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Wednesday Edition Trump tells UN he AIETEUR NEWS could ‘annihilate’ Iran but expects deal after midterms
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
September 23, 2026 - Vol. 21 No. 38
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $200 readership yesterday, 43,180
Exxon boasts of US$55B Guyana - now touts lopsided Stabroek payday Block deal to other nations Narine admits failing to act on evidence of Mohamed’s alleged involvement in 6 execution-style killings
Ram questions $89.9B housing spending ...says Mid-Year Report lacks accountability
RUSAL looking for buyers for Guyana assets
President Dr Irfaan Ali joined world leaders at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States on Tuesday. President Ali also engaged in a meet-and-greet with outgoing United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres ahead of the opening session. The Guyanese leader is scheduled to address the Assembly on Thursday. Guyana’s delegation also include: Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Todd and Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues.
GRA raked in $160.5B in taxes during first half of 2026 - Mid-Year Report
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
RUSAL looking for buyers for Guyana assets Russian aluminium giant RUSAL is reportedly exploring the sale of its assets in Guyana and Jamaica, as the company considers reshaping its operations outside Russia, according to a Bloomberg report published on Tuesday. Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter, reported that RUSAL has begun sounding out potential buyers for its interests in the two Caribbean countries. The discussions are reportedly at an early stage, and there is no certainty that a transaction will materialise. RUSAL’s Guyana interests are centred on the Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI), in which the Russian company holds a 90 percent stake, while the Government of Guyana owns the remaining 10 percent. BCGI has an annual production capacity of about 1.7 million tonnes, according to RUSAL’s 2025 annual report, but production was recorded at zero because the company has been out of active production since 2020, when it suspended operations in the Berbice River following prolonged industrial unrest and terminated hundreds of workers. RUSAL had cited “industrial unrest, including arson and other destruction of corporate property, and blocking of the river” as the main factors for the suspension of their operations. The company’s withdrawal left BCGI’s mining operations dormant. However, in January this year, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh announced that approval had been granted for the restart of bauxite operations on the Berbice River, although the government did not identify the operator at the time.
Some of RUSAL’s equipment at the Kurubuka site
Production was expected to resume towards the end of 2027 after rehabilitation of critical systems. RUSAL’s Guyana holdings
also include licences covering bauxite deposits in areas including Linden,
Kwakwani and Ituni. The potential sale therefore comes at an important juncture for Guyana’s bauxite industry, with the country seeking to revive production while attracting investment into its broader mining sector. RUSAL also owns the Windalco alumina operations in Jamaica. Its 2025 annual report lists Windalco as having annual capacity of four million tonnes, with utilisation at 39 percent in 2025. The reported move comes against a broader backdrop of pressure on Russian metals companies from international restrictions and changing global markets. Bloomberg reported that RUSAL declined to comment on the potential transactions. The company’s reported approach to potential buyers remains exploratory, meaning there is no indication yet of who might acquire the Guyana assets, whether the Government would be involved in any transaction, or whether a sale will ultimately be completed. Rusal entered Guyana back in 2004 when it reached an agreement with the Government of Guyana to privatise the country’s leading miner Aroaima Mining Company (AMC). Rusal’s subsidiary Bauxite Company of Guyana (BCGI) acquired the majority of AMC’s assets and at the time invested US$20mn to develop and expand the company. BCGI was launched in December 2004 as p a r t o f R u s a l ’s m e m o r a n d u m o f understanding with the government of Guyana to revitalise the country’s bauxite industry. Rusal holds a 90% stake in BCGI, while the government of Guyana is the owner of the remaining 10%.
CG CEO Naz Farrow to retire after 30 years CG’s Naz Farrow will retire as Chief Executive Officer of Coralisle Group effective December 31, the Group’s Board of Directors has announced. Yan Leclerc, CG Group Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director, has been appointed CEO-designate, pending regulatory approval, and will succeed Farrow as CEO on January 1, 2027. CG Board Chairman Dr. Grant Gibbons expressed the Group’s sincere gratitude to Farrow for her decades of service to the company, particularly during her tenure as CEO, when CG expanded its presence across the Caribbean, rebranded its identity and operations under the CG trade name, and embedded its people-first service philosophy throughout the organisation. “Naz has been at the centre of our success over the past decade,” Dr. Gibbons said. “While our performance is the result of across-the-board commitment to service by the entire CG team, Naz carried the flag and the results speak for themselves.” Prior to her appointment as CEO in 2017, Farrow served as Chief Operating Officer of the Group’s health insurance business. “It has been an absolute privilege to be part of CG for the past 30 years,” Farrow said. “At its core, CG has always been dedicated to providing clients with the support and service they need, when they need it most. Throughout its history, the company has played a leading role in delivering innovative insurance solutions and raising service standards across the Caribbean insurance industry.
CG’s Naz Farrow will retire as Chief Executive Officer “I am deeply proud of what we have achieved together and of the strong foundation we have built for the Group’s future. Our people-first approach, supported by the commitment of our Board and employees, has enabled us to remain focused on our clients, navigate challenges such as the pandemic, and make a meaningful difference in our communities through initiatives like C G P h a r m a c y, w h i c h h e l p s m a k e prescription medications more affordable. “My time with CG has been both demanding and immensely rewarding. As I prepare for retirement, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my colleagues, past and present. Their dedication, professionalism, and passion have been instrumental to our success. It has been a privilege to work alongside such an exceptional team, and I am confident that CG’s future is bright.” In addition to his role as Group Chief Financial Officer, Leclerc serves on the Coralisle Group Board as an Executive Director. He has more than 20 years of experience in the insurance and reinsurance industry and has played a key leadership role in the Group’s growth and transformation since joining the company in 2020.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
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Ram questions $89.9B housing spending Chartered accountant Christopher Ram has raised fresh concerns over the Government’s reporting of nearly $90 billion spent on the housing sector during the first half of 2026, arguing that the Mid-Year Report fails to clearly show where the money went. Ram, in a column examining the 2026 MidYear Report, said the document reports that $89.9 billion of the $159.1 billion allocated to the housing sector was spent during the first six months of the year to “expand affordable housing for citizens.” However, he said that description is too broad because the housing programme includes
...says Mid-Year Report lacks accountability
Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram infrastructure, community facilities, industrial areas, Silica City and other major projects. According to Ram, the report does not provide a sufficient breakdown to
show how much of the $89.9 billion was actually spent on houses and house lots, how much went towards roads, drains and street lighting, and how much was directed to longer-term developments such as Silica City. “The problem is not a shortage of numbers,” Ram argued. Rather, he said the figures presented by Government are not adequately reconciled or explained, making it difficult for Parliament and the public to determine what the expenditure actually purchased. He pointed to a range of
GRA raked in $160.5B in taxes during first half of 2026 - Mid-Year Report The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) during the first six months of 2026 raked in more taxes than the previous year, increasing internal revenues for the country by 16.6% to reach $160.5B. This is according to the Ministry of Finance MidYear Report. The document states that total central government revenue was $493.9 billion, a slight underperformance of 0.7% when compared to the same period last year. According to the report, “Central Government current revenue collections, net of the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF), the NRF and carbon credit inflows, grew by 18.7% when compared with the 2025 performance to $279.5 billion.” Meanwhile, tax revenue accounted for 52.4% of total central government revenue collections. The document states that “year-on-year growth (was) attributed mainly to income taxes, value-added and excise taxes and trade taxes, reflecting expanded employment and sustained economic growth driven by both public and private sectors.” To this end, it was explained that internal revenues during the period amounted to $160.5 billion, a 16.6% increase compared to the corresponding period of 2025. The growth in internal revenues was tied to improvement in corporation taxes, withholding taxes and
GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia income taxes, drawn mainly from the mining and quarrying sector, particularly oil and gas activities, according to the Mid-Year report. Contrasting this growth, government reported a decline in collections from net property taxes by $717.7 million. At the end of 2025, government announced the removal of net property tax on individuals effective from 2026. Meanwhile, income tax collections at the end of June 2026 totalled $145.7 billion, 18% above the position at the end of the first half of last year. Growth in the private sector led this category with payments reaching $67.4 billion at the end of June 2026, $13.5 billion higher than one year earlier. Personal income taxes (PAYE) also increased by $3.2 billion largely owing to higher PAYE remitted by the private sector, particularly entities within the oil and gas sector, according to the report. It said the 8% salary increase for public servants also resulted in higher PAYE collections. Wi t h h o l d i n g t a x e s
during the period amounted to $37.1 billion, $6.3 billion higher than collections in the first half of 2025, also owing to increased payments by entities within the oil and gas sector. Turning its attention to Value-added and excise taxes collections, the report states that these payments grew to $71.5 billion in the first half of 2026. It said this was “$10.4 billion more than the June 2025 collections, mainly due to $5.9 billion increase in VAT and $4.5 billion increase in excise taxes collections.” Government said the higher VAT collections was driven by an increase in imported goods, while the growth in excise tax collections was as a result of higher importation of motor vehicles and alcoholic beverages. Finally, customs and trade taxes recorded during the period were $26.7 billion, an increase of 19.7% over the first half of last year. This was mainly on account of higher collections of import duties, which grew by $3.6 billion and accounted for 85.3% of the revenues in this category.
statistics in the report, including lots allocated, titles distributed, houses constructed, developments completed or underway, street lamps installed, subsidies provided, applications processed and recreational and industrial areas under development. But Ram said the sheer volume of statistics should not be confused with accountability. He argued that the report should provide expenditure by programme and project, the cost of completed works, spending to date on unfinished projects, physical progress against expenditure, and significant variations from the approved budget. Ram said these omissions go beyond presentation issues because they limit public scrutiny of spending on a massive scale. He also placed responsibility for the quality of the reporting on Senior Minister in the Office of the P r e s i d e n t w i t h Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh. While acknowledging
that the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) is responsible for implementing housing programmes, Ram argued that Singh presents both the annual Budget and the MidYear Report and therefore bears responsibility for ensuring that public expenditure is clearly reported. The chartered accountant also questioned what he described as an institutional inconsistency surrounding the finance portfolio. Singh’s formal title is Senior Minister in the Office of the P r e s i d e n t w i t h Responsibility for Finance. At the same time, the 2026 National Estimates identify “Agency 03 – Ministry of Finance” and list Singh as the minister responsible for the agency. The Government also continues to operate a Ministry of Finance and publish its budget documents under that name. Ram said this creates uncertainty over the institutional structure of the finance portfolio,
Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh particularly with finance being retained within the Office of the President while a Ministry of Finance continues to operate administratively. He said whatever the explanation for the arrangement, accountability should not be similarly unclear. “The country receives a clear, coherent and intelligible account of how its money is being spent,” Ram contended. His latest criticism follows a September 17 publication in which he questioned the C H PA’s f i n a n c i a l a n d performance reporting, including inconsistencies surrounding housing infrastructure projects.
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday September 23, 2026
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456 Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Emergency electricity It always pointed in one direction, just had to be. The latest from a government that has no answers is the temporary solution of another Turkish powerboat. We need electricity from anywhere we can get it. It may not be improper to assert at any price that has to be paid. In order that some level of relief arrives for energy hungry consumers. They range from the homes of families to the businesses of entrepreneurs. It evidences how desperate citizens are in this blackout saturated oil rich country. Absorb the frequency and length at which blackouts have been occurring. They just could not be allowed to continue. Even an entity as callous and negligent as the PPP/C Government dared not risk fooling around too long. It was too punishing on locals, and too infuriating to foreign newcomers. Another Turkish powerboat was always in the schemes of the PPP/C Government, since the environment it created demanded a solution, and there is only one currently. Another emergency powerboat arrangement to come onstream as quickly as possible. When circumstances are this demanding, then emergency procurement measures become the only choice. Create a problem, create a solution, create the opening, probably, for more potential corruption. Sole sourcing is the only option that gets the job done. A neat setup to deal with an electricity disaster in a hurry, and through efforts to avoid the hearts of citizens turning from the PPP/C Government. At least, it puts a pause to the ugly, embarrassing media headlines that make Guyana the laughingstock of the world. Supporters and critics of the PPP/C leadership, starting with the president, can argue as much as it is pleasing to them about the presence or lack of intelligent planning at the GPL Inc. Or, an excess of ignorance and something close to criminal negligence at senior levels of the PPP/C Government. It is guaranteed that the negatives would carry the day, since those have considerable basis in fact. But not one of those arguments makes a light bulb go on, or one fridge hum quietly with life, and preserve costly food reserves. The bottom line is that already energy-starved citizens have been pounded into the ground by a rolling series of blackouts. Blackouts that last hours at a time. Blackouts that return older citizens to the dark days of load shedding. In the stifling heat and humidity that spread across most hours, day and night, citizens have been letdown yet again. We join with others in pointing the finger at a negligent PPP/C Government that only listens and responds when conditions reach a crisis state. A crisis state that is directly traceable to a government that could not light a candle and keep it going, if both the candle and match were handed to it. When the circumstances reached to this fevered pitch, it was inevitable. Now it is drop everything, hurry up and get going, and get the Turks to rush here to plug the demand and supply gap. The Minister of Public Utilities knew all along where he was coming from, when he assured citizens of enough electricity for the Christmas Holidays now closing in. A bigger Turkish powerboat being recruited on an emergency basis, with emergency procurement measures set in motion. The PPP/C Government and the Turks seem to understand each other well, understand what the other needs to move matters along, regardless of the difficulties in the environment. Truth be told, Guyana’s electricity hardships and distresses are tailormade to push through a deal, that is sure to unleash a whole new stream of disagreements when its terms come to light. The Turks are into business, and like any good businesspeople, they have to recognise their opportunity. They are in the driver’s seat. They determine the direction and rates at which additional power supplies are delivered to citizens driven to madness by the constant blackouts. Whatever the outcome, it is always this country and its citizens who pay the heavy prices. The PPP/C Government has shown that it is not beyond capitalising during a crisis. Emergency electricity from a Turkish company has that written all over it. Citizens obtain some relief, but the price is likely to be high.
