Kaieteur News

Iran and Israel halt

oversight’

...Ram flags lack of independent

...no accountability safeguards and clear lending priorities ...says $40 billion at risk

New opera association

opens with Int’l flair request

Close to 600 girls

–LincolnLewisslamsgovt.forrestoring unlimitedperksforformerpresidents

produce -CPAreports under 16 became pregnant in five years

Two more charged for AK-47 bust -confession reveals

...aspolicecontinueprobe;onestillatlarge

‘Politics is a gravy train in Guyana’ deadly Zeelugt attack Man who slit boy’s throat targeted another home before

day Govt. reviewing Exxon’s

Govt. reviewing Exxon’s request to produce 945,000 barrels per day

The Government of Guyana (GoG) is reviewing a request from ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL)toincreaseproductionatits fourth offshore development, a move that could raise total output from the Stabroek Block to approximately 945,000 barrels of oilperday(bpd).

Currently, the country is producing an average 915,000 barrels per day (bpd), according to the latest data published on the Ministry of Natural Resources website forApril. Exxon is seeking the government’s blessing to produceanadditional30,000barrels daily at the One Guyana Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO), which develops the Yellowtailresources.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat in a recent interview with the media revealed:

“Wehavereceivedtherequestsfrom Exxon. The Petroleum Unit at GGMC (Guyana Geology and Mines Commission), which is a technical unit; as usual they are examiningthatrequest.Thatwillbe followed up by a physical visit by ourofficerontheFPSOandweare looking especially for safety, to ensure that safety measures are in place,toensurethattherampupin productionwillnotcauseanyissue with regard to production on the One Guyana FPSO, like we have donesafelywiththeothers.”

Heremindedthatallthreeofthe other FPSOs producing oil in Guyana by Exxon have been optimised and are currently producing above the initial design rate,“withoutanissue”.

“We’rehappyaboutthatandwe aretakingthesameapproachorthe same method with this request as

well,”theministernoted

The offshore visit by the team seekstoensurethatthemoduleswill not be strained as more oil flows from the reservoirs The minister saidhecouldnotgiveatimelinefor the review process as the request must be carefully analysed since “any mistake can be very detrimental.”

In addition to the Ministry and the GGMC, the regulator of the sector, Guyana Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will also play a role prior to the approval being granted. Guyana has not employed the services of foreign expertstoaidinthereviewprocess MinisterBharratassured,“Wehave really built capacity over the few yearsandour local guys at GGMC and the Ministry of Natural Resources have been doing a very good job and we have done it with

theotherFPSOswiththesamevery team,thelocalteam.”

In March, President of EMGL, Alistair Routledge informed the media of the company’s plans to ramp up production at Yellowtail, from263,000barrelsperday(bpd) to290,000bpd

The company has completed a number of studies analysing the operationofthefacilitiesforexisting bottlenecks while safety analysis was conducted on the production facilities to minimise or reduce bottleneckstoincreaseproduction.

Any increase to the daily production levels will be done in a phased manner for safety purposes accordingtotheCountryManager

To date, ExxonMobil has conducted debottlenecking activitiesontheotherthreeFPSOsin theStabroekBlock

Payara, Exxon’s third project

which commenced production on November 14, 2023, was designed to produce 220,000 (bpd) but Exxon has increased production to over260,000bpd

Similarly, both Liza One and Liza Two are producing above the designcapacity TheEnvironmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for the two projects indicate that the Liza One and Liza Two projects were designed to safely operate at 120,000 and 220,000 barrels of oil perday(bpd),respectively.Recent data on the Ministry of Natural Resources website indicates that the two projects are producing about 125,000 bpd and 260,000 bpd Stakeholdershaveoftenraised concern over the increased production activities being conducted by the operator, touting theincreasedriskofanoilspillasa result.

‘PoliticsisagravytraininGuyana’

General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis, has launched a blistering attack on the government’s move to restore unlimited benefits for former presidents,describingtheproposed legislation as “vulgar, ” “unconscionable”andfurtherproof thatpoliticsinGuyanahasbecome “agravytrain.”

Lewis’ broadside comes days after the government tabled Bill No. 10 of 2026, seeking to repeal theFormerPresidents’BenefitsAct of 2015 and restore the sweeping package of perks contained in the 2009legislation.

Thebillwouldonceagaingrant former presidents unlimited statefunded benefits for life, including freeelectricity,waterandtelephone services, personal household staff, clerical and technical assistants, full medical coverage for themselves and dependent family

members, security, statemaintained vehicles, toll-free road transportation, annual vacation

allowances and tax exemptions identical to those enjoyed by a sittingpresident.

For Lewis, the timing and substance of the bill expose a troubling disconnect between Guyana’s political elite and the realitiesfacingordinarycitizens.

“I stand by my statement in 2015 regarding the 2009 Former Presidents’ Benefits Act that politics in Guyana has become a gravytrain,”Lewisdeclared.“The move by the Irfaan Ali/Bharrat Jagdeo regime to repeal the 2015 FormerPresidents’BenefitsActso they can return to unlimited benefits after leaving office is vulgarandunconscionable.”

The veteran trade unionist argued that while Guyana is celebratedinternationallyasoneof the world’s fastest-growing economies, the wealth generated from the country’s oil boom has failed to transform the lives of the majorityofcitizens.

“Itisevenmoreoffensivewhen viewed against the reality that

Guyanaistodayoneofthefastestgrowing economies in the world, yettwo-thirdsofourpeopleremain poorandmorethanone-thirdlivein absolutepoverty,”hesaid.

Lewis was careful to distinguish between a pension and what he views as excessive privileges.

“The right to a pension is respected and is not the issue. Anyone who has served in the presidencyisentitledtoapension,” hestated.“Whatremainsoffensive isthemannerinwhichtheseleaders are ensuring that their postpresidency is as good as, or even better than, their actual tenure in office,anddoingsoattheexpense ofthetaxpayingpublic.”

Government has defended the legislation, arguing that the 2015 amendments enacted by the APNU+AFC administration unfairlyrestrictedbenefitsavailable to former heads of state. The MinistryofFinancesaidthenewbill would restore a “single, predictable standard” for all former presidents

and ensure they receive benefits reflectingthedignityoftheoffice

The ministry also criticised the 2015 law for limiting medical benefits to $200,000 annually and for allowing former presidents to lose benefits if they engaged in private business or paid employment.

But Lewis contends that the issueisnotdignity Itisexcess.

“The issue is not dignity after office.Itisexcess.Itisentitlement. It is using public office to secure

benefits that ordinary citizens can onlydreamabout,”hesaid.

Henotedthatformerpresidents already receive substantial pensionsandenjoytax-freeincome whileworkerscontinuetoshoulder theburdenoftaxation.

“The teacher pays taxes. The nurse pays taxes The public servant pays taxes The sugar worker pays taxes. The bauxite worker pays taxes,” Lewis said. “The ordinary people who create the wealth of this nation are taxed every month, yet they are being askedtofundunlimitedbenefitsfor aprivilegedpoliticalclass.”

According to Lewis, the government's priorities are badly misplaced at a time when workers continue to demand higher wages andrelieffromtaxation.

“Thetradeunionmovementhas repeatedlycalledfortheremovalof income tax on workers and the creation of a genuine welfare state withsocialprogrammesdesignedto liftpeopleoutofpoverty,”henoted Continued on page 6

‘Gov’t crafting law to shield Development Bank from oversight’

...Ramflagslackofindependentsupervision ...noaccountabilitysafeguardsandclearlendingpriorities ...says$40billionatrisk

The proposed Guyana DevelopmentBankmaybea promisinginitiativeaimedat supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), but Chartered Accountant and Attorney Christopher Ram is warning that flaws in the legislation governing the institution could leave billions of taxpayers’dollarsvulnerable tomisuse.

In an invited comment, Ram, an advocate for good governance told this publicationthattheproposed legislation raises serious concerns about governance, accountability and financial prudence.

He said, “The most troubling feature is that the Bank is exempt from the Financial Institutions Act andthereforefromoversight by the Bank of Guyana. Unlike every other financial institution, it will not be subject to independent prudential supervision, inspections or regulatory intervention With $40 billion of taxpayers’ money at stake, this is a significant weakness.”

Ramwentontopointout that governance is another

concern The lawyer explainedthattheBilltabled in the National Assembly lays the foundation for the Finance Minister to appoint all directors, including the Chairperson and Deputy

Chairperson ‘That concentration of authority is particularly troubling given hiswell-documentedhistory of delayed appointments to statutory bodies and institutions under his oversight Ironically, the same Minister was once a vocal critic of similar shortcomings when they occurred under the previous administration,”Ramsaid.

Additionally, the attorney noted that the Guyana Development Bank also falls outside of the CompaniesAct.Assuch,the lawyer flagged that the legislation contains no statutory indemnity for directorsactingingoodfaith and omits many of the governance safeguards normally associated with corporateentities.

Kaieteur News reported in an article on Sunday that

no penalties have been included for rogue banking officials that may seek kickbacksorspecialfavours for granting loans to membersofthepublic.

Equally concerning for the attorney is the areas not covered by the Bill. Ram said, “It establishes a $40 billion development bank without identifying lending priorities or sectors that shouldbetargeted.”

Additionally, Ram highlighted that the proposed law does not explain how losses will be financed or risks shared in co-financingarrangements. He concluded, “There is a good idea at the heart of this Bill. Unfortunately, a good idea is not a substitute for good legislation A

Development Bank entrustedwith$40billionof public funds requires strongergovernance,clearer accountability and independent oversight ”

Consequently, Ram suggested that the Bill needed more consultation and scrutiny before being laid in the National Assembly

Proposed legislation to govern the Guyana Development Bank was on Friday afternoon tabled in theNationalAssemblybyan energetic Finance Minister, Dr AshniKumarSingh.

News of the financial institution sparked

excitement among

G u y a n e s e a s t h e Government of Guyana (GoG) marketed the facility as one that would offer zero interest on loans up to $3 million with no collateral required.

The legal framework however reveals a different picturethanthatpromisedby government.

According to Section 5 (2)oftheBill,“Subjecttothe other provisions of thisAct, the Bank may- (a) assist small and medium-sized enterprises in establishing, carrying on or expanding theiroperationsbyproviding loans with or without collateral and with or withoutcharginginterest.”

The proposed law does not clearly outline what specificprojectswillrequire collateral or attract interest

andatwhatspecificrates.

Moreover, $40B or approximately US$200M initially - as the sum can be revised in Parliament - will be disbursed at the sole discretion of government appointees The Bill makes no provision for any nominees to be submitted

by the Opposition, civil society or any transparency bodies, raising concerns over the direct control of b i l l i o n s b y t h e administration and the likelihood of selection

alliance”

Chartered Accountant and Attorney, Christopher Ram

https://kaieteurnewsonline.c om/2026/06/07/govt-tocontrol-development-bank-

with-no-oversight-fromopposition-transparencybodies-or-civil-society/

KaieteurNews

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

Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456

Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams

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

EDITORIAL

Development Bank and oversight

The establishment of a Guyana Development Bank has been widely welcomed as a potentially transformative initiative. For years, small entrepreneurs, farmers, agroprocessors and other aspiring business owners have complained about limited access to affordable financing. Theprospectofastate-supportedinstitutionofferingloansto stimulate entrepreneurship and economic growth is thereforeanattractiveone.Inprinciple,adevelopmentbank can play a vital role in diversifying the economy, creating jobsandsupportinglocalenterprise.

But good intentions alone do not guarantee good governance.TheproposedlegislationgoverningtheGuyana Development Bank contains several provisions that should concern every citizen. If left unchanged, these weaknesses couldunderminepublicconfidenceintheinstitutionbefore itevenopensitsdoors.

One of the most troubling aspects of the Bill is the concentration of authority in the hands of the Executive. Accordingtotheproposedframework,theFinanceMinister will appoint all directors of the bank, including the chairperson and deputy chairperson. The minister will also determine their remuneration and allowances. In effect, the entire governance structure of an institution expected to managetensofbillionsofdollarsinpublicresourceswillbe selectedbyasinglepoliticaloffice.

This arrangement is difficult to reconcile with modern principles of transparency and accountability Public institutions entrusted with significant financial resources shouldbedesignedtoinspireconfidenceacrosssociety That confidence is strengthened when governance structures include diverse representation and independent oversight. Yet the proposed legislation makes no provision for participationby the Opposition, civil society organisations, private sector bodies, professional associations or transparencyadvocates.

The exclusion of these stakeholders is particularly troubling because the bank will be responsible for distributing substantial public funds. The government has indicated that approximately 3 million without collateral and without interest. However, the legislation itself tells a morecomplicatedstory TheBillpermitsloanstobegranted withorwithoutcollateralandwithorwithoutinterest.Itdoes notclearlyspecifywhichcategoriesofprojectswillqualify for concessionary treatment or what criteria will be used to determinewhencollateralorinterestwillberequired.

Such uncertainty leaves considerable discretion in the hands of the institution’s managers and directors. While flexibility may sometimes be necessary, public confidence depends on clear and transparent rules. Citizens should not have to guess whether they qualify for favourable terms or wonderwhethersimilarapplicantswillbetreateddifferently

The eligibility provisions present another concern. Surprisingly, the Bill does not explicitly identify Guyanese citizens as the primary beneficiaries of the institution. The language appears broad enough to permit foreign nationals operating small or medium-sized enterprises in Guyana to accessfinancing.Whileforeigninvestmentundoubtedlyhas aroletoplayinnationaldevelopment,adevelopmentbank fundedbytaxpayersshouldhaveaclearlydefinedmandate prioritising Guyanese entrepreneurs and local economic advancement.

