrangements.

In 2020, the PPP returned to government wanting blood after being batteredbytheAPNU+AFC C o a l i t i o n ( A A C ) governmentthattookwhatit considered a politically motivateddecisiontoreform the sugar industry in a mannerthatthrewthousands of sugar workers - PPPcore supporters-onthebreadline at Christmastime while they stood helpless on the sidelines. Onthatoccasion, this column criticised the position taken by the Coalition government (‘Sad butnotatallsurprising,’SN: 13/12/2017).

Even if as some would have us believe, the successful no-confidence motion that brought down the Coalition government was a PPP initiative motivated by what was happening to the sugar workers,havingtotakesuch deceitful action that if

universalised will undermine the entire political process to have a meaningful impact on what was happening to one’s constituency, could not possiblyhavebeentheintent of democratic constitutional makers and is in itself an

indication that the political system is broken and the oppositionimpotent.

Back in government in 2020, the PPP wasted no time trying to make up for the years it had been out of power by blatantly utilising theStatetoentrenchitself.It cloaked its unilateralism in the argument that since the new LOO, Mr Aubrey Norton, claimed that the 2020electionswererigged–a perennial complaint of both the PPP and PNC - it would have little to do with the official opposition until he apologised. In protest at t h i s s h a b b y a n d unconstitutional treatment, Norton did what little was open to him: he refused to shake hands with the president.Theregimeandits propagandists went about making this trivia a far bigger issue than they made of the fact that the elected representative of half the countrywasbeingdeniedhis democratic right to properly representhisconstituency

Now the LOO is again being sidelined, and the hullaballoo is even more deafening, although the situation is substantially different and even less justifiable The PPP is dragging its feet on the appointment of an erstwhile friend and the US- indicted Mr Azruddin Mohamed as the LOO although his party, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), has supplanted the PNC as the largest opposition party in the National Assembly Some arguethatthePPPisrefusing to appoint Mr Mohamed because his party poses a significantpoliticalthreatto it, but this was not demonstrated at the most r e c e n t e l e c t i o n s Furthermore,theissueofthe appointment is not only in thehandsofthePPP,butthat aside, there are important reasons why the PPPor any government of Guyana

shouldbecautiousaboutthe appointment of Azruddin Mohamed.

For example, under Article 119 of the Constitutionthereshouldbe parliamentary sectoral committees to deal with natural resources, economic services, foreign relations, socialservicesandoversight of the security sector The membership and leadership of these committees are distributed relatively equitably between the government and the opposition. Among other things, the committees have responsibility for the scrutiny of all areas of government policy and administration They can request ministers to submit written or oral information, including 2/2 government documents and records, about any specific area of government policy and administration, scrutinise government documents, papers and records, visit any government activity or project in Guyana, use the services of experts, specialistsandothersources of advice, and make recommendations to the Assembly on legislation or any other action to be taken on matters falling within their purview The security sector oversight committee has responsibility for examining the policies and administration of sector

entities, namely the disciplinedforces,etc.

Democratic outcomes normally result from a totality of individual private interests which often reflect conflictingselfishwantsthat could lead to widespread injustice, inequality, etc. If Mr Mohamed were to be appointed,wewouldhaveas a member and possibly deputy chairperson of the sector committees someone who is running foul of the

very law enforcement institutions he has been elected to investigate and make good Since his indictment, Mr Mohamed has been doing all he possibly can to use the political/electoral and legal systemstoavoidfallingprey to US justice and would be foolhardy not to expect that hewouldmostlikelyuseany relevantinformation,etc.he came upon to positively leveragehisposition.Infact, it would be morally proper andmoresensibleifnoneof those under Mr Azruddin Mohamed’s leadership had any relationship with the

activities/information until this entire matter has been resolved. Itisinthiscontext that I view the prevailing notion that his appointment be made ‘as soon as possible.’

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is againbusyingitselfplanning for local government electionsinsteadofdeciding upon the fundamental reforms the system requires ifitistodeliverfreeandfair democratic elections A jocular aspect of 2025 elections observers’ reports is that even those who attempted the spin their reporttomitigatethefallout likely to occur if they followed the European Union’s position, identified so many problems with the electionsprocessastomake

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The Great Guyanese Heist: ALiquidation Sale of the Future

DearEditor, Guyana is witnessing a masterclass in economic extraction. While the skyline of Georgetown bristles with the skeletal frames of new hotels and the government boasts of “transformative” infrastructure, the geological and fiscal reality tells a predatory story We are not just using our oil; we are hemorrhaging it to mask a failureofleadership.

The math of the Liza fieldsisachillingindictment of state “oversight. ”

Originally sold to the nation as 20-year sustainable revenue streams, the Liza One and Liza Two fields are being cannibalised at recordbreakingspeeds.

By allowing extraction ratestosurgebeyondoriginal design capacities, the government is facilitating a “dash for cash” that benefits the operators’ quarterly reports while shortening the runway for Guyana’s development. Projects meant tosupportthenextgeneration are being exhausted in less thanadecade.Wearetrading long-termenergysecurityfor ashort-termcashspikethatis largely being captured by the operator,nottheowner

The core of this “fiscal surrender” is the refusal to implement ring-fencing and the exploitation of the 75% cost-recovery cap. Here is how the mechanism of extraction works against the citizen:

* No Ring-Fencing: Underastandardfairdeal,the

profits from an active field likeLizaOnewouldstaywith that field. In Guyana, Exxon is allowed to take the money earned from your oil today and use it to pay for explorationandequipmentin other blocks tomorrow You areeffectivelyfinancingtheir future profits while your current revenue is suppressed.

* The 75% “Shaft”: Exxon deducts up to 75% of every barrel produced to pay for“expenses.”Becausethere is no ring-fencing, this “cost bank” never empties; it just gets refilled with the costs of new projects, keeping Guyana’s 50/50 profit share perpetuallyoutofreach.

* Tax-Free Plunder:

While the average Guyanese worker pays income tax, the government pays the companies’ taxes out of its own share of the oil, further dilutingtheactualtake-home payforthenation.

Rather than confronting the lopsided 2016 contract, thegovernmenthastakenthe path of least resistance: raiding the Natural Resource Fund(NRF).

Through the Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) Act of 2024, the legislative g u a r d r a i l s w e r e systematically weakened The “complex” formulas designed to ensure intergenerational savings were replaced with a “simplified” sliding scale T h i s w a s n ’ t f o r transparency—itwasfor

(Continuedonpage06)

Supporting the presence and integration of deportees and third-country nationals in Guyana

DEAREDITOR,

IrefertoKaieteurNews, 16 January 2025, which reported that “Growth in Guyana is expected to remainstronginthemedium term, but upskilling the labourforceremainsamajor challenge,” according to the I n t e r - A m e r i c a n DevelopmentBank(IDB).

In light of this, I wish to outline my reasons for supporting the presence and integration of deportees and third-country nationals in Guyana.

History clearly shows that immigrants have been instrumental in building strong and prosperous nations. Immigrants helped makeAmericagreat,andthe same is true of Dubai. Anyone who has visited Dubai can attest that the

country is sustained by thousands of immigrant workers. If immigrants were to leave, Dubai would come to astandstill.Thesamecanbe saidoftheUnitedStatesand many other successful economies.

I

immigrants are among the hardest-working people in everycountry Theyareoftenwillingto accept lower wages and perform jobs that many localsareunwillingtodo.In doing so, they fill critical labour gaps and contribute meaningfully to national development.

From a bib

cal perspective, the case for welcoming immigrants is evenstronger.

Scripture teaches that God will bless nations that showkindnesstoforeigners. While God loves all people, Hehasaspecialconcernfor foreigners, orphans, and widows, and He promises blessings to those who care forthem.

For my part, I am prepared to contribute in a practical way by providing a

deporteeswhoarewillingto w

and contribute positively to Guyanesesociety

If Guyana is serious about sustaining economic growth and addressing labour shortages, then compassion, inclusion, and opportunity must be part of thesolution.

Respectfully AnthonyPantlitz

The Great Guyanese Heist:...

Frompage05

accessibility Under the new rules, the ceiling for w i t h d r a w a l s w a s aggressively raised. For the firstUS$5billioninthefund, thegovernmentcannowpull out nearly the entire amount to finance the 2 / 2 national budget.This“raiding”ofthe fund serves two purposes: it creates a facade of “oilfunded development” to distract from the refusal to renegotiate the contract, and it masks the fact that the g o v e r n m e n t i s simultaneously exploding the national debt to fill the holes that the 75% cost-

‘The

recoveryleavesbehind. The fallout is an economy now on life support. The lack of fiscal prudence isn’t just a technicality; it’s a ticking timebomb.

* The Mirage of Infrastructure: We are told themoneyisgoingtobridges androads.

But look at the documentation: many of these“muchtouted”projects are funded by massive bilateral loans We are borrowing against a future we are simultaneously draining.

*TheDutchDisease:As

the oil sector sucks the labour and capital out of the room, agriculture and manufacturing are withering.Whentheoilruns dryin10yearsinsteadof20, there will be no productive economylefttocatchus.

* Generational Theft: This is strategic liquidation. Wearesellingourchildren’s inheritance at a discount to payforthepoliticalopticsof today

This is not development. It is a fire sale where the auctioneerisalsothebuyer’s bestfriend.

Yourstruly

HemduttKumar

Parliamentary opposition...

Frompage05 their own conclusions untenable.

The recent Commonwealth MonitoringGroupnotedthat ‘these were the eighth elections observed by the Commonwealth since 1992, and these elections occurred against the backdrop of several unimplemented recommendations. Our G r o u p m a k e s recommendations for improvingfutureelectionsin Guyana. It is our sincere

hope that, with appropriate Commonwealth support, in collaboration with international partners, we can encourage a positive response to observer recommendations, and that an appropriate domestic mechanism would be established to advance this aspiration.’

I began by arguing that the existing political system is largely inappropriate for Guyana’s political context

Incumbents can and do totally ignore the opposition By the next l o c a l g o v e r n m e n t elections, the priority of the parliamentary opposition must, in collaboration with civil society, be to develop a comprehensive strategy to f o r c e m e a n i n g f u l constitutional reforms that will make governments inclusiveandaccountable.

Sincerely

Dr.HenryJeffrey

Guyana’s political legacy, loyalty...

From page 04 down.” Undoubtedly, his reference to violence has survived his name and nature and is still pronounced in weaponising his disciples Dr Walter Rodney from the WPA was one of the sad recipients of thiseffect.

To rewind, Burnham’s successor, Desmond Hoyte, instilled fear, fever and fury with his multifaceted mantra, “mo fya, slo fya.’ Thisordealhastransgressed into audacious actions in manyfolds,moreoftenthan onewouldcaretoremember It is easier to remember recentevents.

“Sleepy joe” stumbled onmanyoccasions.Granger, a ranger, remained a stranger, cloaked in hidden quarters most of the time. But he did not shun from political manipulations, m i s g i v i n g s a n d misrepresentations.