Lewis urges Guyanese to organise to claim share of Development Bank wealth DEAR EDITOR, President Irfaan Ali has signed into law the Guyana Development Bank, creating a new institution through which Guyanese can seek access to financing and other support for economic activity. Its significance, however, will ultimately depend not simply on the bank’s existence, but on who can access its resources, on what terms, and whether those resources reach Guyanese across sectors and communities. Those of us who have watched the unfolding of the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) approach to governance know that Guyana, under the People’s National Congress (PNC) government, had various indigenous banks designed to support the economic empowerment of Guyanese. One was the Guyana Agricultural and Development Bank (GAIBANK), before the PPP government closed it in 1995. Today, we are a nation awash with wealth, primarily from the exploitation of our oil. As citizens, we must use this Development Bank to build, and where necessary rebuild, our economic fortunes and bequeath to future generations. I therefore call on every Guyanese, irrespective of ethnicity, political persuasion, race or any other consideration, to organise yourselves to benefit from this bank. While some view the bank as being established to serve as a slush fund for PPP leaders, their friends and cohorts, we must not lose sight of the fact that these resources belong to all of us. We must ensure that access to the bank is inclusive and representative of the diversity of sectors in this society, as our Constitution intends and mandates, consistent with the principle of inclusionary democracy.
I call on the trade union community, cooperative societies, churches, nongovernmental organisations, civil society, youth and every facet of this society to become part of this process. Let us organise as a force to ensure none is left behind. From a trade union perspective, national development must be measured not simply by the wealth generated, but by whether the nation’s resources create meaningful opportunities and a better quality of life for the population as a whole. Collective development demands that access to land, education, employment, housing, natural resources and economic opportunities is not concentrated in the hands of a few, but organised and distributed in ways that allow workers, families and communities to share equitably in the nation’s progress. And I particularly call on the workers, workers past, present and future to act. The wealth of this nation cannot be something workers watch from the sidelines while others determine who gets access to it. We must demand strict oversight and a database showing how people are benefiting based on unique characteristics. If we are serious about inclusion and ensuring that everyone benefits from this nation’s resources, then, in a diverse population like ours, we need a breakdown based on ethnicity, race, location, political association, differently abled, creed, sexual orientation and so forth. We need that information to determine whether access and benefits are equal and equitable across Guyana, and to address deficiencies wherever they exist. Likewise, the Development Bank’s
personnel and board have a responsibility to empower society. They must ensure citizens understand how they can benefit, how to access the resources, and what they need to do to qualify and remain in good standing. They must create an enabling environment that makes access possible, not put up roadblocks. The wealth of this nation belongs to all of us, and we must insist on our right to benefit from it. If we knock on the door and don’t get in, we must push it down to ensure we get in. This money is not Bharrat Jagdeo’s, Irfaan Ali’s or their cohorts’. It belongs to every one of us. And when I say every one of us, I mean the people of this country across generations, from the Amerindians who came through the Bering Straits thousands of years ago, to the Africans who came subsequently as chattel slaves, to the indentured servants who came after. We are the ones who must foremost benefit, before those now flooding our shores because of our oil wealth. Let me make clear: I am not opposed to managed migration or migration on humanitarian grounds. But I stand by my conviction that the natural heirs of this nation must not be treated as second-class citizens. Therefore, workers past, present and future, organise and mobilise. Do not stand outside the gates while others decide who enters and who benefits. Let us insist on transparency, oversight, inclusion and claim our rightful place in the economic development of Guyana. The oil wealth beneath our soil belongs to Guyana. The opportunities it creates must belong to all Guyanese, not a privileged few. Regards, Lincoln Lewis
The President’s One Guyana initiative is a sham DEAR EDITOR, I am writing with the deepest concerns to shed light on President Irfaan Ali’s “One Guyana” initiative which is dividing instead of uniting the country and moving it backward instead of forward. Many if not most of the citizens see the initiative as the greatest political gimmick and the grandest political illusion in the nation’s history. Guyana’s motto: One People, One Nation, One Destiny was crafted in 1958 by the then Minister of Community Development, the late Brindley Benn and adopted on May 26, 1966, by the late Forbes Burnham’s government. Unlike President Ali “One Guyana” initiative which is a delusion and a myth, Guyana’s motto was a genuine attempt to unite the races and honour our shared collective culture, heritage, humanity and human potential. After all, Guyana has six races with different cultures and traditions, therefore it is a fallacy and downright silly for President Ali to even think or suggest that we are treated equally. Instead of attempting to change the motto, the PPP regime should change its discriminatory, racist, corrupt and
unfair practices and treat all Guyanese as equals. While President Ali and his cabinet projects an image of unity and shared prosperity to the international community of nations, the reality at home tells a starkly different story, one of division, vengeance, exclusion of Afro and Amerindian Guyanese, and deep systemic inequity. It is sad to say that instead of a unified country, what we actually are seeing unfolding in front of our eyes are three Guyanas, divided along strictly racial and economic lines. The first Guyana belongs to one ethnic group whose political connections ensured they are awarded the lion’s share of lucrative multi-million- and billiondollar government contracts. They have very easy access to massive infrastructural projects, and the bulk of state resources, including land, stone quarries, sand pits, gold mines and the most opportunities to acquire wealth. Meanwhile, the second and third Guyanas are specifically reserved for the other groups. These communities are deliberately and systematically left out of the rapid economic development process and are
being awarded tiny government contracts. In fact, several estimates have shown that 97 percent of all government contracts are awarded to family and friends of the President, cabinet members and supporters of the PPP. Despite Guyana’s massive oil reserves and an influx of billions of dollars in oil revenues, yet 56 percent of the population is living on less than US $5 per day. Furthermore, historic Amerindian villages and AfroGuyanese ancestral lands and communities continue to face marginalization by the Ali administration. They have received empty, meaningless and symbolic gestures, rather than the equitable distribution of state lands and lucrative government contracts. In my humble opinion and those of many others, “One Guyana” is a phony, fake and superficial public relations campaign by the President and his cronies to the real inequalities that exist among the three major races. The government should know that true development will not and cannot occur when major segments of the population are ostracized and are Continued on page 5
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
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Should we allow the dominoes to fall as they may DEAR EDITOR, T h e o n g o i n g proceedings in the court surrounding the extradition case of the leader of the opposition does bring into question the consequences of an extradition on the overall governance structure of the country. According to the media the leader of the opposition and the president have a long, close, and intertwined history. Which may result in the taking of one leading to the taking of the other. The videos presented by close associates are quite revealing and as America prepares to snatch one big fish the other may already be entangled in its net. Thus, raising the question as to whether the country will benefit from the resulting consequences of U.S. involvement in
indirectly cleaning up our government. The exit ramp for the proceedings is still accessible, but emotions and conflict between these two Muslim brothers appear to be winning. Otherwise, a presidential pardon and a substantial fine to cover the losses and make amends with both the U.S. and the government of Guyana would have already been implemented. A ban from the business that caused the leader of the opposition to be on the radar of such a great power may also be in order. But a meeting of the minds has eluded His Excellency and the General Secretary of his party. Instead, a verdict of guilty is embedded in the rhetoric without thought being given to the possible subsequent indictments that could reach
their own doorsteps. Su-gate lingers and the new push for Chinese support in defiance of voiced American concerns over further entanglement may motivate the hemisphere’s supreme power to take action that will put in place a more submissive and obedient leader. One of our past presidents has raised concerns over the risks to sovereignty, but if selfpreservation continues to be the root of political action as it was since Burnham took the helm, we should expect an adjustment in the future leadership of the country unless the strength of will of the good doctor is restored. H o w e v e r, w i t h t h e money flowing as it is, a hush in the masses may become dominant in every corner of the country where the love of independence and the zeal
for freedom has become secondary to personal enrichment. The generations that grew up during tougher times and know what it is to be Guyanese in a world where self-reliance was not welcomed by many strong political powers will continue to embrace the dignity that comes with freedom of choice. While those that bend to the will of the rich and the mighty dollar will turn their backs on old allies and moral superiority. So, my fellow Guyanese and comrades, should we give away one of our leaders with the risk of many others to follow? Or should we take corrective and preventive action in this matter within our own borders before our own courts? It is within our right to clean up our own
Sharma Solomon to Pres. Ali…
Guyana has the money, but where is the development plan? DEAR PRESIDENTALI, I write following your recent press conference and your subsequent engagements with the Parliamentary Committees on matters affecting Guyana. I listened carefully to your assessment of the electricity crisis, the cost of living, economic growth, our oil revenues, the Third Country National Agreement with the United States, and the wider challenges confronting the country. On the problems you identified, I agree with you. The blackouts are unacceptable. The burden of cost of living is real. The rapid expansion of Guyana’s economy, the high demand for reliable and affordable electricity; need for our oil wealth to translate into a better life for our people, along with parliamentary engagement on matters affecting Guyana’s sovereignty and international obligations. President Ali, as you have done and most have found undeniable, these problems exist. Then the question is why, with the resources now available to your Government, Guyanese are still being asked to carry the burden of problems that Government had the responsibility to anticipate and manage? 1. ELECTRICITY – THE COST OF POOR PLANNING You described the recent blackouts as “unpleasant” and “unacceptable” and acknowledged that fixing the electricity system requires major investment rather than a short-term solution. GPL has subsequently confirmed that peak demand reached 257 MW against installed capacity of 265.6 MW, while overloaded feeders and transformers are contributing to outages. That assessment exposes the failure of planning. Your Government has presided over several housing, commercial and industrial expansion. You now acknowledge that this
expansion has pushed electricity demand beyond what the transmission and distribution system can reliably carry. Economic growth cannot be planned separately from the electricity needed to sustain it. The Government knew Guyana was growing. It knew new housing was being built. It knew businesses and industries were expanding. It knew airconditioning and other electricity demand would increase. The Government knew this, because they are the ones advancing these agendas. With these advancing agendas the grid had to grow with the economy. Instead, Guyanese are now being told to ration electricity and endure daily outages while your Government catches up. They did not design the energy policy, your Government did. They did not select the Wales Gas to Energy site, your Government did. They did not negotiate the contracts, your Government did. They did not rent the powerships, it is your government that did. President Ali, Guyanese should not therefore be made to pay for the consequences of your Government’s failed decisions, they did not make. 2. GAS-TO-ENERGY – GOVERNMENT CANNOT ESCAPE ITS OWN DECISION The Gas-to-Energy project was intended to transform Guyana’s electricity supply and reduce generation costs. Instead, the project has suffered prolonged delays and escalating costs, with the promised operational timetable moving well beyond the original target. The President has now indicated that the plant should be coming on stream later in 2026, with further components expected during 2027. President Ali, it wa s y o u r Government that chose Wales. It proceeded despite concerns
surrounding the location and the engineering challenges. Those decisions belong to your Government alone. So, when you are now expressing frustration with the project, that frustration cannot be separated from your Government’s own responsibility for the decision-making that brought Guyana here. While Guyanese wait for Wales, the country has had to rely on expensive temporary powership generation and additional fuel. That is not simply a construction problem. It is a national economic problem, where the original cost was set at US$750M, it has now escalated well over US$2B. With the original promise of approximately a 50 percent reduction in electricity costs now requires a much more serious explanation. A cheaper fuel source does not automatically mean a 50 percent reduction to the consumer if the transmission and distribution network cannot reliably carry the power, if substantial grid investment remains necessary, and if the project itself has accumulated additional costs through delays of over 2 1/2 years. The public therefore deserves the complete calculation of what will Gas to Energy ultimately cost Guyana? What will the final cost of generation be? What will be spent to integrate that power into GPL and does the promised 50 percent reduction still stand? 3. ECONOMIC GROWTH MUST REACH THE KITCHEN TABLE President Ali, your Government points to extraordinary economic growth. The figures are significant but growth in GDP cannot by itself be the measure of prosperity, as many Guyanese are seeing reflected in their own lives. That growth does not automatically translate into Continued on page 6
problems and make amends to those outside our borders that have suffered from the actions of some of the sons of Guyana. We are few, but we are strong. We must consider the depth of leadership talent available and seek to strengthen what is good while eliminating what is weakening our nation. The stronger our leaders
the less likely it is that outside forces will take advantage of our country’s people and its resources. Should we let the dominoes fall as they may or should we take action to ensure we get the outcome that is best for Guyana? The two may be one and the same. Best regards, Jamil Changlee
Air Navigation Services Area Control Center Praised for Swift Response to In-Flight Emergency DEAR EDITOR, The Area Control Centre at the GCAA’s Air Navigation Services has been highly commended for its exemplary response in coordinating the safe return of an aircraft after an in-flight emergency. The incident took place shortly after the aircraft departed Cheddi Jagan International Airport, bound for VC Bird International Airport in Antigua, on Sunday, September 20, 2026. After identifying the emergency, the pilot-in-command promptly informed the Air Traffic Control Tower at Timehri. Air traffic controllers provided immediate clearance for the aircraft’s return and expertly coordinated its landing, ensuring proper separation from other air traffic. The Aerodrome Fire Service and Cheddi Jagan International Airport authorities responded promptly after being notified of the emergency. The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in air traffic management. Regards, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority
The President’s One Guyana... From page 4 treated as second- and third-class citizens in the land of their birth. It is time for the government to develop a transparent, fair and a truly inclusive national policy that respects and enriches every citizen in Guyana and abroad , regardless of race, religion, geographic location or party affiliation. I, like many others are encouraging the Ali government to change its attitude for a united and prosperous Guyana where everyone can live in peace and harmony and become our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Sincerely, Aubrey Reteymer
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
Guyana has the money, but where is the development... From page 5 development, especially in the lives of Guyanese. Your Government’s own reporting shows consumer prices continuing to rise, with food prices increasing faster than the overall rate. You have acknowledged that cost of living is a genuine problem and have also said that cash transfers cannot by themselves solve its structural causes. President Ali, with these expressed sentiments, I fully agree. That cash grants can cushion a family. They cannot build purchasing
power. They cannot permanently lower the price of food. They cannot create productive employment. They cannot substitute for wages that allow a working family to live with dignity. This is where your Government economic story meets the reality of the working class. A family does not experience GDP. It experiences the grocery bill. It experiences the electricity bill. It experiences transportation, rent, school expenses and the price of cooking gas. Guyana is earning more from its natural resources now than at any