Perhaps the most alarming deficiency, however, lies in the area of accountability While the legislation identifies several offences relating to false information, obstruction, misuse of funds and destruction of records, it appears to leave important gaps. There is no explicit provision addressing situations where officials responsible for approving loans solicit bribes, kickbacks or favours in exchangeforaccesstofinancing.

This omission is difficult to understand. Around the world, development finance institutions are particularly vulnerable to corruption because they control access to

The decision by the Govt. to reverse the legislation that capped former presidents’ benefits is offensive

DEAREDITOR,

I stand by my statement in 2015 regarding the 2009 Former Presidents’ Benefits Act that politics in Guyana has become a gravy train.

The move by the Irfaan Ali/BharratJagdeoregimeto repeal the 2015 Former Presidents’ Benefits Act so they can return to unlimited benefits after leaving office i s v u l g a r a n d unconscionable. It is riding on the backs of workers and ordinary people and should bewithdrawn.

The decision by the President’sadministrationto reverse the legislation that capped former presidents’ benefits should not be taken lightly It is even more offensive when viewed against the reality that Guyana is today one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, yet two-thirds of our people remain poor andmorethanone-thirdlive inabsolutepoverty

Let me make this very clear:therighttoapensionis respectedandisnottheissue.

Anyone who has served in thepresidencyisentitledtoa pension. That is not what is offensivehere.

What remains offensive isthemannerinwhichthese leaders are ensuring that their post-presidency is as good as, or even better than, their actual tenure in office, and doing so at the expense of the taxpaying public. The issue is not dignity after office. It is excess. It is entitlement.Itisusingpublic office to secure benefits that ordinary citizens can only dreamabout.

Lest we forget, former presidents already enjoy substantial pensions. Least we also forget, they do not pay taxes on their incomes while workers do The teacherpaystaxes.Thenurse pays taxes The public servantpaystaxes.Thesugar worker pays taxes The bauxite worker pays taxes. The ordinary people who create the wealth of this nation are taxed every month, yet they are being asked to fund unlimited

benefits for a privileged political class. This is not good governance; it is an abuseofpublictrust.

Whenyouenteroffice,it is public service. You are theretoservethepeople,not to enrich yourself on public funds.Ifyouleaveofficeand wish to engage in business, consultancy, speaking engagements or any other venture to earn an income, that is entirely your right. What is unacceptable is using the office entrusted to you by the people to guaranteeyourselfalifetime of luxury funded by those samepeople.

The workers of this nationhavebeenaskingfora livable wage for years. The trade union movement has repeatedly called for the removal of income tax on workersandthecreationofa genuine welfare state with social programmes designed toliftpeopleoutofpoverty

Guyana has been producing oil for seven years We boast about producing one million

barrels of oil per day. We have a population of approximately 800,000 people, yet workers still cannotsecureadecentwage. A caring government would focus on those priorities rather than calculating how those who occupy the presidency can continue to live comfortably at public expenselongaftertheyhave demittedoffice.

What we are witnessing is an attempt to create a Cadillac lifestyle on the backs of people who continue to live in what Cheddi Jagan described as a donkey-carteconomy While Guyana’seconomicstatistics may have changed, the reality confronting many citizenshasnot.

Too many people still live hand to mouth. Many cannot afford basic necessities Some cannot afford a tennis roll and can onlyeatifgivencredit.Some cannotaffordaloafofbread and must purchase a few slicesatatime.Inthemidst

Continued on page 6

World Oceans Day: As a maritime nation, Guyana’s future is inseparable from the health of our oceans

DEAREDITOR,

The ocean regulates our climate, supports fisheries and livelihoods, facilitates trade, underpins our energy sector, and plays a critical role in our national security andeconomicdevelopment. Today, as we observe WorldOceansDay,wemust also confront an important reality Guyana is undergoing one of the most significant transformations initshistory Wearenowan oil-producing state, managing vast marine resources and an expansive maritimespace,whilefacing increasing threats from sea level rise, coastal flooding, marine pollution, and climatechange.

Yet despite the growing

importance of the ocean to our national future, there remains a need for a more integrated and clearly articulated national vision for the management of our marinespace.

Over the years, important work has been undertaken through Guyana’s Maritime Economy Plan, Integrated Coastal Zone Management initiatives, sea defence programmes, and other sectoral efforts. However, these initiatives must not remain isolated exercises or policy documents sitting on shelves They must be translatedintoacoherentand actionable framework that guides national decisionmaking.

valuable financial resources Strong anti-corruption safeguardsarethereforenotoptional;theyareessential.The publicmustbeassuredthatfinancingdecisionswillbebased on merit, viability and fairness rather than political connectionsorillicitpayments.

To be clear, the concept of a development bank deserves support.Guyananeedsinstitutionsthatcanprovideaffordable financing to productive sectors and help build a more diversified economy However, support for the objective shouldnotblindcitizenstoweaknessesinthemechanism.

The National Assembly now has an opportunity and a

I therefore call on the Government to initiate a review of progress made under the Maritime Economy Plan and to advance the development of a comprehensive National Ocean and Coastal Resilience Strategy for Guyana. Such a strategy should bring together coastal

environmental management, fisheries, maritime security,

research, and sustainable economic growth within a single long-term national framework. The stakes could not be

higher

Morethanninetypercent ofourpopulationlivesalong the coast Our economy depends heavily on the sea. Our future prosperity will increasingly depend on how wisely we manage our marine resources and how effectively we prepare for the risks that accompany them.

World Oceans Day should therefore be more than a celebration. It should b

es planning, leadership, and action.ThefutureofGuyana isnotonlyonland.Itisalso atsea.

Sincerely, For

d Guyana Movement

responsibilitytostrengthenthislegislationbeforeitbecomes law Independentrepresentationontheboard,clearerlending criteria, stronger anti-corruption provisions and explicit prioritisation of Guyanese beneficiaries would significantly improvetheframework.

Developmentcannotflourishwheretransparencyisweak andoversightisabsent.IftheGuyanaDevelopmentBankisto becomeagenuineengineofnationalprogress,itmustbebuilt upon principles of accountability, fairness and public trust. Thoseprinciplesshouldbewrittenintothelawfromthevery beginning.

The AG is ensuring legality in every move

DEAREDITOR,

As ubiquitous as he is hard working, Attorney General and Minister of LegalAffairs,AnilNandlall, SC,haseveryrighttodefend hisgovernment’snationwide outreach strategy, that he

describes as “ a

d e m o n s t r a t i o n o f representative politics,

accountability, and

t r a n s p a r e n c y i n governance.” Not diffident by nature nor deficient in legal acumen, he seems capable of rising to every levelwheretheneedsbegfor avoiceofauthority,andthis voice is now synonymous w i t h t h e P P P / C ’s government’s agenda, defence and accountability These aspects, we all agree, are of tantamount importance where today’s Guyanaisconcerned.

Duringhislast“Issuesin the News,” theAG Nandlall succinctly and boldly

contended that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration has maintained a direct connection with citizens, by taking government services and decision-makers into communities across the c o u n t r y ” T h i s i s uncontested, as it is salubrious.

Indeed, there is no legal mandate for government ministers to physically visit residents, but when democratically elected officials regularly conduct visits,theystayconnectedto their constituents and are abletoaddresslocalissues.I add that government ministers, in visiting residents, are able to maintain the accountability and democratic connection required by a responsible government, who otherwise might want to play the dodging game. These visits for sure allow ministers to

explain policies, understand community needs, and ensure public services be delivered effectively They serve as a direct feedback loop, preventing policymakers from becoming isolatedfromthepublic.

Thus, in a terse manner, Nandlall definitively boasted that “We (the PPP/C), believe that we should do so in a direct manner,”ashedelineatedthe administration’s philosophy, en toto, in terms of proper and fitting governance, notingthatvariousvicinages voted for and deserve what they were promised He elaborated that “We (the PPP/C)believeweshoulddo so by going into the communities, the villages, the towns, the rivers, the creeks and all the areas where Guyanese live and interact with them in those communities.”

AsfarasAnilNandlallis

concerned, I might be hard pressed to enumerate the specific tally of the number ofplaceshehasvisitedsince the last Guyana Elections. However, a mere cursorial scrutiny will attest to his massiveoutreach.

He, both as a ‘Gov-rep’ and in his humane, personal capacity, regularly travels t h r o u g h o u t t h e country—including various communities on the East CoastofDemerara,theWest Coast of Demerara, and other regions—to conduct government outreaches, inspectpublicinfrastructure, and address members of the public. I add, that he never forgets his humble origins, andcanbeseenatthewakes and funeral homes of many hedidknowandhascometo know His willingness to sacrificially commiserate is very commendable, and quite suggestive of the PPP/C as a whole No

Viable political solution crucial to avert disaster in Guyana

DEAREDITOR, Guyana is at a critical “crossroads.” Longstanding political, economic, social, and cultural challenges are now converging with new pressures, creating a potentially explosive situation, dangerous ticking timebombtouseacommon phrase. This situation needs to be addressed, and a political solution found to avoid disaster Unless those issuesareaddressedthrough meaningful political reform and dialogue, the country risksmovingtowardaperiod of deep instability A viable politicalsolutionistherefore essentialtoavertdisaster

A petro-state, a regime committed to racial/political domination, and the unprecedented speed of the changing realities that are taking place in society, and its implications for the future, are not fully grasped by either the masses or the rulers This makes the situation high-risk in our multi-racial and politically polarised society This

environment requires an urgent initiative by the African community and its leadership to articulate the parameters of African politics.Iurgethatitmustbe apoliticsofnon-domination andrejectionofwinner-takeall governance, which createstheconstitutionaland legal cover for domination.

Thetimetoactisnow,since timeisnotonourside.

Thesituationin Guyana haselementsoftheUSinthe 1860s,whichledtotheCivil War The contradiction derives from developments of the productive forces.

Capitalism emerged as the driving force for the future.

The old slave mode of production became a hindrance to continued US economic and political development For the Southern States, the rise of capitalismwasanexistential threat. The US resolved its problemthroughcivilwar In Guyana, oil has changed the productive forces in profoundwayswithpositive and negative consequences.

If not resolved by dialogue and compromise, the situation can lead to major civil unrest. Unlike the Southern States in the US, oursituationisnotastruggle topreservetheoldorderbut t o d e a l w i t h t h e consequences of the new productive forces influencing the country’s development.Oilwealthhas sharpenedtheeconomicand political competition among t h e r a c e s t o a n unprecedented level in recenthistory,exceptforthe tension and violence of the pre-independence riots. The regime’s handling of the oil revenues and the wealth of the nation in general, and governance of the country, posesanexistentialthreatto the African and Indigenous

communities due to e x c l u s i o n a n d marginalisation This situation has resulted in widening the inequalities between our communities, which, if left unaddressed, will inevitably force Africans and Indigenous

communities to fight to preservetheirsurvivalatany cost.

Icontendthatthepresent alignment of forces, productive, political, economic, social, and the winner-take-all governance system, rather than promoting national unity, is promotingdivisionandmust endifGuyanaistobecomea societythatgivesjusticeand equal development to all its people. It is not a secret that even before oil production, Africans and Indigenous

people have found themselves in a position wheretogethertheyownless than 10% of the nation’s wealth Half of the population cannot have a prosperous and competitive existence in that situation. Moreso, given the rate at whichoilwealthiswidening theeconomicandsocialgap

between our ethnic communities to the point of anexistentialthreat.Guyana is at the point where the rulersareinsensitivetothe Continued on page 6

wonderthenhecanconclude that“…thisapproachallows government officials to gain afirst-handunderstandingof the issues affecting citizens (and)oncewedothat,we get a first-hand feel and a first-hand knowledge of the people’s issues, their challenges, their problems, andtheirconcerns.”

Thebroaderpicturehere, as I just hinted is that “That these engagements redounded to the addressing ofhundreds,ifnotthousands of issues raised by

punctiliouslycheckingItake his word that “… every major village, locality and settlementintheregionswas visited by a member of the government, including PresidentDr IrfaanAli.”

The spinoff is that “… that concerns raised during the outreaches were subsequently reviewed by Cabinet during meetings, and issues documented by ministers and their teams were entered into a central dashboard and examined by Cabinet members, where “actions were authorised or directed in relation to each issue raised and that many matters were addressed immediately.”

Editor, good governance means that ministers must hear firsthand how government policies affect dailylives,enablingthemto represent community interests accurately in CabinetandParliament.And visiting residents allows ministers to explain proposed legislation, gather public input, and build consensus for government initiatives The top-down method is not amicably met by the populace anymore,

and the PPP/C must be commended for governing with ‘an ear on the ground,’ usingthebottom-upstrategy Thismeansthingslikemore a c c o u n t a b i l i t y , responsibility and transparency I did my work when Nandlallassertedthathewas unaware of any comparable initiative elsewhere in the C a r i b b e a n o r Commonwealth, where an entire government travels intocommunitiesforseveral days to engage directly with residents and address their concerns.

He challenged that “I don’t know of a parallel initiative in any part of the Caribbean or any part of the Commonwealth,” and I emphatically inform readers thatIcansubmitonlyplaces like Switzerland, Australia, Canada and India in this mode. Again,Iiteratethata bottom-up(ordecentralised) style of government is one where power, decisionmaking, and legislative initiatives originate at the local or grassroots level and flow upward to higher tiers ofgovernment.