Guyanese will always recall Volda Lawrence’s speech in November 2018, w h i l e s e r v i n g a s

Chairperson of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and Minister of Public Health in Guyana, “The only friends I got is PNCsotheonlypeopleIgon

givewuktoisPNCandright now I looking for a doctor who can talk Spanish or Portuguese and ah want one thatisPNC.”

Dr Cheddi Jagan reworked the making of Guyanawhenhebecamethe first Chief Minister and Premier, leading the first electedgovernmentin1953. He stamped his dominance by working with, by and for the people. Guyanese has inherited his patriarchal gift of “study, work, save and build.” No wonder he is referredtoas“TheFatherof theNation.”

Guyana was dethroned froma“Breadbasket”nation to a “Begging bowl” nation by the PNC government from 1964 to 1992. Lifting Guyana out of political shame and economic disgrace, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo’s debt reduction program and fiscal management saw Guyana’s GDPrise from $300 million to $3.7 Billion, with the per capitacatapultingfrom$500 to $4,900 during his 19992011Presidency

Donald Ramoutar led a PPP/Cminoritygovernment under a backdrop of intense hostilityandwasresponsible

forproroguingParliament. A two term President, it is Dr Irfaan Ali who is retransforming the economic landscape of Guyana from the second poorest nation in this Hemisphere to the fastest and wealthiest growing nationpercapita,mainlydue totheoilandgasproduction. How will his legacy be groundedisanyone’sguess. From the “Complete Lyrics of Ira Gershwin,” he scribed, “The future of this nation, with the present generation, You must admit isnothingbutajoke.” Are our heroes now zeroes? Is Gershwin’s remark any reference to Guyana?

As they say, “sticks and stonesmaybreakmybones, but words will never hurt me.”Afterall, words are but winds, if we’re to accept “The comedy of Errors” as illustratedbyShakespear Guyana’s political arena isstigmatisedwithundiluted uncertainties, unadulterated jealousy and unabashed uncomfortableness. Should Guyanese worry when worrykills?

Yoursrespectfully, JaiLall.

PPP/C Govt. “thriving” on chaos

…as Reg.10stillwithoutchair, vice-chair three months on

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has accused the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration of allowing a prolonged leadership deadlock at the Region Ten Regional Democratic Council (RDC),

which has remained unresolved for more than threemonths.

The RDC elections were held on October 10, 2025, but ended in a 9–9 tie between the APNU and We InvestinNationhood(WIN) nominees. Minister of Local

Magistrate to rule on application to reduce charges against Calvin Brutus

Government and Regional

Development, Priya Manickchandhadstatedthat shehasnoroleinchoosinga regionalchair,butexpressed hopethatitisdone“shortly”. However, Region Ten remains without an elected chairandvice-chair

SpeakingatAPNUpress conference last Friday, People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) General

Secretary, Sherwin Benjamin reminded that the responsibility for resolving the impasse rests with Region 10 Clerk of Council and Regional Executive Officer (REO), Dwight John.However,henotedthat political interference has stalledtheprocess.

“And it appears as if the government seems to be willingtohavethesekindsof situation exist because they benefit from these kinds of chaoticsituation,”Benjamin said. It should be noted that PresidentIrfaanAlisworein regional chairpersons and

MinisterofLocalGovernment andRegionalDevelopment

PriyaManickchand

vice-chairpersons for the other nine regions back in November2025.

Benjaminarguedthatthe stalemate reflects a broader pattern of governance under the PPP administration. “It shows a pattern of the PPP civic administration not respecting the rule of law,” hesaid.

“And I'm saying to the Guyanese people that we've hadenough,weneedtotake the decisive action to deal with condignly this government, and I'm hoping thatwhenwecallonyoufor support to get out on the street as needs be, you're withus,becauseattheendof the day, the eroding of the

Region Ten Clerk of Council and Regional Executive Officer (REO), Dwight John

rule of law affects all of us, and we need to take and make decisive actions as citizens and hold this government accountable,” headded.

WIN has similarly accused the government of vindictive politics For months now the party has been calling on the REO to reconvene the meeting to possibly bring the tie to an end.

WIN Region 10 councilor and chairman nominee Mark Goring a c c u s e d M i n i s t e r Manickchand and President Ali of indifference and selective engagement He argued that while the

Sherwin Benjamin

People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) General Secretary

minister cannot decide who becomes chair, she has administrative authority overtheREO.

“He report to you, he send reports to you, and so you have that authority to have him, reconvene the meeting. What you don't have is a decision in the matter, to decide on who be chairman or not, but you have that authority as the minister responsible for local government,” Goring hadsaid.

“So, you supposed to be able to indicate to the REO that you need to move on with the business of the people, if you're a fair minister…”hestated.

Moral,civiceducationbeing introducedassubjectsinschools - APNU

Moral and civic education is being introduced as stand-alone subjects across schools, as part of the government's efforts to strengthen national identity and foster patriotism amongstudents.

Speakingonarecentepisodeofthe 'Starting Point' podcast, Minister of Education Sonia Parag disclosed that the subjects have already been timetabledandwillbetaughtatnursery, primaryandsecondarylevels.

She said the Ministry of Education has been working with departmental

education officers, head teachers and senior school administrators to ensure thesubjectsareproperlyscheduled.

“They [pupils] are going to have it inthemornings…Ofcourse,depending on the level, the curriculum is tailored tosuittheageandwhattheyshouldbe learning at that particular age,” she explained.

While aspects of morality or civic responsibility may appear in subjects such as history, Minister Parag stated thatthegovernmentwantsbothareasto be taught independently to ensure they receivefocusedattention.

“Atanurserylevel,childrenneedto know patriotism. They need to know their identity, they need to know their nationality Itisalltowardsnationhood, building cooperation and building unity,”MinisterParagsaid.

Aspartofciviceducationforyoung children,theywilllearnhowtobehave during national events, including how to stand and conduct themselves when thenationalanthemisplayed.

The minister mentioned that many adultsdonotknownationalsongs,and the education system is working to fix this.(DPI)

We deserve better, Mr. President!

We deserve better, Mr. President!

The President of Guyanaisrightto be concerned about the high cost of internal air travel. For many Guyanese, domestic flights are not a luxury They are a necessity People in hinterland communities dependonaircraftforaccess to health care, education, work, and basic services. When airfares are high, ordinarypeoplesuffer

The President has said that domestic airfares could be reduced by about 15 percent.Somelocalaviation carriershaveannouncedfare reductions.Butitisnotclear whether the average reduction has reached that target What is clear, however, is that the aviation sector benefits heavily from publicsupport.

E a c h y e a r, t h e government waives and foregoes billions of dollars in taxes for local aviation operators These include concessionsonaviationfuel, spare parts, and equipment. At the same time, the state spends billions more upgrading airstrips and openingnewonesacrossthe country These investments arepaidforbytaxpayers. These airstrips are not built for free. They require land clearing and regular maintenance. Once they are built,aviationcompaniesare

able to operate more routes, carry more passengers, and make more profits. There is therefore a direct link between public investment, tax concessions, and private profitintheaviationsector

Given this reality, it is reasonable to ask a simple question What does the publicgetinreturn?

At present, tax concessions are granted across the board. Airlines receive them whether fares are high or low This makes little sense. If concessions reduce operating costs, then some of those savings should be passed on to passengers through lower fares Government should thereforelinktaxconcessions to reduced airfares This can be done through a clear and transparent formula Airlines thatreducefaresbyanagreed amountshouldqualifyforfull concessions Airlines that do not should receive reduced concessions Itisassimpleas that Suchasystemwouldnot punish airlines. It would reward responsible behavior. Operators who work efficiently and keep fares affordable would benefit more. Those who choose to keep fares high would no longer enjoy unlimitedpublicsupport. This approach would also protect taxpayers. The

people’s money should not beusedtosupportexcessive profits while citizens struggle to afford travel within their own country Public resources should deliverpublicbenefits.

If government believes that creating such a formula is too difficult, there is another option Tax concessions to the aviation sector could be converted into equity In simple terms, concessions could be turned into shares. When airlines declare profits, the public would benefit through dividends.

This would reflect the reality that taxpayers are already silent investors in the sector They fund infrastructure. They forego tax revenue. It is only fair thattheyshareinthereturns.

The President’s concern should not stop at domestic travel He should also address the high cost of internationalairtraveltoand from Guyana. Guyanese living abroad are paying as much as US$1,500 or more for basic economy tickets fromNewYorkandToronto. Thesepricesareexcessive. Travel between Guyana and North America is not a luxury for the diaspora People travel for funerals, medicalemergencies,family care, and national events. High fares place an unfair

DEM BOYS SEH

Pay-To-Celebrate

Dem boys seh Guyana donturncelebrationupside down. Is a strange thing happening now, yuh know Longtime,whensomebody got birthday, dem does inviteyou,feedyou,liquor you, and send you home with a doggy bag. Now?

Now you paying to celebrate somebody else ageincrease.Madnesswith areceipt.

Nowadays, you ain’t “invited”toabirthdayparty — you “admitted.” Like is prison or cricket pavilion.

Big banner outside: Birthday Bash – $8,000 Early Bird. Early bird for what? To watch somebody cutcake?Anddon’tbelate, because late fee probably comingnext.

You pay entrance, you paydrinks,andyoustillgot to sing “Happy Birthday” with genuine emotion, like you didn’t just swipe your bankcardtobethere.Food

included, dem seh — one chicken back, two grains rice, and a plantain slice thin like it pass through GPLblackout.

Demboyssehtheworst part is when the birthday person standing up by the bar collecting money like tax collector “You get band?” “You get stamp?” Stamp?Icomeforcake,not customsclearance.

And the drinks prices? Boy,onebeercostsomuch you start wondering if it brewed with crude oil.You ask for water and dem say, “Still got to pay.” Pay for water? Next thing you know, oxygen go be premium — inhale twice, swipecard.

At this rate, dem boys seh weddings soon go follow suit Invitation might read: You are cordially invited to contribute.Bringgift,bring one bottle, bring one tray

burden on Guyanese families and discourage investment and tourism International carriers that serve Guyana operate under permitsgrantedbythestate. These permits are not an automatic right. They are privileges.Inreturn,airlines should provide reasonable andcompetitivepricing.

At present, there is effectively no peak or offpeak season when it comes to international travel between Guyana and North America and the Caribbean. Traditionally, airfares rise during busy periods such as Christmas, summer, or school holidays, and fall duringslowermonths. That pattern does not exist for Guyana.Whetheritiswinter or summer, peak season or supposed off-peak season, fares remain consistently high. Guyanese are paying premium prices year-round,

even during periods when planes are not always full anddemandshouldbelower This suggests that current pricing is not driven by seasonal demand, but by marketstructureandlimited competition, and it strengthens the case for government intervention to protectconsumers.

The President should therefore meet with international and regional carriers. He should make it clear that Guyana expects fairfares.

If airlines refuse to cooperate, government should explore alternatives. New carriers can be invited. Existing permits can be reviewed. No airline should assume it has a guaranteed market. Other countries negotiate aggressively with airlines. Guyana should do the same. A growing oil

economy should not mean thatcitizenspaysomeofthe highestairfaresintheregion. In the end, the principle is simple. Public support should bring public benefit. Tax concessions and infrastructure investments must serve the people, not just private companies Linking concessions to reduced fares is fair policy Demanding reasonable international airfares is sound leadership. Guyanese deservenothingless.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)

food, and still pay cover charge. If you want chair with backrest, extra fee. Want to clap during vows? That’sVIPsection.