point in its history. Yet the ordinary citizen must still ask how that wealth is changing the cost and quality of everyday life? 4. OIL WEALTH – MORE REVENUE MUST MEAN MORE DEVELOPMENT There must also be precision when we discuss Guyana’s increasing share of petroleum production. President Ali, you stated, in August that Guyana’s production entitlement has risen to approximately 39.8 percent as recoverable costs decline. That is not the same thing as saying Guyana receives 39.8 percent of profit. The 2016 PSA’s profit-oil sharing formula remains relevant after cost recovery. However, the larger question remains unanswered, what is the measurable connection between this extraordinary oil income and a better life for Guyanese? Billions are being withdrawn from the Natural Resource Fund for national expenditure, without a national development strategy. The legal authority to withdraw those funds is not the end of the argument. The people are entitled to know the development strategy behind the spending. Where is the long-term plan that connects today’s oil revenue to tomorrow’s productive economy? Where is the plan that ensures today’s roads, power systems, water infrastructure, housing, education and health investments strengthen the country rather than simply consume oil revenue? A Government can spend billions and still lack a National Development Strategy. Development is not the size of the cheque. Development is what remains when the money has been spent. 5. PUBLIC SERVANTS CANNOT LIVE ON ECONOMIC STATISTICS A teacher cannot pay a grocery bill with GDP growth. A nurse cannot pay an electricity bill with an oil-revenue statistic. A public servant cannot build a household around promises of future prosperity. The purpose of economic growth must be to increase the purchasing power and security of the people who keep this country functioning. 6. INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS R E Q U I R E PA R L I A M E N TA R Y SCRUTINY On the Third Country National Agreement with the United States, you have stated that Guyana retains the authority to accept or reject individuals, that Guyanese authorities conduct their own vetting and that the United States bears the relocation costs while the IOM provides reception and other support. Guyanese hear of these assurances. However, they should be accompanied by the full documentation necessary for Parliament to properly examine the arrangement. You subsequently met with your own members of the Foreign Relations SubCommittee to discuss the agreement and other matters, including the ICJ proceedings. Opposition representatives asked instead for an agenda of the meeting, which never came. Parliamentary engagement is meaningful only when Parliament has the information required to ask meaningful questions. On matters involving migration, national security, sovereignty and Guyana’s international obligations, transparency should not be treated as an inconvenience. 7. THE QUESTION BEFORE GUYANA President Ali, your recent statements have unintentionally provided the country with a useful measure of your Government’s performance. You acknowledge that the blackouts are unacceptable. You acknowledge that the electricity system requires major investment. You acknowledge that demand is rising faster than the system can presently
accommodate. You acknowledge that the cost of living remains a serious concern. You acknowledge that cash transfers alone cannot solve that problem. You point to an economy growing at extraordinary rates. You point to increasing petroleum revenues. You speak of major development projects and the need for international partnerships. All facts. However, your government must now be judged against them. If Guyana is becoming richer, why are Guyanese still being asked to sacrifice basic comfort and security? If the economy is expanding so rapidly, why was the electricity system allowed to fall behind demand? If the country has unprecedented oil revenue, why are emergency energy measures still placing additional costs on the Treasury? If Gas-to-Energy is the solution, why has its delivery moved so far beyond the original timetable and why is its final cost still a matter of concern? If the project is expected to reduce electricity costs by 50 percent, where is the transparent calculation showing that Guyanese will actually receive that benefit after the cost of the project and the required GPL upgrades are included? If the cost of living is acknowledged by your Government, why is the answer still so heavily centered on cushioning people rather than increasing their ability to earn and live securely? Not questions of political theatre at all. Instead these are questions of management. 8 . GU YA N A N E E D S A DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY, NOT JUST DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS This is ultimately where I believe your Government must answer the country. Guyana has resources, Guyana has oil, Guyana has money, Guyana has a growing economy. What Guyana still needs is a National Development strategy that brings these things together. A road should connect to an economic opportunity. A power plant should connect to reliable electricity. Oil revenue should create productive capacity. Public investment should create jobs and stronger communities. Economic growth should translate into better wages and greater purchasing power. Also, development should leave behind institutions and infrastructure capable of carrying the country forward after the oil boom. The working man and woman should not have to hear that Guyana is prosperous while wondering whether there will be electricity when he reaches home. The mother should not hear that GDP is rising while watching the grocery bill rise faster than the family income. The public servant should not hear about billions in national revenue while waiting for meaningful improvement in the conditions under which he or she works. The next generation should not inherit an expensive collection of projects without a clear national strategy tying them together. President Ali, you have admitted to your Government’s many failures to effectively address these problems. Now comes the harder part. Government must accept responsibility for the decisions that produced them. The answer cannot always be another project, another contract, another temporary solution or another request for the people to sacrifice. Guyana has reached the point where the question is no longer whether we have the resources to develop. The question is whether we are managing those resources well enough to ensure that development is actually improving the lives of the people. That is the standard by which your Government should now be measured. Respectfully, Hon. K. Sharma Solomon Member of Parliament
Wednesday Thursday November September 24, 23, 2022 2026
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Wednesday September 23, 2026
Narine admits failing to act on evidence of Mohamed’s alleged involvement in six execution-style killings Senior Superintendent of Police and head of the Special Branch, Prem Narine, conceded under cross-examination that despite holding direct authority over the jurisdiction where major violent crimes occurred, he never arrested, interviewed, or charged Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed in connection with six alleged execution-style homicides. Testifying before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman during the ongoing U.S. extradition committal proceedings involving Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, Narine identified the younger Mohamed as the greatest threat to Guyana’s national security. H o w e v e r, d e f e n c e attorney Siand Dhurjon challenged the officer’s assertions, forcing admissions regarding police inaction, lack of direct evidence, the destruction of official records, and claims of political bias. The defence focused heavily on Narine’s previous posting as the Divisional Detective Officer in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department at the Diamond Police Station, the station holding direct jurisdictional oversight over the Friendship, East Bank Demerara area. Dhurjon pressed Narine on his timeline of events, establishing that while serving in this capacity around 2020 or 2021, an explosion occurred aboard a vessel at Friendship East Bank on the Mohameds’
wharf, resulting in three deaths. Despite holding direct investigative authority at Diamond, Narine admitted under oath that Mohamed was never arrested, placed on a bench, interviewed, or charged for the three wharf deaths, or any other homicide, torture, or bribery allegation. H e f u r t h e r acknowledged having intelligence regarding the deaths but admitted he could not recall which superior officer he reported the matter to, stating only that the information was not provided to the crime chief, but restricted to “controlled officers.” Narine also confirmed he was unaware of any court finding anywhere in the world holding Azruddin Mohamed liable for murder, torture, bribery, or worker assaults. Under further questioning, Narine elaborated on the intelligence forming the basis of his assessment, dating back to alleged incidents prior to 2011 involving a plot to rob goldtransporting boats from Bartica, an incident around 2015, and the 2020–2021 vessel explosion, totaling six alleged deaths. When pressed on his definition of an executionstyle killing, Narine rejected the traditional understanding that a victim must be restrained or forced to kneel before being shot at close range. Instead, Narine stated his understanding was simply a situation where there is a plan to execute someone and
Prem Narine
that plan is carried out by whatever means. Narine further admitted he possessed no direct visual evidence, was not present during any of the alleged crimes, and relied entirely on informant reports. The cross-examination turned sharply to allegations of political motivation surrounding special branch’s focus on Mohamed following his entry into politics as opposition leader. When questioned by Dhurjon regarding public videos posted by Mohamed, which drew attention to allegations of corruption, mansions, and rapid wealth accumulation among sitting
Authorities hunt for New Amsterdam Prison escapee The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) is working with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to apprehend a convicted prisoner who escaped from the New Amsterdam Prison on Monday. The GPS on Tuesday reported that Budnarine Persaud escaped from legal custody at approximately 13:00hrs on 21st September, 2026. Persaud, who was sentenced to 24 months in prison for simple larceny, was working at the New Administrative Building with three other inmates under the
supervision of a prison officer when he escaped. An investigation into the incident has since been launched, and the GPS said all parties found to have neglected their duties will be held accountable. Persaud was scheduled to be released on 5th November, 2027. His last known address is Lot 101, Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice. The prison service said it is working closely with the GPF to apprehend Persaud as soon as possible. Anyone with information that may lead to his recapture
Prison escapee, Budnarine Persaud is asked to contact the nearest police station, the Office of the Director of Prisons on 2256003, or the Officer-in-Charge of the New Amsterdam Prison on 627-6215. The public is reminded that harbouring or otherwise assisting an escaped prisoner is a criminal offence, the GPS stated.
government ministers, Narine repeatedly denied awareness of the content. Dhurjon pressed Narine on whether he had ever learned from any source that Mohamed was critical of government corruption or accused the president and vice president of being corrupt, to which Narine
responded in the negative. Despite acknowledging that he lives in Guyana and uses Facebook under the name Prem Narine, the officer maintained he had not seen published videos of Mohamed speaking on political matters, including videos concerning the president’s farm, housing developments owned by Minister of Tourism Susan Rodrigues or specific ministers’ mansions for example Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Browne or Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha. Narine denied taking political directions from government officials or acting to eliminate Mohamed from public life for political reasons, maintaining that his focus was strictly based on national security concerns “by all legal means possible.” The court also revisited Narine’s previous disclosure that he destroyed three official police pocketbooks containing entries around the time of the Mohameds’ arrest on 31st October, 2025. Narine defended the destruction, citing provisions under the Official Secrets Act and Special Branch Standing Order 50
regarding classified notes, rejecting suggestions that the destruction was aimed at concealing orders from political superiors. Regarding the execution of the arrest warrants on 31st October, 2025, defence counsel suggested that special branch officers intentionally closed courtroom doors to block them, the media, and public, from entering, attempting to stage a public spectacle rather than allowing a peaceful surrender. Narine rejected the claim, stating he was in the witness box testifying at the time and had no control over access to the courtroom. The extradition c o m m i t t a l i n q u i r y, stemming from criminal charges filed in the United States seeking the extradition of both Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed, remains ongoing before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman. Prosecutor Herbert McKenzie indicated that state witnesses, including Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd and Detective Superintendent Rodwell Sarrabo, remain available for crossexamination. Narine is scheduled to complete his testimony when proceedings resume on 28th September, 2026.
Police to make another attempt to exhume Phillipai murder victim for post-mortem Arrangements are being made for police to return to Phillipai Village, Region Seven, to exhume the remains of 25-year-old Marinda Ernest for a post-mortem examination, after their first attempt was reportedly blocked by relatives. Speaking with Kaieteur News on Tuesday evening, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said this will be investigators’ second and, “hopefully,” final attempt to exhume Ernest’s remains for the examination. Ernest’s nude body was found with wounds along a trail in the remote community last month. Relatives had reportedly prevented police from exhuming the body during their first attempt, temporarily stalling the investigation. Kaieteur News had reported on 4th September that police suspected attempts were made to pervert the course of justice in the murder investigation. Blanhum had told this newspaper that investigators had identified individuals suspected of interfering with the probe and that detectives intended to recommend criminal charges against them. Ernest is believed to have been murdered between 19:00 and 20:00hrs on Friday, 28th August . Her reputed 23-year-old husband was detained and questioned during the initial stages of the investigation.
Found dead along a trail at Phillipai, Miranda Ernest The circumstances surrounding Ernest’s death have raised questions, particularly following the account given by her reputed husband. Police said the man told investigators that he and Ernest were returning home after participating in a self-help exercise at a farm, known locally as a “Kayap.” Their home was reportedly about an hour’s walk from the farm. The man claimed that while they were walking along the trail, he briefly entered the bushes. When he returned, Ernest was nowhere to be seen. He reportedly continued home, believing Continued on page 10
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Wednesday September 23, 2026
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WHAT IS LOVE? High in the Himalayas, I asked the Guru a question that seemed simple enough. “Guruji, what is love?” He smiled. “You have come a long way to ask a question that most people answer every day without understanding.” I laughed. “Then tell me. What is love?” “First,” he said, “tell me what you mean by love.” I thought of the usual answers. Love is affection. Love is caring. Love is desire. Love is sacrifice. Love is companionship. But the Guru shook his head. “Much of what human beings call love,” he said, “is attachment wearing the clothes of love.” We say, “I love you,” when what we really mean is, “I need you.” We say, “I love you,” but secretly mean, “I need you to make me happy.” We say, “You are mine,” and mistake possession for affection. But can another human being ever truly belong to us? The Guru said that love becomes troubled when it is mixed with the desire to possess. “When love says, ‘ Yo u a r e m i n e , ’ ” h e explained, “fear soon follows. What if you leave? What if you love someone else? What if you change? What if I lose you?” And from fear comes jealousy, suspicion, control and resentment. “Then what should love say?” I asked. The Guru smiled. “Love should say, ‘I want you to flourish.’” It sounded deceptively simple. To love someone, he
suggested, is not merely to want that person to remain with us. It is to want that person’s good, even when their happiness requires p a t i e n c e , f o rg i v e n e s s , sacrifice or freedom. This does not mean that love requires us to tolerate abuse, betrayal or humiliation. Nor does it mean that we should surrender our dignity to prove that we love someone. Love without wisdom can become self-destruction. Rather, the Guru was speaking about the difference between possessing a person and cherishing a person. Possession asks, “What do I get from you?” Love asks, “What can I give?” Possession says, “Make me happy.” Love says, “How can we help each other become better human beings?” And perhaps this is why love is so difficult. We bring our egos into love. We want to be appreciated. We want to be chosen. We want to be remembered. We want our sacrifices recognised. We want our expectations fulfilled. And when they are not, we sometimes keep a secret account book of all that we have given and all that we believe we are owed. The Guru called this “the mathematics of attachment.” “Love,” he said, “does not keep accounts.” I asked whether this meant that we should expect nothing from those we love. “No,” he replied. “Human beings have needs. Marriage has responsibilities. Friendship has obligations. Families have duties. But do not confuse a legitimate
expectation with a claim of ownership.” The Guru said that we often expect another person to fill an emptiness within ourselves. “We ask another human being to give us the peace that we have not found within ourselves,” he said. “Then when they cannot, we blame them for our unhappiness.” Perhaps that explains why some relationships begin with such intensity and end with such bitterness. We mistake emotional dependence for intimacy. We mistake attraction for understanding. We mistake loneliness for love. Real love, the Guru suggested, requires something harder. It requires us to see the other person as a person. Not as a possession. Not as a solution to our loneliness. Not as a trophy. Not as someone whose sole purpose is to satisfy our expectations. A person. Someone with fears we may not understand, wounds we did not cause, dreams we may not share and a journey that existed before we entered their life. That insight reaches beyond romantic love. It applies to the love between parents and children, between brothers and sisters, between friends and even between strangers. As the sun began to disappear behind the mountains, I asked the Guru one final question. “Guruji, then how do I know whether what I feel is really love?” He was silent for a moment. Then he said: “Ask yourself what happens when
Dem Boys Seh...
