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Iran, Oman still NEWS working on Strait - senior of Hormuz accord Iranian source AIETEUR
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
August 27, 2026 - Vol. 19 No. 35 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $200 readership yesterday, 44,328
GGMC puts out ad begging for donations of used clothes, shoes for residents in gold rich communities …while foreigners fetching out US$ billions in gold - Glenn Lall Rajendranauth Doodnauth
US-based pandit accused Mohamed released on $100K bail after river of using ‘spiritual ritual’ in standoff new sexual assault case with Joint
King Charles More than 2 tons for Guyana of cyanide seized Suriname visit as part of —inshipment believed Caribbean tour smuggled from Guyana
Services Members of the Coastguard and Guyana Police Force speaking with the WIN MPs after visiting communities in Region One, where they met with grieving families and survivors of the recent MV Barima maritime tragedy.
…MARAD says boat unlicensed
Food prices fuel Guyana’s inflation - as IDB flags 5.9% surge
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Kaieteur News
Thursday August 27, 2026
GGMC puts out ad begging for donations of used clothes, shoes for residents in gold rich communities …while foreigners fetching out US$ billions in gold - Glenn Lall The wharf that was completed earlier this year to support the Oko West Gold Project
The Irfaan Ali administration has come under criticism after Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) announced a “gently used clothing and footwear” drive to be donated to families in need particularly those that live in mineral-rich regions where about 15 foreign companies are gearing up to extract the country’s mineral wealth. In fact, businessman and Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall has sharply criticised the move drawing the nexus of the country’s economic status that government often spotlights and a state-agency resorting to used clothes drive to support vulnerable families. During a recent radio programme, Lall criticised the initiative, arguing that the need for used clothing in communities located in Guyana’s mineral-rich interior raises questions about how much of the wealth generated from the country’s resources is benefitting those communities. “This morning I saw an ad that made my blood boil,” Lall said. “GGMC the very agency responsible for granting licenses and gold permits to local and foreign companies, and overseeing our mineral sector to ensure Guyana collects the pennies, put out an advertisement asking people to donate used clothing and shoes to help our brothers and sisters living in the mining districts.” Lall said he had to read the advertisement twice because of how unbelievable it was to think a resource-rich nation like Guyana would have to resort to used clothes and footwear to donate to its people. “The agency overseeing one of the richest gold sectors in this part of the world...Is begging for second-hand clothes and used shoes for people living in the communities where this mineral wealth is coming out from. Ohhh my God... I know you who are watching and listening, I only hope you will help to wake up this sleeping nation,” he noted. Lall pointed out that gold worth tens of millions of US-dollars are being extracted not far from communities. “Gold price over 4,000 US an ounce, or 800,000 Guyana dollars per ounce…GGMC asking me and you, yuh gat any used clothes and shoes to donate?” Lall
Businessman and Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall said in disbelief. He argued that the situation is particularly concerning given the growing presence of foreign mining companies in Guyana. Lall described the situation as mismanagement before questioning whether Guyana is receiving the revenues to which it is legally entitled from mineral extraction. “Foreign companies walking away with gold worth thousands of US dollars an ounce… and the people living on the land being offered somebody else’s old pants and slippers,” he noted. He further argued that mineral revenues could be used to improve infrastructure and living conditions in the interior. “To give away the people’s gold and beg for old clothes and shoes to hand the people living on their gold. Yes, this is going on right here, right now…Our brothers and sisters wouldn’t be depending on second-hand clothes and old slippers. They would have been able to buy brand-name clothes and shoes for themselves,” Lall said. He added, “That money could help build and repair roads and bridges throughout the interior, improve communities, and still give the people a great life there.” His criticism comes against the backdrop of a rapidly expanding foreign presence in Guyana’s gold sector. Kaieteur News recently reported that the number of Canadian companies with interests in Guyana’s gold sector had climbed to 13 advancing large-scale gold projects across Guyana various mining districts, while, two Australian-listed companies - Altair Minerals and Liberty Metals - have secured interests covering a combined 770 square kilometres of gold-bearing lands in the wider Oko district of Region Seven. Among five of the Canadian companies, the Proven and Probable Reserves and indicated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) amount to 15.7 million ounces of gold, while the other companies are still in the exploration stage and have not reached the point of announcing resource estimates. By the end of the decade several of the projects are expected to move to production. Currently, the only large-scale gold project in production is the Aurora Gold Mine (AGM) which is owned by Chinese-state company Zijin Mining. Against this backdrop, Lall questioned whether sufficient independent oversight exists to verify the amount of gold being extracted from Guyana and ensure that the country receives the revenues due to it. To this end, he also raised concerns over access for the media to major mining operations. “My reporters have been trying for years just to get inside, some of these major gold operations to see what is happening. We have repeatedly asked Jagdeo and the Government to help facilitate this. To date, we still can’t get in there to independently report to this nation what is taking place,” he said. Lall added, “This isn’t somebody’s backyard. This is Guyana’s land. Guyana’s gold. Guyana’s patrimony. Foreign companies can go in and extract the minerals…But Guyanese reporters can’t go in and see what happening? Tell me, how the shovel can get access and the camera can’t?”
Thursday August 27, 2026
Kaieteur News
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GTE contractor flies out to Texas for Venezuela Energy Summit as bill for Wales climbs Lindsayca Guyana Inc, the firm with roots in Venezuela that was awarded a US$759 million contract to produce 300 megawatts of electricity from Wales recently marked its attendance at the ‘Venezuela Energy Week: Houston Showcase’ in Texas as the b i l l f o r t h e Wa l e s development continues to climb. Executives from Lindsayca were spotted at the Venezuela Energy Week event, held at the posh and luxurious Post Oak Hotel in Houston. The summit focused on “Empowering Venezuela” the same regime that claims two thirds of this country’s territory. While Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar pleaded with Guyana to turn off their AC units, Lindsayca executives were seen cozying up to Venezuelan Minister of Hydrocarbons, Paula Henao and Johann Álvarez, the chargé d’affaires dispatched by Delcy Rodríguez. Grean Fuentes, who oversees the highly delayed infrastructure vacated his responsibilities, making time to attend this marquee Venezuela event in the lap of luxury. This is the same company that faced an $8.7 million lawsuit from Gazprom for alleged “overi n v o i c i n g ” a n d “underperforming,” and the same company whose owners were drowning in massive negative incomes
right before they landed a US$759 million contract in Guyana. Another deeply concerning face in the crowd at the Post Oak Hotel, sitting comfortably in the middle of the Lindsayca team: Jesus Bronchalo. Bronchalo, the former ExxonMobil Vice President who controversially transitioned into a virtual “one-man show” as the CEO of Fulcrum LNG, was handpicked by the government to partner on our national gas infrastructure. He is supposed to be an independent partner working in Guyana’s best interest. In April, we exposed Bronchalo and Hector Fuentes boarding a luxury Hawker private jet together, draining Guyana of US$70,000 weekly in flight costs. Now, Bronchalo has been spotted again—this time embedded in the front row of the Venezuela Energy Week event with the Lindsayca team, appearing close to Andry Fuentes, Lindsayca’s Corporate Business Development executive. The delayed Wales project was initially scheduled to be deliver 50% cheaper electricity for Guyanese since December 2024 but instead, citizens are faced with endless blackouts as leaders make excuses of transmission issues and rent half of the power currently being supplied to the national grid.
LINDSAYCA TEAM: Pedro Newman, Jesús Bronchalo (Fulcrum LNG), Andry Fuentes and Hector Fuentes, front row at Venezuela Energy Week Event alongside new Venezuela’s Oil & Gas Minister Ms. Paula Henao. The delayed delivery of the project has resulted in millions of U.S-dollars being diverted to purchase electricity from the Turkish power company but that is not the only price that Guyanese are forced to bear. Kaieteur News reported that the contractor won a dispute with the government of Guyana (GoG) where the country had to pay an additional US$92M. But as the project drags on, the contractor is seeking more money to complete the project, a request that has not been addressed publicly by the administration. According to the company’s annual report, it is seeking a whopping US$250 million more to complete the project. According to the report, “Negotiations with the Government of Guyana for a
significant contract price adjustment are at an advanced stage, providing strong evidence of the group’s ability to continue to meet its commitments.” Meanwhile, sources close to the process told this
newspaper that the company has made a proposal to the government for a whopping US$250 million however, the GTE taskforce headed by Winston Brassington is considering US$170 million to complete the construction
activities. President Irfaan Ali however holds a different perspective, according to insiders. He is reportedly against any additional payments to the company. Although the company is expected to complete the gas plants in Wales by the end of 2026, technical experts say this is highly unlikely. In fact, sources explained that ExxonMobil recently conducted an “internal review” at the request of the GoG which showed that the 2026 deadline will not be met. The continuous delays at Wales not only mean more blackouts and heavy e l e c t r i c i t y t a r i ff s f o r customers of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc but also costly rental contracts to meet the shortterm energy needs of the country.
Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 27, 2026
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor-in-Chief: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
The CRC Guyana cannot afford to treat constitutional reform as another endless national talking shop. The Constitution is the foundation on which the country’s democratic institutions stand and any effort to strengthen it cannot be allowed to collapse under the weight of bureaucracy, political convenience and institutional inertia. Yet that is precisely where the country appears to be heading. More than two years after the Carl Singh-led Constitution Reform Commission was sworn in, Guyanese are now being invited to submit written proposals by 31st December. Attorney-at-law and Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram has rightly questioned how a process that was supposed to advance constitutional reform could take nearly four years from the passage of the legislation and more than two years after the Commission was sworn in—to reach what amounts to the beginning of public consultation. This is not merely slow. It is unacceptable. The comparison with the 1999 Constitution Reform Commission is particularly damning. That Commission, operating in a far more politically charged environment following the 1997 elections and the Herdmanston Accord, substantially completed its work in roughly six months. It considered approximately 4,600 proposals, held public hearings, consulted experts and produced 171 recommendations. The present Commission has had years, significant public resources and a mandate established by Parliament. Yet the country is still waiting for evidence of comparable substantive progress. There are also serious questions about money. Ram has called for a full accounting of the hundreds of millions of dollars allocated to constitutional reform and its supporting machinery. He has also raised questions about reported monthly payments of $1.3 million to the Chairman, $500,000 to the Vice-Chairman, $200,000 to each Commissioner and $600,000 to the Secretary. If public funds are being spent at this level, Guyanese are entitled to know what they are receiving in return. The issue is not whether those officials should be compensated. The issue is whether taxpayers are getting value for money. Questions surrounding attendance during the four-month recess associated with the 2025 elections also cannot simply disappear. If Commissioners were paid while attendance and participation were inadequate, the public deserves a clear explanation. Transparency cannot be demanded from government institutions while the reform machinery itself operates behind a veil. Then there is the elephant in the room: political representation. The Commission no longer reflects the parliamentary configuration produced by the 2025 elections. WIN, now holding 16 seats and serving as the principal Opposition party, has no representative on the Commission. Yet a representative of the former Joinder parties remains, despite those parties having no representation in the current National Assembly. Attorney General Anil Nandlall reportedly acknowledged the problem last year, noting that the legislation was designed around the previous parliamentary configuration and that amendments were being prepared. Why, then, is the Commission proceeding with consultation before this fundamental defect is corrected? Constitutional reform cannot credibly be designed without the participation of a major parliamentary force whose support may ultimately be necessary to pass the reforms. And the issues demanding attention are enormous. Guyana is no longer the country it was when many of the existing constitutional arrangements were conceived. The oil era has created unprecedented questions about naturalresource governance, intergenerational equity, accountability for national wealth and the concentration of executive power. There are also questions about presidential immunity, inclusionary democracy, appointment deadlocks, GECOM,
The egregious indignity against Opposition WIN MP, Ms. Tabitha Sarabo-Haley by the GPF DEAR EDITOR, It is with a profound sense of outrage and utter disgust that I address the deplorable actions captured on video on the night of 25th August ,2026 , involving the pat-down of Opposition Member of Parliament, Ms. Tabitha Sarabo-Haley, by a male police officer. Surely this brazen and cringeworthy assault to MP Sarabo Haley’s dignity must be ceaselessly playing and replaying in Ms. SaraboHaley’s mind and may very well have a negative impact to her psyche. This act is not merely a breach of protocol; it is a deliberate act of disrespect
and an egregious indignity. Police standing orders are unequivocal—a female suspect must be searched by a female officer to safeguard their dignity and uphold professional standards. The apparent absence of a female officer in this instance represents either gross incompetence or, more disturbingly, a calculated decision to humiliate. One cannot help but question the motivations behind this flagrant v i o l a t i o n . Wa s t h i s a contrived situation designed to besmirch the credibility of the WIN opposition? Regardless of political persuasion, Ms. Sarabo-
Haley is a citizen and a woman who deserves the fundamental right to dignity. To subject her to such a degrading process in plain view, while male officers stand by, is an affront not only to her but to every female in this nation. Editor, regardless of any simultaneous unfolding scenarios we must ask: Why was a female officer not present? What prevented the authorities from waiting until a female officer was available, as per standard practice? This failure smacks of a seemingly deliberate strategy to intimidate and degrade. This act must be
vehemently condemned by all right-thinking Guyanese. We demand a full public inquiry into this incident and immediate disciplinary action against those responsible for this blatant violation of protocol and human decency. This is a dark day for justice in our country and, call on civic society- Red Thread- etc, to vociferously condemn this wanton procedural abuse. Editor, the sad irony is that tax payers are footing the bill of ALL government agencies and employees involved. Yours in disgust, Jonathan Subrian Esq.