Thus no one can prove that the Attorney-General was erring when he rejected suggestions that the administration has become disconnected from its grassroots base. Complaints will come from sore losers. But this I can say, that the PPP/C government has a strongwinsomeandcapable team of leaders. The AG is ensuring legality in every move,andwithhisdaretobe questioned, I believe I can heal encomiums on the Aliledadministration.

Yourstruly, RaymondAnderson

The decision by the Govt. to reverse the legislation that capped...

Frompage4 ofthisreality,PresidentAliis tellingthenationthatformer presidents should enjoy unlimited benefits after leaving office What messagedoesthatsend?

It says that while ordinary citizens struggle, those occupying the highest offices are ensuring their own comfort and security It

says that while healthcare remainsinadequateformany Guyanese,formerpresidents must enjoy unlimited medical benefits and access tothebesthealthcaresystem in the world. It says that whilecitizensstruggletopay util

s, fo

m

r presidents must have theirs paid indefinitely by taxpayers. It says that after

leaving office, you are entitledtomaintainaparallel presidency, complete with unlimited staff, vehicles, benefits and privileges fundedbythepublicpurse.

Our leaders are failing us.Andthatbringsmetothe Opposition.

Theoppositioncontinues toprevaricateontheissueof unity They continue to find

reasons why they cannot come together. Let me remind them that every one of them, whether we voted forthemornot,isbeingpaid byallofus.Ourtaxesarenot separated according to politicalaffiliation.

The Constitution, in Article 13, speaks to “inclusionary democracy” That principle must undergirdthequestforunity That is what the opposition should be fighting for They should be demanding its implementation and advancing legislation that givesrealeffecttoit.

Come around the table. Come with your ideas, respecting our diversity and uniqueness Negotiate Resolve your differences Determine how you will

work together to represent the interests of your constituents while respecting the rights and well-beingofothers.Politics is about people and people’s development.

When government refusestoengagesectionsof civilsocietyorgoverninthe interestofall,theopposition has a duty to mobilise, advocate and represent the people. Instead, too many seem content to enjoy the privileges of office while believingthatissufficient.It is not. You were elected to serve the people, not to feather your nest or advance your self-interest at their expense.

If we continue on this path of division, finding reasons not to unite around

common principles and disregarding the oath to serve the people, the one million barrels of oil we pump every day will benefit everyoneexcepttheordinary people of this country We will not even receive the crumbs. As Guyanese, we need to get our act together This nation is being plundered before our eyes whileelectedrepresentatives prevaricateoverwhoshould lead,whoshouldbeelevated andwhoshouldbeattacked. The voters have already spoken. They entrusted you with their power and expect representationinreturn.You haveadutytodischargethat responsibility and you must doso.

Regards, LincolnLewis

Viable political solution crucial...

Frompage5 challenges of our history and are committed toself-interestandpoliticaldominationinthe name of Indian solidarity and see no need to resolvethisproblembydialogue.

My advocacy for many years has been thatAfricancommunitypoliticsmustbeone of non-domination and the end of winnertake-allgovernance.Giventhepresentreality with oil, and the direction the country is going,Iamnowmoreconvincedthanbefore ofthecorrectnessofthispositionifweareto avoidtheAmericanexperienceofcivilwarto resolve contradictions inherent in the transformative effects of the petro-state and thedeliberatepolicyoftherulerstoengagein apartheidgovernance.

AsIwrite,Iamconsciousthatmostofthe population belongs to a younger generation that may not be familiar with my long involvement in the country’s cultural and politicalstruggles.

Itwouldthereforeberemissofmenotto acknowledge that history and to assume that readers fully understand the principles that have guided my advocacy, particularly in today’s opportunistic political environment. Mypositionhasremainedconsistentoverthe years:Africancommunitypoliticsmustreject bothwinner-take-allgovernanceandpolitical domination. is not new: we will not seek to

dominate others, nor will we accept domination by any race. We do not seek to dominate others, nor will we accept dominationbyanyrace. Thisprinciplemust remain at the heart of our political struggle. ThetimehascomefortheAfricancommunity to exercise greater influence in the nation’s politicallifethroughorganisedresistanceand principledengagement.

What I am about to say is an issue for anotherletter Thereisanurgentneedforthe Africancommunitytoresolveitspositionon the role of street protest in the liberation struggle. Our failure to do so will give the rulerspoliticalspacetocontinuetheirpolicy ofdomination.

I close by pointing out that the results of the2025electionsdemonstratethedangerof an over-reliance on party politics to protect and defend our community’s interests.Alot of our people who felt that the APNU can’t win the elections sought “salvation” outside ourcommunityandvotedforWINandended up with an entrenched PPP regime. Party politicshasweakenedAfricanresistanceand created new challenges for our liberation struggle.

Ironically,wearetoldtowaitfor2030and doitalloveragain.

Yourssincerely,

TacumaOgunseye

‘Politics is a gravy train in Guyana’

Frompage2

“Guyana has been producing oil for seven years.Weboastaboutproducingonemillion barrels of oil per day.We have a population of approximately 800,000 people, yet workersstillcannotsecureadecentwage.”

CADILLAC LIFESTYLE

Lewis accused the administration of constructing what he described as a “Cadillac lifestyle” for political leaders while many citizens remain trapped in conditionsreminiscentofthecountry’s preoileconomy

“Whatwearewitnessingisanattemptto create a Cadillac lifestyle on the backs of peoplewhocontinuetoliveinwhatCheddi Jagandescribedasadonkey-carteconomy,” hesaid.

Hepaintedagrimpictureofdailylifefor many Guyanese, saying some families still struggletoaffordbasicnecessities.

“Somecannotaffordatennisrollandcan onlyeatifgivencredit.Somecannotafforda loafofbreadandmustpurchaseafewslices atatime,”Lewisasserted.

Against that backdrop, he argued, the government’s proposal sends a damaging message.

“It says that while ordinary citizens struggle,thoseoccupyingthehighestoffices areensuringtheirowncomfortandsecurity,” Lewis said. “It says that while healthcare remains inadequate for many Guyanese, former presidents must enjoy unlimited medical benefits and access to the best healthcaresystemintheworld.”

Last week Opposition Member of Parliament Ganesh Mahipaul also condemnedthebill,describingthereturnto uncapped benefits as “unconscionable” and warningthatitcouldopenthedoortoabuse ofstateresources.

Former U.S. commerce chief to spotlight new opportunities for Guyanese businesses

The World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) will host a business luncheon titled “GrowingBusinesswiththeUnitedStates”on June 17, 2026, featuring internationally renownedtradeexpertArunVenkataraman.

InapressWTCGsaidtheeventreflectsits commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties between Guyana and its internationalpartners AsGuyanacontinuesto expand its economic footprint and diversify its export base, the luncheon will provide local businesses with direct access to one of the leading voices in U S trade and commercialpolicy

According to WTCG, Venkataraman brings more than 20 years of experience in international trade, commerce, and economic policy From 2022 to 2025, he served as the Senate-confirmed Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director GeneraloftheU.S.andForeignCommercial Service at the International Trade Administration. In that role, he led U.S. government efforts to expand international commercial opportunities for American companies and support foreign businesses seeking to invest and operate in the United States.

His responsibilities included facilitating internationalbusinesstransactions,improving commercial policy environments, addressing

tradeandinvestmentbarriers,andnegotiating agreements with foreign governments to strengtheneconomicpartnerships.

During the luncheon, Venkataraman will provide insights into U S trade and commercial policies, available trade preferences, and other mechanisms that support business engagement with the Americanmarket.Hispresentationwillfocus on how Guyanese companies can leverage these opportunities to increase exports, attract investment, build strategic partnerships, and enhance their global competitiveness.

The event comes at a critical time for Guyanesebusinessesasglobaltradecontinues to evolve amid geopolitical shifts, changing supplychains,andnewtrade and investment policies among major economies. Decisions made by the United States on tariffs, market access, and commercial partnerships increasingly shape international business strategies and influence the competitiveness ofexportersworldwide.

For Guyana, understanding these developments has become especially important in light of recent changes to US tariffpoliciesaffectingarangeofexportsfrom Guyanaandothercountries.Thereplacement of duty-free treatment for certain products with tariffs of up to 15 percent has created

new challenges for exporters seeking to maintain and expand their presence in the U.S.market.Thesedevelopmentsunderscore the importance of staying informed and identifying strategies to preserve competitiveness while capitalizing on emergingopportunities.

“Access to authoritative insights on US trade policy has never been more valuable,” WTCG noted “Businesses must understand both the challenges and opportunities emerging from the evolving U.S.-Guyana commercial relationship This luncheon offers a unique opportunity to gain that understanding directly from a former senior U.S. trade official who helped shape and implementpolicyatthehighestlevel.”

WTCG believes that equipping local businesses with timely information and practicalknowledgeisessentialifGuyanaisto fully capitalize on its rapidly expanding economic opportunities and strengthen its integration into regional and global value chains.

The session is expected to be particularly relevant for exporters, manufacturers, service providers, investors, business support organisations, and entrepreneurs seeking to expandtheirreachbeyondGuyana’sborders. Participantswillalsohavetheopportunityto engage directly withVenkataraman during a

Internationally renowned trade expert, Arun Venkataraman

question-and-answer session and through private discussions following the formal presentation.

The luncheon aligns with WTCG’s missionofconnectingGuyanesebusinessesto global markets and creating opportunities for meaningfulinternationalengagement.Aspart of the World Trade Centers Association network, which spans more than 300 World TradeCentersinover100countries,WTCG remains committed to providing local enterprises with access to world-class expertise, market intelligence, and business developmentopportunities.

Members of the business community and otherinterestedstakeholdersareencouragedto attend For registration and further information, contact the World Trade Centre Georgetown Secretariat at +592-763-9824 or +592-515-9824(Ms NoelorMs Peters)

Guyana’s costly misnomer

What is a bank?

At its core, a b a n k intermediates between savers and borrowers It takes deposits from the public households,

businesses, pension funds and lends those funds out, subject to market discipline and prudential regulation.Abank that does not take deposits is not a bank. It is something else entirely

And that is precisely what the proposed Guyana Development Bank Bill 2026creates:notabank,but a government spending vehicledisguisedinbanking clothing Calling this

institution, a “bank” confuses the public, masks fiscal risks, and invites the verygovernancefailuresthat have plagued development financefordecades.

The Bill authorises $40 billion in capital. This is nearlyUS$200milliontobe provided entirely by the Treasury Section 6 of the

B i l l c r e a t i n g t h e

Development Bank explicitlyprohibitstheBank fromacceptingdeposits.

Sowheredoesthemoney come from? Taxpayers Where do the losses go? Taxpayers. The Bank faces no market discipline whatsoever

A commercial bank that makes bad loans loses depositor confidence and fails. This Bank makes bad loans, and the Minister simply writes another c h e q u e f r o m t h e

ConsolidatedFund. This is not banking. It is direct government lending through a statutory corporation The name “Development Bank” gives it a technocratic gloss, but the underlying reality is that Parliament appropriates money, political appointees oversee those who will decide who receives belowmarket,collateral-freeloans. And the taxpayer bears all therisk.

The governance structure compounds the problem. Under Section 7, the Minister appoints every single director—five to nine individuals, including the Chairperson and Deputy C h a i r p e r s o n N o parliamentary confirmation. No private-sector or civil society representation Whatever happened to selfprofessed government policy of inclusion? There are no fixed terms that insulate directors from political pressure The Minister can remove a director for broadly defined “misconduct.” This is not independence; it is a patronage machine waiting tohappen.

Section 9(c) tasks the Board with safeguarding “the independence of credit decisions ” But how can credit decisions be independent when every director serves at the pleasureofthesamepolitical authority?

In developing countries, the lesson has been that political lending destroys

Dem Boys Seh...

development banks The onlyinstitutionsthatsurvive and thrive are those with g

l independence,diverseboard

a n s p a r e n t , n o ndiscretionary credit criteria. Wehavehadourownlessons here GAIBANK and GNCB, were sent into financial insolvency and privatisation respectively because of excessive bad loans.

The Bill also permits loans “without collateral” and “without charging interest” under Section 5(2)(a). In principle, this addresses a real market failure Many small entrepreneurs cannot access commercial credit precisely becausetheylacklandtitles, equipment, buildings or other acceptable collateral. But removing collateral w i t h o u t b u i l d i n g underwriting capacity, recovery mechanisms, and portfolio monitoring is a recipe for massive nonperformingloans.Section26 allows write-offs with only “approved policies” and “appropriate Bank oversight” phrases so vaguetheyinviteabuse. And then there is the $3 million loan cap.That is not enough to buy a small delivery truck, let alone establish a manufacturing workshop or agricultural processing facility Either thecapismeaninglesslylow, ortheGovernmentintendsto keep the Bank in microlending while pretending to

When doing the wrong thing becomes easier than doing the right thing

Onlytheotherday,demboyswastalking ’bout the stray dog and stray cat population growing outta hand.And now, look trouble come. A man turn up in a minibus at somebody else property, gift box in hand, deposit a whole litter of kittens like he leaving a Christmas hamper Wrong, yes. But before we jump on him, let we ask: whereexactlyhesupposetotakethem?

Demboyshear’bouttheplacebyBourda Market.Youcantakeunwantedlittersthere, but they does also ask for a voluntary donation. But not everybody living near Bourda Market. So what the average man do?Hedoes“stray”them.Hecarrypuppies andcatstosomefaroffspot,tossthemout, anddriveofffast.

Problemissomeofthemanimalssmart. Some does find they way back home. Imagineyoudumpadoginthebackdamand three days later, him standing at your gate, lookingatyoulike,“Youforgetsomething?” Thatain’tnosolution.That’sjustpassing

support serious SME development.