Love can be a funny thing Dem boys seh love is a funny thing. One minute yuh heart beating like a steel pan like is Mashramani, and the next minute yuh wondering if yuh didn’t drink too much rum before yuh decide that this is the woman for life. One man was sitting beside he girlfriend one night and, feeling particularly romantic, he whispered, “I love you.” She looked at him suspiciously and asked, “Is that you talking or the beer?” The man didn’t hesitate. He said, “Is me talking to the beer.” Dem boys seh that is what you call honesty in a relationship. The man love the woman, but he also have a deep and meaningful relationship with the beer. At least he wasn’t pretending. Then there is this young man who tell he father that he fall in love with Sandra, the neighbour daughter. The father nearly faint. “Sandra? Son, you can’t date she. She is your sister.” The boy heart break, but after a few months he fall in love again with Angela,
another neighbour daughter. The father nearly faint again. “Angela? She is your sister too.” This happen six times. Six sisters! By this time the boy fed up and run to he mother crying. “Mom, Daddy doing me wrong! Every girl I fall in love with turn out to be my sister!” The mother hug him and say, “Don’t worry, son. You can date whoever you want. He isn’t your father.” But love does get even more complicated. A man and woman meet in heaven, fall madly in love and decide they want to marry. They go to God and ask for a wedding. God say, “Give me some time.” Four years later, God finally find a priest and marry them. But after a few more years, the couple fall out of love. So they go back to God and ask for a divorce. God look at them and say, “It took me four years to find a priest up here. How long you think it gon take me to find a lawyer?” Talk half. Leff half.
the person does not give you what you want. If you become angry because you cannot control them, it may be attachment. If you become jealous because you cannot possess them, it may be attachment. If you want them to suffer because they have chosen another path, it may be attachment. But if, even when you are hurt, you can still wish that they find goodness, dignity and happiness—then perhaps
you have begun to understand love.” He had given me a test. Love is not measured by how tightly we hold someone. It is measured by how deeply we care for their wellbeing without needing to possess them. Perhaps that is why the greatest love is not the love that says, “You belong to me.” It is the love that says: “I am grateful that our paths have crossed. I will cherish you while we walk together.
And I will never forget that you are a human being before you are anything to me.” (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Visa review - Political hand, where I stand The Mohameds have come out with eyes blazing. It’s all they have in their arsenal. But it’s good enough for the job before them. They see, they fear, a political hand in the sudden “visa review” by the U.S. State Department of that stamp held by Guyana’s Justice Gino Persaud. The Mohameds are entitled to their convictions, and based on their own experiences with political hatchets endured, they may be onto something. Right now, I’m standing my ground. Curious and mysterious is where I stand on this out-
of-the-blue “visa review” development. Space is given to the local political hands to come out and say count us out. Allowance is also made for the Americans to share some official speak about ‘routine’ or ‘of no special significance.’ Just what was on the timetable, part of the dept of state’s official calendar. A question is worth the try. Are the Mohameds fishing? Try a second: are they on sound ground? I offer no help. But I restate some facts from the recent past. The U.S. Government worked on the Guyana Govt to kickout a Cuban medical
brigade, plus some other stragglers. Also, the U.S. Government got the Guyana Government to sign-on to a deal that is still largely secret relative to third country nationals that go by the name of deportees. The same U.S. Government that was so bent out of shape with Cubans being present in Guyana, and commanded the Guyana Govt to expel them, then turns right around, and dispatches a handful of Cubans to Guyana. A p p a r e n t l y, t h e r e a r e different grades of Cubans. Like eggs: some to be tossed out, others to be boiled alive.
Police to make another attempt to... From page 8 that she had walked ahead of him. However, upon reaching their residence and discovering that she was not there, he said he returned to the trail and began searching for her. “According to the man, he returned to the trail and began searching for her,” police said. He subsequently claimed that he discovered Ernest’s naked body among
bushes near a stream and alerted villagers. The matter was reported to police the following day, prompting investigators to travel to the remote area to commence their probe. An examination of the body reportedly revealed a puncture wound below the left breast, another puncture wound to the back, and abrasions to the back and left leg.
Has this not what has been happening in the U.S. Government-Guyana Govt machinations that see Cubans on a plane and back to their versions of Guantanamo? Then another small set on a plane to this hellhole that a U.S. president used a more colorful word to d e s c r i b e T h i r d Wo r l d countries. Those are the facts, and I dare anyone to dispute them. Now, without taking so much as a lick out of the Mohameds book of lament, try this third question, my fellow Guyanese. Having done so many favours for the U.S. Government, isn’t the Guyana Govt due for a favour of its own? It has been a one-way street to this day. Whatever Uncle Sam wants, Uncle Sam collects. C’mon folks! everyone is encouraged to put on their thinking caps. At least, just this once. How big of a favour (one that is overdue) for the Guyana Govt to put in this plea to the U.S.
Government: take a look at the visa of this or that person who has been causing a world of trouble down here? Frankly, it is beyond my intelligence level, admittedly low to begin with, to think of what this socalled “visa review” entails. A DS-160 Form is a DS-160 Form (nonimmigrant visa). If there was a misstatement of information that was material that would have been detected at the inception. Did the honorable judge answer “No” to one of those many questions, when he should have selected “Yes”? If he did, he would not have been allowed to get away with that, never allowed to set foot in the U.S. He was there at least once, to which I can personally attest. So, what has changed with this “visa review” judge? Does he have some secret connection to the Houthis? How about ISIS in Guyana (don’t be surprised)? Is there
evidence of corruption, aiding and abetting, gangsters, using the umbrella of the law and his position as gatekeeper of justice and truth? I will step up, have my say: no to all those areas, those suspicions, those developments! Now, this returns all Guyanese back to the Mohameds and their contention about ‘political hand.’ By process of elimination, reason, and undertaking a walk through a loaded minefield, there isn’t much else left. Note a silent Guyana Government. Note also an American Embassy now also silent, most concerned about noise nuisance. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.
CAL completes outstanding audited financial statements Caribbean Airlines has completed its audited financial statements for 2017, 2018 and 2019, marking a significant step in strengthening transparency, financial accountability and governance across the organisation. The airline is also progressing the completion of its remaining outstanding audits, CAL said in a press release. The audited financial statements for 2020 are targeted for completion by the end of October 2026, while those for the financial years 2021 to 2025 are on schedule to be completed. The update was presented at Caribbean Airlines’ 9th Annual General Meeting, held on September 22 at the airline’s head office in Piarco, Trinidad. The completion of the audited financials represents a major milestone in the Board’s oversight and commitment to the airline’s longterm sustainability. It also reinforces the airline’s transparency and accountability to its shareholders, stakeholders and the public. Chairman of Caribbean Airlines, Reyna Kowlessar, presenting at the AGM stated, “Bringing the airline’s audited financial statements up to date, following an inherited nine-year backlog, is an essential part of our
focus on rebuilding, growing and positioning Caribbean Airlines for lasting success. We thank our employees for the work completed to date and for their continued dedication as we rebuild the airline. Our focus remains on creating a stronger organisation that can grow responsibly, deliver reliable service and achieve long-term operational and financial success.” The progress on the outstanding audits forms part of a wider programme to strengthen the airline’s viability and operational performance and this work is taking place within a challenging global aviation environment, where increases in fuel prices continue to exert significant pressure on airline operating costs. As fuel represents one of the industry’s largest expenses, Caribbean Airlines continues to exercise greater financial and operational discipline to manage these external pressures while maintaining essential connectivity. Key measures include the route rationalisation programme introduced in 2025, through which the airline continues to assess its network to ensure that route operations are aligned with market demand and commercial realities. Caribbean Airlines is also advancing its fleet optimisation strategy, including the sale of two ATR aircraft. One of these aircraft has already been delivered to its new owner. These initiatives are being supported by critical policy reforms, strengthened financial compliance and oversight. Together, these initiatives will improve organisational discipline and ensure that the airline’s resources are deployed responsibly.
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Wednesday September 23, 2026
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Exxon boasts of US$55B Guyana payday ...now touts lopsided Stabroek Block deal to other nations ExxonMobil has been able to recover an astounding US$55B it spent to develop the resources in Guyana, a remarkable achievement that the company now uses to advertise itself to countries that are looking for a similar achievement. During the Barclays Conference Fireside Chat on September 9, Exxon’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Neil Hansen discussed the milestone the company recently hit in Guyana where historic costs have been paid off. Exxon has invested in exploration and production activities in the Stabroek Block since 1999. While other countries do not allow oil companies to recover exploration costs, Guyana essentially pays Exxon to hunt for oil the Stabroek Block. Since 1999, costs have entered the ‘cost bank’ for exploration and subsequent development and operation of the projects. These were recovered or repaid using up to 75% of Guyana’s oil produced each month. Expenses not cleared in any given month are added to the following month’s expenditure until all costs are repaid. Up to the end of July 2026, Exxon revealed that all investments in the Stabroek Block have been recovered. The fiscal terms of Guyana’s oil contract with Exxon have often been criticized but Exxon praises the deal. During the recent Barclays event, Hansen
said the projects in Guyana are well executed. “The desaturation of the cost bank was not a surprise. It did happen a lot faster than we expected, I think two years earlier, even when you adjust for the price impacts. So that
VP tells conference: ‘If you own oil and want investment $$$ paid off fast like Guyana, Exxon is the right partner’ is a reflection of, I think, the execution of the projects. It’s a reflection of operations and being able to run the existing FPSOs really well. And so, all of that accelerated the recovery of those costs, which is $55 billion,” he said. The Senior Vice President noted that Exxon will now receive about 100,000 barrels per day (bdp) less as a result of the earlier recovery of costs. Hansen however pointed out that the company is not finished in Guyana as plans are progressing for future developments. “We obviously continue to invest. We’ve got the fifth FPSO in the water today, in the waters of Guyana, so that’s progressing well. And we’re looking at advancing the ninth FPSO. So, again, it’s progressing well,” he shared. For Exxon, this demonstrates that the company is “the partner of choice”. Consequently, the Senior VP and CFO said, “If you’re a resource owner and you want someone to come in and execute a project like
GHRA raises concerns over U.S. deportation of children – Demands publication of Guyana-U.S. agreement The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) has raised fresh concerns over the United States’ intensified deportation programme, particularly the treatment and removal of migrant children, while demanding that the Government of Guyana make public its migration agreement with Washington. The association’s latest concerns come amid reports that more than 200,000 minors have received removal orders since January 2025, with thousands being processed for removal each month. Recent reporting has also highlighted changes to US policies affecting migrant children and the involvement of senior White House official Stephen Miller in the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts. The GHRA questioned what measures the Guyana Government has taken to ensure that its recently concluded arrangement with the United States does not expose children or other vulnerable deportees to human rights violations. Guyana announced earlier this month that it had
this in a way where the costs are recovered quickly and the investments recovered and the resource owner benefits from that more timely – ExxonMobil really is the partner of choice.”
President of the GHRA, Mike McCormack entered into a one-year migration cooperation framework with the US, under which a limited number of third-country nationals could be relocated to Guyana through the International Organization for Migration’s Assisted Voluntary Return Programme. The Government has said Guyana retains the right to approve or reject individuals proposed for transfer. The GHRA, however, continues to demand publication of the full agreement, arguing that its refusal to make the document public raises
questions about the arrangement. The association said the US programme is i n c r e a s i n g l y t a rg e t i n g children and alleged that immigration law s and procedures originally designed to protect minors are being altered or used to facilitate their removal. It further expressed concern about children who had been sent to relatives in the United States to protect them from violence, exploitation and other dangers in their countries of origin, arguing that deportation decisions may fail to adequately account for those circumstances. The GHRA also highlighted reports that prospective sponsors of migrant children have been arrested or detained shortly before children were due to be released from federal custody. According to the association, such actions could discourage relatives and other potential sponsors from coming forward, making it easier for children to remain in federal custody and eventually face deportation. The human rights body Continued on page 15
Moreover, he said the countries are now opting for one-on-one dialogues with oil companies instead of the “open bid type of approach” using Guyana as a prime example of what can be achieved. Last month President Irfaan Ali revealed that Guyana’s profit share has climbed significantly from 12.5% to 39.8% following the recovery of costs by Exxon. In accordance with the terms of the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Exxon was allowed to take up to 75% of the oil produced in Guyana each month until all
Exxon’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Neil Hansen of the company’s investments were repaid. The remaining 25% of oil each month is split between Guyana and the contractors, with the country receiving half of the “profit oil” or 12.5%. Stakeholders have called on government to ensure that the country’s current 39.8% profit share does not slide again to a meager 12.5% to finance more projects.