Funeral probably next. “Viewing free, crying $2,000 Loud wailing extra.”

Demboyssehwereach a stage where people hosting party like dem doing you a favour by letting you spend money Soon, birthday person go thank guests like this: “I appreciate everybody who support my turning 35 financially.”

Isnotapartyagain,isa businessmodel.Andifyou don’t attend? Dem vex. Because how you could refuse to pay to celebrate somebody else surviving anotheryear?

Dem boys seh Guyana really creative — we even monetisehappinessnow Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

H@RD TRUTHS

Budget consultations

The Opposition laments that there has been no consultation from the PPP Government on the 2026 national budget. When has the government done so? Surely, the opposition, be it Mr Aubrey Norton or Mr Azruddin Mohamed, couldn'tbesooptimisticthat t h e y h a r b o r s u c h expectations. The sound coming out of the ground is notreassuringonthebudget. It is almostmid-January If the Opposition wasn't consulted earlier, then the oddsofthathappeninggrow paler by the day If there is consultation, very remote, it would be more cursory than possessing any quality Pres. Ali has compiled a damning record as a leader whosaysonethingandlives the opposite. He speaks of being inclusive. Checking his record would confirm that his definition of inclusive does not extend beyond PPP Govt. insiders and its networks of cabals.

$3

The private sector is sure to havehadsomanyinputsthat it could claim ownership of thenationalbudget. Ergo,a beneficiary of reciprocal consultations between government and this most dependable,trusted,sector

Whereandhowdoesthe Oppositionfit?

Whatcoulditofferinany budget consultation that finds favor with the government? I do this with an open mind, willing to be corrected Like past budgets, the public works infrastructure slice of the national budget shouldn't reflect too much of a difference in the fraction allocated. Whensomuchis earmarkedforinfrastructure, poor Guyanese can bet the dollar that they don't have that whatever they get from thisyear'sbudgetwillfallfar shortoftheircalculations. CanGuyaneseanticipate anotherwhopperofabudget, a big, blown-up record? I am; notwithstanding the

threat of lower oil prices, fueled by developments in Venezuela. Iforeseethatthe big suppliers rushing to get ahead with their own production (and profit collection), before USengineered Venezuelan oil hitsthemarkets.

Thisshouldbeaconcern for Guyana, accommodated for in the 2026 budget Would it? I doubt it. It certainly doesn't make any sense for new taxes at this timeforacoupleofreasons.

The private sector will resist,beupset. Themassof Guyana's poor need money from the government, doesn't have a thin dime to giveit.

From a spending perspective, and taking a broadbrush,theGeorgetown modernisation vision calls forplenty. Thedelayedcash grant will require about $70 billion,giveortake. TheAI hub will not be cheap Comprehensive poverty reduction push will gobble

uptensofbillion. Theslush fund labeled 'contingency' thatgoestotheOfficeofthe Presidentwillgetanincrease tocopewithpricepressures, so it should be in the double digits this year, without a penny accounted for, scrutinised and reported Morewillbeforfarmers,but noloweringofpricesoffield products. Anicerip-off,that one.

Billions, billions, billions. Nothing yet about education,health,ornational security On the latter, the Oppositionisusuallyaquick and easy call away for consultations and holding one head, when menacing clouds gather from the Venezuelan side of the horizon. National sovereignty and national defense, no hesitation; n a t i o n a l b u d g e t consultations, get out of here. Getreal. It is par for the course. Governmentleaderstalkone way,thenpromptlybarkupa

completely different tree. What else is new?

Guyanese, i n c l u d i n g t h e opposition, have to be thebiggestduncesaroundto believe that consultation, o p e n n e s s , a n d straightforwardness will gracethis year's national financial plan. When has that been under a PPP Govt? Why should it listen to others, beside the friendly private sector,andinterferewiththe flow of its program?

Guyanese do not have to be skeptics or cynics, but national oil budgets have come to represent the expression and publication of corruption in very many ofthosebillionsallocatedto thisministryandthatagency. Naturally, it is not called corruption. How about national development priorities? What a budget forthepeople! Ofcourse,it is the 1% people, who else?

Pensioners are expecting a

nice boost, with someone tabling a jump to $82,000 monthly Saywhat? When? Where? Can't be here. If after several budgets and trillions reported, and all Guyanese elderly could have collected was$5,000oneyear,$4,000 another,andcounting,Ihear amoveto$50kmonthlyand notapennymore. Dealwith it Ditto parents with children,whoarewaitingfor their January (or Feb) surprise. May it not be a shock.

In such contexts, consultations with the Opposition will spoil the govt's fun. Govt is corrupt, butnever,everthatstupid.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)

billion Stanleytown Bridge delayed with no new timeline - WIN

The delayed completion of a four-lane bridge at Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara has been causing excessive traffic, dust pollution and affecting economic activities for commutersandresidents.

Raising concerns over the delayed completion of the project, awarded to Gaico Construction Inc since November 2024 was presumptive leader of the opposition, Azruddin Mohamed.

During a visit to the site

last week, Mohamed highlighted the daily struggles of persons living and working in the village a n d n e i g h b o u r i n g communities.

“ R e s i d e n t s o f S t a n l e y t o w n a n d surrounding communities continue to endure long commutetimesduetosevere trafficcongestion.

Thereisexcessivedustin the area, all of which negativelyimpactsdailylife, health, and economic activity,” the leader pointed out while adding that citizens have not been informed of a new timeline foritscompletion.

The scope of works for

$3 billion project includes the construction of a fourlane bridge at Stanleytown, the rehabilitation of five kilometers of road and the construction of 3 5 kilometers of drainage systems. Mohamed pointed out that Gaico Construction, owned by the former Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Komal Singh, was awarded the contract for the failed 'critic' pump station, but is yet to complete any substantialworktheretoo.

“Mr Komal Singh

receives billions in contracts, and all of his projectsarebehindschedule. Nearly one year later, in October 2025, President Irfaan conducted a site visit at Stanleytown, during which the contractor publicly committed to completingthebridgeworks by December 2025. This commitment was confirmed by the president himself during a live broadcast,” Mohamedexplained. In that video, seen by KaieteurNews,thehead-of-

state, standing alongside the Singh said, “I am here with the contractor tonightKomal- I have said to him thatweneedtodoubleupour efforts. We need to work 24 hours, seven days per week… so that we get this bridge, all three bridges completed in the second weekinDecember.”

Notwithstanding that commitment, the project is notonlystillincomplete,but appears to have been adjusted.

Mohamed said, “despite publicassurances,thereality on the ground suggests a disconnect between promises made and outcomesdelivered.

What we see on the ground is only two lanes being worked on. If these two lanes are taking this long,whenwilltheothertwo lanesbecompleted?”

Furthermore, he argued that Guyanese must be curious whether default contractorswilleverbeheld accountable or corruption will continue for associates of the government to enjoy kickbacks,asnoexplanation has been given for the delayed project, updated timelineorconsequences.

Canadian, Israeli firm in talks with govt. for extension of Orinduik Block

Canadian firm, Eco Atlantic is in talks with the Ministry of Natural Resourcesonthecontinuationofits appraisalandexplorationactivities on the Orinduik Block, as the licence for the offshore area has reached the end of its second renewalterm.

In a recent update, Eco disclosedthattheOrinduiklicence expired on January 14, 2026, but noted that provisions under the Petroleum Act allow it to retain rights to its Jethro-1 and Joe-1 discoveries while its appraisal programmeisunderreview

Thecompanysaiditisworking alongside its partner Navitas Petroleum LP, an Israeli company in what it described as “ongoing, constructive discussions” with the ministryregardingthewayforward fortheblock.

AccordingtoEco,theMinistry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) have already received the relevant joint submissions in relation to the proposed appraisal work. Eco and Navitassaidthattheyarepursuing a path that would be acceptable to the government while preserving valueforshareholders.

Gil Holzman, president and chief executive officer of Eco Atlantic, commented, “We continue to engage constructively with the Government of Guyana and our partners as we work through the next phase of our exploration and appraisal work in thebasin.

Our focus remains on preserving access to existing discoveries, progressing appraisal

opportunities to enhance the block configuration in a manner that is aligned with both shareholders' valuesandasimportantlyGuyana's Governmentnationalobjectives.”

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat when contacted, confirmed that the licence has come to an end and that governmentisintalkswithEcoand Navitasonthewayforward.

The update follows meetings last month between Minister Bharrat and senior executives of Navitas Petroleum, including its ChairmanGideonTadmor

Late last year, Eco entered a binding framework agreement and two option agreements with NavitasPetroleumfortheOrinduik Block and Block 1 CBK offshore South Africa. Navitas will pay an initial US$2 million to secure the twooptionagreements.

The Canadian firm has been in talks with prospective partners for sometimeinrelationtothefarm-in oftheOrinduikBlock,forthenext phaseofexploration.

The Orinduik option grants Navitastheright,within12months and upon paying an additional

US$2.5 million, to farm-in to the Orinduik Block and taking up 80 per cent working interest and operatorship.

It was explained that Eco's remaining20percentsharewillbe fully carried for upcoming work, including drilling and exploration wellorappraisingtheJethro-1and Joe-1heavyoildiscoveries.

Also, the Orinduik carry is cappedatUS$11millionnettoEco, excludingmobilisationcosts.

Eco has been assessing its Jethro-1 and Joe-1 discoveries, which are located in the lower and

upper tertiary formations of the Orinduik Block Both contain heavy oil, and Eco had been conducting further analysis to determine whether development is feasible.

The company previously noted that the proximity of the Orinduik Block finds to ExxonMobil Guyana Limited's Stabroek Block, where the Government of Guyana recently approved a Petroleum Production License (PPL) for Exxon's seventh project (Hammerhead) has renewed its interestintheJethrodiscovery

Phase Two of the Moleson Creek, Eldorado Road on schedule - Public Works

The Ministry of Public Wo r k s o n S u n d a y announcedthatPhaseTwoof the Moleson Creek to El Dorado Road project is moving apace, and there are thousands of acres of land

MinisterwithintheMinistry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj on Saturday and he u

roadway is of strategic

CreekandMolesonCreekto Orealla, and from Orealla to Kwakwani This road is opening farm-to-market access and unlocking thousands of acres of land for farmers,” Minister

that will be opened as the works continue on this c

y corridor

In a statement, the ministrysaidthatavisitwas conducted to Region Six by

connecting communities, unlocking production and strengthening regional integration.

“We are opening connectivityrightacrossthis region; from Crabwood

Ramrajsaid.

He emphasised that the roadway is a key aligning component of the wider infrastructure programme the government has, that seeks to improve access to

market, reducing isolation and driving sustainable development across the

hinterland and riverain communities.

Engineer Joel Tucker provided a technical update, noting that the works began inaphasedmanneralongthe corridorin2021.