We cannot allow those days to return! DEAR EDITOR, In 1966 the National Security Act (Miscellaneous Provisions) was passed shortly after independence. It gave authorities broad search and seizure powers, which were subsequently used by L.F.S. Burnham to detain political opponents, critics, and labour activists. The Act allows for detention for up to 90 days without trial. PPP supporters were detained in the past using this act. It is very concerning to see what appears to be a heavy-handed approach to
dealing with the political opposition being carried out by the state. It echoes of a bygone time when dictatorship silenced opposition, and heavyhanded tactics instilled fear in the masses. Some events that have led to the deaths of opponents to the government of that time have also been linked to this unjust and biased use of power and the state security apparatus. CRG condemns any attempt by an official to use these old unjust tactics to undermine the democratic
process and our democracy. We the people of Guyana must remain outspoken, and we must ensure that democracy is not derailed and destroyed by those who are fearful of losing power. Detention of political opponents and the unjustified arrest of those who do not share the same perspective of those in power should not be tolerated in today’s Guyana. The PPP and WPA stood up against such acts by the PNC in the past, and any attempts made to bring back such dictatorial rule should
be met with resistance from all Guyanese including members of the good Doctor’s PPP. We have already seen the silencing of a major newspaper through financial skullduggery, and now we are witnessing what appears to be an unjustified use of power to restrict and detain key political opponents. Comrades, fellow Guyanese, we must not and cannot allow our young democracy to descend once again into an intolerable dictatorship. With utmost concern, Jamil Changlee
Guyana’s Opposition needs a bigger table and it needs it now DEAR EDITOR, As WIN and APNU edge toward a coalition, the old pattern is returning: 2 leaders, a private deal, a press release after the fact. That formula has failed for 20 years and can’t be repeated in 2030. So far, the public has only heard that a Joint Statement, Terms of Reference, and MOU are “forthcoming.” A nation deserves leadership in the
open, not paperwork promises. 1. Two-party deals keep losing. The 2022 APNUAFC collapse came down to backroom disputes over leadership and seats — the public learned the details only through journalism, not disclosure. The same dynamic is resurfacing now over meeting locations and who’s being excluded. Repeating this approach and
parliamentary oversight and local government autonomy. These matters cannot be treated as an academic exercise. Parliament must now reclaim responsibility for moving the process forward. If the Commission has failed to meet reasonable, timebound and assignment-bound expectations, it should not be given an indefinite extension simply because it has already consumed years and public money. The Government should publish a comprehensive accounting of all expenditure and remuneration. The
expecting a different result is habit, not strategy. 2. The math rewards width. Seat allocation favours whoever brings the most votes to the table, not whoever wins an internal argument. Building the broadest coalition now — before fights over landtitling or voting patterns emerge — is the smarter path. 3. Outside voices add
legitimacy. Union leaders bring turnout tied to livelihood rather than party loyalty. Constitutional experts lend legal credibility. Voices like wronged officials vindicated by courts and Ombudsman add moral weight, while Indigenous and regional leaders are essential after the Region 1 ferry disaster. Minor parties have already shown they can Continued on page 5
Commission should publish its attendance records, meeting records, research undertaken and substantive work produced. And Parliament should establish a firm deadline for completing meaningful constitutional reform. Guyana does not need another commission that consumes time while producing reports about why more time is needed. The Constitution belongs to the people, not to a commission. The country has waited long enough. The reform process must now move from talk to action or Parliament must have the courage to start again.
Thursday August 27, 2026
Kaieteur News
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URGENT APPEAL TO THE The world is at an inflection INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TO point as the U.S-Iran war of HELP PREVENT THE IMMINENT choice becomes an economic DESTRUCTION OF INDIGENOUS world war by force LANDS AND LIFE IN GUYANA lack of consultation prior to the attacks, are DEAR EDITOR, DEAR EDITOR, This urgent appeal to the international community to help prevent the imminent destruction of indigenous life, lands and assets in Guyana is addressed to: Ÿ The UN SecretaryGeneral Ÿ The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Ÿ The President of the UN General Assembly Ÿ The President of the UN Security Council Ÿ The President of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Peoples Ÿ The UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Ÿ The Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States Ÿ The Chairperson InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights Ÿ The President of the European Union Ÿ Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations The petitioners in this appeal request the UNDP Representative in Guyana and the European Union
Representative to help forward this appeal to their respective institutions. Background Indigenous peoples in Guyana have historically been denied the protection of international norms such as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Guyana’s laws are not in compliance with this vital Declaration. Indigenous peoples in Guyana are constantly under assault when it comes to the exploitation and destruction of their lands and resources without their permission. The Immediate Urgency The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights on 24th July, 2023 ordered interim measures of protection calling upon the Government to act urgently to protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples who are the owners of the lands and assets in question. Not only has the Government failed to act on these precautionary measures ordered by the I n t e r- A m e r i c a n Commission, but also a private individual is right
Guyana’s Opposition... From page 4 swing outcomes — one councillor blocked a majority in a recent regional vote. 4. Speed matters most. Other oppositions have moved fast: in Thailand’s 2023 election, Move Forward and Pheu Thai agreed to a coalition the day after their win, with Move Forward proposing a 6-party, 309-seat alliance almost immediately. Guyana’s opposition, by contrast, is sitting on a “forthcoming” statement while momentum slips away. Wider coalitions also last longer. New Zealand, Sweden, Portugal, Finland, Norway, and Denmark all formally involve unions and civic groups before finalising coalition deals — and credit this with fewer collapses and longer-lasting governments. Bottom line: Two decades of narrow deals have failed. Speed and breadth — not a private handshake — are what make coalitions win and hold. Guyana’s opposition should widen the table now, potentially reaching 44+ seats before any MOU, and past the two-thirds threshold with a strong one — but only if it acts before the window closes. Regards, Shabeer Zafar, Barrister
now in the process of moving heavy vehicles and equipment on the land to begin excavation and mining, overriding the plaintive protests of the indigenous peoples. The situation is fraught with danger for the Indigenous Peoples and their lands and properties. Indigenous Lives are at risk. And the Government of Guyana is a silent witness to these events, instead of providing protection to the Indigenous Peoples affected. Immediate Action Required The Indigenous Peoples at risk, supported by the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), urgently request the Honourable addressees of this Appeal to contact the Government of Guyana most urgently to request it to ensure that the precautionary measures ordered by the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights are implemented immediately and to stop private individuals from acting in dangerous disregard of the recommendations of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. International Monitoring of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Guyana Indigenous communities in Guyana are urgently appealing to the international community to establish a monitoring Continued on page 6
On the same morning, 24th August, 2026, that Kaieteur News published a Reuterssourced article, “Iran says new sanctions threatened by ‘desperate’ U.S will fail,” U.S Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, held a scheduled press conference later in the day to announce the launching of America’s major financial pressure campaign, dubbed ‘Operation Economic Outcast’, against Iran. In his remarks, Bessent sternly warned nations and financial institutions that they must sever economic/financial ties with Iran or face being cut off from the U.S dollar financial system. More on this presently. While the pressure campaign against Iran comes in the form of sanctions that include shipping, aviation, gold, technology, and digital assets, Bessent did not state when dollar cut-off retribution against countries will take effect, but it is almost common knowledge that there are countries - e.g. China, Russia and North Korea - that have been working with Iran during the six-month old U.S-Iran war, and they don’t necessarily rely on the U.S dollar. Iran actually asked China in May to pay for oil using the Chinese yuan. It is also not clear what sort of economic or financial impact cutting off countries from the dollar system will have given that several countries have already signalled interest in pursuing the dedollarization route. The BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), for example, was actively promoting local currency trade settlements in 2024 when Reuters reported, “Trump warns BRICS nations against replacing US dollar,” 30th November, 2024. But, probably realising dedollarization was already in effect, the Trump administration countered BRICS’ push with its own for certain countries, including neighbouring Venezuela, to adopt the dollar. So, with a unilateral war of choice against Iran, America has now unilaterally enjoined the rest of the world against Iran in an economic war. Traditional U.S allies that bluntly refused to join the U.S in its war with Iran, citing the
probably feeling America is no leader of the free world, politically and economically, but a nation with an ‘America First’ policy that has created confusion and uncertainty, and especially now with Iran in the eye of the storm. It’s mind-blowing how a February 28 ‘Operation Epic Fury’ war that should that have lasted a few weeks at most, went from a phase of military attacks to a phase that alternated between fighting and diplomacy, and now a phase of economic sanctions that target both Iran and the rest of the world. This is now a forever war that has no official end, and it contradicts Trump’s campaign promises to end conflicts and promote peace. He even openly bragged about ending 8 wars and actually rallied support for him to get the Nobel Peace Prize. America definitely did not build up its massive, expensive military stockpile over seventy-five years to squander it on Iran, which is not only still standing after six months of obliteration and near-annihilation, but claiming it won the war. In a world still reeling from one news cycle to another about morphing tariffs, deadly wars, massive migrant movements, climate change effects, land seizure threats, a shaky economic order, etc., the free world is now at an inflection point where it is probably asking whether it’s time to look for a new leader, knowing the U.S-led alliance built after World War II has been the most effective system for maintaining global stability, deterring major power conflicts, and supporting technological advancement as an aid to human development. Sadly, traditional alliances are becoming transactional dalliances, ideological foes are now idolised friends, policy positions are now based on personal preferences, and the last thing we need is to wind up with a replacement world leader that is averse to democracy. If we are not free, we are slaves. Democracy is better than dictatorship. Pick one. Regards, Emile Mervin
Kaieteur News
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Thursday August 27, 2026
Guyana set to drive Caribbean growth as Region Stumbles Guyana is once again emerging as the Caribbean’s economic powerhouse, with growth projections far outstripping every other country in the region, according to the 2026 Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean published by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) on Tuesday. ECLAC projects G u y a n a ’s e c o n o m y t o expand by a staggering 19.3 per cent in 2025, followed by 16.2 per cent growth in 2026 and an even stronger 19.7 per cent in 2027. The figures put Guyana in a league of its own within the Caribbean. The region as a whole is projected to grow by 6.1 per cent in 2025, 5.6 per cent in 2026 and 7.9 per cent in 2027, the ECLAC reported noted. However, once Guyana is removed from the calculations, Caribbean growth falls dramatically to just 1.4 per cent in 2025, 1.1 per cent in 2026 and 2.2 per cent in 2027. The report’s figures, based on information available up to 28th July, 2026, underscore the extraordinary weight Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy is now carrying within the Caribbean. Guyana’s projected 2026 growth is more than four times that of Suriname, which ECLAC estimates will grow by 3.5 per cent. Jamaica, meanwhile, is projected to contract by 1.2 per cent, while Trinidad and Tobago is expected to record only 0.8 per cent growth. But ECLAC’s broader assessment comes with a warning for the region. It says Latin America and the Caribbean remain trapped by weak investment, poor productivity growth and high levels of informality, which prevent economic expansion from translating into sustained improvements in productivity and highquality employment. The Commission says stronger growth alone is not enough. Countries must increase investment, accelerate p r o d u c t i v i t y, e m b r a c e technology and strengthen formal employment. Economic Commission for Latin American and the Caribbean (ECLAC) presented a new edition of its annual report Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean 2026. Growth and productivity amid high informality: constraints and
Executive Secretary of ECLAC, José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs challenges in fostering productive formalisation in the region. Meanwhile, the report indicates that the regional economy is expected to grow by 2.2% in 2026, after a 2.4% expansion in 2025, and show a partial recovery of up to 2.5% in 2027. If these projections prove correct, Latin America and the Caribbean will have maintained five years with average growth near 2.3%, an insufficient level to provide a sustained increase in income per inhabitant, close development gaps, and significantly expand policy spaces. It also indicates that a declining international context¯marked by lower worldwide growth, greater geopolitical tensions, financial volatility, and pressures in energy markets¯partly explain the deceleration predicted for 2026. However, it states that the main limitation for regional growth is structural in nature: low levels of investment, decreased dynamism in formal job creation, and high and persistent labour informality. “The region has managed to maintain significant progress regarding macroeconomic stability, but that stability must become a platform for more and better growth. To overcome the trap of low capacity for growth, we must increase investment and productivity and simultaneously move toward productive formalisation that strengthens people’s and businesses’ productive capacity, expands social protection, and generates more high-quality formal employment,” stated the Executive Secretary of ECLAC, José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs. Low growth in a new geopolitical era During 2025, the region
showed resilience in a reconfigured international context with increased uncertainty. Regional GDP grew by 2.4%; inflation continued to converge toward central banks’ goals, employment continued to broaden, though less strongly, and real wages continued to recover. At the same time, the current account remained at a moderate level of 1.2% of regional GDP, and net capital flow facilitated accumulation of international reserves. A global economic downturn is expected for 2026, with growth of 2.9%, the lowest rate since 2022. Geopolitical rivalries and the disruption of energy supplies have increased the prices of oil, fertilisers, and transportation, while the persistence of relatively high international interest rates and the appreciation of the dollar could worsen financing conditions for emerging economies. At the regional level, ECLAC projects growth for Latin America and the Caribbean of 2.2% in 2026 and 2.5% in 2027, with marked heterogeneity at the subregional level. South America is expected to grow 2.5% in both 2026 and 2027. Growth in Central America is expected to be 1.6% in 2026 and 2.8% in 2027. This result is influenced by the contraction expected for Cuba and Haiti. If these two economies are excluded, the subregional average would be 4.0% for 2026 and 4.2% for 2027. The Caribbean is expected to grow 5.6% in 2026 and 7.9% in 2027, driven by increased growth in Guyana; if this country is not included, the subregional average would be 1.1% in 2026 and 2.2% in 2027. Inflation is expected to remain contained, though its convergence toward goals will be slower. The recent
The 2026 Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean price shock has been mainly concentrated on energy and fertilisers, with a more limited transmission to food than in previous incidences. However, increased energy costs could delay new reductions in monetary policy rates. In this context, ECLAC highlights the importance of preserving monetary credibility and a c t i v e l y u s i n g macroprudential tools to mitigate financial risks. Regarding labour, the number of employed people increased by 1.6% in 2025—approximately 4.3 million jobs—but the job creation rate slowed for the third consecutive year. The unemployment rate decreased to 5.3%, and labour informality continued to drop, although it still includes nearly half of employed people. Indicators in early 2026 confirm a more moderate expansion of employment and show that the possibility of maintaining labour improvements will depend more and more on increases in investment, productivity, and growth. Regarding fiscal matters, the stabilisation of gross public debt at approximately 52% of GDP in Latin America has not been sufficient to rebuild the fiscal space. Low growth, the high cost of financing, and increased interest payments limit resources available for increasing public