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Drivers arrested following accident that left sections of G/town in blackout The crash today left sections of Kitty in blackout
New $2B contract to complete Princess Street Road …after initial $631M project collapsed
Pictures taken on September 22, 2026 of the current condition of Princess Street between Cemetery Road and St. Stephens Street. The Ministry of Public Works will spend some $2 billion to complete the rehabilitation of the Princess Street Road project. According to information published by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), the new contract for the road expansion was awarded to Associated Construction Services to the tune of $2,078,784,698, following the
national bidding process. Based on the date provided, NPTAB awarded the new road contract on July 17, 2026. Kaieteur News reported earlier this year that the public works ministry went out to tender requesting bids for the “rehabilitation/construction of Princess Street-Cemetery Road to St. Stephens Street (1070m)”. Continued on page 16
Two drivers are reportedly in police custody following an accident on Tuesday afternoon which caused a blackout in sections of Kitty, Georgetown. According to the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), the accident occurred around 15:30hrs along the Kitty Public Road, between Queen Street and Vlissengen Road. The accident involved a Canter truck and a car and resulted in damage to GPL’s electricity network. A nine-meter wooden utility pole was broken, while two pole spans of secondary mains were also damaged. As a result, customers in sections of Kitty between Queen Street and Vlissengen Road experienced an interruption in electricity service, GPL said. “Fortunately, no one was severely injured,” the company stated. However, GPL emphasised that the damage and downing of power lines could have resulted in serious injury or loss of life, posing a danger to those involved and members of the public. Both drivers were arrested and their respective vehicles were lodged at the Kitty Police Station.
GPL’s technical team subsequently carried out remedial works to repair the damaged network and restore electricity service to affected customers. Meanwhile, the utility company expressed concern over what it described as the frequency of vehicular accidents involving its electricity infrastructure. “GPL remains deeply concerned about the frequency of vehicular accidents involving its electricity infrastructure,” the company said. Such incidents, GPL explained, pose serious safety risks, damage critical network components, result in substantial repair costs and disrupt electricity service to customers. “GPL again urges motorists to exercise greater caution when using the roadways, particularly near electrical infrastructure,” the company added. GPL further said that upon completion of the investigation and determination of the circumstances surrounding the accident, it will take the necessary steps to recover the costs associated with repairing or replacing the damaged infrastructure. Investigations are ongoing.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
Protestors infront of Ministry of Public Works
MV Barima protesters demand resignations as PPP supporter confronts picket line
Protestors infront of Ministry of Public Works
Dozens of grieving relatives, civil society members, and opposition politicians converged on the corner of Fort Street and Wight’s Lane on Tuesday morning, mounting a fiery protest outside the Ministry of Public Works. The demonstration targeted the office of Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, as families of the victims of the MV Barima disaster demanded immediate accountability, the salvage of the sunken vessel, and the immediate resignation of himself and Minister
of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar following the loss of over 100 lives. The atmosphere outside the ministry grew tense for the police early in the day as families of the victims, activists, and the men who have been criminally charged in connection with the vessel, gathered along Wight’s Lane. Demonstrators expressed deep frustration over what they described as a total lack of transparency regarding the government’s efforts to salvage the
vessel and the stalled progress of the Commission of Inquiry. The MV Barima sank on 18th July and currently remains at the bottom of the ocean, though the government has promised more than once to salvage the vessel, leaving families agonised by the lack of recovery operations for missing loved ones. Among those protesting was Gailaan Thomas and her parents, who joined the picket line mourning the loss of 13-year-old Continued on page 16
Wednesday September 23, 2026
Kaieteur News
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El Niño’ could hit region’s economies hard The prospect of an exceptionally strong El Niño event is raising fresh concerns for Guyana and the wider Caribbean, with the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) warning that the climate phenomenon could trigger significant economic losses, higher food prices, pressure on electricity systems and increased poverty across the region. In a special report released Monday, ECLAC warned that an extreme El Niño could result in a cumulative loss of at least 2% of regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over three years, with half of that loss occurring in the first year following the event. The Commission also estimates that declining household incomes could push up to 4.8 million
...economic losses could reach 2%; 4.8M more people could fall into poverty additional people into poverty by the end of the decade, compared with a scenario without El Niño. For Guyana, the warning comes at a particularly important time as the country grapples with electricity reliability, food s e c u r i t y, a g r i c u l t u r a l production and the need to strengthen climate-resilient infrastructure. The report, led by ECLAC Executive Secretary José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, describes the emerging El Niño as potentially historic. The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) currently gives more than a 90% chance of a very strong El Niño during
the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter of 2026-27. ECLAC also cites a 69% probability of an event reaching historic “Super El Niño” magnitude, defined by exceptionally high seasurface temperature anomalies in the Niño 3.4 region. N O A A’s l a t e s t September assessment says El Niño is strengthening, with sea-surface temperature anomalies in excess of 3°C in the eastern equatorial Pacific. While the severity of El Niño’s effects will vary from country to country, ECLAC warns that the economic consequences could include slower real GDP growth, inflationary pressure, rising
NA municipality receives govt. subvention after months of delay Following months of waiting, the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council (M&TC) has finally received its promised $50 million annual subvention from central government. Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, handed over the funds to Mayor Wainwright McIntosh and the council while spearheading the sodturning ceremony for the construction of a new market for the town. The belated presentation came seven months after the passage of the 2026 National Budget in the National Assembly, during which the allocation was announced. Since then, the M&TC had been awaiting the release of the funds. On several occasions, McIntosh had raised concerns over the delay, pointing out that the nonrelease of the allocation had affected the municipality’s ability to execute several planned capital works. The council had formulated a number of projects to be funded through the subvention, but those plans were stalled while the municipality awaited the money. With the funds now i n t h e m u n i c i p a l i t y ’s treasury, McIntosh said the council will move ahead with its capital works programme, despite having only three months remaining in the year. “The council will now
New Amsterdam Mayor, Wainwright McIntosh roll out its capital work programme for the year 2026. Therefore, we have three months to roll out our capital works,” the mayor told Kaieteur News. Among the priority projects is the procurement of a suction truck to address drainage and irrigation issues, particularly those involving interlock drains throughout the town. Drainage remains a perennial concern for the municipality. Meanwhile, McIntosh said that while Friday’s announcements included comprehensive plans for the upgrading of the New Amsterdam market, no other section of the wider facility was earmarked for rehabilitation. He said the administrative block, which houses several departments of the M&TC and is structurally connected to sections of the market, was not included in the plans. The condition of the administrative building,
including its dilapidated sidewalls, has been a longstanding concern. “Only the market will be rehabilitated. No major work will be done to the administrative bloc, which continues to be a challenge to the administrative staff of the Mayor and Town Council. And this includes the town c l e r k ’s c o m p l e x , t h e treasurer’s department, the engineer’s department, the health department, the constabulary department. Staff will continue to work under deplorable conditions, since there was no communication as it relates to plans for the construction of the administrative bloc,” McIntosh said. During her visit to New Amsterdam, Manickchand was given a formal tour of the market and the main facilities of the M&TC. According to McIntosh, the tour allowed the minister to see first-hand the condition and layout of the facilities. “Visiting the administrative building, minister is aware of what’s happening with regard to those sidewalls in the mayor’s complex,” he said. However, no decision was communicated on whether government would provide assistance for the upgrading of those areas. New Amsterdam is one of three towns in Region Six. The others are Rose Hall and Corriverton, both located along the Corentyne. Efforts to contact the mayors of Rose Hall and Corriverton were unsuccessful.
poverty and disruptions in critical sectors including energy, agriculture, fisheries and infrastructure. That has direct relevance to Guyana. The country’s electricity system remains heavily dependent on thermal generation, while agriculture, fisheries and other economic activities remain vulnerable to changes in rainfall, temperature and water availability. ECLAC warns that across the region, water shortages could place additional pressure on electricity generation at precisely the time when higher temperatures drive up demand for cooling. The report notes that in countries where hydropower supplies more than 70% of electricity, reduced rainfall can create a double pressure, less water available for generation, while electricity demand rises because of higher temperatures. By October-December 2026, ECLAC estimates that the probability of a precipitation deficit could reach 60%, with 31.1% of the regional territory placed on high alert.
For Guyana, where concerns over electricity reliability and blackouts have already become a major national issue, the prospect of a more volatile climate adds another dimension to t h e c o u n t r y ’s e n e r g y planning.
Food security also at risk Agriculture is another major area of concern. ECLAC, drawing on analysis from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), says there is more than a 70% probability of Continued on page 16
$218M contract awarded to build daycare centre for prison officers’ children The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) has awarded a $218 million contract for the construction of a Daycare Centre in Region Four for children of Guyana Prison Service officers. According to NPTAB, the Ministry of Home Affairs project was awarded to K&S General Contractors Inc. who was among 35 contractors that submitted bids for the project in July. The ministry’s engineer had estimated that the project will cost $241,247,060. The daycare centre forms part of the ongoing efforts to enhance welfare services
within the security sectors. The facility is expected to be constructed at Parade Street, Kingston. It was reported by the Department of Public Information that the project forms part of the government’s broader agenda to improve working conditions and provide greater support systems for members of the disciplined services and their families. When completed, the daycare centre is expected to provide a safe and nurturing environment for young children while their parents carry out their duties, helping to ease childcare challenges faced by prison officers and civilian employees.
GHRA raises concerns over U.S. deportation... From page 11 criticised the involvement of several US federal agencies in the process, arguing that measures being presented as being in the “best interest of the child” could instead expose vulnerable minors to greater risks. The GHRA is now calling on the Guyana Government to publish the agreement with the United States so that the public can determine the extent to which Guyana has become associated with Washington’s deportation programme. The call comes against the backdrop of continuing controversy over Guyana’s decision to accept third-country deportees from the United States. Six deportees: four Cubans and two Afghans arrived in Guyana earlier this month under the arrangement.
Guyanese officials said they had been vetted and found to have no criminal backgrounds. President Irfaan Ali has since stressed that unaccompanied children under 18 are specifically excluded from the Guyana-US arrangement, along with Guyanese nationals, persons with pending asylum claims in the United States and people with known violent criminal records. The GHRA nevertheless wants the full agreement published, arguing that transparency is necessary for Guyanese to assess the human rights implications of the arrangement. It also criticised the Government for associating itself with what it described as a US deportation policy that disproportionately affects non-white migrants, and urged greater scrutiny of Guyana’s role in the programme.
PAGE 16
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
MV Barima protesters demand resignations as PPP...
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From page 14 Bryan Thomas, whose body has still not been recovered. “It is another week without answers about our relatives who lost their lives,” said Jasmin Cort, whose family is mourning the deaths of Neil and Kenrick Cort. Neither of the men’s bodies has been recovered from the submerged wreckage. Demonstrators highlighted that weeks after the disaster, they remain entirely in the dark about when or if the government will attempt to raise the vessel to retrieve the remaining bodies. As the crowd chanted “WHO MUST GO! EDGHILL AND INDAR!”, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) operative Claudine Benn arrived on the scene and attempted to distract the protesters. Her efforts were swiftly met with vocal resistance from the crowd, who drowned out her counter-messaging. Unfased, Benn hastily hand-wrote a sign of her own that read, “Edghill and Indar going nowhere!” and held it up against the crowd of demonstrators. The protest brought together civil society figures and political representatives calling for systemic overhaul and executive accountability. Sharon La Rose representing the Amerindian Peoples As-
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Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill sociation (APA), condemned the government’s delay in addressing the disaster’s im-
pact on hinterland communities. She stated that families have been forced to wait far
too long for straightforward answers regarding the ferry’s maintenance history, safety clearances, and recovery efforts for their missing relatives. Echoing calls for executive resignations, former public works minister Annette Ferguson called directly on Minister Juan Edghill and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar to step down immediately. Ferguson stressed that a maritime tragedy claiming more than 100 lives warrants immediate political accountability at the highest level. Member of Parliament, Sherod Duncan, who joined the picket line, emphasised that demanding the resignations of Edghill and Indar is only the baseline requirement for justice. Duncan noted that while calling for their depar-
ture is not the sole accountability measure required, it remains a critical first step to address the ongoing injustice being meted out to the grieving families. Rights advocates also pointed to broader systemic failures and a lack of humanitarian support for those affected. Maeve Ramsay of the Red Thread Youth Group joined the call, demanding urgent, transparent answers from the government regarding the ongoing investigation and the timeline for physical recovery operations at the wreck site. As the protest continued into the afternoon along Fort Street, demonstrators vowed to maintain public pressure on the Ministry of Public Works until the MV Barima is salvaged and official answers are provided.