“We began with the first 1 6 kilometres of fairweather road using a crushand-runsurface.Wearenow

approximately two kilometres in, including a section that was previously pavedinasphaltedconcrete.

Most of the farm access roads along the Eldorado alignment currently remain at a crush-and-run standard to support agricultural activity,”Tuckersaid.

Tucker also noted that the works now underway mark the start of the second phase,whichwillextendthe road by an additional kilometretothefinalculvert at the entrance to Eldorado. Lookingahead,afurtherfive kilometres are planned for the2025–2026period.

“Intotal,thiswillgiveus eight kilometres from the Canawaima Turn junction straight into Eldorado. The long-term objective is to extendthisalignmentallthe way to Orealla, which is approximately another 40 kilometres from where we arenow,”heexplained.

Preparatory works are alreadybeingconsideredfor thisyearwhichincludesfull alignment towards Orealla. Reconnaissance conducted from Orealla back toward Eldorado has identified

approximately seven kilometres in fair condition, as well as swampy sections that will require detailed technical assessment to determine the most suitable andresilientroute.

“All together, the distance from this point to Orealla is about 48 kilometres, ”

confirmed.

This roadway forms part of the government's long term infrastructure strategy to enhance food security, integrate regions, while creating reliable transport links between farms, markets,andcommunities.

s developmental projects are never done in isolation, noting, “As a government, whenever we make any plans, they are all done holistically Whenweopenaroad,we aren'tjustbuildingroads;we are creating space for

ng, investment, jobs, and improved access to services forourpeople.”

Furthermo

, “As construction advances, the Governmen

mains committed to a phased, technically sound approach ensuringdurability,valuefor money, and

angible economic benefits for residents and producers across the region,” the ministryadded.

Pregnant woman jumps to death from GPHC ward

A22-year-old woman Sunday evening ended her life by jumping through the window of the female m

Hospital.

Dead is Ma

a Eastman. It is reported that the young woman was pregnant and was under observation at the hospital. She reportedly made a facebook post and was also live prior to the incident. Following the incident, her relatives rushed down to the hospital-some of them inconsolable Police were also summoned to the scene as they conducted their own investigation.

According to the Pan

Organ

n (PAHO) suicide disproportionately affects older adults, with 71% of male and 65% of female suicides occurring among those over 50.While men face higher rates (14.7 per 100,000 population, comparedto4per100,000), the rate among women has increased more sharply (23% since 2000, compared to 14 4% among men) Suicide attempts were also nearly five times more

frequentamongwomen. Several underlying factors appear to be driving theseincreases.Amongmen, suicide is closely linked to alcoholanddruguse,aswell asunemploymentandliving in areas with high homicide rates. For women, educational inequality and unemployment are the (Continuedonpage16)

Fournabbedwith cocaineatParika

The 154 pounds of cocaine found at

The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU)saiditinterceptedsome154pounds of cocaine on Sunday at Parika, East Bank Essequibo.

Man gunned down in Bare Root

A man was shot dead execution style in Bare Root, East Coast Demerara Sunday night.

Dead is Orlando Chichester Kaieteur NewsunderstandsthatChichesteralsocalled Biggswasonhismotorcycleridingwhenhe cameunderattack.

The gunman pumped several shots into him before fleeing the scene. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) were summonedtothescenewhereChichesterwas pronounced dead by a doctor Police are investigatingtheincident.

Murdersin2025increasedby11.10%,the Guyana Police Force (GPF) said One hundred and seventeen murders were recordedin2024while130wererecordedin 2025. There have been several executionstylekillingsinrecentweeks.

On December Late last year, Linden businessman Amar Jones was gunned down at his home hours after another man from neighbouring Bamia was killed in similar fashion. Jones, according to reports was executedbytwomaskedgunmen.

At Bamia poultry farmer, Dion Ramdyhan was shot dead in his home. Ramdyhan 47 was a bus driver and poultry farmer.Inastatementpolicesaidthemurder occurred around 02:30hrs. Initial enquiries revealedthatRamdyhanwasinasmallzinc-

housewhenloudexplosionswerereportedly heard. He was later found motionless the house. Reports reaching this newspaper are that another poultry farmer Ernest Hall was with Ramdyhan at the time of the shooting. Both men were in the house when Hall was awakened around 02:30hrs by the loud explosions and heard Ramdyhan screaming forhelp,whilegroaningbeforehedied.Hall reportedly alerted neighbours who summoned the police. Ramdyhan suffered multiple gunshot wounds Investigators collectedfromthesceneseveralspentshells.

on Sunday

The unit said acting on information an operation was conducted in the vicinity of Parika,EastBankEssequibo,whichresulted intheseizureof70kilograms(154pounds)of cocaine. Four men, including a Hispanic nationalwerearrestedandescortedtoCANU headquarters, along with the cocaine. Police saidInvestigationsareongoing.

Guyanaremainsvigilant,secureinfaceof

Guyana has strengthened its border defences following recent political developments in neighbouring Venezuela, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillipshasnoted.

Prime Minister Phillips said securityforces,alongwithregional authorities, have intensified monitoring along the nation's westernborder

He said troops of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) are permanently deployed along Guyana's borders with Venezuela, Suriname, and Brazil. However, followingthepoliticalupheavalon January 3, “immediately, we went into a more heightened state of readiness.

In fact, I would argue that the troops were already in a heightened state of readiness,” he saidinanonlinepodcastSunday

Addressing possible 'spillover effects,' PM Phillips said he travelled to Region One and met with members of the defence board, regional officials, law enforcement,andresidents.

He noted that community members were already well informed due to improved internet connectivityinhinterlandregions.

While authorities have not observed any unusual activity along the Guyana-Venezuela border, movement across the frontier has remained consistent, which the prime minister said is routineactivity

“We will not fall into any false sense of security,” he said, stating thatthegovernment“willcontinue to observe and ensure that any instability on the other side of the border does not spill over into

Guyana.”

PM Phillips, along with senior GDF and GPF members, during his visit to Region One

PM Phillips said Guyana's priority remains safeguarding its territorial integrity and ensuring every citizen living in the border regioncontinuestofeelsecure.

He also addressed regional responses to the situation in Venezuela, noting that while CARICOM member states may express differing positions, each country must ultimately act in accordance with its own national interests.

“Whatever pronouncements aremadebyourpresident,Itotally agree with them because they are balanced and it is in keeping with Guyana's national interests,” the primeministeraffirmed.

The Trump administration launchedattacksontheVenezuelan capital, Caracas, in the early hours

Venezuelancoast,aswellasdeadly attacks on alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean that were widely denounced as extrajudicial killings.

Washington had accused the Venezuelanleader,whohasbeenin powersince2013,ofhavingtiesto drug cartels – a claim rejected by Maduro, who said the US was working to depose him and take control of Venezuela's vast oil reserves.

Maduro has since pleaded not guilty to four criminal counts: narco-terrorism, cocaine importation conspiracy and possession of machine guns and destructive devices in a NewYork federalcourt.

VenezuelaandGuyanahashad a longstanding border controversy

of Saturday, January 3, after months-long pressure campaign against the Nicolas Maduro government The surprise predawnattacksawUSforcescapture

and depose the Venezuelan president,NicolásMaduro,andhis wife,CiliaFlores.

That campaign included US seizures of oil tankers off the

UpperDemeraraHospitalgets $120MdigitalX-raymachine

Anew $120 million state-of-the-art Digital X-ray machine was commissioned at the Upper DemeraraHospitalinRegion10on Friday

The new equipment was commissioned by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony who was joined by Regional Health Officer(RHO),Dr GregoryHarris, Senior Operating Manager, Mr Michael Gouveia; Regional Executive Officer (REO), Mr DwightJohnandotherofficials.

The Ministry of Health in a statement said that the newly installed digital X-ray system, which significantly strengthens diagnostic services within the region, replaces the outdated analog technology, delivering faster image processing, improved accuracy, and enhanced diagnostic capabilities to better support patientcare.

KaieteurNewsunderstandsthat toaccommodatethisnewmachine, retrofittingworksweredoneatthe hospital to ensure that the facility meets modern safety and operational standards required for the efficient use of advanced diagnostic equipment, and that aspectofworkscost$72,217,844.

Dr Anthony said the government had committed to upgradinghealthcareinfrastructure and ensuring equitable access to quality medical services nationwide.

Heexplainedthatthetransition to digital imaging will reduce waiting times, improve patient outcomes, and enable healthcare professionals to make more timely andaccuratediagnoses.

“Today we are very pleased to commission this digital X-ray machine.Allfacilitiesinthisregion will now be equipped with digital X-ray systems, replacing the older

triggered by the Venezuelan contention that theArbitralAward of1899aboutthefrontierbetween British Guiana and Venezuela is nullandvoid(modifiedfromDPI)

analog machines,” the minister stated.

The RHO noted that the new equipment will greatly benefit residents of Blueberry Hill, Wismar, and surrounding communities.

“Wewantourresidentstohave access to efficient healthcare

The new digital X-ray Machine which the Ministry of Health commissioned at the Upper Demerara Hospital in Region 10.

services on a 24-hour basis. Our duty is to serve the people of RegionTen,”headded.

The ministry shared that the commissioningofthedigitalX-ray machine will reduce the need for patient referrals to other regions, easing travel burdens and improving access to critical

diagnosticservices. “This investment aligns with the Ministry of Health's broader agenda to modernise healthcare facilities, strengthen service delivery, and build a resilient, people-centered healthcare system thatmeetstheevolvingneedsofthe population,”theministryreported.

AI-powered EdTech Company announces launch of new digital learning platform for regional schools

...Modules successfully piloted in Guyana

EduGoal Global, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)powered EdTech company, has revealedplans to launch its new digital learning platform throughout the Caribbeanregion.

According to a release from EduGoal Global, the initiativemarksasignificant step in elevating Caribbean education by integrating advanced technology solutions tailored to local needs.

The modern databasedriven platform focuses on data alignment, academic transparency, and accountability, aiming to bring the regional education sector in line with leading Learning Management Systems (LMS) utilised in NorthAmericaandEurope.

Pupils of Cindy's Academy engaged in a practice assessment created by EduGoal Global

Guyanese born-American, Dr. Donica Thompson, the CEO of EduGoal Global, engages pupils during a fun demonstration of using the program at Cindy's Academy, Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown.

The app is accessible to allwithdigitallibrariesatthe school at regional and na

EduGoal Global's modules have already been successfully piloted in Guyana, with upcoming introductions planned for Jamaica and Barbados. The platform's features and modules are customised to align with the unique conditionsandrequirements of partner countries and institutions across the region.

specifically to Education Ministries, District and School Administrators, teachers, students, and parentsintheCaribbean.

The system is designed asaone-stop,equity-minded web LMS and mobile application, catering

Key features and benefits culturally relevant teaching and learning resources, organically designed for specific institutionsorcountries.

(Barbados Today) Prime Minister Mia MottleyannouncedlateSaturdaythatshehas advised President Jeffrey Bostic that “come Monday,the19thofJanuary,theParliament of Barbados shall be dissolved,” setting the island on course for a general election on Wednesday,February11.