investment, social protection, and accelerating productive transformation. In the Caribbean, gross public debt was approximately 73% of GDP in 2025, which also reinforced the same limitations to moving toward more productive, inclusive, and sustainable development. The second part of the Economic Survey2026 examines informality not only as a labour or social protection problem but also as a structural restriction that limits economies’ capacities to transform growth into sustained increases in productivity, investment, and high-quality employment. At the same time, informality is a consequence of low growth and one of the mechanisms that perpetuate the trap of low capacity for growth. Historical evidence shows that the greatest progress in formalisation took place between 2000 and 2013, which was the most recent period of greater economic growth, high investment rates, productivity increases, and expansion of formal salaried employment. This process has been less robust since 2014, along with the deceleration of investment and stalling of productivity. Currently, nearly half of employed people in the region continue to work in informal activities. The
analysis presented in the report shows that growth increases productivity both in the formal and informal sectors, but that its effects are more intense, rapid, and persistent in the first. Formal companies have more capacity to take advantage of economies of scale, incorporate innovation, access financing, and accumulate productive capacities. Therefore, the greater the weight of informality, the less growth capacity there is to generate permanent improvements to productivity. Given this analysis, ECLAC proposes developing strategies to boost productive formalisation in the region. This concept refers to a process in which increased formality is accompanied by a strengthening of productive capacities of people and companies, increases in productivity, and a productive transformation able to maintain more dynamic and inclusive growth. This focus transcends regulatory reforms or isolated administrative incentives and requires coherence and complementarity among labour, fiscal, financial, and productive development policies. The report identified four complementary action areas: Labour policies: furthering programmes for Continued on page 9
URGENT APPEAL TO THE INTERNATIONAL... From page 5 arrangement in Guyana to w a t c h o v e r t h e implementation of international norms on indigenous rights in Guyana as a matter of the greatest urgency. Indigenous peoples are without protection, notwithstanding the
existence on paper of a Commission on Indigenous Rights – which has never acted in protective mode. Urgent Report to the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Security Council In support of the Indigenous peoples in
Guyana, the GHRA hereby requests the urgent submission of a report on the situation to the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Security Council. Regards, Executive Committee Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA)
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Food prices fuel Guyana’s inflation — as IDB flags 5.9% surge
Inflation Disaggregation
Food prices remain a major driver of inflation in Guyana, with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) reporting a 5.9 percent increase in food prices in early 2026. In its Caribbean Economics Quarterly: Volume 16, Issue 2 – Fiscal Resilience, Debt Reduction, and Domestic Resource Mobilisation in the Caribbean, the IDB reported that Guyana’s inflation stood at 2.9 percent year-over-year at the end of 2025. It adds that while costs of miscellaneous items rose markedly during the period, it stated that the average consumer price level was underpinned by a further increase in the price of food, which the report says “has had the greatest impact on inflation.” Food prices in 2025 rose by 4.4 percent, medical care by 4.9 percent, and miscellaneous items by 6.8 percent. However, for 2026, IDB noted that the latest data show that inflation pressure eased this year, prior to the ramp-up in international oil prices. “In February 2026, Guyana’s year-overyear inflation rate was 2.6 percent, again underpinned by higher food prices, which rose by 5.9 percent, but with headline price growth curtailed marginally owing to lower prices for education and transport and communication compared to the same month in 2025,” the report states. Recently, President Irfaan Ali at a recent press conference said changing lifestyles and consumer habits are also contributing to the country’s high cost of living. Kaieteur News reported the President said he can cite hundreds of measures that have
already been implemented by his administration to address the issue which persists beyond the control of government. He said for instance the global environment and imported inflation affects the country and consumers. Offering one example, the President explained that while the country produces crude oil, it imports all refined products such as gasoline, diesel and cooking gas, meaning these items are more expensive due to imported market costs. Additionally, he highlighted that tensions in the Middle East have resulted in increased cost for pharmaceuticals as well as fertilisers, which have an effect on food prices. To this end, he suggested, “We have to also change our eating pattern in the country and that is something we have to address. More persons today are shopping in the supermarket, than were shopping in the supermarket four years ago.” He continued, “If you look at the margins in the supermarket you will see that the margins are far different than the margin in the normal market. So that’s a cultural issue that has come upon us that needs to be addressed.” Ali cautioned that the profit margins in supermarkets are significantly higher due to rent and air conditioning in some cases. Additionally, he observed, “People are eating out more than they were eating out four years ago. The average family is visiting a restaurant more than they were doing four years ago. That is also an issue. More people are cooking less at home than they were cooking four years ago.”
$25M water supply system for new Monkey Mountain Secondary School The water supply system in Monkey Mountain Village which was commissioned in April 2022.
The new Monkey Mountain Secondary School in Region Eight will soon get a $25 million water supply system ensuring access to potable water for staff and students. According to information provided on the N a t i o n a l P r o c u r e m e n t a n d Te n d e r Administration Board (NPTAB), the $25,410,000 contract was awarded to Proconstruct Solutions. While the water system will be used by the new school, this publication understands that back in April 2022 the village got a $32.7 million water supply system which was commissioned by Minister of Housing Collin Croal. It was reported by the ministry that the new well was drilled through rocks at a depth of 100 meters in central Monkey Mountain, where schools and health centre are located. It now provides access to 95 per cent of residents.
The ministry stated that the community which is home to some 800 residents utilised an existing gravity-fed system, which is deteriorated and could not supply adequate water. This system supplied water to the central area, while Section Two, which is approximately 2 kilometers away, has a separate system that pumps water from a nearby creek. Director of Hinterland Services at the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Mr. Ramchand Jailal at the commissioning ceremony explained that the new well is equipped with a photovoltaic pumping system, with a submersible pump, controller. The Monkey Mountain Secondary School is a new school being established in the Amerindian community. Back in July 2024, former Minister of Education, Priya Continued on page 14
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Burnham’s dream of self-sufficiency ended in insufficiency There is a particular species of political nostalgia that thrives in countries with short memories. It takes yesterday’s failures, dusts them with the language of national purpose, places them beneath a portrait of the departed leader and calls the result a vision. This is what is happening today when we are invited to believe that Forbes Burnham’s dream of a selfsufficient Guyana is still being built. It is as though the intervening decades since his death were merely an unfortunate interruption in an otherwise triumphant national project. It is a charming
proposition. But history is rarely so charitable. Burnham certainly possessed a vision. He understood, as did many post-colonial leaders, that political independence without economic capacity could become little more than the changing of the flag above the same colonial warehouse. “Feed, Clothe and House the Nation” had the ring of national emancipation. Guyana was to grow its own food, develop its own industries, train its own people and use its resources for its own advancement. The trouble began when the rhetoric encountered
reality. Self-reliance is not the same thing as selfsufficiency, and neither is achieved by presidential speeches, state corporations or slogans painted on billboards and exercise books. A country becomes selfreliant by becoming productive, competitive and institutionally competent. It must produce things that people want, at prices they can afford, in quantities sufficient to matter. B u r n h a m ’s G u y a n a instead embarked upon an extraordinary experiment in making the State the answer to almost every economic
Dem Boys Seh...
Guyana gat a great roadside food rush Everywhere you turn these days is food. Every street corner got curry, roti, cook-up rice, chowmein, fried rice, fried chicken, barbecue, soup and enough fast food to make the average Guyanese wonder if the country quietly become one giant outdoor restaurant. Dem boys seh you can drive from Georgetown to Diamond and never get hungry. In fact, you might get hungry just looking at all the food. Every few yards somebody got a tent, table, caravan, cooler, car trunk or improvised kitchen serving something hot. Some people cooking so close to the road that the exhaust fumes might be one of the secret ingredients. And the customers lining up too. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner—all available at the roadside. Some people probably eating dinner at one stand while ordering tomorrow’s breakfast from the next one. But here is the million-dollar question:
Who checking the food handlers’ certificates? Because if all these roadside cooks have the required health certificates, then dem boys seh Guyana must have the most efficient food inspection system in the Caribbean. You mean to tell me that thousands of people suddenly become certified food handlers and nobody notice? And where exactly are these certificates hanging? Because dem boys don’t always see them. Imagine if you want open a barber shop, you have to go and do medical to ensure you don’t have no infectious disease. But someone selling food to hundreds of persons each day could do so without displaying their food handlers’ certificate. The real mystery is not who cooking all this food. We know who cooking. The mystery is who is checking. And that, dem boys seh, is one recipe that definitely needs investigation. Talk half. Leff half.
Guyana set to drive Caribbean... From page 6 job creation, training, and labour insertion; reducing gender gaps; better articulating labour and social policies, and strengthening the care economy and the use of digital tools to facilitate access and permanence in formality. Fiscal policies: m o v in g t o w a r d s o c ial protection financing systems that reduce disincentives to formality; establishing progressive and flexible paths to formalisation, and using digitalisation and a d m i n i s t r a t i v e interoperability to simplify compliance and strengthen oversight. Financial policies: reinforcing the role of the
development bank as an instrument for productive insertion; designing mechanisms that recognise the heterogeneity of company makeups, and broadening systems of guarantees to reduce credit segmentation. Productive development policies: strengthening and scaling integrated routes for company support, with an emphasis on technological extensionism; focusing interventions territorially; promoting anticipatory and multi-actor governance, along with productive integration and strengthening information, monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems.
ECLAC concludes that reducing informality is a necessary condition for strengthening the region’s growth capacity and escaping the trap of low capacity for growth. Productive formalisation would allow for improvement of e m p l o y m e n t q u a l i t y, broadening social protection, and reducing inequalities, as well as increasing economies’ capacity to convert growth into sustained progress in productivity, broadening the space for public policy, and consolidating processes of productive transformation that maintain high rates of growth in the long term.
question. The state became f a r m e r, m a n u f a c t u r e r, merchant, importer, employer, banker, landlord and, on occasion, dispenser of ideological instruction. The private sector was regarded with suspicion, foreign capital with anxiety, and the market as though it were a disease requiring quarantine. The result was not selfsufficiency but insufficiency. There were shortages. There were queues. There were empty shelves. And ingenious Guyanese discovered that a society can become remarkably inventive when deprived of ordinary necessities. The country that was supposed to
feed itself could hardly guarantee three straight meals for families. Factories that were supposed to become manufacturing hubs suddenly flat-lined for want of foreign exchange to procure spare parts and inputs. The country that proclaimed economic independence eventually found itself borrowing, being plagued by blackouts and hobbled by shortages. This is the inconvenient part of the Burnham legacy that nostalgia prefers to forget. Burnham wanted Guyana to make better use of its land, forests, minerals and people. Certainly. But the question is not whether the aspiration was admirable.
The question is whether the economic system established to achieve it worked. The deepest irony is that the resurrection of Burnham’s dream comes at precisely the moment when Guyana’s oil wealth makes it possible to expose the difference between selfsufficiency and prosperity. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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CHANGE EATING HABITS Pres Ali means well. I wonder, though, whether he is serious. Or, if he takes himself seriously. I put it gently. He should listen to himself. The parts of his speeches that are not AI influenced. (Follow-up planned). Change eating habits. Well-intended. But, Swiss cheese. First, there must be a range of food options before people can change their eating habits. They have choices. Food options found affordable, in the basket. Bitter reality for a third to a half of Guyana (maybe) is that they don’t have enough to eat.
If there isn’t enough, what is there to change? When Guyanese are down to the bone, what opening for changing their eating habits? When there’s a scramble to put together a simple meal, changing eating habits, for better or worse, is a luxury that eludes. The focus is on quantity, not quality. Quality is also costly. It’s about bulkage and less about roughage. Nutrition would be nice to have, but the emphasis is on avoiding starvation. Does a man lost in the jungle, or adrift on the ocean, get picky and choosy? Whither that luxury? Especially when the
only food around is the dead body of a past companion. The president and his people disagree with me on plenty; I don’t think they can disagree on this point. Second, Pres Ali took aim at ‘eating out.’ Sure, it’s expensive. But if the masses don’t treat themselves, now and then, make the sacrifice, then how do investors flocking here recoup their cash? Guyana has been marketed as business friendly. Why transform Guyana, the culinary and hospitality part, to being bad for business? There’s a contradiction there. I seek pardoned for
tabling. Some Guyanese use alcohol (other stuff) to numb their senses, relieve the pain of living in Guyana. Others seek a bite to make them forget how hard it is in this luscious, fabulous, oil rich frontier that has the whole world drooling. While the whole world drools, it takes a hard man to shove locals away from what gives them some temporary ease. See the children smile. Instead of a Tylenol, poor Guyanese address their migraine and stomach pangs with a Taco or burrito, a burger or pizza. I’m not talking about Japanese sushi, beluga caviar, or Hungarian goulash for Guyanese who struggle to get enough to eat. Me, I am a roti and curry man, a peas and rice man. So, it’s perplexing that the president (who should know better) suddenly is the new voice for a change in local eating habits. I doubt that anyone could have imagined that presidential call in an oil rich country. Here a billion is gone through by the PPP
Government as if it’s a bottle of rum guzzled down, then to the next? Meanwhile, poorer Guyanese, chronically short of funds and food, are counselled to change how they eat. Third, it’s unlikely that Guyanese minimum wage workers, or local pensioners, or lower tier public servants even think of shopping at the high-end supermarkets. Their minds may wander and settle on the wonders in those high-end and high-priced shops. Reality check: when prices at municipal markets embarrass them, chase them home, what interest can they have about partaking of expensive goodies in supermarkets? Fourth, the president and the PPP hierarchy are forever celebrating some new commercial arrival, some splendid ribbon cutting, some promising sod turning. N o w, t h e r e i s t h i s development that amounts t o : B e w a r e o f Supermarkets. Bypass those
megastores. The Chinese put Guyanese corner shops out of business. Remaining options, anyone? What about those investors who plunked down their millions in the calculation that Guyanese sample their goods? I hope that local e n t r e p r e n e u r s (supermarkets) aren’t included. In reading what Pres Ali said, I recall that local beauty. Belly full maan tell hungry belly maan -bare yuh chafe, bruddah. Ting gun be bettah. The mystery: change when there’s nothing. Painful to observe a national leader disintegrate publicly. Embarrassing to absorb such utterances. Apparently, he neither cares nor is aware. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.