New $2B contract to complete Princess Street Road From page 13 Seven bids were since received for the project, based on the tender minutes published by NPTAB at the time. This publication reported that the ministry was seeking a new contractor to complete the project after the initial contract was terminated in December 2025. Subject minister Juan Edghill and his team had visited the project site back in December where he announced that the $631 million contract to Yhardram & Sons Construction Establishment was terminated due to poor performance. The project commenced in November 2024 and was
expected to be completed in September 2025. The contractor was expected to construct an asphalt concrete road, concrete drains, concrete walkways and retaining walls. “The contractor has failed to execute his contractual obligations. Not only did he fail to execute his contractual obligations, but he also left the thoroughfare in a mess, causing inconvenience to residents and other users,” the minister was quoted in a Department of Public Information article. The roadway spans 1,070 metres with a width of 10.37 metres and is designed to integrate seamlessly with the
Cemetery Road expansion, improving connectivity between Cemetery Road and High Street. “Our intention is to expand the width of Princess Street, putting in better drainage arrangements so that when the traffic comes off of Cemetery Road to four lanes, we will have an upgraded Princess Street to help move the traffic westward,” Minister Edghill said. At the time, Edghill said that the ministry’s Special Projects Unit (SPU) will take over the project and do road works so as to improve traffic flow and accessibility along the critical corridor. Meanwhile, last month,
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill and his technical team met with residents of Princess Street to discuss the upcoming works on the main thoroughfare. The ministry reported that the minister and his team conducted a walk-through of the project alignment, spanning the vicinity of Princess Street and Cemetery Road, continuing westward. The engagement provided residents with an opportunity to hear directly from the technical team on the scope and progression of the works, as preparations continue to get the project underway.
El Niño’ could hit... From page 15 drought affecting agriculture in the coming months across parts of Central America, Colombia, Venezuela and several Caribbean countries, including Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Such conditions could threaten staple crops, livestock feed and rural incomes, potentially placing additional pressure on food prices. For Guyana, whose agricultural sector is being promoted as an important component of economic diversification, the warning underscores the need to strengthen irrigation, drainage, water management and climate-resilient farming practices. The effects will not be confined to agriculture. ECLAC warns that El Niño can severely disrupt marine ecosystems by weakening the upwelling of nutrient-rich cold water in the Pacific. This can reduce phytoplankton, disrupt marine food chains and force commercially important fish species to migrate. Previous Super El Niño events were associated with regional fishery declines of 52.7% in 1972-73 and 26.9% in 199798, according to ECLAC. The wider Caribbean and coastal economies could also face consequences from changing marine conditions, extreme temperatures and damage to vulnerable ecosystems. ECLAC is urging governments to move away from waiting until disasters occur before responding. Its recommendations include stronger early-warning systems, resilient infrastructure, emergency financial reserves and climate insurance, protection of vulnerable communities, ecosystem restoration, diversification of electricity generation, comprehensive watershed management, targeted social protection and measures to reduce electricity demand during periods of extreme heat. Salazar-Xirinachs said governments must shift from responding after losses occur to anticipatory management of climate risk, arguing that emergency responses are considerably more expensive than preventive action.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
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Kamla, Delcy set for key talks in NY (Trinidad Express) Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is expected to begin two days of highlevel bilateral talks on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York from today. This includes a meeting with Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez, before returning to Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday morning. Persad-Bissessar is leading Trinidad and Tobago’s delegation to the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly, with her programme featuring a series of diplomatic, economic and regional engagements aimed at strengthening the country’s international partnerships. The meeting with Rodríguez is expected to be one of the most significant engagements of the Prime Minister’s visit as Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela move to rebuild relations and advance cooperation in areas including energy, trade, agriculture, security and economic development. Persad-Bissessar had confirmed ahead of her departure that arrangements for the meeting had been finalised. Meanwhile, Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister Sean Sobers participated in the 26th Special Meeting of the Council for
A GIFT: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, centre, and Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers, right, present a painting of the Magnificent Seven to John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, before their bilateral meeting in New York, on Monday. Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) yesterday. The meeting brought together CARICOM foreign ministers as the region coordinates its diplomatic positions during the high-level week at the United Nations. Sobers said his participation formed part of Trinidad and Tobago’s efforts to advance its national interests while strengthening collective Caribbean
diplomacy. “I am currently participating in the 26th Special Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) in New York, on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly,” Sobers stated in a social media post. “As Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, I remain committed to advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s interests while working alongside our
CARICOM partners to strengthen regional cooperation and collective diplomacy.” T r i n i d a d a n d To b a g o ’s participation at this year’s UNGA carries added significance as the country prepares to take up a nonpermanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Packed diplomatic agenda M o n d a y ’s e n g a g e m e n t s included a breakfast meeting on advancing global cooperation on
Digital Public Infrastructure, followed by the 26th Special Meeting of COFCOR. The delegation’s programme also included a Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) meeting of foreign ministers, attended by Morris, as well as a working lunch involving the foreign ministers of the incoming five members of the United Nations Security Council. Trinidad and Tobago also moved to expand its formal diplomatic footprint with the establishment of diplomatic relations with North Macedonia. A bilateral meeting was also held between the foreign ministers of Trinidad and Tobago and the Philippines, while an Air Transport Agreement was signed between Trinidad and Tobago and Panama. On Monday, Persad-Bissessar also held a bilateral meeting with the President of Ghana, during which an Air Transportation Agreement was signed, further advancing efforts to improve connectivity and strengthen relations between Trinidad and Tobago and the African continent. Attention will now shift to Persad-Bissessar ’s bilateral engagements over the next two days, particularly her meeting with Rodríguez.
At the UN, Brazil’s Lula warns against foreign interference in upcoming election (Reuters) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva used his speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday to warn against foreign interference in Brazil’s October election and reject any outside role in combating organised crime, remarks that appeared aimed both Washington and his political rivals. Lula said Brazil would not allow “internal and external enemies of democracy” to undermine the vote, which he cast as a choice between “democracy and denialism.” “All candidates enjoy the broadest freedom of expression. We know that some abuse that freedom to align themselves with foreign interests that run counter to the country’s interests,” the `leftist leader said, without naming anyone. The comments appeared to be a reference
to right-wing presidential challenger Flavio Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is under house arrest after being convicted of attempting to overturn the 2022 election result. Flavio, whose father is a longtime ally of U..S President Donald Trump, met with the U.S. leader earlier this year and launched his campaign in July highlighting support from Argentine President Javier Milei and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Lula said Brazil’s ‘system was “modern and robust” and warned against disinformation campaigns seeking to distort public debate during the campaign. “We will not allow the enemies of democracy, internal or external, to undermine the popular will,” he said, criticising what he called renewed attempts at geopolitical
domination. “Brazil is nobody’s backyard,” Lula said. “We are once again `witnessing external interference in electoral processes.” Lula said Brazil was prepared to confront criminal organisations operating in the country and across its borders, but called for international cooperation rather than intervention. Earlier this year, Washington designated ‘two major Brazilian drug gangs as terrorist organisations, a move Lula has criticised as undue interference in the South American country’s internal affairs. “We do not need aircraft carriers patrolling our waters. We need cooperation `to stem the flow of weapons and money that fuel crime,” he said, adding that he had personally conveyed that message to Trump.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. REUTERS/MIKE SEGAR
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday September 23, 2026
Trump tells UN General Assembly he could ‘annihilate’ Iran but expects deal after midterms (Reuters) - US President Donald Trump used his UN General Assembly speech on Tuesday to make the case for his war on Iran, arguing he has prevented Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and warning that he could “annihilate the Islamic Republic” if no deal is reached to end conflict. While predicting his administration would strike a peace deal with Iran following the 3rd November US midterm elections, Trump called on other nations to join America in isolating Iran economically to force it to the negotiating table. “I have a big decision to make. Will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country than it ever was before?” Trump said. “Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again?” He later told reporters at the United Nations that U.S. officials had held a “very good” three-hour meeting with the Iranian delegation on Tuesday. He subsequently appeared to clarify that special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner had met with mediators rather than Iranian officials directly. “Steve and Jared had a very productive meeting today with mediators of Iran,
merely mediators,” he told reporters at the start of a meeting with Gulf leaders `at the UN. “Let’s see what happens with that.” Since returning to office last year for a second term, Trump has sent waves through the global order, joining Israel to attack Iran, ordering a raid on Venezuela that captured the country’s leader, and threatening to seize Greenland. In a 37-minute speech ahead of a whirlwind diplomatic schedule that included meetings with the leaders of Britain, Ukraine and Japan, Trump laid out his foreign policy vision, arguing that the Iran war had spared the world the threat of a nuclear-armed menace while asserting U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere is essential to preventing crises from taking root. “Our actions in Venezuela are proof that the United States will no longer permit threats to America to gain a foothold anywhere in the Western Hemisphere,” Trump said. “While others have spoken of peace, I have made peace.” Outside the UN headquarters, dozens of antiIranian-government demonstrators gathered, a few of them holding up signs calling for democracy and decrying dictatorship. Trump brushed aside
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters as he arrives to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York City, US, September 22, 2026. REUTERS/DAVID DEE DELGADO suggestions that the midterm elections, in which his Republican Party risks losing control of Congress, could constrain his handling of the war. Some analysts have argued that a Democratic takeover of the legislature would weaken his leverage in the conflict. “What they don’t realise is that I’m not running,” Trump said, referring to the leadership in Tehran. “I did that already, and won in a landslide. We won in a giant landslide, and I’ll be here for 2-1/2 years.” DIPLOMATIC WHIRLWIND Taking aim at U.S. neighbours, Trump labelled Mexico “the epicenter of
cartel violence,” urged its government to “reclaim control of its soil,” said his `administration was pursuing “a fundamental change in the situation in Cuba.” Members of the Cuban delegation walked out of the hall as Trump referenced his pressure campaign against the country. “It’s an absolutely failed state, it’s failing like never before, and it will fall,” said Trump. Yet Trump’s appearance was less dramatic than in 2025, when he used a combative speech to chastise world leaders, warning that some countries were “going to hell,” and complained
about UN facilities after being briefly stranded on a malfunctioning escalator and suffering an initial teleprompter failure. Trump renewed his criticism of the UN, highlighting his efforts to cut its bureaucracy, but offered no fresh attacks or indications that the U.S. would leave any additional UN agencies. Trump spoke less than a week after a UN fact-finding mission said it had reasonable grounds to believe U.S. forces committed war crimes in two strikes on Iran, including one ‘that hit a primary school in the southern city of Minab. He renewed his criticism of international bodies that could serve as a check on U.S. power, singling out the International Criminal Court and declaring that U.S. military personnel would not be subject to its authority. “We will never allow U.S. service members or anyone else to be investigated or given show trials by an anti-American tribunal with no jurisdiction over us,” he said. Ahead of a UN Security Council meeting on AI and international security on We d n e s d a y, T r u m p acknowledged the challenges of the new technology but said, “I’m `not going to stifle growth of something that will be bigger
than the Industrial Revolution.” The speech kicked off a day of high-level diplomacy at the United Nations, where Trump was due to meet more than a dozen world leaders as wars in the Middle East and Ukraine continued to test his foreign policy agenda. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he had “established a good connection” with Trump in their first-ever meeting, where they discussed trade, Ukraine and the status of the Falkland Islands. Trump called Burnham a “natural `business person” after the meeting. At the press-facing start of their talks, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the meeting would demonstrate the strength of the U.S-Japan alliance amid a “severe security environment, including in Asia,” an apparent nod to China. Trump is due to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington later this week. Trump lavished praise on Takaichi, calling her a friend and predicting she would “go down as one of the great prime ministers.” On his meeting with Ukrainian President Vo l o d y m y r Z e l e n s k i y, Trump told reporters that the two talked about finding a solution to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.
In UN farewell, Macron denounces Trump’s Gaza diplomacy as spectacle of shame (Reuters) - France’s President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims of having secured peace in Gaza, saying not a single humanitarian corridor had been reopened in the enclave despite the proclaimed peace. In his final address to the United Nations before leaving office next year, Macron said the world was witnessing a spectacle that should shame everyone, rebuking Trump’s portrayal of his Gaza peace plan as a diplomatic triumph. He spoke at the United Nations General Assembly hours after Trump had from the same rostrum hailed his Gaza peace plan as a diplomatic triumph. “A year ago, here in this very hall, about a dozen states had recognised Palestine. I hear the
cynicism of some people: ‘Recognition is just a piece of paper, look at the reality,’” Macron said, banging his fist on `the podium in his last speech at the United Nations before stepping down next May. “But what credibility do we have if we continue to remain inactive in the face of Gaza? Some boast of a supposed peace. But that peace has not reopened humanitarian access for a single second. Are we simply to stand by and watch this spectacle that should shame us all?” The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. “One year ago, when I addressed the great leaders in this hall, the war in Gaza was still raging brutally,” Trump said in his
earlier speech. “A few weeks later, we ended the war in Gaza, saving untold thousands of lives.” Macron has faced criticism among some politicians and activists in France that he has done little since recognising a Palestinian state last September. Despite the criticism, Paris has toughened its stance on settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, imposing ‘national sanctions and launching a process to ban products from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. “Look at what is happening in the West Bank, where every day violations are committed. In whose name? Hamas has never operated in the West Bank,” Macron said. “What is happening there is
b u i l d i n g , d a y b y d a y, t h e impossibility of a project that should be based on respect for the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to exist.” France’s ties with Israel have been particularly strained over the last year. ‘Macron said those who believed that violating the sovereignty of all of Israel’s neighbours would ensure its security were mistaken. “They are weakening Israel’s security, both today and in the future,” he said. ‘LONG LIVE THE UNITED NATIONS’ Seven months from France’s next presidential election, Macron was making his last appearance after first taking to the rostrum in 2017. Often ‘showing a keen eye for
the trappings of diplomacy — the grand settings, the symbolism, the personal connections — he has at the same time failed to translate this into lasting strategic gains, analysts say. However, he has always been a staunch defender of the multilateral system and the United Nations. Macron warned against a ‘global “return to the law of the jungle”, saying countries faced a choice between a world governed by power and coercion and a “civilized international society.” “Our duty, more than ever, is to stand alongside the United Nations. We cannot accept the new order of impunity that some would like to build,” he said. He ended his speech with “Long Live the United Nations!”