SpeakingtosupportersinBridgetown,on the heels of the nomination of former Democratic Labour Party Cabinet minister MichaelLashleyastheBLPcandidateforthe City of Bridgetown, Mottley said she had visited the President “just after four o'clock this evening” and instructed officials to finaliseelectionpreparations.

Shetoldpartyandgovernmentofficials that “the writs for elections will be issued, having been proven and approved by the honourable Attorney General,” and asked that“thewrits[be]preparedtodelivertoHis Excellencytomorrow.”

Mottley gave the timetable for the campaign:“nominationdayshallbeTuesday, 27thofJanuary,”and,shesaid,“whenweare satisfied that candidates have been

legitimatelynominatedandtherearecontests to be had, that polling day shall be Wednesday,the11thofFebruary.”

Invokingaunifyingsloganforherparty, thePrimeMinisterurgedsupporterstostand together,repeatedlycallingfortheBarbados Labour Party to be strong, and saying that “when we work together, we build that platformthatcanbefruitful”.

She framed the dissolution as a democraticrenewalsaying,ifaleaderwishes tocontinue,“youmustcomebacktousfora newmandate.”

Mottley also highlighted recent parliamentary action, noting that “only yesterday,we laid in Parliament a bill to vest ownership in the housing estates to vest over 200 people with titles,” a move she described as delivering on past promises.

Election officials and party organisers now have short timelines to complete nomination and voting logistics ahead of the January 27 nominations and February 11 polling date

The system offers AIpowered personalised adaptivetutoringtoenhance learningoutcomesaswellas standard-aligned electronic a s s i g n m e n t s a n d tests/quizzesforstreamlined academicmanagement.

Discussions continue betweentheMayorandCity Council (M&CC) and engineersaspreparationsget u n d e r w a y f o r t h e construction of Merriman's Mall, to be located between OrangeWalkandCummings Street.

The proposed facility is expected to accommodate approximately 70 vendors operating in and around the BourdaMarket.

Theinitiativefollowsthe recentdisplacementofabout 15 vendors who were operating in front of Yhip's bakeryatthecornerofRobb andAlexanderStreets.Their stalls were dismantled followingahighcourtorder, leaving several vendors distressed and in need of alternativevendingspace.

While an exact timeline for the completion of the new shed has not yet been determined, City Mayor Alfred Mentore said groundwork is ongoing to finaliseplansfortheproject. He explained that the council initially expected to receive the drawings, plans, and quantity estimates earlier this week, but these were delayed Engineers were scheduled to meet to review the outstanding matters,includingquantities and design specifications. “We will discuss those

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matters and also discuss the quantities and where we are at in relation to that,”

Mentoresaid.

According to the mayor, upcoming discussions will focus on the project's modalities, including the overallstructureoftheshed, the sanitary facilities, the number of tables, parking arrangements, and the generaldesignofthearea.

Regarding project cost, Mentore said no estimate is available at this stage

However, he noted that financial discussions are expected to take place next week,afterwhichthematter willbetakentothecouncil's finance committee He added that the council is

According to the release EduGoalGlobalisdedicated to closing the digital gap in Caribbean P-20 education by providing easy access to essential tools, data, and (Continuedonpage16)

hoping to cover 50 per cent of the cost, with the remaining half to be supported by central government “After the meeting, we will bring that matter forth to the finance committee, sometime next week and then we will be able to finalise that process of how we will be able to moveforwardwithitfroma coststandpoint,whatwewill be bring to it as a council, what we may be able to tap the central government to provide,”hesaid.

Mentore added, “This projectitselfhasamunicipal flavour as well as a national flavour where we will be dealing with matters to reducestreetvendingandto have them placed in a most organisedfashion.”

He further emphasised that the project will be treated as an emergency matter once the engineers s u b m i t t h e i r recommendations Upon receipt, the town clerk will bemandatedtotaketheissue before the finance committee for swift deliberation,afterwhichthe councilwillinvitebidsfrom three contractors to advance the project without delay “Thewholeideabehindthis here is that the moment we get this thing, this is not a delayissue,“hesaid.

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Male & female needed to work at supermarket in the Interior. Must be 18 years & older. Call: 674-9999.

Live in Domestic wanted. Must know to cook and clean. Call: 699-8486.

Reputable transportation service is seeking experienced Chauffeur with mini bus and hire car license. Call: 645-0025.

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Wanted to work in the interior;Jetman, Marrackman,Cook . Call 660-5010 .

Wanted experience & reliable sales girls,cook,porters physically fit and dependable.Contact:6941170.

Male & Female to work at a car wash located in Campbellville. Call: 669-4676 / 604-1980.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

Mercedes Sprinter food truck for sale. In excellent condition, spacious, clean & well maintained. Price: 5.5M neg. Contact:6201857.

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One clerk for TSI Eccles office English 1, Maths 2 call 615-9132 or email application to techserigy@gmail.com

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GTU bemoans appointment of TSC in absence of opposition leader

The Guyana Teacher’s Union (GTU) has again raised concerns about the appointment of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) in the absence of an elected opposition leader.

President, Coretta McDonald on Friday said the teachers union has a responsibility to its members, noting that the appointment of the TSC without consultation or meeting with the opposition leader is direct ploy by the government.

She stressed that the commission has been reconstituted with the same members and the GTU’s nominee informed the union that he was written to, however the union sought to caution him and highlighted that things are happening without an opposition leader in place.

“But of course, you know what this government will do? As long as you object, then this government will throw the blame card onto the other party to say, “Well, teachers, you know what? your union, they are not representing you.”

In this regard Lancelot Baptiste went ahead to be commissioned as a nominee so that he may be able to represent the interest of teachers across Guyana.

McDonald recently called for a meeting between the officials of the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Teacher’s Union (GTU) to address the appointment of teachers and their promotions. Addressing the union’s approach to the backdating of appointments and compensation, the GTU head said the union believes there should be at least two promotions this year to compensate teachers who were not pro-

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moted over the last three years. She disclosed that the GTU has written both the education minister and the TSC requesting a meeting.

McDonald said that the TSC will not act until the GTU and the Ministry of Education meet to examine collectively the list of vacancies.

She explained that both parties have to agree on whether there will be changes to the criteria for promotions after which a directive will be sent to the TSC for action.

“So, the longer the ministry delays the meeting with the Guyana Teacher’s Union, it means that our teachers are

going to be in jeopardy again, and many more teachers will retire not being able to attain positions that they longed for,” she stressed.

Further, the GTU president said President Irfaan Ali will have to be directly consulted on the matter of renumeration packages, since neither the chief education officer nor the permanent secretary are able to address the matter. “We did that before writing his excellency… requesting to have a meeting with him, and we listed a series of issues that we wanted to discuss. That too has not been responded to favorably…you’re talking about the compensatory pack for retired teachers… retired educators. We’re talking about delayed promotions; we spoke about the agreement and we spoke about regular meetings. Those were the issues that were sent to his excellency,” she revealed.

Ganja and cash seized during police raid on Lethem hotel

Police acting on intel ligence Sunday seized a quantity of marijuana during a raid on a hotel in Lethem, Central Rupununi.

The operation was conducted around 11:50hrs, which led to the discovery of a quantity of suspected cannabis and the arrest of a 23year-old miner of Lethem, po-

lice said in a press release. During the operation, a search was conducted on the suspect and the hotel room rented by him, during which thirteen (13) transparent ziplock bags containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis were found concealed in an article of clothing along with one hundred and sixty-four thousand

dollars ($164,000) Guyana currency.

The suspect was arrested and escorted to the Lethem Police Station along with the suspected cannabis which was weighed in his presence and amounted to 6.6 grams. The suspected cannabis was lodged and the suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.

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Jamaica will be rebuilt better, stronger – PM

(Jamaica Observer)

Prime Minister Andrew Holness says that the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa has created the opportunity to rebuild Jamaica better and strongerthanbefore.

“So yes, it [hurricane] created a crisis, but every crisis presents an opportunityandwemustnot waste the opportunity that this crisis has given us. We will rebuild Jamaica much better than we ever thought itcouldbe,”hepledged.

The prime minister was speaking at the presentation ofover$200millionintools and building materials from housingdevelopersNewEra Developments Limited and KemtekConstruction,atthe Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Forward Operating Base in Luana, St Elizabeth onFriday

The supplies are to facilitate the Government’s programme to restore roofs in hurricane-impacted parishes

The prime minister noted that the corridor leading from Westmoreland to St Elizabeth, which was devastated by Hurricane Melissa, needs to be realignedandreconfigured.

“This side of the island haslongbeencryingoutfor massive investments. The roadwaythatconnectsthese parishes clearly is not sufficient to carry the level of traffic that uses the corridor,”hepointedout.

“ T h e u r b a n infrastructure, the towns, theyneedtobereconfigured and built smarter. Our hospitals, they need to be rebuiltandbuiltinareasthat are not susceptible to weather and climate change

events. Our police stations, our municipal buildings, all of those have to be rebuilt, but it will not only be a rebuilding of infrastructure. What we are planning, is to build a new economy for these damaged parishes, because you can’t build a road to nowhere,” he noted further

Holness said that the objective is to support the emergence of a stronger economy not just for the affectedareas,buttheentire Jamaica.

H e n o t e d t h a t agriculture, which is a key economic driver will be mademoreresilient.

“We can’t continue with agriculture that is susce

the vicissitudes of climate and weather events. We have to introduce technology to make agriculture more

U.S.asksSVGtoaccept thirdcountrydeportees

Vincent Times) St. Vincent (SVG) has been approached by the United States government to accept refugees and migrants from thirdcountries.

This was disclosed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister responsible for National Security St. Clair Leacock.

LeacockstatedthatSVG

recently received a formal requesttoacceptrefugees.

Leacock said although thePrimeMinisterinitially reported no such request,

confirmedthecountryison thelistofpotentialhosts.

Leacock emphasised thatbecauseOECSnations

movement of people, the islands must coordinate a

response rather than acting individually

The situation has been described as a diplomatic challenge that requires balancing local sovereignty

influence of the United States.

Pregnant woman jumps to death...

Frompage13

strongest associated factors. “This crisis demandsactionbeyondhealthsystems,”said RenatoOliveiraeSouza,ChiefoftheMental HealthandSubstanceUseUnitatPAHO.“It requires collaboration across society to elaborate and implement national suicide preventionstrategiesthatcanbeeffectivein reducingsuicidemortality.”

If you are experiencing poor mental health and would like to speak to someone about it, there are several avenues available to you, free of cost. Contact the Ministry of

robustandenduring,andwe will be looking at introducing agriculture more on a planned, structured, industrial scale, because we have the capabilities here in this region,”Holnesssaid.

“The future of this area and these parishes that have beendamaged,willbequite different but much better than anticipated or hoping for before Hurricane Melissa,”headded.

Holness thanked New Era and Kemtek for the significant contribution, which highlights the value ofpublic-privatepartnership in strengthening Jamaica’s disasterresponse.

He also expressed gratitude to the engineering troopsfromGhana,Rwanda and Guyana, who are workingwiththeJDFinthe rebuildingprocess.

Health’s Mental Health Unit. The trained counsellors and psychologists provide free counselling services.The mental health unit can be reached via phone at: 225-0804 or 223-6604.