Noneofthisistosaythat Guyana should not have an SME lending facility It should.Butcallitwhatitis:a government grant and loan programme, administered transparently, subject to annual appropriation, and overseen by an independent board with parliamentary confirmation of its chair Removethe“bank”illusion. Banks take deposits, face market discipline, and operate under banking law Thisinstitutiondoesnoneof thosethings.

The most urgent immediate step, however, concerns leadership

Whoever is appointed Chief Executive Officer must undergo unprecedented vetting Too many development institutions destroyed by CEOs with hiddenhistories.

BecausetheBankhasno deposit discipline and no board independence, the CEO is the only real check on political lending and fiscalwaste.Andthatperson isappointedbytheBoard.

This is all the more reason why the person selected as CEO must be beyond reproach Former employers of applicants must be interviewed. Banks have a habit of asking recalcitrant to resign rather

than firming them and risking a fallout of public trust.

Guyana’s oil wealth offers a chance to build diversified, sustainable prosperity But that requires honest institutions, not expensive misnomers A spending vehicle called a bank is still a spending vehicle. And a risky one at that.

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

theproblemtosomeoneelse.

So here is what dem boys saying. We need more places Not one Bourda spot—every district should have a drop-off point Church, health centre, NDC office—somewhere open and free. And don’t tell people to make donation. If they could afford donation, they would keep the animal.

But hear this: these same places must sign a bond. No euthanize just because an animal ain’t cute enough or old enough. Keepthem.Letthemlive.Findthemhomes, evenifittaketime.

Build proper shelters. Spay and neuter before release. Because the real problem ain’t the man with the gift box. The real problem is we set up a system where doing thewrongthingiseasierthandoingtheright thing.

Letwefixthatfirst.Thendemboyscan talkaboutsomethingelse. Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

FUN, FROLIC, FILTH

Plenty has been said aboutflag-raising. Soasnot to lower my own standards the less said the better Neverbeenamantojointhe pile-on. Lowpeopledothat sortofthing. Regardingthe U.S.AmbassadortoGuyana,

the now venerated Excellency Nicole D Theriot, and her own New York rush hour moment, an offeringwasalreadymade. Though squished and shoved in that Fort Island crush, the American managed to maintain that storied British royalty tradition of a stiff upper lip. What else is there to say?

Other than an ole time Guyanese fear coming back to haunt and prove that the anxiouswererightallalong. Whoever in Guyana (or the U.S. Embassy) never heardof‘Dutchmaanspirits’ roaming around and making assortedmischiefs,welcome to the party I leave out the People’s Progressive Party The PPP had its hands full, itsheadintheclouds,andits hips gyrating deliriously I do what comes naturally: a passgiven. Forthemoment. But what about those who left that pile that was a milelongandamilehighon sacred grounds? The space

trashed, the aftermath of the BigBash. FromBigLimeto Big Bash, it’s the big splash frompeoplewhodon’tgivea rat’s ass. The flag fouled. Leftinaforlornrenditionof ‘Goodbye,mylove.’

Garbage in small mounds;andnotevenneatly, outofrespectforothers(and self, of course). When first viewed, the first thought was: ‘nah banna! Dah caan happen. Nahheahsuh.’ Had to be some wicked folks in Guyana,whousedthecover of dark, and the ecstasy of uncontrolled debauchery to leaveastainandastenchon the occasion. The objective

was to make event authors, organisers, producers, and executionerslookbad.

Whetheritwassoornot, I stick to my constant position. Fortheuninitiated, thisisit:therearethose,too many at every level in today’s Guyana, who have no class. No upbringing numbered among the worst of Guyanese insults in years goneby Whatappliedthen, enjoys extended life and visibilitynow

The arrival of oil made matters worse, accelerated the swiftness of the decline thathadalreadystartedonits steep trajectory No upbringing means no training. Notrainingmeans no class. No class means neither intuition, nor inclination, nor inspiration toknowbetteranddobetter No rung of the Guyana ladderwasexempted.

Recall who I painted with all of those terms of endearment before. This clue should come in handy, given the eyesore and face

job that Fort Island participants and celebrants left behind in theirwake. Theclue:regular citizens were excluded; senior citizens roughed up. Outofpolitenessearnedand due, the ambassador and the slightly perturbed security (boat) comrade-once and still power people diehard insider-are given an immunization card. They know to clean up their mess after them, wherever they go, whatever they are called todo.

By subtraction, there are only a certain kind of Guyaneseatwhichthefinger canbepointed,andonwhom condemnations pinned. I present noisemakers, merrymakers,cavorters,and revelers. Who made the mostnoise? Whocarriedon as if possessed? Who are most intoxicated by oil’s overpoweringaroma?

These are the haughty chaps, who don’t give a damn about garbage and a m b i e n c e o f t h e

surrou ndings. If it can becollectedinstacksinGT, with media and cameras summoned to cover, the same applies in Fort Island, without voices raised, too many fingers lifted, and too manyagitated.

Fort Island’s aftermath represents the vulgarity of Guyana’sambassadorstothe world. No India, no dog needed. The degradations left behind are their qualifications and recommendations.

Thoughsaidbefore,Isay again:thosewhodidn’thave class on the way up, cannot suddenly discover class when on top. Like masters, there go followers and imitators.

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

‘OIL WEALTH NOT REACHING WORKERS’

...Yarde declares as GPSU marks 103 years ...renews fight for living wage, job security

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), as it marked its 103rdAnniversary on Monday, issued a strong call for greater fairness for public servants, arguing that Guyana’s unprecedented economic growth has failed to translate into improved living conditionsformanyworkers.

In a message commemorating the Union’s 103 years of existence, GPSU President Patrick Yarde said that while the organisation has achieved significant victories over the decades, particularly through the courts, the need for legal intervention reflects a deeper problem in labour relations. “Having to go to court is a symptom, not a victory,” Yarde stated. “It reflects a recurring pattern where governments have ignored the foundational covenant between political leaders and the people a covenant built on trust, cooperationandmutualresponsibility.”

Founded more than a century ago, the GPSUremainsoneofGuyana’soldestsocial institutions and has long served as the principal representative body for public servants. Yarde said the Union’s history has beendefinedbyitspursuitofdignity,fairness andsocialjusticeforworkers.

However, he noted that despite Guyana being among the fastest-growing economies inLatinAmericaandtheCaribbeanduetooil and gas revenues, many public servants continuetostrugglefinancially

“We celebrate our progress, but we

GPSU President, Patrick Yarde

cannotignoretheharshreality,”hesaid. According to Yarde, rising prices for basic goods, increasing living expenses and wagesthatfailtoadequatelymeeteveryday needshavecreatedasituationwherenational prosperity coexists with financial hardship for workers. “The paradox is undeniable, nationalprosperityexistsalongsidethedaily struggles of the very people who keep our nationrunning,”hesaid.

CONTRACTEMPLOYMENT

TheGPSUPresidentalsoraisedconcerns about what he described as the increasing replacement of permanent public service positionswithcontractemployment. He warned that jobs which traditionally provided security, pension benefits and opportunities for career advancement are increasinglybeingconvertedintotemporary Continued on page 16

40of41companiesbidbelowengineer’sestimate forGoedFortuincoldstoragewharfproject

The Ministry of Agriculture, through the National Drainage and IrrigationAuthority (NDIA), has received 41 bids for the construction of a cold storage facility and timber wharfatGoedFortuin,West Bank Demerara, Region Three.

The project, which was recently opened at the National Procurement and TenderAdministrationBoard (NPTAB), carries an engineer’s estimate of $829.46million.

Informationpublishedon the NPTAB website shows that 40 of the 41 contractors submitted bids below the engineer’s estimate, with proposals ranging from approximately $609 6 million to $829.44 million. Only one bidder, Aronco Services Inc., submitted a bid above the estimate at $840.59million.

Among the bidders are: Bashier&Son’sConstruction

Inc - $755,426,385; Mohamed’s Excavating

Construction Inc -

$769,286,385; C Jorree Farming & Contracting Services - $789,719,910; Rahaman Construction & Transportation Services - $ 798,533,715; Illumibase Construction Inc - $ 735,476,070;CrownRoad& Drainage Contractors$705,103,140; Parijan

C o n s t r u c t i o n -

$709,469,040; STP Investment - $812,372,085; Hollistic Contracting & Proc

I

c$822,756,533; Hana’s Construction ,Cleaning Service & Supplies - $ 796,441,590; Mohamed R a h i m & S o n$820,168,650; J Hussain’s Construction & Supplies$800,775,780; Nabi

Construction Inc - $ 609,578,902; Toolsie Persaud Quarries Inc

$769,012,629; B M

Property Investments Inc.$829,443,510; and Satar

M o h a m e d & S o n

Construction & Hardware Supplies-$810,840,035.

Fmr.StabroekNews

EICtoleaddigitalnews entityKiskadeeWatch

Former Editor-in-Chief of the Stabroek News, Anand Persaud

Former Editor-in-Chief oftheStabroekNews,Anand Persaud is set to lead Kiskadee Watch, a new online daily Guyanese newspaper that will be launchedonJune14.

Kiskadee Watch was formed by a group of Guyanese here and abroad, along with others who care about the future of Guyana The entity promises free content to all readers and to fill the void in credible reporting that the closure of StabroekNewsleft.

Persaudwillbeaidedbya team drawn from the former Stabroek News whose professional excellence and integrity over 35 years built the legacy of the recently closed newspaper, the news entity said in a statement on Monday

Also bidding were Eagle

Transportation & General

Construction Inc$761,366,130; LongReach Investments & Construction Inc - $734,366,842; Pivot Engineering Inc. ; I.Khan Contracting Service$811,

Construction & General S

$769,570,410; Rockey & S

$796,163,025;D.Chowtie& S

$815,826,533; M & P Inv

, 2 8 3 ; N

$770,552,435; S Maraj Contracting Services

$801,049,935; Roopan Ramotar Investment$796,978,350; and R & N Construction Services$784,611,975. Additionally,YunasCivil & Building Construction Services - $753,820,180; Correira & Correira Ltd - $

Investments Inc.$700,472,745; Aronco ServicesInc-$840,594,525; Twinkle Construction$754,583,025; Singh & Son

Engineering & Construction SuppliesInc-$756,346,658; China Railway First Group Co., Ltd. - $788,519,283; M

Ranch Inc. - $745,003,823 have all applied for the contract.

This pu

on previously reported that the facilities will support the fisherfolkintheGoedFortuin area,makingtheareaamore organised and secure space forthem.

AccordingtoaJune2025 Department of Public Informationarticle,President Irfaan Ali had visited the Goed Fortuin fishing area whereheannouncedplansto construct a cold storage and build the wharf, along with otherupgrades.

DPI reported that among the immediate interventions promised were the rehabilitation of the non-

functionalkoker,installation of proper lighting to enable safe operations and the construction of walkways, and a wharf for docking and offloading.

Wherever there is a need fordredgingthatwillalsobe done,thepresidentnoted.

“A key element of the transformationisthecreation of a designated space for small-scaleretailandholding activities. This would allow the vendors and fishers to sell and store goods directly on-site It will be complemented by enhanced security and essential utilities to support daily operations,”DPIreported.

The project forms part of NDIA’s$81billionallocation which was approved in the 2026nationalbudget

It was disclosed that the entityisahybridmodelthatis basedonshareownershipand contributors, drawing on the financing model of the UK Guardian and the National PublicRadio,USA. The vision for Kiskadee Watchisthereestablishingin Guyana of a trusted, independent,fact-basednews institution that safeguards editorial freedom and strengthens democratic discourse, the statement read. The production of a high-quality,weeklyprinted newspaper is expected beforetheendoftheyear.

Members of Kiskadee Watch Steering Committee include: Janette Bulkan, Rhett Gordon, Jocelyne Josiah, GHK Lall, Cheryl SpringerandAlissaTrotz Continuedonpage16

NewoperaassociationopenswithInt’lflair

The newly formed EuroGuyanese Classical Music and Opera Association successfully staged its inaugural evening of classical music and opera on Monday evening at the historic St. George’sCathedralinGeorgetown.

Held under the patronage of

EU Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni, the event featured internationally acclaimed

Argentine-Spanish baritone Leonardo López Linares and oboistCeciliaMaragno.Theywere joined by Association performers Chie Clarke, Maria Rodriguez,

MarilynDewar,SyeshaYahyaand theWoodsideChoir.

López Linares, celebrated for his powerful voice and commanding stage presence, launched his international career after winning First Prize at the Luciano Pavarotti International

Closeto600girlsunder16became pregnantinfiveyears-CPAreports

The Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA)recorded584casesofgirlsundertheage of 16 becoming pregnant between 2020 and 2025,accordingtoinformationprovidedtothe National Assembly by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud Thefigurerelatesonlytocasesthat were referred to the agency duringthefive-yearperiod.

Persaud was at the time respondingtoquestionposedby OppositionParliamentarianand Leader of the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) party, Amanaza Walton. In a written responsetoaseriesofquestions asked by Walton, Minister Persaud gave detailed breakdown of the process that follows an underage pregnant girl

Among other things, the ministerexplainedthatwhilethe agency’s data systems capture reportsofunderagepregnancies; however,theydonotspecifically disaggregate whether the child subsequentlygavebirth

Agency when a child under the age of 16 is confirmedpregnant?