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
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Jaskaran admits to biased statements on social media after being employed to audit 2020 polls Defence attorneys Nigel Hughes and Eusi Anderson had cause to question the credibility of state witness Terrence Jaskaran, pointing to a long, documented paper trail of political commentary to argue that the forensic auditor operated with explicit partisan bias while tasked with reviewing the 2020 General and Regional Elections. During crossexamination, defence counsel attempted to d i s m a n t l e J a s k a r a n ’s standing as an independent expert witness, arguing that he breached his core duty of neutrality by harbouring deep political allegiances to the governing People’s
Progressive Party (PPP) and active hostility toward the opposition. The defence highlighted that Jaskaran’s engagement itself raised immediate red flags of political patronage rather than objective selection. On the stand, Jaskaran admitted that he was never the subject of a competitive interview; he was hired exclusively by now sanctioned Mae Thomas, who was at the time Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs and interviewed exclusively by Thomas, 18 days after President Irfaan Ali was sworn in. To e s t a b l i s h t h a t
Jaskaran entered the engagement with an entrenched political agenda, the defence confronted him with an extensive series of social media posts. Counsel pointed out that prior to his r e p o r t a n d t e s t i m o n y, Jaskaran had actively campaigned online and declared his political loyalty. Jaskaran posted that he will vote for the PPP and why he will vote for the PPP before he give testimony on Tuesday and before he submitted his expert report. The defence further demonstrated that Jaskaran’s social media activity involved persistent personal and political attacks against key electoral officials and
Primus slams govt. for silence in Chinese Landing ongoing dispute Opposition Member of Parliament Odessa Primus has issued an indictment on the government, accusing the administration of demonstrating “selective urgency” by mobilising state machinery to counter political opponents while ignoring the plight of vulnerable Indigenous communities. Speaking on the re-emerging land dispute at Chinese Landing, an Indigenous village in Region One currently facing incursions by illegal miners and heavy equipment, MP Primus highlighted a contrast in how the government deploys its resources and public messaging. “As soon as the Honourable Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed coughs, sneezes, walks, wakes up, or says a word, the government sends out all its ammunition,” Primus stated. “They find the time, the microphones, and the urgency to address him and the political opposition. So where is that same urgency for the people of Chinese Landing?” Residents of Chinese Landing have reported that heavy machinery and unauthorised miners have once again entered their titled territory, forcing villagers to stand guard to defend their ancestral lands independently. The dispute is not new. In 2023, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) issued formal precautionary measures urging the Guyanese state to protect the residents of Chinese Landing from harassment and illegal mining activities. Despite those international directives, Primus noted that in 2026, villagers are still being forced to police their own boundaries. In her post on social media, the opposition MP directly challenged key state institutions and cabinet ministers, asking where the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) were while these incursions were actively taking place. She questioned where the government’s decisive intervention was and demanded to know what steps were being taken to protect these citizens and their rights. “The rule of law cannot become loud when politics is involved and quiet when vulnerable citizens need its protection,” Primus asserted. “The people of Chinese Landing should not have to fight alone to protect their land nor post
Odessa Primus their suffering on Facebook day after day, hoping that someone in authority will finally pay attention.” Primus argued that the hesitation to respond to Chinese Landing fits a broader, systemic pattern of delayed government action regarding Indigenous communities and ordinary citizens in distress. She pointed to past administrative failures as evidence of this painful pattern, citing the 2008 Waramadong school dormitory fire that claimed the lives of three young Indigenous girls, the 2023 Mahdia dormitory fire where 20 children perished, and the MV Barima tragedy, where families were left waiting for answers and pleading for their missing loved ones to be brought home from beneath the sea. “How many times must ordinary Guyanese cry out before the state moves with the urgency their circumstances demand?” Primus asked. “This government has shown us that it can move quickly. It can summon the microphones. It can issue statements. It can summon the police. It can invoke the law and even twist the law. It can respond almost immediately when its political opponents are involved. So, the question is no longer whether the government can act. We know it can. The question is: who does it consider important enough to act for?” Primus concluded by calling for immediate action at Chinese Landing, questioning how many tragedies, cries for help, and suffering Indigenous people must endure before receiving the same urgency, visibility, and attention that the administration so readily finds for its political battles.
opposition figures long before he took the stand. Many of his posts were before 2020, where he called GECOM, Clairmont Mingo and Keith Lowenfield outside of their real names. He made posts both in 2020 and in 2025 and attacked every opposition party from Forward Guyana Movement to VPAC to Azruddin Mohamed, Odessa Primus and Aubrey Norton. Counsel also highlighted political commentary published during the height of the 2020 post-election standoff to illustrate the witness’s partisan mindset before the election result was officially declared. Jaskaran admitted to posting on Facebook when he called for the president’s teeth to be whitened again on the 11th July, 2020 before GECOM had formally declared that the president was to be sworn in. A post was also made, and Jaskaran admitted to
Terrence Jaskaran
making, it saying that the president needed a new teeth whitening from Jagan Dental because by the time he’s actually sworn in, it might get back yellow. Under questioning, Jaskaran maintained that his online commentary merely reflected his personal political views as a private citizen, insisting that he understood his legal obligation to remain objective in his formal capacity as a witness before the court. H o w e v e r, d e f e n c e counsel argued that the combination of a non-
competitive hiring process by a political ministry, explicit public endorsements of the ruling party, and years of hostile commentary against opposition figures proved Jaskaran was politically compromised and incapable of delivering an objective audit. The court admitted the social media evidence into the record, with the judge noting that the degree of potential bias and the weight g i v e n t o J a s k a r a n ’s testimony will be fully evaluated in the final determination of the trial. The trial continues.
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Wednesday Thursday November September 24, 23, 2022 2026
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Mandhana stars as women’s T20 brings... Hetmyer, Tahir among stats... From page 22 A mistimed reverse shot denied Verma her halfcentury, but Mandhana continued in sublime touch. The left-hander, who became the first batter in women’s cricket to reach 11,000 international runs, pulled and drove with authority and seemed well on course for a century. Her 45-ball ‘blitz finally ended when she holed out to deep backward square
attempting her eighth six. Richa Ghosh provided late-innings fireworks, blasting an unbeaten 49 off just 22 balls to power India well beyond the 200-run mark. Ve r m a r e t u r n e d t o ‘trouble Sri Lanka with the ball, striking in consecutive overs with her off-spin to remove Imesha Dulani and Hasini Perera. Sri Lanka’s faint hopes rested on talismanic skipper
Chamari Athapaththu (27), who found herself ‘under mounting pressure following the early collapse. Attempting to break the shackles, Athapaththu miscued a delivery from offspinner Deepti Sharma — a dismissal that effectively sealed Sri Lanka’s fate. Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by 31 runs to secure the bronze medal. Scores: India 216 for 3 (Mandhana 79, Ghosh 49*,
Wednesday September 23, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A small gathering in your neighborhood could attract interesting people, but you may feel a little under the weather and consider staying home. Your energy may be lagging, as all energy does once in a while after a stressful time.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Have you been going crazy with all the demands placed on you? Don't despair. Reflect on all that's been going on. Think about where you want to make changes. Once you've come to a decision, don't hesitate to implement it.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) A quick check of your bank balance might reveal that it's a bit lower than you expected, Taurus. You probably won't panic, but you're apt to feel a little disappointed.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) If you're currently romantically involved, your lover could well go from what appears to be utter lassitude to total passion. This could throw you for a loop, and you might not know exactly how to deal with it.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Working late, Gemini? What could be so important that it keeps you from paying attention to your family or partner? Probably nothing! Take a good, objective look at what you think must be done tonight. CANCER (June 21–July 22) An online prayer or meditation group could meet tonight, Cancer, and you may get carried away with the spiritual dimensions these meditations take on. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Love matters have been going well for you recently, Leo, but today you could be alone and unable to reach a current or potential romantic interest. This could bring about a twinge of the blues, which up until now have passed you by. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You could go over your accounts today and find that there's considerably less there than you thought. It isn't serious, but it can still be disappointing. In the meantime, cut expenses so finances stay healthy.
SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Have you made plans to have a romantic interest come to your home, Sagittarius? If so, don't rush to get ready. Your friend is probably going to be late. Events beyond anyone's control have interfered, and you might have to wait. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A friend may have some juicy gossip for you, Capricorn. Perhaps someone is getting married. You aren't the type to put too much stock in gossip, but your friend could be so convincing that you believe everything. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) A last-minute gift that you've wanted to buy for someone special might elude you today. You could go to several stores and find the item sold out. This could be disappointing, but don't despair. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Everything may look wrong to you today, Pisces. The house doesn't look right, the furniture needs adjusting, and you probably aren't happy with the way you look either.
Shafali 48, Praboda 1-34) beat Sri Lanka 69 (Athapaththu 29, Deepti 3-6, Shafali 2-3, Patil 2-9, Charani 2-13) by 147 runs.
India survive huge Japan... From page 23 managed nine, and Ishan Kishan was dismissed for three. Iyer faced 12 deliveries for his 16, finding the boundary just once. India did not use any fast bowlers, operating exclusively with spin. While Axar Patel delivered a ‘tight opening over, Ravi Bishnoi conceded 10 runs in his only over. Japan captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming anchored the chase with a run-a-ball 12. Tension peaked in the final over when India successfully contested a wide-ball call that was eventually reversed, leaving the hosts ‘two runs shy of their target. Kadowaki-Fleming said he was extremely proud of his team’s performance against such formidable opposition. “Emotions are running pretty high in our group. But the fact that we’re able to run the best `team in the world, in my opinion, to the last ball of a game is pretty special,” he said. “I think today was a really momentous occasion in that it was the first time we were able to face a full member.” Scores: Five overs a side India 32 for 4 (Iyer 16, HaraHinze 2-17) beat Japan 30 for 3 (Kadowaki-Fleming 12, Washington 2-13) by two runs.
From page 25 against the St Lucia Kings by taking 5-17, becoming the oldest player to claim a T20 five-wicket haul. The spin department was further bolstered by veteran Mohammad Nabi, who marked his 500th T20 appearance with 13 wickets and a microscopic 5.80 economy rate. Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie mirrored that success with 13 wickets of his own, suffocating teams in the middle overs. Complementing the spinners, fast-bowling sensation Shamar Joseph provided searing pace to claim 13 scalps, while South African death-overs specialist Dwaine Pretorius used clever variations to seal crucial playoff breakthroughs. During this year’s campaign, the veteran leg-spinner also secured his place in the record books by officially becoming the leading wicket-taker in CPL history. His masterful variations, cross-field celebratory sprints, and a stunning five-wicket haul remained the heartbeat of the Warriors’ defence. Tahir was ably assisted by left-arm orthodox spinner Gudakesh Motie and West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph, who both claimed 13 wickets each, ensuring Guyana possessed a multifaceted bowling unit. Despite these stellar individual efforts, the Warriors suffered a dramatic late-season collapse, folding for a dismal 76 against the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in Qualifier 1 before their bowling line-up failed to defend a massive total in Qualifier 2. While the ultimate prize eluded them, the individual feats of Hetmyer and Tahir highlighted a season defined by statistical dominance and records. For the Providence faithful, the 2026 edition will be remembered as a showcase of individual genius that fell agonizingly short of team glory.
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Wednesday September 23, 2026
Mandhana stars as women’s T20 brings Women’s Team dominates Somalia; Open Team battles Luxembourg India’s first gold of Nagoya Games NAGOYA, Japan, (Reuters) India secured their first gold of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on Tuesday, with the women’s team crushing Sri Lanka by 147 runs to retain their cricket Twenty20 title in dominant fashion. Electing to bat in a rematch of the Hangzhou final, India racked up an imposing 216-3 at the Korogi Sports Park, propelled by blistering knocks from ‘openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma. The defending champions then delivered a clinical bowling performance, bundling out Sri Lanka for 69 in under 16 overs. “It was good to see Smriti and Shafali give us a big start again, and
India’s Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma in action. (REUTERS/ Francis Mascarenhas/File Photo)
India made it back-to-back gold medals in the Asian Games women’s competition. (AFP/Getty Images)
in between all the partnerships, they were very crucial,” skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said. “Our batters have been outstanding in the last two tournaments — Asia Cup and Asian Games — and they’ve been taking responsibility and giving us breakthroughs.” “We’re really happy that we have opened the gate now, and hopefully we’ll see many more golds coming up (for India).” Mandhana (79) and Verma (48) set a fiery early ‘on, dismantling the Sri Lankan attack in a 99-run opening stand. Continued on page 21
Guyana women’s chess team had a brilliant outing during the Luxembourg Open. The Women’s Chess Team made its mark with an almost flawless victory over Somalia during the Luxembourg Open recently. Led by Women’s Candidate Masters (WCM) Aditi Joshi, Jessica Callender, Ciel Clement, the team secured convincing wins on Boards 1, 4, and 2, respectively. On Board 3, WCM Shariff fought to a draw, sealing a commanding 3.5–0.5 team victory. While the women continued their
strong run, the Open Team faced a tough round against a formidable Luxembourg side. FIDE Master (FM) Anthony Drayton and 16-year-old Kyle Couchman, who earned a notable draw against Luxembourg’s FM Philippe Linster, showed great resilience to hold their opponents to draws. However, with losses for Pitamber and Sandiford, the team ultimately fell short in a demanding match.
Guyana’s Ceili Peterson relishing South American Games challenge Fresh from her bronze-medal performance at the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games, Guyana’s Ceili Peterson has arrived in Rosario, Argentina, alongside her coach, Carlos Amezcua, ready to test herself against the region’s best at the 2026 South American Games. Ceili and Coach Amezcua have commenced their preparations in Rosario. She is pictured going through her paces during a practice and adaptation session, sharpening her technique and adjusting to the competition environment ahead of the start of her event The South American Games represent
another important step in her journey and passionate pursuit of qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Ceili is a recipient of an Olympic Solidarity Individual Athlete Scholarship, administered through the Guyana Olympic Association to support her continued development and preparation for elite international competition. Focused, determined and in high spirits, Ceili is ready to compete with courage and distinction as she pursues further honours for herself and the Golden Arrowhead. Competition runs from September 23–26.