$339M awarded for construction, reconstruction of 3 primary schools The St. Sidwell’s Primary School in Georgetown which will be reconstructed.
The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board has awarded approximately $339 million in contracts for the construction of primary schools at Big Creek Village and Five Star Village in Region One, and the reconstruction of the St. Sidwell’s Primary School in Georgetown. Based on information released on NPTAB website, a $270,199,000 contract was awarded to Repaul International Enterprise for the reconstruction of the St. Sidwell’s Primary School in Georgetown. For the Big Creek community, a $33,361,006 contract was awarded to Swift Pay to build a brand-new primary school there. As it relates to Five Star community, NPTAB awarded the $36,273,638 project to A&G Infrastructural Development, Hospitality, Landscaping & General Supply. To complement this new primary school at Five Star, a $24,814,512 contract was awarded to Swift Pay for the construction of teacher’s living quarters there. In relation to the two primary schools for Region One, this publication reported that the
projects will form part of the Region’s $9.1 billion budgetary allocation at which $4.6 billion was allotted for education delivery. During the consideration of budget estimates back in February, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand disclosed that these communities earmarked for primary school, never before had schools for its children. She noted that these were mining areas where people have settled in and now the government is moving to establish these schools so children can pursue their education. Regarding the St. Sidwell’s Primary School, it is an old wooden two-storey building located on the corners of Hadfield Street and Vlissengen Road, Lodge. It is situated next door to the St. Sidwell’s Anglican Church. The construction of this school and other projects form part of the $24 billion which was set aside in this year’s budget for the education sector’s infrastructural needs. It was reported in the media that the Education Ministry has been constructing Continued on page 12
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King Charles for Guyana visit as part of Caribbean tour
King Charles (right) and President Irfaan Ali King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit Guyana later this year as part of a Caribbean tour, Buckingham Palace has announced. The royal pair will travel to Antigua and Barbuda for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting, with the King also visiting the Bahamas and Guyana as part of the eight-day trip, a report by the BBC News has stated. . The tour - planned for 27th October to 4th November will “celebrate the communities, cultures and nature within the Commonwealth family,” the palace said on Wednesday. It marks the first time the King has visited the Caribbean since 2021, when he travelled to Barbados to see the country officially removed Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and become the world’s newest republic. The monarch, who was the Prince of Wales at the time, acknowledged the “appalling atrocity of slavery” the Caribbean island suffered during a speech he made. He also visited Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, and made official visits to Guyana in 2000 and the Bahamas in 1973. He travelled across the Atlantic Ocean earlier this year when he visited Bermuda in May, where he is also head of state. The trip marked his first royal visit as monarch to a British overseas territory and came after a state visit to the U.S. In a Facebook post, the Office of the President also confirmed the visit. “The Government of Guyana announces that His Majesty King Charles III has accepted the Government’s invitation and the request of the UK Government to visit Guyana in the later part of October to mark 60 years of bilateral relations between the UK and Guyana. The visit will coincide with their Majesties’ Autumn Tour announced by the Palace earlier today,” the OP post stated. King Charles’ visit will not be the first by a monarch here. The late Queen Elizabeth II visited Guyana twice, first in February 1966 as British Guiana just before its independence, and later in February 1994 on an official state visit. In the first visit the late queen was accompanied by her husband Prince Philip. She was greeted by Governor Sir Richard Luyt and met Prime Minister Forbes Burnham. She also opened the Queen Elizabeth II National Park (now the Guyana National Park), visited the Promenade Gardens, and took a train trip with the Prime Minister. In the 1994 visit she met with then President Cheddi Jagan, addressed the Parliament of Guyana, and met with opposition leader Desmond Hoyte. She also travelled to cultural and historical points of interest, including Santa Mission.
$339M awarded for construction... From page 10 and rebuilding schools, to include improved amenities, create more space for learners, and ensure that all children are safe and are in an environment conducive to learning. Having been declared by the United Nations (UN) as having achieved universal primary education in the country, former Education Minister, Priya Manickhand had stated that as communities evolve and the population increases, the government would continue to build schools to cater for the children.
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U.S.-based pandit accused of using ‘spiritual ritual’ in new sexual assault case A U.S.-based Guyanese pandit who was accused of raping a 16-year-old girl in Guyana more than a decade ago is facing a new sexual assault charge in Canada, after allegedly using a religious ceremony to sexually assault a woman in Oshawa. Fifty-year-old Rajendranauth Doodnauth Maraj of Richmond Hill, New York, was arrested on Tuesday, 25th August, 2026, after Durham Regional Police responded to a sexual assault report in the area of Harmony Road North and Conlin Road East. According to police, the victim and her family had employed Maraj to travel to Canada to perform a Hindu religious ceremony. Police said Maraj convinced the woman that she was possessed by evil spirits and needed a specific ceremony to be healed. He allegedly took her to a private location and sexually assaulted her while pretending to perform the ceremony. Police were later contacted and Maraj was taken into custody. Maraj faced similar charges in Guyana back in 2014. At the time, Maraj was committed to stand trial at the Demerara Criminal Assizes after Magistrate Leron Daly ruled that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence for him to face a high court trial. He was accused of raping a 16-year-old girl on 8th December and 29th December, 2009, at a mandir in Eccles, East Bank Demerara. According to the evidence presented at the preliminary proceedings, the teenager had accompanied her grandparents to the mandir to
U.S.-based Guyanese, Rajendranauth Doodnauth make arrangements for a religious ceremony. Maraj allegedly instructed the grandparents to leave his office, telling them he needed to perform a special spiritual ritual on the girl. He allegedly told the teenager that she had been possessed by an “African spirit” and needed to undergo a ritual to cure her. Maraj was accused of instructing the teenager to remove her clothing, applying special ointments to the parts of her body and then raping her. He allegedly warned her not to tell anyone about what had happened. The teenager allegedly returned to the mandir on 29th December and was raped a second time. She later confided in another pandit, who informed her grandparents, resulting in the matter being reported to police. Meanwhile, Durham Regional Police said they are concerned that there may be other victims in the latest case and have released a photograph of Maraj. Maraj has been charged with sexual assault and was held for a bail hearing. The latest allegation remains before the Canadian courts.
$25M water supply system for... From page 8 Manickchand and her team turned the sod for the new $208 million edifice. When completed, the school will cater to the educational needs of students from the communities of Monkey Mountain, Taruka and Tusseneng. The complex will also have a teachers’ quarter and a small dormitory for the children of Taruka and Tusseneng. The project includes also provisions of facilities such as laboratories, an Information Technology lab, and a library– ensuring that students have access to modern learning resources upon completion. During the simple sod turning ceremony, Minister Manickchand highlighted the importance of the new school, stating that it will alleviate the burden on existing educational facilities such as Paramakatoi by accommodating an average 250 secondary-aged students. The ministry reported that students from these communities currently travel significant distances to access secondary education, often facing logistical challenges due to the limited availability of schools in the region.
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Kaieteur News
More than two tons of cyanide seized in Suriname — shipment believed smuggled from Guyana PA R A M A R I B O , Suriname, CMC — Surinamese police have seized more than two tonnes of cyanide at a checkpoint in Coronie, northwestern Suriname, in a shipment authorities believe was illegally brought into the country from Guyana. The authorities said that more than two tons of the dangerous chemical had been transported in two trucks and that several people are assisting their investigations. Cyanide is used in gold mining, among other things, but it poses a serious danger to people and the environment if stored, transported, or used improperly. The government has previously indicated that the import of cyanide is subject to regulations. The police investigations are expected to determine the exact quantity, origin of the shipment, and the final destination, as well as whether permits were in place for the import and transport of the chemical. Guyana over the years has expressed the desire to phase our mercury and cyanide in gold production, but only last year Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharat said using mercury to extract gold is currently the cheapest method available to small miners here and banning it would put most of this country’s small miners out of business. However, he said, the government is seeking ways to incentivize movement to more environmentally friendly extraction methods, and already there has been significant reduction from large and medium scale miners and notable progress in implementing the 2013 Minamata Convention on Mercury. “The challenge is with the smaller miners. If we should say to a miner, use
this system … They would have to invest $5 million…, whatever it costs to set up that system. … Basically we are putting them out of operation. And you know it is difficult for the small miners to invest in a system that costs $5 million or $10 million even though it may increase their recovery rate,” Bharrat was quoted in a Stabroek News report. Bharrat said then that while globally there are alternatives to mercury use for gold extraction for small miners, they are also not readily available. “There are alternatives that are available, but not affordable to the small miners,” he stressed. “We are trying to get them to work in groups but that is a challenge also. That is to have the small miners, to have all of them working together and have one central location where they process them gold. … The challenge is because they are spread out, getting their materials to that central point is not easy, because a small miner might not have a truck to move from one location to another to process at a central area,” he explained according to the Stabroek News report. Bharrat said that currently there is a National Action Plan for mercury use and it is moving to first reduce use before total eradication. “We have come a long w a y. T h e l a rg e s c a l e companies we have signed agreements with now, there will be no use of mercury cyanine agent… Many medium-scale approvals that we are giving now, we ensure that there is a clause there that says that mercury is prohibited, that is for new operations. For example, the Marudi agreement, that says no use of mercury. We are satisfied they are adhering …,” he said.
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Authorities said the more than two tons of the dangerous chemical had been transported in two trucks and several persons are assisting their investigations.
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Mohamed released on $100K bail after river standoff with Joint Services …MARAD says boat unlicensed
Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed as he was detained.
Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed has been released on $100,000 bail following a tense, six-hour maritime standoff on the Demerara River. The midnight operational confrontation culminated with Joint Services ranks intercepting a vessel transporting WIN opposition members of parliament Tabitha Sarabo Halley, Dawn Hastings Williams and Natasha Singh Lewis at Friendship, East Bank Demerara. Kaieteur News understands that Singh-Lewis was also released on $200,000 bail after being taken into custody at the Farm Police Station during the early hours of Wednesday morning. The debacle unfolded just hours after members of the team had returned from visiting communities in Region One, where they met with grieving families and survivors of the recent MV Barima maritime tragedy. The enforcement action center
stage shifts to regulatory compliance after the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) issued a press release on 26th August, clarifying that based on official records, “neither the fast craft nor Mr. Azruddin Mohamed is licensed or otherwise authorised to operate.” MARAD warned that operating unregistered vessels presents a “serious and unacceptable risk to passengers, crew, other waterway users, property, and the marine environment,” cautioning that anyone operating without proper authorisation faces enforcement under applicable maritime safety laws. Accounts of how the standoff began differ sharply between state authorities and opposition officials. According to the Joint Services, a patrol of the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard and the Guyana Police Force spotted the “go-fast” vessel proceeding at a “high rate of speed”
near the mouth of the Demerara River around 9:45 PM on 25th August. Ranks reported that after the vessel ignored siren signals to stop, a high-speed pursuit ensued, ending at a wharf in Friendship. During the chase, security forces reported seeing “a bag being thrown from the vessel into the Demerara River,” prompting ongoing search and recovery efforts to determine its contents. Conversely, the opposition members of parliament maintain the vessel was already safely docked at Mohamed’s private Friendship premises when security forces arrived, alleging that officers initially cited vague “reasonable suspicion of illegal activity” to demand a search. Over 6,000 citizens watched the encounter unfold via a Team Mohamed’s Facebook live stream when it started before 10pm and Continued on page 23
Photos taken during the seizure of the vessel
MP Natasha Singh Lewis being pat down
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Vieira invokes CCJ ruling in standoff, demands equal enforcement of Guyana’s mining laws …Village Council denies mediation meeting between GGMC, Vieira
Annex 1 to Mining Permit GS23:V-5/MP/000/99 defining geographic boundary coordinates for an estimated 975-acre tract of state land in the Northwest Mining District near Huri Creek and the Barama River.
A certified true copy of Mining Permit No. MP 25/01 issued by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to Mr. Wayne Vieira, granting exclusive gold and precious stones mining rights in Tassawinni, North West District, effective September 15, 2001.
Mining Permit No. MP 23/01 issued by the GGMC to Mr. Wayne Vieira for gold and precious stones mining operations covering the Tassawinni area in the North West District.
A certified true copy of Mining Permit No. 47/98 granted to Mr. Wayne Vieira on September 25, 1998, for exclusive gold mining rights at Tassawinni, Barama, North West District.
Local miner, Wayne Vieira has issued a statement breaking his silence on the escalating dispute at Tassawini and Chinese Landing. The response follows an ongoing blockade where he says residents have physically obstructed four GGMCregistered excavators and a bulldozer brought in for mining operations and critical infrastructure work on local roads and the Tassawini airstrip from entering the area. Vieira’s statement comes as the Chinese Landing Village Council formally declined an invitation to participate in a scheduled Georgetown mediation meeting with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and mediator Emily Dodson. In an official letter dated 26th August, 2026, addressed to GGMC Commissioner Newell Dennison, Toshao Nikita Miller confirmed that the council could not leave the village during ongoing protest actions. Ex p r es s in g co n cer n o v er procedural fairness, Toshao Miller stated, “a mediation cannot have a fair and successful outcome when there is a power imbalance between the parties or there is undue pressure placed on one of the parties”. The Toshao added that “the council members have determined that we cannot leave the village and our residents” while machinery continues to move toward their boundaries. The letter noted that after operators found Tassawini Landing blocked, “they brought their barges to Kariako to try to bring their equipment through on the road,” which the council characterised as not being “a show of good faith”. The council affirmed it will not attend mediation until “Mr. Vieira’s equipment is removed from our land and GGMC can guarantee t h a t a l l o f M r. Vi e i r a ’s preparatory and mining activities at Tassawini are stopped”. Responding directly to these developments, Vieira asserted that recent public portrayals present “an incomplete account of a dispute which existed since 2010”. He stressed, “This matter should not be portrayed simply as a conflict between an Indigenous community and an outside miner”. According to Vieira, the central issue is whether “lawfully acquired mining rights, substantial private investment, contractual arrangements and decisions of the Courts of Guyana and the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) will be respected and whether Guyana’s mining and Continued on page 23
Thursday ThursdayAugust November 27, 2026 24, 2022
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GPL braces for massive power surge ...as industrial demand races toward 3,000 GWh
The projected electricity demand excluding Linden.