Dr Persaud explained that there is an established inter-agency practice whereby cases involving minors who are pregnant are referred to the CPA She noted that private healthcareproviders,aswellastheMinistryof Health,notifytheAgencywhena pregnancy involving a child undertheageof16isidentified, as such cases may indicate sexualabuseunderthelaw

As such, she said the CPA is unable to provideaseparatefigureforgirlsundertheage of 16 who gave birth during the specified period AccordingtoPersaud,allsuchmatters aretreatedaschildprotectionconcernsandare assessed to determine the presence of abuse neglect, or exploitation, with appropriate interventionsimplementedineachcase.

Asked whether there is a mandatory referral protocol between the Ministry of Health and the Child Care and Protection

Based on the line of questioning, the Minister clarified that while there is no policy titled a “mandatory referral protocol” the referral of these cases is guided by the Protection of ChildrenAct, Cap 46:03, particularly, Section 4Duty to report a child in need of protection [under] Section 6G

i

intervention, including sexual abuse, the Sexual OffencesAct. Cap.8:03,whichestablishesthat sexualactivitywithachildunder theageof16,constitutesacriminaloffence, thereby necessitating reporting and investigation and established inter-agency procedures between the health, social services,andlawenforcementsectors

According to Dr Persaud, the Ministry continues to strengthen formal coordination mechanismstoensureconsistency,timeliness, andaccountabilityinthereferralandresponse process and is in the process of developing policieswhichwerenotinplace,previously. Continued on page 17

Voice Competition in Philadelphia in 1995. The victory led to a collaboration with Pavarotti in Opera Extravaganza, where he performed the role of Marcello in LaBohème.

The Euro-Guyanese Classical Music and Opera Association is

the brainchild of Ambassador Pierantoni and brings together the Clemsville Music Conservatory, Dewar’s Music School, the Guyana Music Teachers Association, Mitchell’s Mount Academy and the Symphonic OrchestraofJesus

Hall

Govt. to spend $25.9M more to rehabilitate roof at Cliff Anderson Sport

The Cliff Anderson Sports Hall located on HomestretchAvenue,which has been under renovation since 2022 will see the government spending approximately$25.9million moreonthefacilitythisyear, torehabilitatetheroof.

This is according to the latest invitation for bids issued by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport which was published in Sunday’s edition of the Kaieteur News According tothetenderdocument,bids for this project are expected to open on June 30, 2026 at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board(NPTAB)office.

The project is the latest to be added to the sport facility where initialworksbeganinlate2022.

In January 2025, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramsonatapressbriefingsaidthe government has since invested some$321millioninvariousworks atthebuilding.

Thisnewspaperreportedthatin November 2022, the ministry awarded a contract worth $97 million to ECS Construction & GeneralSupplies,tocoveronlythe

first phase of the project. That phase, entailed the redesign of the frontsectionofthebuilding,which wouldbereconstructed.

In December that year, the NPTABawardedaninitialcontract for the installation of the HVAC systems at the facility That $89,840,020 project was awarded to ECS Construction & General Supplies. During that month too, another contract for electrical installation was awarded to A. Ogransein & Sons to the tune of $31,409,000.

Following that, NPTAB

awarded a $60,324,675 contract to S&K Construction Consultancy Service & General Supply for the completion of the northern face of thebuilding.

At the press briefing Minister Ramson said that approximately $7.6millionwasspentonplumbing works that was done by KNV Designs Construction. Another $4 millionwasspenttoreplaceanarea which had rotten boards in a concretestructure.

Further, he disclosed that rehabilitationworkwasdoneonthe roof by Rishma and Sisters

Enterprise for $9 4 million

Rehabilitationwasalsodoneonthe side walls for $7.9 million, which was executed by R Persid Construction,andceilingworksfor $12million.

Notably,theministerexplained thatinrelationtotheinstallationof AC, which was initially awarded for $89 million, “We had to terminatethatprojectin2023.They completedabout$65millionworth of works, but we terminated the projectbecausetheyweredelaying, it was poor performance so it delayed. It is not that they weren’t

The Cliff Anderson Sports Hall which the government has been renovating since 2022.

doing quality work, it is that they weretakingtoolong.”

To complete the installation of the AC, he explained that the ministry tendered for and awarded a$37millioncontract.

He had mentioned at the time that the remaining works to complete the project related to the parkinglotareaandtheinstallation ofbucketseats.

Meanwhile, the ministry in 2025 tendered for the construction of a section of a fence, an access bridge, and to upgrade of the lightingonthecourtatthefacility

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Two more charged for AK-47 bust

...as police continue probe; one still at large

Twomoremenhavebeen remanded to prison as the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues its investigation into the discovery of 10AK47rifles.

In a statement issued on Monday, police confirmed that legal advice had been sought and received regarding the way forward in the matter

Themen,33-year-oldAntonioAlonzoLawrieofFarm Village,EastBankDemerara, and 21-year-old Gregory Persaud,alsoofFarmVillage, were both charged with conspiracy to commit a felony

Acting on the advice of the police legal adviser, Persaud was additionally charged with possession of firearms without a licence, contrarytoSection16(2)(a)of the Firearms Act, Chapter 16:05.

Persaud, a wash bay attendant, appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where he pleadednotguiltytothefirearm-related charge. He was granted$400,000bailandor-

dered to report to the police every Friday The matter was adjournedtoJuly3,2026.

Laterthatday,Lawrieand Persaud appeared before Magistrate Rhondel Weever at the Wales Magistrate’s Court, where the conspiracy charge, laid under Section 33 oftheCriminalLaw(Offences) Act,Chapter8:01,wasreadto them. Both men pleaded not guilty

However, Magistrate Weever denied bail and remanded them to prison until theirnextcourtappearanceon July29,2026.

The pair surrendered to police on Friday in the company of their attorney, days after investigators issued a wanted bulletin for them and another suspect, Ryan Singh, known as “Satan,” of Parika, East Bank Essequibo. Singh remainsatlarge.

Their alleged associate, 33-year-oldStevenRajah,has already been remanded to prison. Rajah appeared virtually before Magistrate MichelleMatthiasattheNew Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on May 28, 2026. He

Fmr. Stabroek News EIC to...

From page 11

“We chose the kiskadee for our masthead as this bird is common and familiar up and down Guyana. Guyanese are surrounded by the familiar loudcrieswhichgavethebird its name. The kiskadee is hardy and adaptable, as we Guyanese are: it survives the pesticidessprayedindiscriminately on fields and streets, therarityofcleanwaterinour garbage-infested trenches, the relentless replacement of fruits and flower plants with fence-to-fence concrete. The kiskadee (zoological name Pitanga sulphuratus from its yellow feathers) has survived, and, with the support offellowcitizensandallwho love Guyana, so will the Kiskadee Watch,” the entity said in a statement.

The entity underscored that press freedom, accountability and accessibility require us all to be involved. It also stressed that the defence of press freedom and free expression comes at a significant cost. “We invite Guyanese, here and abroad and all others who care about Guyana and the wider Caribbean to contribute to ensuring press freedom and accountability,” it was noted.

Membersofthepubliccan contribute/ subscribe to the newspaper at www.kiskadeewatch.com or via its bank account, which will be publicised at a later date.Thoseinterestedinsubscribing / advertising and or donating, can contact the entity via email at sales@kiskadeewatch.com.

pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to return to court onJune15,2026.

Rajah, of Goed Fortuin Village,WestBankDemerara, was the first suspect arrested following the discovery of the 10AK-47 rifles at No. 11 Village, East Coast Berbice, on May 22.

According to police reports, Rajah was intercepted during a stop-and-search operation conducted by ranks stationedattheBerbiceRiver Bridge Access Road. However, he allegedly fled the

scene by driving away. He was subsequently apprehended at Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara, and taken into custody.

This version tightens the language,removesrepetition, and follows a more professional news-writing style whilepreservingallkeyfacts.

‘Oil wealth not reaching workers’

From page 10 arrangementsthatleaveworkers vulnerable.

“This shift undermines thestabilityofthepublicservice and weakens the very foundation of collective representation,” Yarde said.

HepledgedthattheUnion would continue to challenge suchpracticesanddefendthe principle that public service employment should remain secure, fair and sustainable.

Beyondtraditionallabour concerns, Yarde identified technologicalchangeandthe riseofartificialintelligenceas emergingchallengesthatwill reshape the future of work.

TECHNOLOGY

He said the GPSU must notonlycontinuefightingfor fair wages and job security but also help prepare workerstoadapttoworkplacesincreasinglyinfluencedbytechnology

“Tomorrow’s workforce will look different,” he said, noting that tasks once performed by employees are increasingly being undertaken by machines and algorithms.

In his anniversary message, Yarde also highlighted several agreements that have historically strengthened the collectivebargainingrelationshipbetweentheGovernment ofGuyanaandtheGPSU.

Among these are the check-off agreement for union dues and agency fees, arrangements governing the distribution of circulars to recognised trade unions and staffassociations,provisions for the secondment of public servants to recognised unions without loss of serviceorpromotionalopportunities, and agreements relating to the avoidance and settlementofdisputesinvolvingwages,salariesandallowances.

Yarde further pointed to constitutionalprotectionsafforded to public servants underArticle38GoftheConstitution, which guarantees the integrityofthepublicservice anditsfreedomfrompolitical influence.

The constitutional provision safeguards public officersfrombeingrequiredtoexecute irregular acts, protects theirfreedomtoperformtheir duties and responsibilities, and ensures due process before sanctions can be imposed.

The GPSU President also referencedanumberofInternationalLabourOrganization (ILO)conventionsratifiedby Guyana,includingthosedealing with freedom of association, collective bargaining, equal remuneration, labour relationsinthepublicservice and occupational safety and health.

AccordingtoYarde,these legalprotectionsandinternationalcommitmentshaveprovided the foundation for the Union’s advocacy over the years, despite what he describedaspoliticalresistance to bilateral negotiations and attempts at union busting.

WAGE NEGOTIATIONS

Among the Union’s most recentachievements,hehighlighted a court order compelling the Government to engage in meaningful negotiations regarding wages, salaries and allowances.

Yarde said the issue of wage negotiations had effectively been sidelined by successive governments for more than two decades.

The return to negotiations, he noted, would provide an opportunity for the Union to continue advancing its longstanding call for the payment of a living wage to public servants.

The GPSU President also expressed disappointment over what he described as a longstanding failure by public service employers to provide adequate recreational facilitiesforworkers.

Hearguedthatsuchfacilities are important to employees’ wellbeing and mental health and noted that similar provisionsexistformembers of the disciplined services.

“Public servants are human beings and these facilities are necessary and impor-

tant for their continued wellbeing and mental health,” he stated.

Yarde said the Union hopesthatthisdeficiencywill be addressed in the near future.

Reflecting on the organisation’s history, he saidtheGPSU’scommitment to its motto, “Justice for the Public Employee,” has remainedunwaveringthroughout its 103 years.

He noted that the sacrifices and struggles of previous generations of workers have produced gains that continue to benefit public servants today

Thatstruggle,hesaid,will continue until poverty is alleviated within the ranks of public workers and working conditions reach acceptable international standards.

IMPROVE LIVES OF PUBLIC SERVANTS

Yarde also appealed to Guyana’spoliticalleadership to recognise the challenges facing workers and use their authority to improve their lives in a fair and genuine manner.

Atthesametime,heurged public servants to continue providing quality service to the nation.

“As the largest employed group, we must continue to set an example and not be identified with bringing suffering to the nation that we are legally mandated to serve,” he said.

Extending anniversary greetings to members, allies and supporters, Yarde describedtheUnion’s103rdanniversaryasatestamenttoits enduring dedication to the rights, dignity and advancement of public servants across Guyana.

Heconcludedbyexpressinghopethatthestrongfoundationbuiltbygenerationsof union leaders and members will continue to sustain the organisation in the years ahead.

“Long live the Guyana Public Service Union,” the GPSUPresidentdeclared.

‘Ignore procurement rules and you’ll be fired’

President IrfaanAli onMondayissued a stern warning to public health officials, declaring that anyone who bypasses the established medicalprocurementsystem willbedismissed.

The warning came during a meeting at State House, where the President reviewed the government’s major investments aimed at strengthening healthcare deliveryacrossGuyana.

During the engagement President Ali put health officials on notice that his administration demands valueformoney,particularly inthehealthsector

PresidentAliemphasised the need for hospitals and health centres to maintain adequate stocks of medicines and medical supplies, while ensuring highstandardsofserviceand patientcare.

On the heels of allegations of unjustified procurement practices by health officials in some regions, President Ali at the meeting cautioned that

...Pres.Ali warns health officials

officials will be terminated for not following clear procedures as they relate to

, particularly emergency purchases.

“We have invested heavily in medical supplies and pharmaceuticals and there is no reason why any healthcentershouldnothave above 90% availability every single day of the year There is absolutely no reason,”Alisaid.

He outlined that the governmenthasinvestedina system at the Materials Management Unit (MMU) with clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

“All the regional health officers, the hospitals administrators, you’ll be held accountable based on that system. Anybody who worksoutsideofthatsystem, outside of the SOPs in that system, you will be sent home. I’m just going to

repeat that Anyone who works outside of the system is established at the MMU,” thepresidentnoted.

As it relates to emergency purchases, Ali noted, “There are clear procedures as to who must sign off. There is where the Director of Regional Health Services, the Chief Medical Officer, all would have definedresponsibilities.”

Ali noted that the centralizedinventorysystem whichwillbeoperationalon July 1, is designed as a dashboard so that public health officials will be able toseewhatisavailable.

“You can be aware of what is available and if you act outside of that, we will have no other choice but to send you home,” the president reiterated He underscored that the goal of the new system is to minimize the loss of drugs through expiration, damage andoverstocking.