TheMentalHealthUnithasintroduceda new Suicide Prevention Hotline—call 915 whenexperiencingseveredistress.Ifyouor someoneyouloveisactivelysuicidalorina state of crisis, please contact the nearest healthfacilityorhospitalemergencyroom.A mentalhealthemergencyisthesameasareal emergency!

World leaders cautious about Trump’s

broader ‘Board of Peace’ amid fears for UN

(Reuters) Governments reacted cautiously on Sunday to U.S. President DonaldTrump’sinvitationto join his “Board of Peace” initiative aimed at resolving conflictsglobally,aplanthat diplomats said could harm the work of the United Nations.

Only Hungary, whose leader is a close Trump ally,

gave an unequivocal acceptanceinresponsetothe invitations, which have been addressedtosome60nations and began arriving in European capitals on Saturday, according to d i p l o m a t s O t h e r governments appeared reluctant to make public statements, leaving officials to express concerns anonymously about the impact on the work of the UN The board would be chairedforlifebyTrumpand wouldstartbyaddressingthe Gaza conflict and then be expanded to deal with other conflicts,accordingtoacopy of the letter and draft charter seenbyReuters

Member states would be limited to three-year terms unless they pay $1 billion each to fund the board’s activities and earn permanent membership, the letterstates.

“This simply offers permanent membership to partner countries who d e m o n s t r a t e d e e p commitment to peace, security, and prosperity,” the WhiteHousesaidinaposton X Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, visiting South Korea, told reporters hercountrywas“readytodo ourpart”,althoughitwasnot clear whether she was specifically referring to Gazaorthebroaderpeace.

Canada’s Prime

Minister Mark Carney said on Sunday he had agreed to Trump’sBoardofPeacefor Gaza in principle although details were still being workedout.

AmandateforaBoardof Peace was authorised by the United Nations Security Council in November, but onlythrough2027andsolely

focusedontheGazaconflict. Russia and China, two veto wielding powers, abstained, co

resolution did not give the U.N.aclearroleinthefuture

undermine the work of the United Nations, which Trump has accused of not supporting his efforts to end conflictsaroundtheworld.

“It’s a ‘Trump United

U.S. President Donald Trump is interviewed by Reuters White House correspondent Steve Holland (not pictured) during an exclusive interview in the Oval Office in the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., January 14, 2026. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/File Photo

ofGaza.

‘DARKTIMES’

The inclusion of a ‘charter’ in the invitation letter stoked concerns among some European governments that it could

Nations’ that ignores the fundamentals of the U.N. charter,”saidonediplomat. Three other Western diplomatssaiditlookedasif it would undermine the United Nations if it went ahead. A further three diplomats andanIsraelisourcesaidthat Trump wanted the Board of Peace to eventually have a broaderrolebeyondGazathat would oversee the other conflictsthatTrumphassaid hehasresolved.

Guterres “believes Member Statesarefreetoassociatein differentgroups”inresponse to a question about the draft U.S. charter for a Board of Peace.

The leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Australia, Canada, the European Commission and keyMiddleEastpowerswere among those invited, according to officials “We have, of course, accepted this honourable invitation,” Hungarian Prime Minister ViktorOrban,acloseallyof Trump, wrote on X. The document said “durable peace requires pragmatic judgment, common-sense solutions,andthecourageto depart from approaches and institutions that have too often failed”. There was a “needforamorenimbleand effective international peace-building body”, it added.A spokesperson for U N Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said

“TheUnitedNationswill continue with its mandated work, ” deputy U N spokesperson Farhan Haq said.

Trump, who covets the Nobel Peace Prize, said in the letter that the board would convene in the near future, adding: “This board will be one of a kind, there hasneverbeenanythinglike it!” Another senior U N official did not address the plan directly, but said the UnitedNationswastheonly institution with the moral and legal ability to bring togethereverynation,bigor small. “And if we question that wefallbackandvery, very,dark,times,”Annalena Baerbock, president of the United Nations General Assembly, told Sky News, adding that it was up to individual states to decide whattodo.

US talks with hardline Venezuelan minister Cabello began months before raid

(Reuters) - Trump administration officials had been in discussions with Venezuela’shardlineinterior minister Diosdado Cabello months before the U S operation to seize President Nicolas Maduro, and have beenincommunicationwith him since then, according to multiple people familiar with the matter Theofficials warned Cabello, 62, against using the security services or militantruling-partysupporters he oversees to target the country’s opposition, four sources said That se curity apparatus, which includes the intelligence services, police andthearmedforces,remains largelyintactaftertheJanuary 3US raid

Cabello is named in the same U.S. drug-trafficking indictment that the Trump administration used as justification to arrest Maduro,butwasnottakenas partoftheoperation.

Thecommunicationwith Cabello, which has also touched on sanctions the U.S.hasimposedonhimand the indictment he faces, dates back to the early days of the current Trump administration and

continued in the weeks just prior to the U.S. ouster of Maduro, two sources familiarwiththediscussions said. The administration has also been in touch with Cabello since Maduro’s ouster, four of the people said. The communications, which have not been previously reported, are critical to the Trump administration’s efforts to control the situation inside Venezuela IfCabellodecides to unleash the forces that he controls, it could foment the kind of chaos that Trump wants to avoid and threaten interim President Delcy Rodriguez’s grip on power, according to a source briefed on US concerns It is not clear if the Trump administration’s discussions with Cabello extended to questions about the future governance of Venezuela. Also unclear is whether Cabello has heeded the U.S. warnings. He has publicly pledged unity with Rodriguez, whom Trump hassofarpraised. While Rodriguez has been seen by the U.S. as the linchpin for U.S. President DonaldTrump’sstrategyfor

post-Maduro Venezuela, Cabelloiswidelybelievedto havethepowertokeepthose plans on track or upend them.

TheVenezuelanministerhas beenincontactwiththeTrump administration both directly and via intermediaries, one person familiar with the conversations said.Allofthe sources were granted anonymity to speak freely about sensitive internal g o v e r n m e n t comm

ons with Cabello.TheWhiteHouseand thegovernmentofVenezueladid not immediately respond to requestsforcomment.

CABELLOHASBEEN MADUROLOYALIST

Cabello has long been seen as Venezuela’s second most powerful figure A close aide of late former President Hugo Chavez, Maduro’s mentor, he went on to become a long-time Maduro loyalist, feared as his main enforcer of repression. Rodriguez and Cabello have both operated at the heart of the government, legislature and ruling socialist party for years, but have never been considered close allies of

eachother Aformermilitary officer, Cabello has exerted influence over the country’s military and civilian counterintelligence agencies, which conduct widespread domestic espionage. He has also been closely associated with progovernmentmilitias,notably the colectivos, groups of motorcycle-riding armed civilians who have been deployedtoattackpotesters.

Cabelloisoneofahandful of Maduro loyalists Washington has relied on as temporary rulers to maintain stability while it accesses the OPEC nation’s oil reserves during an unspecified transitionperiod

But U.S. officials are concernedthatCabello-given hisrecordofrepressionanda history of rivalry with Rodriguez - could play the spoiler, according to a source briefedontheadministration’s thinking Rodriguez has been working to consolidate her ownpower,installingloyalists in key positions to protect herself from internal threats while meeting US demands to boost oil production, Reuters interviews with sources in Venezuela have

shown. ElliottAbrams, who served as Trump’s special representative on Venezuela in his first term, said many Venezuelans would expect Cabello to be removed at some point if a democratic transitionistoadvance.

“If and when he goes, Venezuelans will know that the regime has really begun to change,” said Abrams, now at the Council on Foreign Relations think tank.

USSANCTIONSAND INDICTMENT

Cabello has long been under U S sanctions for allegeddrugtrafficking.

In2020,theUS issueda $10millionbountyforCabello and indicted him as a key figure in the “Cartel de los Soles,” a group the US has said is a Venezuelan drugtrafficking network led by members of the country’s government.

The US has since raised the award to $25 million Cabello has publicly denied anylinkstodrugtrafficking

InthehoursafterMaduro’s ouster, some analysts and politicians in Washington questionedwhytheUS didn’t also grab Cabello - listed

second in the Department of JusticeindictmentofMaduro

“I know that just Diosdado is probably worse thanMaduroandworsethan Delcy,” Republican U S Representative Maria Elvira Salazar said in an interview with CBS’s “Face the Nation”onJanuary11.

In the days following, Cabello denounced Americaninterventioninthe country, saying in a speech that “Venezuela will not surrender.”

But media reports of residents being searched at checkpoints - sometimes by uniformed members of the security forces and sometimesbypeopleinplain clothes - have become less frequentinrecentdays.

And bothTrump and the Venezuelan government have said many detainees who are considered by the oppositionandrightsgroups to be political prisoners will bereleased.Thegovernment has said that Cabello, in his role as interior minister, is overseeingthateffort.Rights groupssaytheliberationsare proceeding extremely slowly and hundreds remain unjustlydetained.

Mahboob,SadatstarsforAfghanistanagainst WI;Rew,MayesleadEnglandtovictory

(Cricinfo) - Contrasting half-centuries from Osman Sadat and Mahboob Khan setupAfghanistan’s138-run win over West Indies. They wrapped up the win when Nooristani Omarzai bagged his fourth wicket. With two wins in as many games, Afghanistan have locked in theirSuperSixesspot. After Afghanistan opted

to bat, Sadat and Khalid Ahmadzai put on 86 for the opening wicket before Vitel Lawes, the sixth bowler WestIndiesusedin18overs, created a brief stutter He struck three times in eight overs as Afghanistan lost 3 for 24 Mahboob then steadied the ship in Sadat’s company, adding 77 for the fourth wicket. While Sadat

took 68 balls to get to his fifty, Mahboob got there in 54, before accelerating Mahboob scored 36 off his next15ballsasAfghanistan scored 79 off the last ten overstopost262for7.

In reply, only Jewel Andrew, who has played eightinternationalsforWest Indies’ senior side, and 15 CPL matches, offered some

resistance. He scored 57 off 70 balls, laced with four fours and three sixes, and wastheeighthwickettofall withthescoreon101.

WestIndieshadlosttheir first four wickets inside 11 overs While Wahidullah Zadran started the slide in the first powerplay with his offspin, seamer Omarzai’s strikes through the middle overswastoomuchforWest Indies,whowerebowledout for124.

Sunday January 19, 2026

ARIES

You'll find that things are slipping nicely into place for you today, Aries. Your persuasivemannerandgentle nudges are just enough to get peoplewhereyouwantthem.

TAURUS

When faced with ten entrees onthemenu,itmightbehard for you to choose just one. Feelfreetoordertwoormore, Ta u r u s D o n ' t l e t indecisiveness slow you down.Atthesametime.

GEMINIS

Your dreams won't come true unless you believe in and act onthem,Gemini.Nooneelse is going to do it for you. Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take mattersintoyourownhands.

CANCER

If people hassle you or give you a hard time about your appearance today, pay them nomind,Cancer Youhavethe righttoliveyourlifeanyway youwantto.