The projected power demand including Linden on the grid.
I
ndustrial electricity sales are projected to surge to nearly 2,783 GWh by 2030, exceeding Guyana’s total electricity generation for 2026, according to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Development and Expansion Plan 2026–2030. The projection, which excludes Linden, highlights the scale of expected industrial expansion and the growing pressure that will be placed on the national power grid over the next four years. The GPL plan projects that residential electricity sales will reach 4,467 GWh by 2030, driven largely by ongoing and planned
housing expansion, while commercial sales are expected to reach 1,249.6 GWh. However, the figures rise further when the broader national grid projections with the inclusion of Linden are considered. By 2030, grid-connected industrial sales are projected at 2,846.6 GWh, compared with 1,315.6 GWh for the commercial sector and 4,854.5 GWh for residential consumers. The projections follow the expected integration of Linden into the DemeraraBerbice Interconnected System (DBIS) by 2029. For 2029, industrial sales
are projected at 2,177.3 GWh, while commercial sales are expected to reach 1,177.3 GWh and residential sales 3,705 GWh. The figures for the years p r e c e d i n g L i n d e n ’s integration are considerably lower. The latest projections underscore the extraordinary expansion expected in G u y a n a ’s e l e c t r i c i t y demand. As previously reported by this publication on 20th A u g u s t , G P L’s Transmission and Distribution Expansion Plan 2026–2030 projects that peak electricity demand will climb from 318 MW in 2026
to 1,671 MW by 2030. Total electricity demand is also projected to explode from approximately 2,000 GWh this year to 10,441 GWh by 2030—more than five times the current level. The GPL document said the projections are based on the combined effects of residential expansion, commercial and industrial growth, and the integration of Linden into the national grid. “These projections inform required capacity planning, infrastructure investment, and operational readiness across the national grid to achieve the planning objectives,” the document stated. The plan also anticipates significant improvements in the efficiency and reliability of the electricity system as major transmission and distribution investments are
implemented. According to GPL, these investments are expected to reduce technical and non-technical losses while improving SAIFI and SAIDI reliability indicators. More efficient use of generated electricity is also expected to translate into increased energy sales and revenue for the utility. Under the Base Case scenario, potential electricity sales are projected to average approximately 4,966 GWh, representing an average annual growth rate of 51.5%, or about 1,566 GWh per year. Meeting that level of demand will depend heavily on a number of major generation and network investments now at various stages of development. These include the Gasto-Energy project, the proposed Amaila Falls
Hydropower Project, utility-scale solar developments under the Guyana Utility Scale Photovoltaic Program (GUYSOL), additional solar PV facilities planned by GPL, and extensive transmission and distribution upgrades. The projects are intended not only to expand generation capacity, but also to strengthen the reliability and resilience of the national grid as Guyana’s economy becomes increasingly energy-intensive. With industrial consumption alone projected to approach 3,000 GWh annually by 2030, GPL’s expansion plan points to an electricity system that will have to grow at an unprecedented pace to keep up with Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy.
Guyana, World Bank reaffirm partnership as new Caribbean Division Director begins tenure Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Tu e s d a y w e l c o m e d n e w l y appointed World Bank Division Director for the Caribbean, Mr. Achim Fock, during a meeting at the Ministry of Finance marking the start of Mr. Fock’s tenure. Dr. Singh was accompanied by a team from the Ministry of Finance, while Mr. Fock was joined b y o u t g o i n g Wo r l d B a n k Representative for Guyana and Suriname, Ms. Diletta Doretti; i n c o m i n g Wo r l d B a n k Representative for Guyana and Suriname, Mr. Juan Carlos Alvarez; a n d o t h e r o ff i c i a l s o f t h e international financial institution. During the meeting, Minister Singh discussed the continued partnership between the Bank and the Government, and expressed appreciation for the work accomplished in recent years. He noted that collaboration between the two parties has contributed to
Representatives of the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank including Minister of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh (Third right) and newly appointed World Bank Division Director for the Caribbean, Mr. Achim Fock (Fourth right) during Tuesday’s welcome meeting. transformation across various economic sectors and countrywide development more broadly. Among the projects on which the Bank and Government have collaborated are the Guyana One Health Project, the Caribbean Efficient and Green Buildings Project, the Human Capital
Development Project, and the Integrated Transport Corridor Project, a statement the Ministry of Finance said on Wednesday. Mr. Fock, a German national, is qualified in agriculture and agricultural economics and brings more than 25 years of professional experience with the World Bank.
He previously managed the Development Effectiveness Unit for South Asia and served as Senior Economist for several countries across Africa, East Asia, and Eastern Europe. I n c o m i n g Wo r l d B a n k Representative for Guyana and Suriname, Mr. Alvarez, succeeds
Ms. Doretti, who has completed her tenure in Guyana. The Ministry of Finance said that the World Bank was among the international financial institutions that played a key role in supporting Guyana through the economic crises of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday August 27, 2026
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constitutionality of the Fugitive Offenders Act. Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Roxane George, made the announcement in court on Wednesday, following oral arguments on a new motion brought by the father and son, who have been indicted in the United States and are currently facing extradition committal proceedings in Case Jackets Nos. 4716 and 4717 of 2025 before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Through their legal counsel, Roysdale Forde, SC, appearing alongside Rajiv Persad,SC, Siand Dhurjon, and Damain De Silva, the Mohameds have filed written submissions under a Notice of Motion dated 18th March, 2026, and prayer 4(f) of their amended notice of appeal dated 20th August, 2026. Counsel formally framed the scope of the interim application to the appellate court, writing, “The court is not asked to decide the appeal. It is asked to ensure that the appeal, and the appellants’ liberty, survive to the date on which it is decided.” Under prayer 4(a), the Mohameds seek the setting aside of the decision of the Honourable Chief Justice (ag) dated 24th February 2026, “save and except the determination that Section 8 (3) (B) (b) … is unconstitutional, which determination the Appellants/Applicants do not appeal and which they ask this Honourable Court to affirm.” Addressing the jurisdictional standard governing an application to stay committal proceedings pending appeal, counsel submitted that the threshold arises under the court’s constitutional and inherent jurisdiction. Counsel noted that Lord Goff rejected a fettered rule requiring a strong prima facie case of invalidity, holding instead that “[i]n the end, the matter is one for the discretion of the court, taking into account all the circumstances of the case... the court should not restrain a public authority by interim injunction from enforcing an apparently authentic law unless it is satisfied, having regard to all the circumstances, that the challenge to the validity of the law is, prima facie, so firmly based as to justify so exceptional a course being taken.” Counsel further cited Lord Bridge of Harwich and Lord Jauncey of Tullichettle in Films Rover International Ltd v Cannon Film Sales Ltd [1987] 1 WLR 670, emphasising that the court must choose the path that carries the lower risk of injustice. Applied to the present case, counsel argued: “If a stay is refused and the Ap-
Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed and businessman Nazar Mohamed peal succeeds, the Appellants will have been imprisoned under provisions declared void, and no order of any court can restore that period of liberty. If a stay is granted and the Appeal fails, the Respondent will have been delayed by the interval required to hear an appeal which must be heard in any event. Upon the principle stated by Lord Bridge and by Lord Jauncey, the course carrying the lower risk of injustice is not in doubt.” Submitting that the constitutional challenge is firmly based, counsel pointed to the unappealed High Court declaration striking down Section 8(3B)(b), stating, “A scheme one of whose operative provisions has been struck down is not merely arguably infirm. That is not prediction but the existing state of the judgment under appeal. Nor is the declaration’s significance confined to the provision struck down: section 8(3)(B)(a) operates expressly ‘subject to paragraph (b)’... so that Parliament’s own words tie the surviving provision to the provision now void.” The filings highlighted the procedural history, noting that while the Court of Committal on 10th December, 2025, declined to refer constitutional questions under Article 153(3) as frivolous and vexatious, and the Chief Justice (ag) on 5th January, 2026, characterised the challenge as abstract and speculative, the same judge subsequently declared Section 8(3B)(b) unconstitutional on 24th February, 2026. Counsel noted, “The Appellants intend no criticism of either court. They say only that the character of a constitutional challenge is not reliably assessed before it has been argued out, and that in this litigation it twice was not.” Under Part One of the written submissions, the appellants challenge Section 8(3)(b) on the grounds that its statutory precondition was never
satisfied (Grounds 25–27, 30, 32, 35; prayer 4(b). Counsel explained: “This Part is not a challenge to the issuance of the Authority to Proceed, and the Appellants do not put it as one. Section 8(3) does not merely condition the Minister’s power. It provides that a person shall not be extradited ‘or be committed to, or kept in, custody for the purpose of such extradition, unless provision has been made … by the arrangement with that territory’ for the reextradition safeguard. It is therefore a statutory condition upon the deprivation of liberty. By Article 139(1) of the Constitution no person shall be deprived of personal liberty ‘save as may be authorised by law’... If the condition which the Act imposes upon custody was not satisfied, the custody was not authorised by law, and Article 139 is engaged directly.” Under Part Two of the submissions, counsel argued that Section 8(3B) (a) cannot independently survive the striking down of paragraph (b) (Grounds 16–22, 28, 29; prayer 4(c)). Counsel submitted: “Section 8(3B) is a single mechanism in two interlocking halves... With paragraph (b) struck down, the enacting part of paragraph (a) has lost the basis and premise of any continued legislative viability, and the non obstante part cannot survive as an effective override when the enacting words it qualifies were themselves made subject to a provision now void... Severance may preserve a scheme; it may not expand one.” Citing the Caribbean Court of Justice apex authority in The Attorney General of Belize v Zuniga [2014] CCJ 2 (AJ) at [89]-[99], [110], and [115]- incorporating Viscount Simon’s test in Attorney-General for Alberta v AttorneyGeneral for Canada [1947] AC 503 and Suratt v Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago [2007] UKPC 55- counsel argued that courts cannot Continued on page 23
Kaieteur News
Thursday August 27, 2026
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Linden Needs Long-Term Plan to Support Residential, Industrial Growth APNU Member of Parliament and former Linden Mayor, Sharma Solomon is calling for a long-term development plan for Linden, noting that the town’s ongoing electricity problems are the result of years of poor planning rather than simply a shortage of generating capacity. In a video statement posted to his Facebook page on Wednesday, Solomon said Linden was once capable of powering a major industrial base but is now struggling to meet the demands of a growing population and expanding industrial activity. “One, let me say this: We once had the capacity to power an industrial town. We had a 32-power megawatt steel plant, 16 megawatts sitting at the aluminum plant, and then we had a seven-megawatt diesel power at the bridge. All of that power Linden’s industrial
endeavour develop. Now, as we see today the town developing with sawmills and everything industrial and residential is struggling with 15 megawatts, and we are struggling with small integration of 1.2 (mw),” he stressed. He noted that Linden is now dealing with growing residential and industrial demand while operating with significantly less capacity. The former mayor questioned whether the addition of small-scale generation projects, including solar, would be enough to address the town’s long-term needs. He said while residents may welcome the additional 1.2 megawatts coming on stream, the administration must look beyond individual projects and develop a comprehensive strategy for Linden’s future electricity needs. “Now, with GPL power
Former Mayor of Linden and current Member of Parliament for the APNU, Sharma Solomon purchasing, we need to know how those things will integrate into our system, and we still don’t have a long-term coherent development plan,” Solomon said He said Linden needs a programme that would provide
reliable and sustainable electricity while taking into account the town’s anticipated residential and industrial expansion. “A long-term programme is what this industrial town needs, so that we move back to reliable, sustainable power to allow for that residential, industrial development to be put into proper perspective,” he said. Solomon also questioned the timeline for the planned gas-toenergy initiative, noting that more than two years have passed while billions of dollars have been budgeted. He said Linden cannot afford to wait for fragmented projects to come on stream without a broader development strategy. Among the questions he raised was whether the town would receive additional generation capacity beyond the solar projects and where the comprehensive
development plan for Linden’s changing industrial landscape is. His comments come days after it was announced that Linden would receive an additional 1.5 megawatts in generator capacity to boost electricity supply to communities served by BOSAI, as peak demand continues to rise. According to an update provided by BOSAI’s Linden management to Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar, installation works, including transformer and fuel-line connections, were underway, with the unit expected to begin generating power by the middle of this week. Solomon, however, maintained that additional generating units alone will not address Linden’s broader needs without a long-term plan for the town’s residential and industrial development.