“There is absolutely no

situation where the regions must be purchasing emergency drugs, unless thereisaclearsign-offonthe system by the Director of Regional Health Services and the Chief Medical Officer and the head of the MMU. Those three persons havetosignoffcompletely,” Alinoted.

To further curb issues in e m e r g e n c y d r u g procurement, President Ali statedthatonceeverymonth, MinisterofHealthDr Frank Anthony, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Malcolm M Watkins, Director of Regional Health Services(DRHS)Dr.Cerdel McWatt, the Director of the MMU and other officials will convene via Zoom with thecountry’shealthofficials to determine whether emergency supplies are needed.

Moreover,Ali noted that training is now being completed in some regions inrelationtohowthesystem

President Irfaan Ali

works.Healsonotedthatthe new system will require changes in the regional healthoffices.

During the meeting, President Ali stressed that quality healthcare is about customer service, patient management, facilities management and not only about the medical component.

He reminded Regional Health Officers and hospital administrators,thatitistheir duty to ensure citizens

receivethebestpossiblecare at the country’s health facilities.

“These facilities come under your leadership, the washroom, the waiting area, the way the security handle people, the nurses, the front desk. All of these things in thesystem,allofthesethings have a design to ensure patient comfort, safety, and patientexperienceandthisis critical for us. We are building a world-class healthcare system, not only by the level of service and amount of service we offer but also by the way we care for our patients, by the way wetreatpatients,bytheway we manage, by our level of t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability,”headded.

Inaddition,PresidentAli also addressed other issues and concerns in the health sector

He disclosed that within twoweeksameetingwillbe heldtolookatthedisparities that exist during the salary adjustment in terms of doctors, nurses, and consultants.

Close to 600 girls...

Frompage13

-confession

Man who slit boy’s throat targeted another home before deadly Zeelugt attack

The 23-year-old suspect in custody forthemurderofseven-year-oldAdriel

Aftab Mohamed and the attempted murder of his 72-year-old greatgrandmother, Halima Itwari, has reportedlyconfessedthathefirsttriedto break into a nearby home before targetingthevictims’residence.

According to police, the suspect, a farmer of Zeelugt was arrested at his residenceonSaturday Whileincustody he reportedly confessed to the crimes committed on seven-year-old Mohamed and his 72-year-old grandmotherwhichoccurredonJune5.

The child and grandmother were homealoneatthetimewhentheincident occurred Policesourcessaidthevictims werenotthesuspect’sinitialtarget

A c c o r d i n g t o D e p u t y Commissioner of Police and Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, during his confession to investigators, the suspect when showed additional digital evidence, “confirmed that prior to entering the victims’ home, he had entered a yard close by However, he failed to enter the home as he heard movements which alerted him that someonewasawake.Andinhishasteto leavebeforeanalarmwasraisedheleft hisslippersandamusicplayer.”

Based on his confession, police in their investigation went to that residence, where they recovered the items,whichwasthenidentifiedbythe suspectasbelongingtohim.

Investigatorsbuiltaformidablecase noting that the knife recovered at the crime scene was confirmed by the suspectastheweaponusedintheattack. Clothing worn during the assault has sincebeenretrievedandwillbesentto

Dead: Adriel Aftab Mohamed

the Forensic Science Laboratory for analysis, along with other physical evidence.

Sources close to the investigation revealed to this publication that the suspectisnotarelativetothefamilyof thelittleboyandhisgreat-grandmother

The suspect remains in custody as investigationcontinues.

Kaieteur News understands that on Monday,apostmortemwasconducted on the body of seven-year-old Mohamed.Theautopsyrevealedthathe diedfromanincisedwoundtotheneck, compoundedbybluntforceofinjuries.

His body has been handed over to relatives for burial. Kaieteur News understands that funeral arrangements areyettobeannounced.

It was reported that the murder occurredatapproximately04:45hrs.on Friday, June 5, when Adriel and his great-grandmother were alone at their home. A relative arriving at around 05:05hrs.discoveredItwariinjuredand the child motionless Emergency services were called, and the elderly womanwastransportedtothehospital, where she remains in a stable but traumatisedcondition.“Sheisinalotof pain, she is still traumatised and afraid

reveals

ofthewholesituation,”arelativesaid.

The boy’s great-uncle, Naseeb Mohamed, described to reporters on Friday the harrowing scene he encountered when he entered the darkenedhome.

“One of the neighbours called my wife this morning, minutes to five and toldherImustcomedowntocheckon my mother because somebody is in the house.And I came and when I came, I pushed the door and went inside, I put onthelightsbecausetheplacewasdark. I saw my mother lying on the ground, the first thought that came to my mind was that she was dead, and then I look up, a little more in the house I saw my great nephew on the ground,” he recalled. Moving closer to the child, Mohamedsaid:“Iseehehadacuttohis neckandthewholeplacewasfilledwith blood,alotofbloodallovertheplace.” Heimmediatelyalertedneighboursand rushedhismothertothehospital.

Adriel’s father was working in Essequiboatthetimeoftheattack.The boy lived in the home with his greatgrandmotherandhisfather Mohamed expressed bewilderment at the motive behind the senseless violence. “My mother is not a rich woman,andthensheis72yearsoldand hadstrokeoverayearnow Idon’tknow if it’s a robbery or they just come to molest her or whatever the case might be,”hesaid.Relativesrememberedthe Zeelugt Primary School student as an energeticandfriendlychild.Heusedto help his grandmother in the home who isnothealthy.

Authoritieshavenotyetreleasedthe suspect’s identity, pending the completionoftheinvestigation.

TheMinisternotedthat“Whenachildundertheageof16 gives birth or is identified as pregnant and the matter is brought to the attention of the Childcare and Protection Agency,acomprehensivechildprotectionriskassessmentis conducted.Uponreceivingareport,thechildislocatedand engagedbyaChildProtectionOfficer.”

She explained that the initial interview is conducted to gather information on the circumstances of the pregnancy The matter is reported to the Guyana Police Force, as pregnanciesinvolvingchildrenunder16constitutestatutory offences.

“A forensic interview is conducted and a family investigation is conducted, including a home visit and assessment of the living environment,” the Minister disclosedaddingthatariskassessmentisthenconductedto identify the alleged perpetrator and determine whether the perpetratorresidesinthehousehold.

“Based on the findings, if the environment is unsafe, particularly where the perpetrator is within the household, the child is removed and placed into alternative care,” Persaudsaidinherwrittenresponse.

She noted that further evaluation of the safety and stabilityofthehomeenvironmentistaken,anassessmentof care giving arrangements and support system and a determination of risk to both the child and the newborn, whichdeterminesplacement.

“Where necessary, the family is referred to health services to ensure proper medical care and health-related interventions.TheAgencyconductsongoingmonitoringand supervision and if the environment is assessed as safe and stable,thechildmayremainwithfamilyundersupervision.”

TheMinisternotedthatopportunitiesforreintegration

Shesaidthereareanumberofinitiativesfacilitatingtheir return to the formal education system or enrollment in technicalandvocationaltrainingprogrammes.

Additionally, the Ministries of Health and Education offerprogrammesaimedatsupportingpregnantadolescents, includinginitiativesthatencourageandassistyoungmothers inreturningtoschool.

Overthepastfiveyears,shesaidprovisionofcounselling and psychosocial support to adolescent mothers, parenting trainingsessionstoenhancecaregivingcapacity

“There is reintegration of adolescent mothers into families and communities, where appropriate referrals to health and education services, and ongoing monitoring and casemanagement[aredone].”

Iran and Israel halt attacks

(Al Jazeera) - Iran and Israel have halted mutual missile and droneattackswhichwerelaunched overnight – the first exchanged strikes since a ceasefire started in early April. Iran announced on Monday afternoon that it was halting attacks, but warned that theywouldresumeifIsraelcarried out further acts of “aggression and hostility”,includinginLebanon.

A little later, Israeli media reported that the military would refrain from strikes on Iran at the request of United States President DonaldTrump.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks had been halted after Israel “hit the terrorregimeinTehran”.

However, he insisted that the Israeli military would continue to operate against Iran-linked Hezbollah in Lebanon, and threatened that if Iran “makes the mistakeandreturnstoattackingus, wewillrespondwithforce”.

Thelatestexchangeoffire,and the subsequent sabre-rattling on bothsides,hasheightenedfearsofa return to full-scale regional war, which would worsen the global energy crisis and deepen market volatility

Further escalation could also derail ongoing diplomatic efforts

...but sabre-rattling continues

An Israeli settler stands next to part of a missile protruding from the ground, following attacks from Iran, in the central Israeli-occupied West Bank, June 8, 2026. [Naama Stern/Reuters]

aimedatsecuringapermanentend totheconflictbetweenIranandthe USandIsrael.

Despite both appearing to be

respecting the halt in hostilities on Monday afternoon, allowing airportsacrosstheregiontoreopen, TelAvivandTehraninsistthatthey

are ready to swiftly return to militaryaction.

An Israeli official, quoted by the AP news agency, said it had been agreed to halt airstrikes on Iran upon a request from Trump, but that the offensive in Lebanon wouldcontinue “atfullforce”.

Iranianofficialssaid that in the event that any renewed action by their forces would be required it would be “much more severe” and accompanied by “crushing measures”.

Tehran had repeatedly warned thatitwouldinterveneinsupportof Hezbollah if Israel targeted the Lebanese capital.The Iran-aligned armed group has rejected the USbrokered ceasefire between Israel andLebanon.

Despiteareportedrequestfrom Trump urging restraint, Israel then retaliatedwithstrikesagainstIran.

The Israeli military said its air force completed “an extensive strike against strategic defence systems”inIran.Itaddedthatithad targeted facilities at the petrochemical complex in Mahshahr, in the country’s southwest,afterearliercarryingout attacks on military sites elsewhere inIran.

According to Israel media, on Monday Prime Minister Benjamin

Netanyahu accepted Trump’s demand to refrain from striking Iran again. In a post on his Truth SocialplatformonMonday,Trump said “Israel and Iran must stop ‘shooting’.”

The US president says a deal with Tehran that will re-open the StraitofHormuzandbringthewar to a permanent end is in reach. Unverified reports suggest there has been rising tension with Netanyahu in recent weeks due to Israel’scontinuedaggression.

Tehran has long insisted that a truce with Washington must include a halt to hostilities in Lebanon.

Since the start of the truce betweenIranandtheUS,Israelhas continued attacking its northern neighbourandhas,inrecentweeks, expandedtheareaitoccupiesinthe Lebanonsouth,sayingitisactingin pursuit of Hezbollah fighters who continue to fire rockets and drones atnorthernIsrael.

On Monday afternoon, after Iran and Israel announced they were halting strikes against one another, the AFP news agency reportedthatanIsraelistrikehadhit a vehicle in Tyre, south Lebanon while the Israeli army intercepted three projectiles fired from LebanonintonorthernIsrael.

Powerful earthquake hits Philippines, killing at least 32

Police gather in front of a collapsed fast food restaurant after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in General Santos City, the Philippines, on June 8, 2026 [Edwin Espejo/AFP]

(Al Jazeera) A 7.8-magnitude earthquakethatstruckthesouthern PhilippinesonJune8killedatleast onepersonandcollapsedbuildings, police said, as the disaster sparked tsunami warnings across the region.Apowerful earthquake has struck the Philippines, killing at least 32 people, destroying buildings and triggering tsunami alertsacrossAsia.

Morethan100peoplewerealso injured when the magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the island of Mindanao shortly before 7:40am localtimeonMonday(23:40GMT, Sunday), according to the United StatesGeologicalSurvey

The initial earthquake was followed by more than an hour of aftershocks, according to the PhilippineInstituteofVolcanology andSeismology

General Santos, a city of 722,000 people in southern Mindanao, sustained some of the mostseriousdamage.

PHIVOLCS said the city, located in the southern region of Soccsksargen, experienced the “very strong” event on its internal intensityscale Video posted on official social

media channels showed a threestorey building that housed a Jollibee restaurant collapsing in a cloud of debris and dust, startling onlookers.

Otherimagesshowedextensive damage to buildings, including smashed windows and caved-in roofs.

A man walks near a collapsed building after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in General Santos, Mindanao Island, Philippines, on June 8, 2026 [Handout/GenSan DEVviaReuters]

Police spokesperson Robert Daguntoldalocalradiostationthat parts of the city’s St Elizabeth Hospital were severely damaged, forcing patients and medical personnel to evacuate and temporarily operate outside the mainhospitalbuilding.

Mary Ann Blanco Rhudy, a Catholic nun working for Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in General Santos, said she was travelling to the college when the earthquakestruck.

“The cars on the road were moving erratically I am lucky that they didn’t crash against each other,”shetoldAlJazeera.

“The trees on the side of the roadwerealsoswayingviolently.” Rhudy said some of the buildings at the college had partiallycollapsed.

Philippine President Ferdinand MarcosJrsaidemergencyagencies had been activated, including the Office of Civil Defence and the National Disaster Risk Reduction andManagementCouncil.

Marcossaidhehadorderedthe closure of schools in affected areas According to the state-run Philippine News Agency, 3 2 million students and 128,000 teachers and personnel were affected on what was meant to be the first day of school in the country “The safety of our children

for

UN report: Nearly 513,000 in T&T cannot afford a healthy meal

(Trinidad Guardian) In TrinidadandTobago(T&T),about 512,000people,orroughly36.8per cent of the population, cannot affordahealthydiet.

Close to 200,000 citizens are undernourished.