LEO

Reachforthepotofgoldatthe end of the rainbow, Leo. It's closerthanyouthink.Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach, and there are huge forces at work helping you achieve your goals.

VIRGO

Today is your day to dream and dream big, Virgo. Think aboutwhatitisthatyouwant most out of life. Aim your arrow to the stars and pull back your bow as far as possible. There's no limit to howfaryoucango.

LIBRA

Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra. There's an incredible opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm.Followthemusic.

SCORPIO

Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Scorpio, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you'll find that you can use this feeling of fantasy to your advantage. Try to bring moremagicintoyourlife.

SAGITTARIUS

Today is an excellent day for you,oneinwhichyou'llfinda great deal of strength in your emotions, Sagittarius Trust that your instincts are serving youwell.

CAPRICORN

Things might get a bit confusing for you today, Capricorn. Don't feel like you needtomakesenseofitall.In fact, this task may be impossible. Just be yourself. Let your creative nature shine through.

AQUARIUS

Mix your reality with a bit of fantasytoday,Aquarius.Allow your feet to come off the ground for a little while. Give yourselfarest.Takesometime to meditate and clear your mindofyourdailyworries.

PISCES

Let yourself go into high creative mode and drift into a whole other world, Pisces. Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through any sort of artistic endeavor Dreamasbigasyour mindallows.

led the chase of 209 in Harare England asked Zimbabwe to bat first, and struck third ball as Alex French got Nathaniel Hlabanganaforaduck.

From there onwards, each time a partnership lookedstableforZimbabwe, England hit back to disrupt theirmomentum.

Rew,Mayeslead England… England have confirmed theirplaceintheSuperSixes of the Under-19 World Cup 2026 after crushing hosts Zimbabwe to register successivewinsinthegroup stage. Captain Thomas Rew (86*) and Ben Mayes (77*)

Therewerestandsof30, 45 and 32 for the second, third and fourth wickets, respectively, with Luke Hands, Farhan Ahmed and Ralphie Albert among the wickets.

All Zimbabwe batters fromNos.3-6scoredatleast 30 but none passed captain SimbarasheMudzengerere’s 45notout.England’sManny Lumsdengotthreewickets.

Inreply,Englandgotoff

to a quick start. They were two down within seven overs, but had also scored 48. Rew and Mayes had got together on the fifth ball of that over, and their union remained unbroken on 167. Rew was the first to get to fiftyoff30ballsbysmashing Dhruv Patel for a six in the 18thover

Mayes got a run-a-ball half-century in the 22nd over,asEnglandclubbedthe final 64 runs in seven overs to win with a whopping 22 overstospare.

Zimbabwe’s loss came aftertheirfirstgame,against Scotland, was washed out. TheyfacePakistannext,and could find it tough to enter thenextround.

Sadatstarsfor Afghanistan…

Mitchell, Phillips centuries trump Kohli’s...

Frompage24 off36tobringuphissecond ODIcenturyoffjust83balls. New Zealand looked set for at least 350 at one stage, but lost wickets in clumps throughthedeathovers,with Mohammed Siraj bowling magnificently - getting his wobble-seam ball to grip, bowling relentless good lengths when that was required, and pinpoint yorkers and bouncers when thatwastheneedofthehour - to finish with figures of 0 for 43 in ten overs and Arshdeep Singh and Rana more expensive but taking threewicketsapiece.

Given Indore’s history

Rashid’s landmark...

Frompage25 his repertoire, has been sidelined from this series andalsotheT20WorldCup with a shoulder injury While left-arm seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi is back in the T20I squad, Ziaur Rahman Sharfi is more of a like-for-like replacement forNaveen.Fromoriginally beinginthereserves,Sharfi has now been promoted to the main squad. The 27year-oldhasplayedjustone T20I so far, but he showed promise during the BangladeshPremierLeague (BPL). Before the BPL, he marked his Test debut against Zimbabwe with a seven-wickethaul.

of steep scoring - only Trent Bridge and the Wankhede have produced more 380-plus ODI totals than Holkar Stadium337 looked like anyone’s game at the halfway point

Eventually it was more than enough, despite the evergreen Kohli’s best efforts.

Mitchell, Phillips centuries trump Kohli’s as New Zealand win first-ever ODI series in India

(Cricinfo) - Alittle over a year since winning their first-ever Test series in this country, New Zealand have beaten India in India for the first time in an ODI series. Arriving with a squad severely depleted by injury, they have come from 1-0 downtowin2-1.

They achieved another impressive feat in completingthejobinIndore, handingIndiaafirstdefeatin 14 home ODIs where they havewonthetoss.

Daryl Mitchell, India’s foremost scourge, was at it again, scoring his second hundred of the series, his fourth against India, and his fourth in India Glenn

Phillips, who joined Mitchell at 58 for 3, scored an 88-ball 106 in a fourthwicketstandof219.Thatset things up perfectly for the bowlers, who, defending 337, reduced India to 71 for 4.AnIndia,thattoo,without Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya, and with question marks hanging over everyonebattingfromNo.6 down.

Virat Kohli was still there, though, and he kept India believing, scoring his 54th ODI hundred and shepherding two young seam-bowlingallroundersin Nitish Kumar Reddy and

Harshit Rana who scored theirmaidenODIfifties.But the target was steep, India had to keep taking chances, and Kohli eventually fell short for only the fifth time in 29 hundreds in ODI chases.

There were three phases inKohli’sinnings.Thefirst, following a pattern established over recent months, was frenetic, displaying an eagerness to charge fast bowlers and hit them in the air if required, andbringingfourfoursanda sixinhisfirst24balls.Then, withwicketstumblingatthe otherend,aperiodofnearly dot-freerebuilding,withjust theoneboundaryin52balls, scoring47runsregardless.

And then, when Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja fell in the space of 28 balls, came the explosion It was necessary, with India now needing160atnearlyninean over, and it came from both ends Kohli punched, whipped and lofted his way from 74 off 76 balls to a century in 91, while Rana showed both muscle and finesseinrushingtohishalfcenturyinjust41balls.

But Rana’s dismissal, which left India needing 61 off 38 balls, left the chase entirely in Kohli’s hands, and it was all over when he

was ninth out after bringing the equation down to 46 from27.

D

deliveredforNewZealandat different times Kyle Jamiesonseamedthenewish ball both ways to peg India backafteraquickstart,most crucially taking out a rampant Shubman Gill with an in-ducker Jayden Lennox, playing just his secondODI,lookedentirely at ease at a venue unforgivingtospinners,with a notoriously small outfield, bowling with pinpoint accuracy while constantly varyinghispaceandtaking2 for 42 in his ten overs. Zak FoulkesandKristianClarke,

thoughexpensive,pickedup three wickets each And Phillips,bowlingeightovers with New Zealand captain and primary offspinner Michael Bracewell off the field, went for under seven anover Together, Lennox and Phillips took 2 for 96 in 18 overs India’s spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and RavindraJadeja,bowledjust sixoverseachandwentfora combined 89 runs. Once again, New Zealand’s spinners had outbowled India.

And this, as in Rajkot, hadalottodowithhowwell theirbatterstookonKuldeep and Jadeja. Mitchell, in a

mannernowfamiliar,setthe tone, jumping out to Kuldeep’s first ball and launching him for a straight six.

There was little breathing room for the spinnersthereafter,andIndia didn’t even bring Jadeja on until the 30th over, trusting insteadintheirsixthbowler, Reddy,todoajobofbowling stump-to-stump mediumpace with the keeper up. He did this well at first, concedingjust17inhisfirst four overs, but he began looking increasingly innocuous as India kept him onforperhapstwooverstoo many, conceding 36 in his lastfour

AsIndiastruggledtofind a wicket through the middle overs, Mitchell and Phillips switched gears effortlessly The first 70 runs of their partnershipcamein89balls; thereafter they plundered 149in99.Mitchelltimedthe ball ominously from the start, the clearest sign of his form the way he punched through the infield with a straight bat on both sides of the wicket, and attacked the spinners from all points: fromyardsdownthepitchto right back by his stumps. Phillips, cutting with fast hands,andclearingthesmall boundaries with ease when hechoseto,rushedfrom21

(Continuedonpage23)

Hicks and Deochand lead RHT Bakewell to semifinal

The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club on Saturday last reached a semifinals spot in Berbice cricket for the 200th time whentheydefeatedaspirited Skeldon Community Centre Cricket Club by eight

wickets at the Skeldon Ground.

Playing in glorious sunlight,thehometeamwon the toss and elected to take first strike on a wicket with somepreparationmoisture. Openers,A.Chattergoon and F Kalakadeen, added twelve for the first wicket before the latter was caught by Raffel McKenzie off medium pacer Munesh Rampersaud for two in the fourthover The home team batsmen

showed great application as they batted out 48.5 of the allotted50overstoreach162 all out. The visiting bowlers struggled in the windy conditions and gifted Skeldon a healthy 53 extras, which included 46 wides. Adil Ali top-scored with an aggressive 30, which included three boundaries. He received support fromA Chattergoon 15, A Ally 14 and A Nabi 16. The Rose Hall Town Bakewell team

bowling was led by offspinners Akash Sooklall and Balraj Narine, who ended with bowling figures of3for28and3for33each. PacersRaffelMcKenzieand Munesh Rampersaud ended with one wicket each, while National under-13 left-arm spinner Jayden Ganpat bowled ten tight overs for seven runs, claiming the

wicket of S Hercules

Needing to score 163 from 50 overs, Rose Hall Town Bakewell were given an opening stand of 24 by national junior cricketer Ramzan Koobir and the inform Jonathan Hicks before the former was bowled by LSukwa for ten. SukwathenbowledMunesh Rampersaud for 8 in the eighth over to give Skeldon somehopeasthevisitorsfell to 43 for 2. A confident captain, Tameshwar Deochand, walked to the crease and changed the courseofthegamebytaking 24runsoffthepacyAdilAli.

Deochand and Hicks then rotated the strike beautifully toadd122runsin22oversto take their team over the line andaspaceinthesemifinals. Deochand was unbeaten on 59 while the fast-improving

Hickswasnotoutonaneven fifty Deochand struck two sixes and five boundaries, while Hicks, who scored a centurylastweekintheBCB Under-16 tournament, hit fourboundaries.Sukra,who was impressive with his medium pace, ended with twowicketsfor23runsfrom six overs. Rose Hall Town Bakewell now joins Port Mourant as semifinalists Next Saturday, Tucker Park clash with Cotton Tree at CottonTree,whileRoseHall Canje play Achievers in the remaining quarter finals to determine the last two semifinalspots. The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club has won a total of 130 tournamentstodatesinceits formation in 1990 and has emerged as runners-up 38 times.

(Cricinfo) -Afghanistan andWestIndieswilltuneup for the T20 World Cup, which will kick off on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka, with a three-match T20I series in Dubai where conditions are fairly comparabletothevenuesfor theglobaltournament.

While Afghanistan have already announced their squad for the World Cup, WestIndiesareyettolockin their side, which means there’s a bit more incentive for some players to attract the attention of the selectors andteammanagementinthe absence of seniors, who are away at the SA20 or recovering from injuries Here are some key things to watch out for in the threematchseries,whichwillkick offonJanuary19.