Vieira invokes CCJ ruling in standoff, demands equal... From page 18 other laws will be applied equally to everyone”. He added that while Indigenous rights must be respected, “No individual, group or Village Council is above the law”. Outlining his commercial history, Vieira noted that he acquired the Tassawini mining rights at a public auction for US$100,000 in 1995. Following self-funded exploration, he signed a written agreement in July 1998 with Chinese Landing leaders, approved by the GGMC and the minister responsible for Amerindian Affairs, providing community employment, medical support, school aid, and a 1% royalty tribute in exchange for “sole and exclusive possession for mining purposes”. Subsequent exploration
partnerships with foreign investors between 2004 and 2010 injected approximately US$24 million into the location, establishing an estimated gold resource exceeding 500,000 ounces. Addressing past legal proceedings, Vieira recalled that on 26th November, 2010, the GGMC issued a Cease Work Order on the grounds that he lacked a new agreement under Section 48 of the Amerindian Act 2006. Vieira challenged the directive, culminating in a 2017 CCJ ruling that quashed the order. Vieira emphasised that the high court ruled Section 48 could not be applied retroactively to extinguish preexisting vested rights. He noted that “any present demand that I pay a 7% royalty must
Mohamed released on $100K... From page 16 well beyond midnight. When occupants requested a female rank to search the female parliamentarians on board, Commander Michael Kingston was captured on the live recording dismissing the request, asserting that “you don’t need a female officer to search females.” Ranks were seen on video cutting the rope which tied the vessel from the dock and towed it down the Demerara River to the marine wing of the Ruimveldt Police Station. Although a physical search yielded no illegal items, officers detained the craft citing a lack of documentation. According to a statement released by Mohamed, he refused to sign a prepared police statement without formal detention documentation and was subsequently informed he was under arrest under a broad reference to the “Maritime Act,” though officers on scene reportedly could not cite the specific statutory provision. Regarding the arrest of MP Natasha Singh-Lewis, the opposition leader explained that she was taken into custody over alleged unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition found during a police search of her vehicle. WIN clarified that the weapon actually belongs to fellow MP Dawn Hastings, who holds a valid licence for it and had stowed her personal effects inside SinghLewis’s vehicle before stepping onto the vessel during the Friendship standoff. Security forces intercepted and searched
Singh-Lewis’s vehicle as she was exiting the compound, locating the firearm and subsequently detaining her at the Farm Police Station before her eventual release on bail. An official statement issued by the opposition condemned the operation as disproportionate, emphasising that “no formal seizure or detention notice has been provided” and that no legal basis under the Shipping Act was cited for either the vessel’s detention or Mohamed’s arrest. Denouncing the incident as an “apparent attempt to harass, intimidate, and obstruct the leader of the opposition through the use of state power,” the release urged authorities to clarify their actions and prove that state powers “are being exercised lawfully, proportionately, and without political interference.” Opposition figures expressed outrage over the nighttime operation. MP Amanza Walton-Desir of the Forward Guyana Movement stated she was in direct contact with her colleagues while the boat was being towed down the river, calling on security leadership and the speaker of the National Assembly to ensure ranks act with restraint and political impartiality, emphasising that “the security apparatus of the state cannot be deployed for partisan political purposes.” APNU Parliamentary Lead Terrence Campbell similarly denounced what he termed the “weaponisation of the police force,” citing Martin Niemöller’s classic poem before declaring, “Knock one, knock all!”
be considered against the 1998 agreement,” maintaining that “Court decisions cannot be disregarded merely because one party is dissatisfied with their effect”. Vieira also raised serious concerns regarding activities on his concessions while he was legally excluded between 2010 and 2022. He estimated that “approximately 100,000 ounces of the identified 500,000ounce resource may have been removed” by unauthorised operators. Calling for an investigation into official records, Vieira asked regulatory bodies to confirm “who was permitted to mine on the properties while I was excluded,” “how much gold was declared,” and “to whom the gold was sold or attributed”. Clarifying land rights, Vieira cited an 18th October, 2021 state grant issued to the village council, pointing out that it “expressly stated the grant does NOT confer the right to any gold or other minerals in or
under the land, which remains vested in the State”. Finally, Vieira rejected claims that he seeks to exclude residents, highlighting a 2026 arrangement where 20 locals were invited to join lawful mining under his permits. Ten residents accepted, and Vieira purchased dredging equipment for their use. While the Toshao and certain Councillors declined, Vieira argued their refusal “should not, however, give anyone the right to prevent other residents... from earning a lawful livelihood”. He concluded by asking, “Can a Guyanese person acquire mining rights lawfully... successfully defend those rights through the Courts all the way to the CCJ, and nevertheless continue to be prevented from exercising them?” He maintained that “evidence, equal application of the law - not obstruction - should determine the way forward”.
Court of Appeal to issue directions... From page 22 re-draft or repair unconstitutional legislation. Counsel stressed that removing paragraph (b) left critical gaps unanswered by statute, including the legal standard governing protection against onward extradition, the evidentiary burden on the Minister, whether protection may be inferred from foreign law, and whether diplomatic assurances suffice. Emphasising internal contradictions in the High Court judgment, counsel noted: “A provision which ‘effectively removes’ a mandatory condition and removes ‘the bar to extradition’ directs the Magistrate under section 15(4) to commit where, but for it, she could not... Pages 11, 19, 21 and 23 cannot all be right, and it is p 11 which must yield... If it is unconstitutional to compel a court to assume a protection which does not bind the requesting state, it cannot be mere policy to authorise committal in the acknowledged absence of that protection.” Under Part Three, counsel detailed the challenge against Section 8(3B) (c) as an unconstitutional ouster clause (Grounds 3645, Ground 38; prayer 4(d)). Counsel rebutted the lower court’s finding that only sovereign states can complain of missing treaty provisions, writing: “The Appellants do not assert a personal entitlement to the benefit of section 8(3)(b). They assert the
constitutional right that coercive powers affecting their liberty may be exercised only in accordance with law: Articles 139 and 144. Extradition is entirely statutory... Where Parliament has made a condition a prerequisite to the exercise of that power, the absence of the condition deprives the Executive and the Court of jurisdiction to proceed.” Invoking Attorney General v Joseph and Boyce [2006] CCJ 3 (AJ), counsel contended that once Parliament enacts a statutory condition within the Fugitive Offenders Act, it becomes a domestic rule governing executive power that citizens have standing to enforce before domestic courts under Article 153. The defense also maintained that Section 8(3A)(a)- which purports to empower the Minister to commit or keep persons in custody “in the interest of justice”impermissibly transfers judicial authority to the Executive in violation of Article 122A of the Constitution and the separation of powers doctrine. Counsel further noted that because the Fugitive Offenders Act does not grant a Magistrate jurisdiction to grant bail once a committal order is made, mandatory imprisonment pending appeal would render habeas corpus an inadequate remedy, causing grave prejudice and turning the substantive appeal academic.
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Thursday August 27, 2026
Iran, Oman still working on Strait of Hormuz accord - senior Iranian source (Reuters) - Iran and Oman are still working on the details of an agreement on the Strait of Hormuz, a senior Iranian source said on Wednesday, after Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said the two countries had agreed how to share the waterway and its revenues. T h e e l i t e f o r c e ’s spokesperson, echoing Tehran’s official stance, also said the strait would not open unless the U.S. met Tehran’s conditions under an interim ceasefire agreement that was struck in June before unravelling. Those conditions include an end to the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports, compensation and removal of sanctions. Iran and Oman have held on-and-off talks for weeks about controlling traffic through the strait, which handled one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments before the war began in February. Most shipping has since been shut down, driving global energy prices higher, as Tehran and Washington have tried to assert control over the channel, imposing separate blockades. IRANIAN SOURCE SAYS NO FINAL AGREEMENT REACHED ON STRAIT “An agreement with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz has not been
finalised,” the senior Iranian source told Reuters, adding that the talks were continuing on the details of an accord. A spokesperson f o r I r a n ’s I s l a m i c ‘Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said Iran and Oman had reached an agreement on their shares of the territory and revenues. “The Strait of Hormuz belongs to Iran and the country of Oman... We have been in negotiations with Oman for about a month, and we have reached results that are acceptable to both sides,” Hossein Mohebbi said in comments published by Iranian state media. “In these negotiations, agreements have been reached regarding the share of each country in the waters of the Strait and the share of Iran and Oman in its revenues,” he added. It was not immediately clear at what stage of the negotiations the agreements had been reached. Iran had said earlier this month that a deal on the strait was close. Following talks on Tuesday between Iran and Oman, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said he was “hopeful we will soon announce a temporary corridor for the Strait of Hormuz and practical arrangements to restore safe navigation”.
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Oman against cooperating with Iran, telling Fox News on 17 August : “If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the shit out of them.” The IRGC accused the United States of seeking to obstruct Iran’s negotiations with Oman and said this had caused an agreement to be delayed. “If the United States stops obstructing and returns to the agreement, we can open the Strait of Hormuz within the framework of the reached ... `If the United States does not accept our conditions, the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened under any circumstances,” Mohebbi said. ATTACKS ON SHIPPING Though active hostilities between the U.S. and Iran have largely subsided in recent weeks, diplomatic efforts to reach a peace deal have stalled, and continuing attacks on ships mean passage through the Strait of Hormuz remains perilous. Iran announced a blacklist on Sunday of 45 ships in an apparent effort to stop ship-to-ship transfers u s e d b y G u l f e n e rg y producers to evade the Iranian blockade. Some companies plan to stop using vessels added to the blacklist, sources said. th
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi meets with Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr al-Busaidi in Tehran, Iran,25th August, 2026. Iranian Foreign Ministry/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via REUTERS In an effort to tighten pressure on Iran’s economy, the United States has threatened to punish countries that continue to do business with Iran, but said it would not impose ‘penalties immediately. Iran has denounced the U.S. effort to isolate its economy as an act of “gross lawlessness”, expressing confidence that many countries would not join the pressure campaign. In a letter to the United Nations published on Thursday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi again denounced the new U.S. sanctions, saying they imposed collective punishment by denying Iranians access to food,
medicine and other necessities. “Either we defend the principles of sovereign equality, noninterference, and respect for the sovereign rights of States, or we surrender to the `unilateralism and bullying of a rogue state,” Araqchi wrote. Oil prices fell for a third day, dropping more than 1.5%, following signs of renewed efforts to seek a mediated end to the war that began on 28 February with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. U.S. REPORTEDLY NOT PLANNING NEW STRIKES FOR NOW Secretary of State Marco Rubio told allies that the U.S. did not expect to launch new th
strikes against Iran for now, and would instead focus on other means ‘of pressure, Axios reported on Tuesday. U.S. public approval of the war has fallen to its lowest level since the conflict’s early days, and Trump’s popularity is likewise at a record low ahead of congressional elections in November, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling. Thousands of people have died in the conflict, most of them in Iran and Lebanon, while the U.S. and Israel have degraded much of Iran’s conventional military capacity. The exact state of its nuclear program, which the U.S. and Israel aim to d is man tle, r emain s unknown.
Haiti gang raid death toll rises to 47 as more than 50 kidnapped, says UN (AL-JAZEERA) At least 47 people were killed, more than 50 others kidnapped, and another 22 people injured in a gang raid near Haiti’s capital of Port-au-Prince, the United Nations has said, prompting anger over violence amid repeated deadly attacks. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday condemned the attack in the town of Kenscoff, which took place on the evening of 23 August. It is believed to be one of the largest mass kidnappings in Haiti in recent years, and comes as Haiti hopes to hold its first general election in more than a decade. Guterres said in a statement that the event underscores “the alarming security situation in Haiti and reinforce[s] the urgent need to intensify Haitian and international security efforts to combat gangs”. Jean Massillon, Kenscoff’s mayor, said armed men “sowed rd
chaos” as they set homes on fire and killed residents. He said gang members targeted a church and homes, including that of Jean William Pape, a leading public health expert. Massillon blamed the attack on members of Viv Ansanm, a group that was designated as a “foreign terrorist organisation” by the United States government last year. The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti has said estimates of casualties could change. Even as Haiti’s government decried a “heinous attack” and promised to reinforce security, residents demanded the local police chief step down, saying officers failed to protect people killed a short distance from the police station. Kenscoff resident Marc Paul, 42, said gangs kidnapped his brother, stepmother, stepfather and
two cousins. He said his 16-yearold niece was also captured and raped but was able to escape and has reunited with him. “I had to run over bodies,” he told The Associated Press news agency as he recalled how he fled the attack. Another resident, Coriolan Kendy, standing by his cousin’s body, lying on the road in a bloodstained sheet, told the Reuters news agency: “People in Kenscoff are suffering and the government is to blame.” The prime minister’s office has promised to take action, stating that “Kenscoff will not be abandoned”. “The government’s authority will be restored, without weakness and without delay,’ the prime minister’s office said on social media. In a video posted on social media, a gang leader threatened
People react as law enforcement officers enter the area where dozens of people were killed by armed gangs in Kenscoff, a neighbourhood near Port-au-Prince, Haiti [File: AFP] Vladimir Paraison, director of the Haitian National Police. “Paraison, if any of our soldiers are hurt, I will kill all of them,” he said, referring to the hostages. The gang member identified himself as Izo 2, a reference to Izo, or Johnson Andre, one of Haiti’s most powerful gang leaders. The hillside community of Kenscoff, in a strategic position
overlooking routes into the capital, has suffered a dozen attacks by armed gangs since last year, forcing thousands to flee their homes. Powerful gangs under a broad alliance have for years cemented their influence over Haiti’s capital and expanded to nearby regions, despite attempts by foreign nations t o r e i n f o r c e t h e c o u n t r y ’s outgunned police.
Thursday August 27, 2026
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Massy Finance Remittances... From page 32 of this partnership,” Marquez added. “We want this to be more than our name appearing at a cricket ground. We want customers to feel the benefit of the partnership, whether through the chance to attend a match, participate in a promotion or share a memorable CPL experience with family and friends.” Tara Wilkinson-McClean, Head of Partnerships for the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League, said: “We are delighted to welcome Massy Finance Remittances and MoneyGram to the CPL family. CPL has always been about more than cricket. It celebrates Caribbean culture,
community and the connections that unite our region and its people around the world.” “Those values make this a natural partnership, and we look forward to working with Massy Finance Remittances over the next three years to create exciting experiences for MoneyGram customers and CPL fans across the region.” The partnership begins with the 2026/2027 Republic Bank CPL season and will be activated across participating Caribbean markets over the three-year term. Further details on MoneyGram customer promotions, match experiences and other activities will be announced through Massy Finance Remittances’ channels during the tournament.
Thursday August 27, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You tend to be curious, Aries, and you're always trying to learn more about your many interests. But today you could be eager to research a subject but be unable to find any information about it.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Any work today could require a higher level of concentration than you can muster. You might lapse into daydreams and feel guilty because you aren't doing what you're supposed to be doing.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) The need to attend to business or networking obligations disguised as parties could get to you today. You may have been forced to attend too many of these recently, and now there are even more coming up.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today your creative impulses could seem blocked. You might be trying to reach your own or someone else's deadline. You may feel the need to get some work done, while your muse seems to have gone on vacation.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your home could be empty today. Other household members may be away and you could find it depressing. Instead of enjoying the solitude, you could feel like the walls are closing in.
SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) A friend who planned to stop by tonight might not show up, Sagittarius. You may worry since this person isn't one to blow you off. Don't imagine accidents or disasters. The culprit's probably traffic.