Around100,000childrenunder the age of five are stunted, and fewerthan100,000babiesareborn withalowbirthweight.

Fewer than 100,000 children below the age of five are overweight.

Approximately 300,000 individuals 18 years and under are obese. Additionally,about100,000 women aged 15 to 49 are affected byanaemia.

These statistics were highlighted in the 2025 “State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World-AddressingHighFoodPrice Inflation for Food Security and Nutrition” report, which explored the causes and impacts of food inflation, analysed its effects on different food groups and diet affordability to help countries end hunger, food insecurity and all formsofmalnutrition.

The234-pagereport,published inFebruary2026,waspreparedby the Food and Agriculture OrganisationoftheUnitedNations, UNICEF,theInternationalFundfor Agricultural Development, the World Food Programme and the WorldHealthOrganisation.

T&T is just one of over 100 countries worldwide mentioned in the report, based on data gathered from 2017 to 2024 on food insecurityandfoodpriceinflation.

According to the report, data compiled over the last ten years showed an upward trend in the proportion of T&T’s population unabletoaffordahealthydiet.

In 2017, 31.5 per cent of the population (441,000) could not affordanutrient-densediet.

By2019,thatfigureclimbedto 32.8percent,representing459,200 people unable to afford a wellbalancedmeal.

The most dramatic spike occurred during the height of the pandemic in 2021, when the proportion reached a staggering 38.6percent(540,400people).

Asthepandemicdrewtoaclose in 2023, the number of people in T&T unable to afford a nutritious diet decreased to 37.9 per cent, or 530,600. Heading into 2024, the figure dropped slightly to 36.8 per cent(515,200people).

Statistics also showed that 200,000 people in T&T were undernourished between 2022 and 2024.

In 2024, fewer than 100,000 children under five years old were classifiedasstunted. A

100,000 childrenbelowtheageoffivewere also identified as overweight in 2024.

Around300,000adultsaged18

and under were recorded as being obesein2022,and100,000women in the age bracket 15 to 49 were anaemicby2023.

Fewer than 100,000 babies were documented as having low birthweightin2020.

From2022to2024,thecountry had 400,000 people facing moderateorseverefoodinsecurity

In a different section of the report, it indicated that the prevalenceofundernourishmentin the total population was 11.2 per cent, or 156,800 people, between 2022and2024.

The prevalence of stunting in childrenunderagefivewas7.8per centin2024.

Among children under five years old, about 15 per cent were saidtobeoverweightin2024.

About28.1percentoftheadult populationunder18yearsoldwere consideredobesein2022.

In 2020, the prevalence of low birthweightwas16.3percent. Worldbehindonendinghunger

The report said that as 2030 nears, the world is significantly behind on achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2, to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture, with setbacks due to extreme weather events, the effects of the COVID19pandemic,risingfoodpricesand geopoliticaldisruptionssuchasthe warinUkraine.

While there have been signs of recoveryinrecentyears,persistent inflation has slowed this progress, continuing to undermine purchasing power and access to healthydiets.

In 2024, the cost of a healthy diet (CoHD) was highest in Latin AmericaandtheCaribbeanat5.16 (PPP, purchasing power parity

A Tobago vendor shows off her fruits and vegetables.

dollars),witha7.6percentincrease between 2022 and 2023, followed by a 3.8 per cent increase between 2023and2024.

By 2024, the population in Latin America and the Caribbean unable to afford a healthy diet had reached181.9million.

Worldwide, an estimated 31.9 per cent of people (2.60 billion) wereunabletoaffordahealthydiet in 2024, compared with 3.35 per cent(2.68billion)in2022.

Ahealthydietissimplyamixof nutritious foods, including fresh fruits, a variety of vegetables and moderateamountsofmeat.

Eating healthy is critical to preventing malnutrition, child stuntingandwasting,micronutrient deficiencies and overweight or obesity

Consuming balanced meals also reduces the risk of noncommunicable diseases, diabetes andcancers.

Thereportstatedthatthecostof ahealthydiet(CoHD)inT&Trose from3.72purchasingpowerparity (PPPdollarsperday,perperson)in 2017 to 5.56 (PPP dollars per day, perperson)in2024.

Food prices rose throughout 2023 and 2024, pushing up the average cost of a healthy diet globally to 4.46 (PPP) dollars per person per day, up from 4.30 PPP dollarsin2023and4.01PPPdollars in2022.

The report stated that in 2024, upper and lower-middle-income countries recorded the highest average cost of a healthy diet at 4.83 PPP dollars per day, while lower-middle-income countries followed closely at 4 48 PPP dollarsperday

Aboutone-third(32percent)of theglobalpopulationwasunableto afford a healthy diet in 2024, and

the number of people unable to afford a healthy diet in the world fell from 2.76 billion in 2019 to 2.60 billion in 2024, which was fuelled by an economic recovery from the pandemic that has nevertheless been uneven across regions and country income groups.

Despite adequate global food production, millions of people go hungry or are malnourished because safe and nutritious food is notavailable,simplynotaccessible ornotaffordable.

The report indicated that countries lacked sufficient data or were off track to achieve the 2030 globalnutritiontargets.

In 2024, an estimated 7 8 million people in the Caribbean facedchronichunger Out of 203 countries, 139 experienced cumulative food price inflationexceeding25percent.

In 49 of these countries, inflationsurpassed50percent,and in25countries,itexceeded100per cent.

inflationmighthavecontributedto persistently high levels of unaffordability

More nutrient-dense food groups,suchasvegetables,animalsource foods and fruits, were consistently ranked as the most expensive.

In 2021, vegetables worldwide were generally 11.9 times more expensive than basic starchy staples.

Animal-source foods and fruits were 9.1 and 7.2 times pricier, respectively

“These enduring price differentials underscore the economic barriers many households face in accessing a healthydiet,”thereportstated.

It also noted that inflation has become one of the top worries worldwide, surpassing fears of crime,violenceandpoverty

The report stated that global price data revealed a persistent disparity between the price per kilocalorie of basic starchy staples and that of more nutrient-dense food groups, with significant implications for diet quality and affordability

When inflation makes nutritious foods less affordable, it becomes tougher for everyone to maintainahealthydiet.

Thereportpointedoutthatprice premiumsforvegetables,fruitsand animal-source foods remain substantialandvolatile,reinforcing economic barriers to the consumptionofhealthydiets.

“Thevolatilityofthesepricesis amplified by factors such as perishability, seasonal supply fluctuations and frequent disruptions along supply chains,” thereportstated.

Despite the increase in food pricesin2024,thereportstatedthat

Based on these challenges, the report noted that eliminating hungerby2030remainsanelusive target.

On May 14, Guardian Media Investigations Desk sent a request for comment to Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services Vandana Mohit regarding 36.8 per cent of T&T’s populationbeingunabletoafforda healthydiet;shehasnotresponded.

Fruitsexpensivetomaintain

The National Schools Dietary Services Ltd (NSDSL), which manages the School Nutrition Programme(SNP)onbehalfofthe Ministry of Education, admitted in a2022PublicAccountsEnterprises Committee report that it had to r e m o v e f r u i t s f r o m schoolchildren’s breakfast meals duringthepandemic.

Two factors that contributed to this move were the cost and availabilityoffruits.

Thecommitteeheardthatofthe $7.4millionusedtopurchaselocal commodities for the programme’s meals between October 2019 and August2020,onlyfivepercentwas spentonfruits.

This raised concerns regarding thechildren’sdietaryrequirements.

Thecommitteeheardthatrising food prices were impacting the programme.

The SNP provides 54,000 breakfastmealsand79,000lunches daily to students in over 800 schools.

The programme provides approximately one-quarter and one-third of the recommended dietary allowance of nutrients for childrenthroughitsmeals.

The 2021/2022 NSDSL administrative report stated that “fewer nutritional alternative meal options” in school cafeterias was stillamajordeterrent.

Return of Primary Schools Windball Cricket continues

DeputyCommissionerBudhram...

Frompage22

Results in the Smalta in partnership with NSC, MCYS, ASTP, A. Munroe organised Return of Primary School Girls Windball Cricket played inside the NationalGymnasiumshowa winforWestRuimveldt. Saint Stephens batted first and scored 27-3, with Akelah Henry hitting 20. WestRuimveldtrepliedwith 32-0,AllianaPollard14.

Saint Margaret’s 23-0 with Jissell Kendall 14 to defeatSaintPiuswhofelljust short at 22-0, Sophia Razac made10.

Tuesday June 09, 2026

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

You enjoy caring for others andyouinterveneregularlyin their lives to guide them. Ironically, today you're the one who needs advice. You'll probably need to get away from it all in order to get a clearviewofyourownlife.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

We all have to make compromises in order to live in contemporary society You may have strong beliefs, but it's difficult to combine your idealsandasociallife.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

You've always felt the need to freeyourselffromsociety You needtofeelindependentatany cost You may need to face certain relationship problems at this time. Perhaps you're hesitant to commit either at workorinyourpersonallife.

CANCER(June21–July22)

You may feel annoyed about the attitude of some of your groupoffriends.Unlikethese people, you're very openminded and you candealwith situationsastheyarise Indeed, you have a natural ability to adapttoeverysituation

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Today, Leo, you'll be submerged under a lot of emotions. In a way, you'll be revisitingyourchildhood.You may be very edgy This is a good disposition in which to analyzeyourlife.

VIRGO(Aug 23–Sept 22)

You really know how to seduce,Virgo.Thereisaspark inside of you that spreads naturallytothosearoundyou. You have a big reservoir of sensitivity and emotion that couldgrowtoday

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

You're a very active person, Libra, but today you'll probably be disappointed. If you ask those around you to help with your activities, they most likely won't understand yourneeds.

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)

Nothing much is happening today, yet you seem worried and tense. You'll have to use this day to your advantage. Think about your life. You'll also think about the needs of your relatives in the years to come.

SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)

You often need to thrive on personal emotions. Today will benoexceptiontotherule.For instance, you could try to captivate the attention of peopleyouadmire.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

You shouldn't try to fight the feelings that run through you today Don't even try to rationalize them These feelingsareprobablyrelatedto emotions dating back to your childhood.Youshouldn'tavoid oranalyzethem.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

You'll be lost in your thoughts today, analyzing your life and relationships. You'll be asking yourself if your existence is meeting your standards. You will ponder what to expect fromthefuture.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

Today you will have all the energy you need to deal with long-term family problems You'll probably clash with someofyourrelatives.Butthis situation won't cause any seriousissues, you'lldealwith thesecircumstanceslikeapro.

development Romario Shepherd, in his remarks, also expressed appreciation for Deputy Commissioner Budhram’s support to cricket, especially young players He noted that Budhramhasbeenafriendof the club and expressed confidence that he will continue to assist wherever possible.

Shepherd further highlighted the importance ofguidanceandleadershipin the development of young cricketers, noting that support from persons in leadershippositionscanhelp create opportunities for young athletes to grow and succeed.

RamaKrishnascored680asAsetDavidscored50(4s x 8) and Nickeishna Campbell18.

Tucville in reply were restricted to 25-8 N Campbellcamebackwiththe ball to capture 4 wkts and MaliyaWilliamstook3wkts.

Saint Thomas More compiled 64-0, Keziah Washington 16, to defeat Enterprise 35-0, Janiah Wickhamscored12.

M e a n w h i l e , t h e organisers would like to expressgratitudetotheNSC Team Mia Ritchie, Robin Phillips, Latchman Yadram, D Griffith, Gordon Braithwaite and Owan Wills for their assistance in ensuringasmoothrunofthe tournament.

teamwork and personal growth.

Deputy Commissioner Budhram also noted that he has known several members of the Tucber Park cricket fraternity for many years, havinggrownupinBerbice, and said he was happy to be in a position to contribute to thedevelopmentofthesport. He added that through theGuyanaPoliceForceand the Police Officers’ Cricket Team, support has been given to young cricketers from various parts of the country, including players who have gone on to represent at the Under-15, Under-17, and Under-19 levels.

In response, Deputy Commissioner Budhram said the occasion was a special one for him, noting that he was honoured to be recognized by Tucber Park CricketClubasitsPatron. Hesaidsportsandcricket in particular, play an important role in the development of young people by promoting discipline, mentorship,

Deputy Commissioner Budhram thanked the club for the honour and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting cricket development, mentorship and opportunities for young players.

The club expressed appreciation for his continued contribution and said it looks forward to his guidance and support as Patron.(GPF)

WCPL fixtures confirmed as Jamaica Empress joins reimagined Women’s Cricket Festival

The WCPL is entering an exciting new era, with the official fixtures for the 2026 tournament now liveandaboldnewvisionset to redefine women’s cricket across the Caribbean with eight matches set to take place at the iconic KensingtonOval,Barbados.

The WCPL has been reengineered from the ground up to create a platform that celebrates and amplifies the unique voice of Caribbean women - a voice that is distinct, powerful and deserving of its own spotlight.

At the heart of the new WCPL is a commitment to putting Caribbean women centre stage, inspiring the next generation of female athletes by showing them that there is a place waiting for them at the highest level ofsport.

The tournament’s refreshed identity is built around three core values: empowerment, the will to win and close community. Thesethemesarecapturedin the league’s new creative platform, “She’s In”, which will be promoted through a dedicated advertising campaign across femalefocused social media channels throughout the region.