ThereturnofShamar andHetmyer

Fast bowler Shamar Joseph and middle-order batterShimronHetmyerwill look to prove their match fitness in this series, in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup. Shamar, 26, has not played any competitive cricket since September 2025, when he featured in the CPL, because of injury With the other Joseph, Alzarri, still working his way back from injury, Shamar will be expected to shakeofftherustquicklyand lead West Indies’ seam attack. While Shamar has established himself as West Indies’strike bowler in Test cricket,heisstillfindinghis feetinwhite-ballcricket.

Hetmyer is also set to return to action after suffering a hamstring injury

Rashid’s landmark and West Indies’ auditions headline T20I series in Dubai

before rising through the ranks and becoming a professional player for Guyana Even Romario Shepherd was impressed with Sampson’s ability to stay low and stable while meeting the ball during the CPL.

Rashidapproaches700 T20wickets

Allof27,RashidKhanis on the cusp of another significant landmark - he’s nine strikes away from becomingthefirstbowlerto 700T20wickets.Andhehas achancetogetthereagainst the team that produced T20 OGs.

After taking time off from the game, Rashid has

put his body to test in franchisecricketintheleadup to the T20 World Cup, participating in both the ILT20 and SA20 across the past two months. However, since the back injury that followed the 2023 ODI WorldCup,hehaslostsome of his old fizz and has often missed his lengths

Afghanistan will hope that Rashid can get back to his peakformandfitnessandbe their spin ace at the T20 WorldCup.

CanZiaurRahmanbe Afghanistan’swildcard? Naveen-ul-Haq,whohas a slingy action and a collectionofslowerballsin (Continuedonpage23)

during his ILT20 stint with

Sherfane Rutherford away with Pretoria Capitals in the SA20, Hetmyer is likely to slot in as West Indies’ finisher and make his first international appearance for West Indies since July last year In the 2024T20World Cup, Hetmyer didn’t play a single game, with Rutherford emerging as West Indies’ first-choice finisher.CanHetmyermove upthehierarchyaheadofthe 2026T20WorldCup?

SpotlightonLewis, uncappedQuentin Sampson

WithShaiHopeinaction attheSA20,EvinLewiswill have another crack at the opening slot, along with stand-in captain Brandon King, against Afghanistan. Lewis, now 34, was once regarded as Chris Gayle’s successor, but his stocks havefalleninT20cricketof late. He hasn’t played for West Indies either since August2025.Hissix-hitting ability-hehassmashed467 sixes in 251 inningshowever has brought him back into the selection frame.

Then there’s a top-order wildcard - the uncapped Quentin Sampson who has been picked on CPL form. Like Lewis, Sampson is a six-hitter and had a strike rate of 151.57 across nine inningsintheCPL.Sampson hails from Caria Caria village, which is located on theshoreofEssequiboRiver and isn’t too far away from Saxacalli, Keemo Paul’s village. He initially played softballcricketinhisvillage

Alcaraz and Sabalenka through as fans fume on steamy day one at Australian Open

(Reuters) - Star

attractions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka progressed into the second roundoftheAustralianOpen on Sunday as disgruntled fansfumedoverlongqueues and a surprise ticket sales halt on a blockbuster opening day of the tournament.

The record 100,763 fans who did pack into the Melbourne Park precinct witnessed first-round wins for men’s third seed Alexander Zverev and 10th seed Alexander Bublik, as well as a quickfire victory for women’s seventh seed JasminePaolini.

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Venus Williams was given a standing ovation when she came out on court to face Olga Danilovic on her first visit to Melbourne Park since 2021 but the 45year-old blew a 4-0 lead in thedecidingsettobowout67(5)6-36-4.

Alcaraz,seekinghisfirst Melbourne title to complete a career Grand Slam, blew offtherustinthefinalmatch of the day on Rod Laver Arena with a 6-3 7-6(2) 6-2 win over plucky Australian

Adam Walton. The Spanish world number one decided nottoplayanofficialwarmuptournamentanditshowed in his first tour-level match for nine weeks, particularly in the second set when he struggled to maintain his concentration.

“I just stayed at home,” the 22-year-old said of his longbreak.

“I used to practise the whole morning (and) I took almosteveryafternoonoffto do whatever I wanted - stay with family or friends, play board games and chilling at home.

“It’s a better way to recharge the batteries, staying at home with the peopleyoulove.”

Sabalenka preceded Alcaraz on the main showcourt and downed French debutante Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah 6-4 6-1 before taking a selfie with tennis greats Roger FedererandRodLaver

The Belarusian, who warmed up for her bid for a thirdAustralianOpencrown with a second Brisbane International title, was broken in her opening service game but looked closer to her intimidating bestinthesecondset.

“It’s the first match,

right?You’realwayskindof trying to figure out where you are,” said the women’s topseed.

“I didn’t really know much about her. I was just strugglingtofindtherhythm ofhershots.I’mhappythatI couldmanageandIcouldget thiswininstraightsets.”

20THSEEDSUPSET

There were a few upsets forfanstoenjoyaswellwith ailing men’s 20th seed Flavio Cobolli losing to qualifierArthurFeryandhis hobbledwomen’sequivalent Marta Kostyuk going out to Elsa Jacquemot in a match decidedbythreetiebreaks.

Qualifier Zeynep Sonmez became the first Turkish woman to reach the second round at Melbourne Park but her upset of 11th seed EkaterinaAlexandrova mightbebetterremembered forherrushingtotheaidofa ball girl who fainted in the heat.

The world number 112 stopped playing and ran towardsthegirl,helpingher to a seat so medical staff could provide treatment Organisers said the ball girl had returned home followingtreatment.

Third seed Zverev, the runner-up to Jannik Sinner lastyear,droppedthefirstset

against feisty world number 41GabrielDiallobutrallied for a 6-7(1) 6-1 6-4 6-2 win onasteamyafternoon.

“In the beginning, I was not playing good,” said the German.

“I was giving him too many chances, I was too defensive. The normal stuff thatIdointhefirstroundofa GrandSlamsometimes.”

Sinner and women’s champion Madison Keys will not get their title defences underway until Tuesday, with Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek

Belarus’Aryna Sabalenka in action during her first round match against France’s Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah (Reuters)

headliningondaytwo,when another bumper crowd can beexpected.

G R O U N D PA S S SALESHALTED

With extra security deployed at the tournament followingthemassshooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach last month, the patience of fans was earlier tested as they lined up in long, snaking queues to the MelbourneParkgatesunder ahotsun.

Organisers delivered an unwelcome surprise by halting sales of the popular

“groundpass”ticketswithin anhourofthefirstshotbeing hit,citingintensedemand.

The move disappointed hundreds of fans who had queued for long periods expectingtobuythecheaper walk-upticketswhichallow accesstotheminorcourts.

“We tried to buy a ground pass and they just told us it was only tickets that were A$229 ($153) per person,”Melbourneresident Susan Walsh told Reuters. “Didn’t want to spend that much money so, a bit disappointed.”

Sammyemphasisesfine-tuningrolesaheadofWorldCup

Dubai, UAE (CMC)West Indies Head Coach

Daren Sammy has said that his main goal in the upcoming Twenty20 series against Afghanistan will be identifying and fine-tuning playerroles.

The regional team touched down in Dubai ahead of the three-match series, which bowls off here on Monday, with the exception of Johnson Charles who arrived on Saturday

Speakinginaninterview prior to the team’s first training session, Sammy said while the objective is always to win, the management team is focusing on ensuring each player understands his role ahead of next month’s T20 WorldCup.

“I think the key for us is role execution, especially

focusing on the guys who will be in the World Cup squad and making sure they fine-tunetheirroles.

We’ve been trying to do that over the last two years, and I think some of the players have grabbed on to their roles but some still probably need to fine-tune that, so that’s what these gamesbring.

“ O b v i o u s l y t h e objective is to win, but for me and the group it’s to more solidify the roles heading into the World Cup,” Sammy said With several key players missing from the 16member squad, Sammy said it also presents the perfect opportunity for new players to stake a claim for World Cup selection He said despite the absences, he hopes the team will build some

momentum as they seek to winanunprecedentedthird T20WorldCup,

“The West Indies team is here in Dubai in preparation for the World Cup, however, as you may know, we’ve not named our World Cup yet But I think it’s a great opportunityforsomeofthe youngplayersthatwehave here, and the fringe players, to start building for the future And also thosethatareherethatwill beintheWorldCupsquad, it gives them good preparation especially againstAfghanistan,avery strong team in conditionssimilartoIndia

“SoI’mlookingforward to start the year and hopefully gather some momentum, even though all of our players are not on deck,”Sammysaid.

National Super Middleweight champ Declou rallies Linden support ahead of Saturday’s card

Dexter Patterson announced thatinsteadoffour,therewill be six amateur fights, while the professional fights now areseveninsteadofsix.

Looking ahead to sustainingboxingwithinthe Region, Bristol proposed, “Out of ten territories, I am askingthesetenterritoriesto

Linden’s national s u p e r middleweight championtookadvantageof thelocaltelevisionstationin Watooka to rally Lindeners to come and support him when he faces Desmond Amsterdam from New Amsterdam in the main event of the inaugural PRO/AM card by the

Caribbean Boxing

Organisation set for Saturday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown.

Theoccasionwasapress briefing which was held by the Caribbean Boxing Organisation (CBO) in conjunction with Bris-O Promotions, both headed by SeonBristol.

Dexter Patterson from theGuyanaAmateurBoxing Association (GABA) was also present, along with representatives from the Bris-O Promotion group, KeishaSertima,DeClouand his trainer Orlon ‘Pocket Rocket’Rogers.

Coach Rogers noted, “This is Amsterdam’s second professional fight and DeClou’s 26th to be exact.

So,Ithinkwewouldnot take that for granted and go in there saying it’s a walkover, because Amsterdam is always active and busy We are working outdifferentstrategies.More timingsandbemorepatient, even though this fight is a

six-round fight. We know whentotakehimdeepinthe ocean and drown him. We arenotgoingforaknockout, ifitcomes,that’sit. Butwe arepreparingtofightandbe victoriousintheend.”

A d d r e s s i n g h i s preparation, DeClou said, “I am always 100 percent ready, just to let the public know that Desmond Amsterdam is a really good amateur fighter I think this would be his second professional fight I am definitelynottakingtheguy lightly, having watched him asanamateur,soatthispoint I need the support from Linden, because this guy comes to fight, as I have trained with him for five years, and he is always a ready fighter and not one to playwith.”

Bristol remarked, “We have acknowledged the fact of the decline in the sport of boxing, not only in Guyana but within the Caribbean, andasweknow,togetherwe arestrong.

We have been able to bring promoters together to work with each other, to assist each and every Caribbean territory when it comes to the world of boxing We are working together not only to build boxing but our athletes

Studies have shown, participatinginsportsassists and helps them when it comes to classroom learning ” The GABA’s

hold at least one promotion per year, and that would be ten shows in the entire year It would become a hype for ourboxers.”

Mahboob, Sadat stars for Afghanistan against WI; Rew, Mayes lead England to victory