Wednesday September 23, 2026
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Guyana’s athletics team ready for South American Games challenge
Members of Guyana’s athletics team ready for action at the games.
India survive huge Japan scare in rain-hit T20 International
“The attitude and approach the Japanese team showed today was impeccable, and kudos to them. Their approach was outstanding. I’m sure that they are on the right track.” Japan had used diplomatic channels to line up the high-profile match against India, who planned to use the game to get used to conditions in Japan before beginning their Asian Games title defence. However, persistent rain nearly derailed the men’s team’s maiden international against a test-playing nation and the contest was reduced to a five-over shootout. India’s formidable lineup ‘the conditions early on, losing wickets while trying to hit their way out of trouble. Opener Abhishek Sharma fell for a golden duck, Sanju Samson Continued on page 21
Relay • Ravon Williams — 400m, 4x100m Relay, 4x400m Relay and Mixed 4x400m Relay • Akeela Dover — Mixed 4x400m Relay • Kenisha Phillips — 200m, 400m and Mixed 4x400m Relay • Jamal Clarke — 4x400m Relay and Mixed 4x400m Relay • Lloyd McCurdy — Triple Jump • Mark Scott — Coach and Deputy Chef de Mission The athletes have completed their warm-up and familiarization sessions and are focused, confident and ready for competition. The Games are being staged across the three host cities of Rafaela, Rosario and Santa Fe, bringing together some of the finest athletes from across South America. Athletics runs from: September 22–26. The Guyana Olympic Association extends its best wishes to the entire athletics contingent.
Team Guyana ready for Table Tennis battle at South American Games Guyana’s national table tennis team of Shemar Britton, Chelsea Edghill OLY, Elishaba Johnson, Colin Wong and Niran Bissu are ready to do battle at the 2026 South American Games in Rosario, Argentina. The men’s and women’s singles competitions began yesterday, followed by the doubles, mixed doubles and team events. The second half of the Games will see Guyana competing across Table Tennis,
Japan’s spinners and fielders did not let India run away with the bat. (BCCI)
NAGOYA, Japan, (Reuters) - World champions India survived a mighty scare on Tuesday, edging out Japan by two runs in rain-curtailed Twenty20 International reduced to five overs per side. Electing to bat on a sluggish surface with a slow outfield, India’s batters struggled to adjust, posting a below-par 32 for 4. Skipper Shreyas Iyer was the lone batter to reach double figures, making 16. In reply, the hosts finished on 30 for 3, falling agonisingly short of a historic upset in the first-ever men’s T20 meeting between the sides at the Sano ‘International Cricket Stadium. “Honestly speaking, it was a very difficult wicket to bat on,” Iyer said. “A five-over game, it can go anywhere. It doesn’t matter how good a team you are.”
Te a m G u y a n a ’s a t h l e t i c s contingent is in Santa Fe, Argentina, prepared and ready to compete at the 2026 South American Games. Guyana’s 12-member athletics contingent—comprising 11 athletes and Coach and Deputy Chef de Mission Mark Scott—features a strong blend of emerging talent and experienced stalwarts. The team is determined to compete with courage, discipline and national pride while pursuing honours for the Golden Arrowhead. TEAM GUYANA ATHLETICS • Leslain Baird — Javelin • Onesie Dunn — 100m and 4x100m Relay • Akeem Stewart — 100m and 4x100m Relay • Shamar Horatio — 200m and 4x100m Relay • Tishawn Easton — 200m, 4x100m Relay, 4x400m Relay and Mixed 4x400m Relay • Simeon Adams — 400m, 4x400m Relay and Mixed 4x400m
Squash, Archery, Taekwondo and Athletics, as our athletes continue their quest for outstanding performances on the continental stage. Table tennis will feature a strong field comprising some of the best players in the Americas. Team Guyana enters the competition with a determined blend of experience and youth, ready to compete with courage, discipline and national pride.
Guyana’s national table tennis team which will be competing at the South American Games in Rosario, Argentina.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
GAPLF’s Ashlie Abraham and GMR&SC 2026 C/ship Season Bjorn Williams successful at set to begin on September 26 & 27 IPF Level 11 Coaches Course GEORGETOWN, Guyana, — The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) will begin its 2026 Championship season on Saturday September 26, at the South Dakota Circuit. The two-day event, which will feature qualifying on Saturday followed by Sunday’s Race Day will see drivers competing for championship points across the club’s racing classes. The opening round follows the GMR&SC’s Speed Fest held at the South Dakota Circuit earlier this month. Drivers and teams will now turn their attention to the championship, with points on offer toward the 2026 titles. Admission is $4,000 for adults and $2,000 for children. GMR&SC President Mohamed Shairaz
Fesupo President Julio Conrado (2nd left), and Treasurer, Sandra Conrdo (3rd right) with Ashlie Abraham (2nd right), Bjorn Williams (left), Franklin Wilson (3rd left) and Gordon Spencer.
T
he technical landscape of powerlifting in Guyana was bolstered in a huge way on Saturday last (September 19) when for the first time in the sports history two local based coaches, including one female, successfully completed the International Powerlifting Federation Level 11 Coaches Course, in Santiago, Chile. The duo, Ashlie Abraham and Bjorn Williams have now joined the only other IPF trained Level 11 Coach, USA based Kerma Singh who completed the same programme, one year ago after completing the Basic Course, the year prior. Bjorn Williams and Ashlie Abraham in Chile. The move to invest in the technical development by the detailed and intense syllabus. The facilitators Federation is deliberate with regards to strengthening the technical were very knowledgeable in the various areas capacity of trainers to ensure that athletes are and the entire cohort unanimously agreed that exposed to the relevant modern and scientific the content would certainly allow for further improvement in the sport, regionally. principles of the sport. However, the facilitators were clinical in This will ensure that our athletes are in the know always in terms of the changing trends allowing knowledge sharing to be done in a of the sport and being relevant always. The manner that was most effective and engaging. Federation has also recognized that there are As a graduate of this course, I truly feel numerous other coaches who have been encouraged and motivated to impart the working tremendously hard over the years knowledge received to those of my with the athletes and will also need to be able colleagues willing to learn. This is a watershed moment for local to access IPF Coaches courses. The good news is that the IPF will soon be powerlifting and with the continued support rolling out a Basic Course for all its member of all the stakeholders the sport will continue nations as they aim to ensure that athletes are to evolve. We have a bright future ahead and exposed to the best training at all times in the the bar is loaded for success.” The areas dealt with at the course were: gyms they train. The coaches commented on their squat, bench press, and deadlift theory, experience: Ashlie Abraham, “This IPF Level training and planning, sport psychology, 11 coaching course was incredibly dense and referee rules and coach responsibility, comprehensive. It was an honour and nutrition and sports management, antihumbling to be educated by such legendary doping, and stretching. Practical sessions coaches, Mr. Dietmar Wolf and Mr. Pjotr van were also held. The GAPLF would like to express sincere den Hoek. I look forward to contributing to the gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, Youth growth of women’s strength in the sport and and Sport, National Sports Commission, Guyana Olympic Association, and Space in Guyana.” Bjorn Williams said, “The coaching Gym, amongst other supporters for making course was quite a timely undertaking, with a this historic moment for the sport, possible.
Roshandin confirmed that while this is a late start to the championship, they expect the full support of drivers and riders. “Normally, our season starts earlier but this year with the Historic GT3 Challenge series coming here, we had to make some adjustments to the calendar. From what we have seen regarding registration, we are likely to get the full slew of competitors come the event,” the GMR&SC boss added. The GMR&SC is inviting motorsport fans and families to attend the opening round and support the local competitors throughout the day. The 2026 championship is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, One Guyana, GuyOil, Enet, KFC and Castrol.
BM Soat Auto Sales supports IMC O40s World Cup as Silver Sponsor
WC Tournament Director Raj Singh (right) with BM Soat Auto Sales Manager Samantha of the Croal St. Office acknowledge the sponsorship. The Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) welcomes BM Soat Auto Sales as a Silver Sponsor of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026. The company joins the businesses supporting Guyana’s hosting of the International Masters Tournament. The World Cup will bring together 16 teams for 72 matches from Oct 17, 2026 to Oct 31, 2026. The West Indies will compete on home soil, with the Cup Final scheduled for the Guyana National Stadium at Providence. BM Soat Auto Sales’ contribution supports CWIMA’s preparations to stage the tournament and welcome visiting teams. Delivering a competition of this scale depends on the combined work of organizers, clubs, volunteers and sponsors, and CWIMA thanks the company for backing that effort.
The tournament gives cricketers aged 40 and over the opportunity to compete internationally and represent their teams on a World Cup stage. For local supporters, it offers the chance to watch experienced players in action and get behind the West Indies. BM Soat Auto Sales is a leading auto sales dealer in Guyana and was founded in 1986. BM Soat Auto Sales offers a range of vehicle brands and models through showrooms in Georgetown, Success and Happy Acres. Its support brings an established Guyanese automotive business into the World Cup’s sponsor community. Company information is available at bmsoat.com. CWIMA thanks the management and staff of BM Soat Auto Sales for their support of masters cricket and the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2026
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Taharally snatches gold, Joseph silver and Abrigo bronze & two national records - Golden Arrowhead girls’ power on display at Fesupo in Chile Keisha Abrigo powering to a new national squat record of 172.5kg.
Despite the chilly conditions here in Santiago, Chile, three of Guyana’s four female lifters at the 2026 South American Powerlifting Championships, organised by the South American Powerlifting Federation (Fesupo), showcased their strength in style. Leading the trio was seasoned campaigner Nadina Taharally who
captured gold in the 76kg Masters 11 category, with a best squat of 140kg, bench press of 75kg and a deadlift of 165kg for a total of 380kg. Taharally was flawless in all her lifts as she was nine for nine. There was a head-to-head battle in the 76kg Open Class between Keisha Abrigo and debutant Kezia Joseph. Despite the duo ending 5th
and 6th overall in the 7-way battle, Guyana was still able to make its mark. Abrigo powered her way to a new national squat record of 172.5kg, her Total of 447.5kg is also a new national record. She achieved a 77.5kg bench press while her deadlift of 197.5kg was good enough to claim the Fesupo
Keisha Abrigo after receiving her deadlift bronze. bronze medal. Joseph ended with a best squat of 170kg, her bench press of 65kg saw her claiming the silver medal as he had signed up for the bench press competition apart from the open competition while she achieved a
2026 Republic Bank CPL Fallout Hetmyer, Tahir among stats leaders following Warriors Fall-Short campaign By Clifton Ross Shimron Hetmyer and the ageless Imran Tahir emerged as the standout heroes for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the 2026 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), carrying the team’s banner with spectacular individual performances despite a heartbreaking conclusion to their campaign.
While the Warriors dominantly topped the league stage with eight wins from ten matches, their championship aspirations vanished during a tough playoff stretch in Bridgetown. Nevertheless, the individual brilliance of Hetmyer, who amassed 367 runs, and Tahir, who captured 16 wickets, provided local fans with moments of pure ecstasy and historic milestones throughout
Imran Tahir. (CPL)
the tournament. In the batting department, Hetmyer was the explosive engine of the Warriors’ lineup. Across 12 innings, the lefthanded maestro averaged a superb 45.87 and finished as the tournament’s second-highest runscorer. Hetmyer also topped the tournament’s six-hitting charts, clearing the boundary 29 times. His finest hour came during the highstakes Qualifier 2 match against the Jamaica Kingsmen at Kensington Oval. Staring down elimination, Hetmyer played a breathtaking innings, smashing an unbeaten 102 runs off just 45 deliveries. Though his magnificent century was ultimately in vain as the Kingsmen tracked down the 206run target, it solidified his reputation as one of the region’s premier T20 batsmen. The Guyana Amazon Warriors’ campaign was defined by a masterful blend of international stability and explosive homegrown talent. The Batting Powerhouse The team’s batting strategy relied on setting strong foundations
and finishing with maximum impact. Guyanese star Hetmyer led the charge, exploding for 367 runs over the season. His defining moment was a blistering, unbeaten 102 off just 48 deliveries during Qualifier 2. Hetmyer also topped the tournament’s six-hitting charts with 29 maximums. Supporting him at the top order was Shai Hope, who anchored the innings with 332 runs at an impressive average of 47.43. Early momentum was frequently generated by the aggressive Afghan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the Powerplay. Meanwhile, young
Golden Girl, Nadina Taharally on the podium as the national anthem is played. best deadlift of 165kg for a total of 400kg. So, after two days of competition and six of the 17 athletes competing, Guyana’s medal tally reads, 2 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze for a total of 5 so far.
Shimron Hetmyer. (CPL)
local talent Mavendra Dindyal brought maturity to the middle order during tough rebuilding phases, setting the stage for Romario Shepherd to blast crucial late-innings cameos as the team’s premier finisher. The Bowling Masterclass On the bowling front, the Warriors choked opposition lineups using a lethal combination of legendary spin and raw local pace. Tahir, led from the front with 16 wickets, finishing as the tournament’s joint-highest wickettaker. The 47-year-old made history Continued on page 21
Nadina Taharally in deadlift mode.
Taharally snatches gold, Joseph silver and Abrigo bronze & 2 national records - Golden Arrowhead girls’ power on display at Fesupo in Chile
Kezia Joseph deadlifts 165kg.
From right, Kezia Joseph, Nadina Taharally and Keisha Abrigo.
s t r o Sp
GMR&SC 2026 Championship Season set to begin on September 26 & 27
Bikes will be on display this weekend as the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club commences its 2026 Championships. (GT Tuners Photo)
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