CANCER (June 21–July 22) Someone close to you might be uncharacteristically silent today, Cancer. Something is bothering them terribly, and they don't seem to want to talk about it. You're willing to listen or help, but don't try to coax your friend into sharing.
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Travel of any kind might be virtually impossible today. Airports could be jammed, flights delayed, and planes plagued with mechanical problems. If you're traveling by car, expect road construction and backed-up traffic.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Financial worries might come up today, Leo. You may check your bank balance and find that you have little money. This might come as a shock, because you thought there was plenty there.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) This isn't a good day to invest in anything. Don't spend much time working on speculative projects, Aquarius, and don't put your money into anything but gold, land, or blue-chip stocks and bonds.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today you might be so gloomy that you don't even want to get up. It might not be a good idea to stay home. Try to find some tasks to distract you. At some point during the day, get out in the open air.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A love partner could be gloomy today, Pisces. This might be the kind of day when no matter how many times you draw your mate's attention to the doughnut, he or she still sees only the hole.
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Mbappe Archery Guyana and... hat-trick... From page 29 eventually making his way over to the fourth official to protest a decision. He may have appeared emotionless for much of the game, but there is little doubt there would have been a sense of relief too. These wins are not easy, and securing three points at home at the Bernabeu represents an important first step. First impressions count here. And while Real supporters have already had plenty of first impressions of Mourinho, this renewed version of him will have only strengthened their confidence. Two games, two wins. Mourinho could hardly have asked for a better start.
UEFA set to lift FIFA... From page 28 international `competitions,” FIGC said in a statement. Pressure on Infantino has continued to mount. He is under pressure from three confederations to resign, including UEFA, the A s i a n F o o t b a l l Confederation and C O N C A C A F, w h i c h represents North and Central America and the Caribbean. The regional governing bodies have discussed a potential vote of no confidence ‘in Infantino who is planning to seek reelection for a fourth term next year and is likely to face strong opposition. Infantino, who retains support from the African and South American confederations, has sought to sideline the confederations and appeal directly to individual members.
From page 33 communities, businesses, creatives, hospitality providers and young people alike. Partnerships such as this with Archery Guyana allow us to showcase authentic Guyanese experiences while ensuring visitors engage meaningfully with our people, culture and destinations.” The collaboration was discussed earlier in the year at a meeting held at THAG’s office on Waterloo Street, Georgetown, where the representatives explored opportunities to connect the international archery community with Guyana’s tourism and hospitality sector. THAG has also demonstrated its support for Guyana’s growing role within the international archery community through its support for the World Archery Americas (WAA) General Assembly held in June 2026 in Tlaxcala, Mexico. This partnership will continue with THAG maintaining a visible presence during the upcoming championships at the Guyana National Stadium, providing an important link between the sporting event and the wider tourism and hospitality industry. The CDC and Inaugural Caribbean Cup are expected to bring athletes, officials and supporters from across the Caribbean and the wider Americas to Guyana, providing a valuable platform for local tourism operators, restaurants, attractions and other businesses to engage with an international audience. For Archery Guyana, the partnership represents an important part of its vision for the championships: to host an international sporting event that creates a lasting legacy not only for archery, but for Guyana.
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Thursday August 27, 2026
India close in on victory after Mendis and Sooriyabandara resistance COLOMBO, (Reuters) Sri Lanka mounted a brief fightback, but India remained firmly on course for a series-sweeping victory in the second and final test on
Wednesday. After being bowled out for 290 in their first innings, Sri Lanka appeared to be clawing their way back into the match through defiant
knocks from Pasindu Sooriyabandara (92) and Kamindu Mendis (55). However, once the pair were separated, Sri ‘Lanka’s middle order stuttered again.
Pasindu Sooriyabandara was stumped for 92. (AFP/Getty Images) They finished day four on 229-6, 16 runs ahead, with only four wickets in hand. Sonal Dinusha, who topscored with a fluent 103 in Sri Lanka’s first innings, was unbeaten on seven, with Keshara Nuwantha on three when rain stopped play yet again. Earlier, debutant spinner Saransh Jain claimed the final two Sri Lankan wickets, prompting India captain Shubman Gill to enforce the follow-on. Mohammed Siraj removed Lahiru Udara in the fourth over, and Ravindra Jadeja dismissed Kamil Mishara for 32. Sooriyabandara and Mendis, however, launched
a counter-attack, scoring freely ‘a 115-run stand for the third wicket. Sooriyabandara had a slice of luck when a diving Siraj spilled a difficult chance at deep square leg. On another occasion, the ball fell just short of Jadeja before Gill produced a brilliant catch to break the partnership. Mendis top-edged a short ball from ‘Prasidh Krishna and Gill, positioned at square leg, first ran backwards and then sideways before diving to hold on to the swirling ball. Sooriyabandara, who made 80 in the first innings of only his second ‘test, looked set for a maiden
hundred after successfully reviewing an lbw decision that was overturned. But the batter then suffered a momentary lapse in concentration. He danced down the track ‘to a wide delivery from spinner Manav Suthar, only to miss it c o m p l e t e l y. I n d i a wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant stretched fully to gather the ball, but had ample time to complete a straightforward stumping. Scores: Sri Lanka 290 ( D i n u s h a 1 0 3 , Sooriyabandara 80, Prasidh 3-52, Suthar 3-85) and 229 for 6 (f/o) (Sooriyabandara 92, Kamindu 55, Suthar 281) lead India 503 for 9 dec by 16 runs.
UEFA set to lift FIFA boycott threat as Italy drops support for Infantino (Reuters) - UEFA is set to drop its threat to boycott FIFA tournaments after receiving assurances that plans to sell stakes the World Cup and other major competitions will not be revived, sources aware of the discussions told Reuters on Wednesday, as Italy withdrew support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Italy became the latest national football federation to distance itself from Infantino, while European Leagues President Claudius Schaefer told The Athletic that the FIFA chief had no future at the organisation and that world soccer’s governing body needed reform. The move follows FIFA’s decision in July to withdraw a proposal that triggered opposition from U E F A’ s 5 5 m e m b e r associations, which agreed ‘ t o b o y c o t t F I FA competitions after details of the plan emerged last month. A FIFA spokesperson said all qualified teams would participate in next month’s Under-20 Women’s
World Cup in Poland, the first major tournament that could have been affected by the standoff. “FIFA is pleased that all qualified teams will be participating in the u p c o m i n g F I FA U - 2 0 Women’s World Cup,” the spokesperson told Reuters. “FIFA strongly believes that football has the power to unite, even in challenging circumstances, and looks forward to welcoming all teams and players to Poland. “We remain committed to how we can further support the global development of the game, through our competitions, through the FIFA Forward programme and through our various other initiatives, and in full dialogue with the Confederations and stakeholders.” UEFA officials are expected to tell the governing body’s executive committee and the presidents of most its ‘member associations at a meeting in Monaco on Thursday that the conditions for lifting the boycott have
been met, the sources said. UEFA has sought both the withdrawal of the proposal and assurances that similar plans would not be pursued again. “It’s not a UEFA defeat, rather the reality of avoiding hurting young players’ once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The actions and insistence on change will continue,” a source familiar with the discussions told Reuters. ITALY WITHDRAWS SUPPORT The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) withdrew ‘its support for Infantino’s candidacy in the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March next year. “This decision is intended to clearly and transparently express the FIGC’s position — in full agreement with UEFA and its president Aleksander Ceferin — regarding the recent initiatives promoted by the FIFA president concerning the governance and development of Continued on page 27
Thursday August 27, 2026
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National Schools Athletics Championships returns to Linden in 2027 …C/ship set for March 3 – 5 By Rawle Toney
T
he National Schools Athletics Championships will return to Linden for the first time in nearly two decades, with the 2027 edition scheduled for March 3-5 at the Bayroc National Stadium. The announcement was made by Minister of Education Sonia Parag during yesterday’s launch of the official countdown to the 2027 CARIFTA Games, which Guyana will host for the first time since the regional junior championships were introduced in 1972. Popularly known as ‘Nationals’, the event was last held in Linden in 2008 at the Mackenzie Sports Club
Ground, making next year’s staging at the newly developed Bayroc National Stadium a significant return for one of the country’s most important junior sporting events, to the community known for dominating the championships. Minister Parag also revealed that the InterSchools Athletics Championships will begin in October 2026, setting in motion the qualification pathway for athletes seeking places at the National Championships. She said the National Championships will provide a crucial platform for some of the country’s leading young track and field athletes, many of whom will be competing not only for school honours but also for
an opportunity to earn selection to Guyana’s CARIFTA team. “The championships have produced some of the Caribbean’s top junior athletes,” Parag noted, pointing to recent standouts Malachi Austin and Tianna Springer as prime examples. Both athletes dominated the local school championships before progressing to the United States, where they secured full scholarships to compete at NCAA Division I universities. Springer, in particular, has established herself as one of Guyana’s most decorated athletes at the CARIFTA Games. She remained undefeated in the women’s 400 metres at the championships and
Mbappe hat-trick sees Real Madrid beat Real Sociedad BBC Sport - Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick to ensure Jose Mourinho enjoyed a winning return to the Bernabeu as Real Madrid beat Real Sociedad in La Liga. Mourinho made the ideal start to his second stint in charge of Madrid at the weekend as he oversaw a 2-1 Kylian Mbappe got his first three goals of win at Espanyol, following it up with the season in the win. (AFP via Getty Images) this victory. Mourinho’s side had to be patient for him and Real Madrid when he ran onto against a stubborn Real Sociedad but their quality ultimately told, with Mbappe Vinicius Jr’s fine ball into the box before producing three brilliant finishes while Jude chipping home. ‘There’s a belief Mourinho can deliver Bellingham got two assists, also setting up success’ Vinicius Jr for the third. Elizabeth Conway, BBC Sport Spanish Plenty of fans packed out the Bernabeu on football reporter at the Bernabeu Wednesday night, eager to witness the return Mourinho returned to the Bernabeu after of the coach who brought them three domestic titles over a decade ago, winning 13 years away, and the anticipation around the stadium was palpable. Fans and 128 of his 178 matches in charge. But Real Sociedad were clearly journalists alike wondered what his reception determined to spoil the party and initially would be like. When Mourinho’s name was read out made life difficult for the hosts. However, Real Madrid broke the over the loudspeaker after the starting XI had deadlock five minutes before half-time when been announced, a huge roar echoed around Mbappe’s superb first-touch took him away the stadium, followed by loud chants of his from a defender just inside the box and he name. Real Madrid supporters are desperate for drove the ball into the back of the net. Real Sociedad responded superbly and this season to be a success, and there is a were level just four minutes later when a belief that Mourinho can be the man to deliver deflected shot fell kindly for Luka Sucic to it. As Mourinho himself said, a trophyless season would be a failure. He knows what is fire into the net. Two bits of Bellingham brilliance helped expected of him. Two wins from two is at least the perfect Real Madrid score two further goals midway start. through the second half. This victory was far more convincing He first played a neat one-two with Mbappe to allow the latter to place a shot than the one against Espanyol last weekend. beyond the goalkeeper, before Bellingham’s By the second half, Real made it look easy. Mourinho spent much of the game sitting persistence inside the box ensured he was on the bench, largely composed, before able to tee up Vinicius Jr for a tap-in. Continued on page 27 Mbappe then wrapped up a brilliant night
amassed six gold medals at the region’s premier junior athletics competition. Parag said the continued development of school athletics is critical as Guyana strengthens its position as a premier sporting destination while creating greater opportunities for young athletes.
She emphasised that the National Schools Athletics Championships must become more than simply a school-based competition, describing it as a launching pad for athletes with the potential to achieve regional and international success. With Guyana preparing
to host CARIFTA for the first time in 2027, the staging of the National Championships in Linden, Minister Parag said, is expected to add further significance to the domestic athletics calendar and provide another important avenue for identifying the next generation of national stars.
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Thursday August 27, 2026
Berbice Crowned GCB Under-13 Champions - Tournament Ends in Dramatic NRR Finish
Saif Hussain Most Wickets, Player of the match and MVP
Berbice are the new Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Under-13 InterCounty champions, dethroning the 2025 holders Demerara following a dramatic final day of action that saw the title decided by the narrowest of margins. Despite a final-day defeat, Berbice lifted the trophy at the Lusignan Basketball International (LBI) facility on Tuesday after a three-way tie atop the standings forced officials to look at the math. Berbice, Essequibo, and Demerara all finished the tournament with identical records of two wins and one defeat (four points each). H o w e v e r, B e r b i c e emerged victorious with a superior net run rate (NRR) of 1.070. Essequibo narrowly missed out to finish second on 0.986, while the former champions Demerara had to settle for third place with an NRR of 0.104. Dramatic Low-Scoring Thriller at LBI The final encounter between Essequibo and
Berbice proved to be a tense, low-scoring thriller. Batting first, Essequibo struggled heavily and were bowled out for just 74 runs in 15.5 overs. Kaysean Doodnauth topscored with 27, while a hefty contribution of 24 extras helped prop up the innings. What seemed like a routine chase for Berbice quickly turned into a nightmare batting collapse. The Berbicians were skittled out for 70 runs in 22.2 overs, falling just four runs short of victory. Alden Hope (18) and Thavin Roopnarine (11 not out) were the only batsmen to reach double figures, while 28 extras top-scored for the innings. Essequibo’s Saif Hussain was the architect of the collapse, producing an extraordinary spell of bowling to claim five wickets for just 10 runs across seven overs. Nathan McPherson and Ugesh Ramnarine supported well with two wickets each. Demerara Edges Select XI in Final Match Over at the Transport and
Berbice team with the champions trophy Essequibo with the runner-up trophy
Most runs Xavier Dodson
Harbours Sports Club in Georgetown, Demerara ensured they ended their campaign on a winning note, edging the GCB Select XI by two wickets in a closely contested fixture. The GCB Select XI batted first, posting 150 for eight from their allotted 40 overs. Austin Peters
anchored the innings with 39 runs, ably supported by captain Elijah Mohamed, who made 34. Kevroy Garraway added seven. For Demerara’s bowling attack, Rakeeb Latif and Huzaifah Shadir picked up two wickets apiece, while Aaron Perkins and captain Caleb Bastian took one each.