The 2026 WCPL will take place entirely in Barbados, with all matches being played over a ten-day festival of cricket during the first two weeks of September

The newly created Jamaica Empress will represent Jamaica as part of the competition’s refreshed identity and growing commitment to celebrating female excellence throughouttheCaribbean. More than just a cricket tournament, every WCPL matchdaywillofferavibrant communityexperience.Fans can enjoy dedicated children’s activity zones, cricketskillssessions,health and wellness checks, and opportunities to discover products and services from female entrepreneurs from acrosstheregion.

Each WCPL match will be designed as a celebration of sport, community and opportunity, creating an environment where women and girls can connect, participateandbeinspired.

“The WCPL is about much more than what happens on the field,” said Pete Russell, WCPL CEO. “We are creating a platform where women can be celebrated,communitiescan come together, and young girls can see clear pathways to success in sport and beyond.”

Hayley Matthews, WCPL player, said: “I’ve seen firsthand the impact of WCPLonwomenacrossthe region. It’s powerful and far-reaching. It illuminates the potential in every girl, giving them not just visibility, but something to believe in and a dream to chase ”

With the 2026 fixtures now available, fans can begin planning for what promises to be the biggest and most impactful edition

ofthetournamentyet.

And this is only the beginning.

Looking ahead to 2027, the WCPL is preparing to take the next step in its evolution, with plans to welcometeamsfromoutside the Caribbean and establish the tournament as a truly globalcompetition.

TheWomen’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) is the premier professional w o m e n ’ s c r i c k e t

competition in the Caribbean.

Reimagined in 2026, the tournament was created to celebrate, empower and elevate Caribbean women t

le providing a world-class platformfortheregion’sbest femalecricketers.

Built around the values of empowerment, ambition and community, the WCPL showcases elite cricket alongside family-friendly matchday experiences, youth development initiatives, health and wellness programmes, and opportunities for female entrepreneurs.

The league’s “She’s In” platform is designed to inspirethenextgenerationof Caribbean women and girls by demonstrating that there is a place for them at the highestlevelsofsport.

The2026WCPLfeatures four franchises - Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Jamaica Empress andTrinbagoKnightRiderscompeting in a festival of cricket hosted in Barbados duringthefirsttwoweeksof September Looking ahead, the tournament plans to expand

internationally, welcoming teams from outside the Caribbean as part of its ambition to become a truly global women’s cricket competition.

BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles, is proud to announce its partnership as the Official CarSponsoroftheRepublic Bank Caribbean Premier League(CPL)2026. This milestone marks a

Caribbean, aligning the brand with one of the region’s most celebrated sportingevents.

Live & Louder Events, part of the group of businesses behind the Republic Bank Caribbean PremierLeague(CPL),isset to deliver a spectacular world-class concert at the National Botanical Gardens in Barbados on Saturday 19 September 2026, the night beforethehighlyanticipated CPLFinals.

CricketfansinStVincent and the Grenadines will be able to purchase tickets for the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Deputy Commissioner Budhram Inducted as Patron of Tucber Park Cricket Club

Deputy Commissioner

‘Administration’ Ravindradat Budhram last Friday June 5, was officially inducted as Patron of the TucberParkCricketClub.

The brief yet significant ceremonywasheldinrecognitionof Deputy Commissioner Budhram’s continued support for cricket developmentinGuyana.

A s P a t r o n , D e p u t y CommissionerBudhramisexpected toprovideguidance,encouragement andsupporttotheclub,particularly in the area of youth and cricket development.

The presentation was made by membersoftheTucberParkCricket Club, including Vice President Mr. AnthonyD’Andrade,VicePresident

Mr JulianMooreandSecretaryMr GaryMillington.

Also present were West Indies and Guyana all-rounder Romario Shepherd, along with Tucber Park players Zeynul Ramsammy and DamionVantull.

During the ceremony, Deputy Commissioner Budhram was presented with a Tucber Park Cricket Club jersey, as well as a portrait of himself signed by Romario Shepherd. The portrait depicted Deputy Commissioner Budhram during a recent cricket

matchinwhichhemadeanunbeaten 55.

Inbriefremarks,Mr D’Andrade saidtheclubwaspleasedtoformally recognize Deputy Commissioner Budhram as Patron, noting that he hassupportedtheclubovertheyears inseveralways. Hesaidtheinductionwas

Govt.backsFIBAAmeriCup2029Pre-Qualifieras

KashifandShanghainamedLocalOrganisingCommittee

TheGovernmentof

Guyana has thrown its full supportbehindthehostingof the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Pre-Qualifier tournament, with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr declaring the a d m i n i s t r a t i o n ’ s commitment to ensuring the successful staging of the prestigiousregionalevent.

The announcement was madeonMondayattheCliff AndersonSportsHallduring aformalceremonywherethe Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) and the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation signed an agreement appointing the veteran sports promotion bodyastheLocalOrganising Committee (LOC) for the July8-12championship.

The signing ceremony was attended by basketball officials, representatives of the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation, members of the media, and Minister Ramson, who hailed the development as another significant milestone for sportsinGuyana.

According to Ramson, the Government is fully behind the initiative and is officially endorsing Guyana’s hosting of the tournament.

“Wearegivingourstamp of approval to host the tournament,” Ramson stated.

The Minister noted that the event represents the confidence and trust that the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has placed in both Guyana and the Guyana Basketball Federation to successfully host a competition of such magnitude.

Ramson congratulated the GBF for securing the hostingrightsandpraisedthe federation’s continued efforts to elevate the sport locally

“This is a reflection of thetrustthathasbeenshown inGuyanaandintheGuyana Basketball Federation It demonstrates that our country continues to build a reputation for successfully hosting major regional and international sporting events,”Ramsonsaid. The tournament will mark the return of the FIBA

M e n ’s C a r i b b e a n Championshipafterasevenyear hiatus and will serve as the first stage on the road to qualification for the FIBA AmeriCup2029. Guyana has been drawn in Group A alongside Dominica,TurksandCaicos

Islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and Bermuda Group B comprises Haiti, Grenada, Cayman Islands, Barbados, and St. Vincent andtheGrenadines.

The championship will becontestedinaround-robin format, with each team playing every opponent within its group At the conclusion of group play, only the top team from each group will advance to the next phase of theAmeriCup qualifying pathway, adding significant importance to everygame.

For Guyana, the event carrieshistoricsignificance.

It will be the first time since 1994 that the country hosts the regional championship, while also reviving memories of 1981 when Guyana staged the inaugural edition of the tournament, then called the CARICOMChampionship.

GBF President Michael

Singh welcomed the appointment of the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation

Dublin delivers masterclass as Queen’s...

Frompage24

When the final buzzer sounded, Queen’s Collegecelebratedan11-pointvictoryandthe coveted Georgetown-City championship trophy Earlier in the day, St Roses’ High Schoolsecuredthirdplacewithadominant5729dismantlingofTheBishop’sHighSchool Shaquan Callender orchestrated the victory with an outstanding all-around performance, finishing with 16 points, three reboundsandfivesteals.Fellowsharpshooter Christian Williams matched his output with 16pointsofhisownasSt.Rose’scontrolled

as the LOC, expressing confidence that one of Guyana’s most experienced event management teams will deliver a first-class championship.

“We are placing Guyana on show in trusted hands,” Singhsaidwhilewelcoming the organisation’s involvement.

HenotedthatKashifand Shanghai’s proven track record in organising major sporting events made them an ideal partner for the federation as it prepares to hostteamsandofficialsfrom acrosstheCaribbean.

Singhalsodisclosedthat preparations for the tournament are progressing smoothly, with systems alreadybeingputinplaceto ensure a professionally managed event both on and offthecourt.

Regarding the draw, Singh described Guyana’s grouping as favourable but cautioned against complacency

While advancing remains a priority, he stressed that the national team’s ambitions extend beyondqualification.

The GBF president

further highlighted the importance of support from theprivatesector,notingthat s t r o n g c o r p o r a t e involvement will be critical to maximising both the sporting and economic benefitsofthetournament. He also acknowledged the continued collaboration between the federation and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, revealing that the GBF has been working closely with Ministers Charles Ramson Jr and Minister Steven Jacobsinpreparationforthe event.

bothendsofthefloorfromstarttofinish.

ForBishop’s,KemolPickering’s12-point effort stood out as the lone bright spot in an otherwise difficult outing St Roses’ relentless offensive pressure and defensive intensity ultimately paved the way to a comfortable victory and a third-place finish intheGeorgetownConference.

The 2026 YBG City Regionals were sponsored by Edward B. Beharry Ltd., GBoatsInc.,theNationalSportsCommission, the Ministry of Education, and Banks DIH Ltd.

YBGwrapsupCityRegional

(Basketball)

Dublin delivers masterclass as Queen’s College claims Georgetown-City Conference crown

Most Valuable Player DarrenDublinsavedhisbest performance for last, p

oducing a clutch, championship-winning display on Sunday to propel Queen’s College to the top spot in the Georgetown

playoffsasYouthBasketball Guyana (YBG) concluded i

y Regionals at the Cliff

AndersonSportsHall.

With a championship on thelineandachancetoplay in the NSBF Conference, Dublin sliced through Tutorial High School’s defensive schemes with confidence and precision, pouring in a game-high 12 points to lead Queen’s College to a commanding 37-28 victory The standout guard also played a pivotal role on the defensive end, forcing three key turnovers that halted Tutorial’s momentum and kept the c

throughoutthecontest.

The triumph capped a

campaignforDarrenDublin,

instrumental in securing the top spot in the Georgetown Conferencestandings.

While Dublin provided the scoring spark, Deshaun Garrickdeliveredacomplete two-way performance that proved equally vital to Queen’sCollege’ssuccess.

Garrickcontributedeight points and seven rebounds, repeatedly coming up with crucial plays during pivotal stretches of the game. His

Darren Dublin receiving his newly earned MVP award, following the conclusion of the YBG’s City Playoffs.

on-court chemistry with Dublinwasevidentfromthe opening tip, as the dynamic duorelentlesslyattackedthe basket and combined for 20 points in a dominant offensivedisplay LiamBart also made his presence felt, adding eight points and providing valuable support as Queen’s College maintained control en route tothetitle-clinchingvictory Tutorial High School

battled valiantly despite the defeat. Keion Lynch, Julian Charles and Xavier Scott refused to surrender, with Scott anchoring the defence throughanimpressiveeightblock performance. The trio fought to erase a fourthquarter deficit, but Queen’s College’s composure and execution down the stretch proved too much to overcome.

Continued on page 23

Father’sDaycycleroadrace

slatedforNewAmsterdam

The Flying Ace CycleClub(FACC) ofNewAmsterdam willbestagingafather’sday’s cycle road race around the townofNewAmsterdam.

This is according to founder, President and coach of the FACC Randolph Roberts. He stated that the logistics are being worked out andfulldetailswillbereleased shortly

Meanwhile, the veteran coach was recently presented with a new Samsung Galaxy cellphonebyaformermember and cyclist now turn businessman, Leone Cipriani. As a pre father day gift Cipriani, who owns the Fix It Electronic store in New Amsterdamwasoneofthetop BMXridersintheclub.

Randolph Roberts (right) collects the cellphone from former member and cyclist, now business, Leone Cipriani.

figure by the many present and past cyclists thathecoached.

He won many races in Berbice and the nationalparkwhilstdonningtheclubcolours. Heisalsoaregularcontributortothecluband is expected to be one of the sponsors of the father’sdaysrace.

Roberts,whoisoneoftheoldestcycling coachesinthecounty.Isbeingseenasafather

Among those who came under the tutelage are – Neil Reece, Balram Narine, Juda Klass, Romello and Franco Crawford, Russel Allen, Peter Millington, Wasim Gaffor, Travis Cipriani, Gary Benjamin, MartinPersaudandthelateWilbertBenjamin amongnumerousothers.(SamuelWhyte)

2026 ENet National Squash Championship

Khalil, Ince shine as tournament

wraps up on high note

Ashley Kahlil and Daniel Ince starred in the recently concluded 2026 Guyana Squash Association (GSA)/ENet NationalchampionshipswhichendedonSunday

SomeofGuyana’seliteplayersdidbattleattheNational Racquet Centre,WoolfordAvenue, with two of the top male andfemalestarspullingoutsometopperformancestofinish atoptheirrespectivecategories.

After a number of intense encounters, only four players would remain when the dust settled, thus setting up two mouth-wateringclashesforthechampionships.

Senior National player Khalil, locked in a heated battle with arch rival and another of the country’s top players in Mary Fung-A-Fat, emerged victorious thus sealing her 5th title at the national level. Khalil, after five competitive sets, wontheduelwithscores7-11,11-7,8-11,11-7,11-7toclaim honours in the Women’s Elite category but not before being tested by her opponent. Meanwhile, in the Men’s Elite division, Ince found his way to the top after going past the experiencedSamuelInce-Carvahal,who’s experiencedidn’t quitehelptostaveoffathreesetdefeat.

Inceemergedthewinnerafternotchingupscorelines116, 11-8 and 11-4 to clinch the Men’s title despite leading for most of the clash. The tournament featured a large turnout from the country’s top crop, who maintained a competitive spirit throughout the respective legs leading up to the final battleforthetitles.

Secondary Schools Boys Tapeball cricket set for National Park Saturday

OnSaturday,13thJune,2026theUprisingPromotions, formerly Georgetown Office Assistants Promotions Committee,wouldberunningofftheirstressfree,8a-side 36balls,tapeballcricketcompetition,ontheNationalPark tarmacfrom9a.m.Anumberoftrophies,medalsandother valuable prizes including cash incentives would be awarded. So far, a number of out-of-town schools have alreadyshowntheirinteresttoparticipate.

ThecoordinatorisJamesLewis.