In reply, Demerara chased down the target, reaching 151 for eight in 34.1 overs. Xavier Dodson continued his stellar form, smashing a quick-fire 42 from 41 balls. Aiyan Persaud contributed 26, and Rakeeb Latif mirrored his bowling success by steering the team
home with an unbeaten 30. The Select XI bowling unit fought hard, led by Spencer Singh, Kishan Bhikhan, and Isaac Hussain, who took two wickets each, alongside one from Kayden Springer. The loss meant the Select XI finished the competition without a single victory.
Tournament Awards Following the conclusion of the matches, individual awards were handed out to the tournament’s standout performers: Award Player Team Statistics Most Valuable Player Saif Hussain Essequibo 11 wickets (leading wicket-taker) & 24.0 batting average Leading Run-Scorer Xavier Dodson Demerara 92 tournament runs
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Thursday August 27, 2026
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Minister Ramson confident Guyana will deliver successful 2027 CARIFTA Games By Rawle Toney Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. has given a firm assurance that Guyana will be ready to deliver a successful staging of the 2027 CARIFTA Games at the National Track and Field Centre, West Demerara. Ramson made the declaration yesterday as Guyana officially launched its countdown to hosting the region’s premier junior athletics championships for the first time since the Games were introduced in 1972. “It’s the first time, but it will not be the last time that Guyana will be hosting CARIFTA Games,” Ramson told the media, signalling the Government’s intention to establish Guyana as a regular host for major regional and international sporting events. The launch, held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, brought together key stakeholders involved in the country’s preparations. Minister of Education Sonia Parag, Minister within
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs, Vice-Chairperson Cristy Campbell and Guyana Athletics Association (AAG) President Sheryl Hermonstine were among those in attendance, alongside members of the association. R a m s o n s a i d preparations for the Games did not begin with President Irfaan Ali’s decision to pursue the 2027 hosting rights, noting that his ministry had already identified several upgrades needed at the National Track
President of NACAC, Mike Sands
and Field Centre. Those works include the installation of bucket seating, completion of the warm-up track and other i n f r a s t r u c t u r a l improvements designed to bring the facility to the required standard for hosting a championship of CARIFTA’s stature. He said the Government is committed to providing the resources necessary to ensure the venue and wider infrastructure are ready to accommodate the influx of a t h l e t e s a n d o ff i c i a l s expected for the Easter
Weekend championship. More than 600 athletes, coaches and officials from across the Caribbean are expected to travel to Guyana for the Games. North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) President Michael Sands described G u y a n a ’s h o s t i n g o f CARIFTA as particularly significant, given the country’s history as a founding member of both CARIFTA and CARICOM. Sands noted that the Games are among the
w o r l d ’s o l d e s t j u n i o r championships and have long served as an important scouting ground for leading colleges and universities seeking emerging athletic talent. He also credited the strong relationship between the Government, AAG and NACAC for making Guyana’s bid a smooth process, pointing out that President Ali’s decision to pursue the hosting rights created a direct link among the key stakeholders. Jacobs echoed Ramson’s sentiments, describing the Games as an important
component of Guyana’s broader sports development strategy as the Ali administration continues to invest heavily in sporting infrastructure and seeks to position the country as a leading sports destination in the Caribbean. For Hermonstine, h o s t i n g C A R I F TA represents the fulfilment of a long-standing ambition. The AAG president described the opportunity as “a long time coming” and said she was personally looking forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure the championship is successfully executed. Guyana had previously submitted a bid to host CARIFTA under the former AAG administration, but negotiations with key stakeholders ultimately collapsed. The Games were first held in Barbados in 1972 and were formalised to commemorate the transition from the Caribbean Free Trade Association ( C A R I F TA ) t o t h e Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Moeen, bowlers help Falcons topple Tridents CPL - Antigua and Barbuda Falcons returned to winning ways in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), defeating the Barbados Tridents by 30 runs at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Tuesday night. The Tridents suffered their first defeat of the competition after collapsing from 93 for 3, with the match finely balanced in their chase of 156. A devastating middle-order collapse saw them lose four wickets in two overs, before eventually being bowled out for 125, losing their final seven wickets for just 32 runs. Moeen Ali led from the front for the Falcons with an unbeaten 56, before Joshua James’ impressive 3 for 18 and a decisive spell from leggie Shadab Khan in the 13th and 14th overs effectively secured the victory. Earlier, the Falcons were sent in and endured a disastrous start, with Rahkeem Cornwall bowled first ball of the match by a Daniel Sams yorker. Amir Jangoo and Karima Gore both made starts, but without a substantial partnership developing, the Tridents appeared to be in
Falcons celebrate during the contest against the Tridents in their final match at home. (CPL) control and on course to restrict the Falcons to around 120. Ali, however, had other ideas. The Falcons captain shifted the m o m e n t u m d r a m a t i c a l l y, particularly during the final six overs. His 75-run partnership with Shamar Springer, who played an important supporting role, gave the Falcons a much more defendable total.
Ali then exploded in the final over, smashing three consecutive sixes off Sams to take the Falcons to 155 for 5, with 72 runs coming from the final 36 balls. The Tridents’ chase got off to a nervy start when Shian Brathwaite was dropped with his first ball on T20 debut. He was unable to make the most of his reprieve, however, departing
for just seven. Quinton de Kock’s dismissal, with Cornwall returning to the attack to claim the big wicket, brought Rivaldo Clarke and Kevlon Anderson together in what became a crucial partnership for the Tridents. The pair settled in and appeared to be rebuilding the chase, but the game quickly turned. Anderson
was well caught by Springer in the deep before Sherfane Rutherford fell to substitute fielder Anderson Phillip off the very next ball. The sudden double blow left the Tridents with new batters at the crease and the innings began to unravel rapidly. Captain Chris Green attempted to steady the ship alongside countryman Sams, but with the required rate climbing to 12 an over, the task became increasingly difficult. James then produced the gamechanging spell to put the result beyond doubt, before Sufyan Moqim wrapped up the innings by claiming the final two wickets in just two deliveries. The victory capped the Falcons’ four-match home leg, with the Antigua and Barbuda-based side once again receiving strong support from the home crowd. The Falcons now return to the road to face the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots at Warner Park on Sunday. The Tridents will play their fourth match of their campaign on Friday against defending champions Trinbago Knight Riders at the Queen’s Park Oval.
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Thursday August 27, 2026
Promotech Guyana Inc. and Danny’s Auto Sales NTFGL Tour #2:
Persaud takes round seven honours as championship heads to thrilling finale
P
atanjilee Persaud produced an outstanding performance to win Round Seven of the Promotech and Danny’s Auto Sales NTFGL Tour #2 at the Lusignan Golf Club, surging to the top of the overall standings ahead of the final round. Persaud returned an impressive net 65 to secure the overall victory and eight points, while also claiming back-nine honours with a net 31 for an additional two points. His 10point haul moved him to 19 points overall, giving him a narrow lead in what has developed into a fiercely contested championship race. The penultimate round, played under excellent golfing conditions on the lush fairways of the Lusignan Golf Club, produced some of the best scores of Tour #2 as players battled for valuable points with just one round remaining. Rohan Albert delivered one of the day’s standout performances, posting a blistering net 31 on the front nine to claim front-nine honours and two points. He followed that with a net 34 on the back nine to finish with an impressive net 66 overall. His performance earned him second place and five additional points, giving him a total of seven points for the day. Joseph Szeplaki continued to keep himself firmly in championship contention with a strong net 69, finishing third and collecting three points. Brian Hackett secured fourth place and two points, while Maxim Mangra, who had
Patanjilee Persaud will be looking to replicate some magic as the defending champion heads into the final round. previously posted a net 71 in a make-up round, claimed fifth place and the final point available. The high standard of play was evident throughout the field, with several players recording respectable scores between net 72 and 75 but narrowly missing out on championship points. With one round remaining, the battle for the Tour #2 title is set for a dramatic conclusion. Persaud leads the standings with 19 points, followed closely by Mangra and Anand Persaud on 18 points each, while
Szeplaki remains within striking distance on 17 points. Just two points separate the top four players, setting the stage for an exciting final round on Sunday, September 13. All four
leading contenders are expected to compete together in the Marquee Group, ensuring that every shot and every putt will carry added significance as they battle for the championship. The NTFGL extends its sincere appreciation to its sponsors, Promotech Guyana Inc. and Danny’s Auto Sales, for their continued support of the league and competitive golf. With the championship still wide open and only one round left to play, the stage is set for a thrilling finish to NTFGL Tour #2. Round Seven Results: 1st: Patanjilee Persaud — Net 65 — 8 points 2nd: Rohan Albert — Net 66 — 5 points 3rd: Joseph Szeplaki — Net 69 — 3 points 4th: Brian Hackett — 2 points 5th: Maxim Mangra — Net 71 — 1 point Front Nine: Rohan Albert — Net 31 — 2 points Back Nine: Patanjilee Persaud — Net 31 — 2 points Overall Standings After Round Seven 1st: Patanjilee Persaud — 19 points Joint 2nd: Maxim Mangra — 18 points Joint 2nd: Anand Persaud — 18 points 4th: Joseph Szeplaki — 17 points There was also a club tournament that was played alongside the League tournament. Hardeo Ghanpat emerged victorious with a Gross 89, HC 28 and Net 61. Avinash Persaud earned a Best Gross of 76, Mohanlall Dinanauth earned the title of Longest Drive and Bridgelall Harry copped Nearest to Pin.
Massy Finance Remittances and MoneyGram sign three-year partnership with CPL CPL - Massy Finance Remittances has signed a threeyear sponsorship agreement with the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), bringing together two brands with a shared connection to Caribbean people, families, and communities across borders. The partnership will give MoneyGram customers opportunities to get closer to CPL cricket through promotions, match experiences and other activities during the tournament, while strengthening Massy Finance Remittances’ engagement with customers across its Caribbean markets. For thousands of Caribbean families, sending and receiving money represents a vital connection between loved ones across borders. It helps parents support children, relatives care for loved ones, and families separated by geography remain connected. Cricket has its own powerful ability to cross borders, generations and cultures, bringing Caribbean
people together at home and throughout the diaspora. It is that shared power of connection that sits at the heart of this new partnership. “Remittances and cricket may seem very different, but they have something important in common: both connect Caribbean people across borders,” said Neela Marquez, CEO, Massy Finance Remittances . “Every day, we see what receiving money from a loved one can mean to a family. It is a connection between people sometimes separated by thousands of miles who continue to support and care for each other.” “CPL creates that same sense of connection on an extraordinary scale. For a few weeks every year, Caribbean people at home and across the diaspora share the excitement, pride and passion of our cricket. This partnership gives us an opportunity to celebrate those connections and, importantly, to give our MoneyGram customers experiences that bring them even closer to the game they love.”
The partnership begins with the 2026/2027 Republic Bank CPL season and will be activated across participating Caribbean markets over the three-year term. (CPL) Under the three-year agreement, Massy Finance Remittances and CPL will collaborate on customer promotions, opportunities to attend matches and other fan experiences
throughout the tournament. Details of individual promotions and participating markets will be announced during the CPL season. The partnership forms part of Massy Finance Remittances’
broader focus on deepening relationships with customers and creating greater value around its remittance services. “Our customers are at the centre Continued on page 27
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Thursday August 27, 2026
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Archery Guyana and THAG Partner to Showcase Destination Guyana at the 2026 Archery C/ships The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana has announced a continued collaboration with the Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) to create a vibrant tourism and hospitality presence during the 2026 Caribbean Development Championships (CDC) and Inaugural Caribbean Cup, being hosted in Guyana from October 21–25, 2026 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. The collaboration forms part of a broader national effort to position Guyana not only as an emerging sporting destination in the Caribbean, but also as one of the r e g i o n ’s m o s t d i s t i n c t i v e destinations for eco-tourism, heritage, culture, cuisine, adventure and hospitality. Through the partnership, THAG and Archery Guyana will work together to introduce visiting athletes, coaches, officials, delegates, families and spectators from across the Caribbean and the Americas to the many experiences Guyana has to offer. A key component will be the
From left, La Shawna Forde, Executive Officer, Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, President of Archery Guyana, THAG; Beaunce Atkinson, Marketing Coordinator, THAG; and Oslyn Kirton, Executive Director, THAG. promotion of Explore Guyana Magazine, together with QRenabled access to digital tourism resources, allowing international visitors to discover Guyana’s
tourism attractions, hospitality providers, eco-adventures, cultural experiences, cuisine, entertainment and community-based tourism offerings before and during the
championships. The initiative reflects the growing importance of sport tourism and the Orange Economy, bringing together sport, tourism,
culture and the creative industries to generate economic opportunities, strengthen local businesses and enhance Guyana’s international visibility. President of Archery Guyana, Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, said the championships provide an opportunity to showcase Guyana well beyond the competition field. “When we invite the Caribbean archery family to Guyana, we want them to leave with more than medals and memories of the competition. We want them to discover Guyana ...... our people, our culture, our food, our biodiversity and our extraordinary hospitality. Sport gives us the platform; tourism allows us to tell the fuller Guyanese story.” THAG Executive Director Mrs. Oslyn Kirton welcomed the partnership, noting the important role sport tourism can play in expanding Guyana’s tourism economy. “Tourism should be one of Guyana’s new frontiers for economic growth. Sport tourism creates opportunities for Continued on page 27
Berbice Crowned GCB Under-13 Champions - Tournament Ends in Dramatic NRR Finish
National Schools Athletics C/ships returns to Linden in 2027 Minister of Education, Sonia Parag
…Championship set for March 3 – 5 The Bayroc National Stadium will take centre stage for next year’s National Schools Athletics Championship.
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President of the AAG, Sheryl Hermonstine and NACAC President, Mike Sands, make it official. Also present were officials of Government and other members of the AAG.
Minister Ramson confident Guyana will deliver successful 2027 CARIFTA Games Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.