Guyana Times - Friday, August 22, 2025

Human Services Ministry, GCCI launch partnership for work-site childcare

GECOM seeks electricity guarantees from GPL at tabulation centres

2 slapped with rape charges in Essequibo Coast

Widow of Lindener shot dead by police files $200M lawsuit against State Driver charged, remanded for fatal Supply hit-and-run

Trump Administration reviewing all 55 million US visa holders Nazar Mohamed’s Venezuelan Embassy visit “What were you doing there?” –Jagdeo says country wants to know

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, August 22 – 03:30hrs–05:00h and Saturday, August 23 –04:00h–05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, August 22 – 16:15h–17:45h and Saturday, August 23 –16:50h–18:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers and late-afternoon sunshine are expected during the day, and cloudy skies followed by thundery showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.68 metre and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 16:15h reaching a maximum height of 2.47 metres.

Low Tide: 09:49h and 21:04 reaching minimum heights of 0.67 metre and 0.71 metre.

Higher salaries, housing support, training opportunities & more in next term – PPP/C to Joint Services

As the Disciplined Services members head to the polls today, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on Thursday made its final appeal to the men and women in uniform, seeking their support for a second term in office.

In an open "Letter to the Joint Services", the party’s frontrunners –Presidential Candidate Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Ministerial Candidate Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, both of whom are seeking re-election – reiterated the PPP/C’s commitment towards supporting not just the ranks but also their families.

“We recognise your vital role, and we will continue to equip and support you so that both your service and your loved ones are safeguarded with dignity and pride. The PPP/C does not merely commend your service; we reward it,” the letter detailed.

Ali and Phillips noted that over the past five years, the PPP/C Government has restored their dignity, improved conditions, and provided the tools they need to serve Guyana with pride, and most importantly – delivered on promises made.

“Over the past five years, we have restored the one-month tax-free bonus, resulting in $2 billion more per year to the disciplined services. We increased salaries, adjusted the pay scale upwards, accelerated promotions, improved working conditions, provided more training and scholarships, and much more,” they noted.

The PPP/C frontrunners went on to add that, “In the next five years, our joint services can look forward to higher wages and salaries, support in owning their own homes, expanded scholarship opportunities, childcare facilities, greater opportunities for promotion, expanded access to healthcare, recreational facilities and a healthier working environment. When you have the right tools, training, and support, Guyana is safer. When your families are cared for, your service grows stronger. And when your sacrifices are honoured, the entire nation stands more secure and united.”

According to the leaders, while the other parties have also promised, the PPP/C has the track record, vision, and will to deliver – something it has proven time and again.

APNU/AFC failed

In fact, during his weekly press conference on Thursday, PPP General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo reminded everyone of all the promises that were made to the Joint Services in 2015 by the then A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition, which failed to deliver on them during their tenure in office.

“They failed on all those promises,” Jagdeo stated, noting that the Coalition thought that “…they could’ve taken the Policemen and soldiers and other members of the Disciplined Forces for granted. And they took away the one-month taxfree bonus. That’s $2 billion from the pockets of the soldiers, our Policemen and

others.”

According to Jagdeo, the leader and Presidential candidate of APNU, Aubrey Norton, had even supported the bonus removal, which they had dubbed as a bribe to the ranks. He was also reminded of Norton’s continued attacks on uniform ranks, especially Police officers.

“[Norton] was opposed to the bonus as late as 2019. Now, I see him saying he will support the bonus… How could anyone in his or her right sense believe anything that Norton says? He has been very vile against the members of the Joint Services, especially the Police – calling them grossly incompetent…

For his part, however, Norton also issued a last-minute plea to Joint Services members, tell-

ing them to make an assessment as to which is the best party as he outlines APNU’s plans for the Disciplined Services, which include salary increases, tax reductions and cash transfers, including the one-month.

Similarly, the Alliance For Change (AFC) also promises salary increases and support for families of officers who die on duty. In his message, AFC Leader and Presidential Candidate Nigel Hughes urged officers for their votes.

Meanwhile, Presidential Candidate of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, US-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed, also issued his plea to the Joint Services members, promising a host of support for improved quality of life.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Family-friendly workforce

The launch of a partnership between the Human Services and Social Security Ministry and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) marks an essential development in Guyana’s labour and social landscape. By committing to the establishment of on-site day, night, and early childhood centres at companies and workplaces, this initiative directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges faced by working parents: access to safe, affordable, and reliable childcare.

The significance of this step extends well beyond the convenience of employees. It represents a deliberate move toward creating workplaces that are more inclusive, equitable, and productivity-driven. Minister of Human Services Dr Vindhya Persaud was unequivocal in outlining the broader vision: childcare is not merely a social necessity but a strategic investment in human capital and national development.

For decades, many working parents have struggled to balance their professional obligations with family responsibilities. The absence of accessible childcare options has often forced parents, particularly women, to leave the workforce or accept lower-paying, less demanding jobs. The ripple effects have been felt across households, companies, and the wider economy. By providing technical support, policy guidelines, and training, the Ministry is ensuring that businesses have both the framework and resources to implement effective childcare solutions. The expected results are clear: greater peace of mind for parents, higher employee retention, and improved productivity across industries.

The Region Three Early Childhood Centre, already in operation, serves as a model of what is possible when Government intervention and private-sector collaboration converge. Its early intervention approach, engaging children from infancy to toddlerhood, provides not only custodial care but also structured support for emotional and physical well-being. Such facilities are critical in laying the foundation for lifelong learning and healthy development.

The private sector’s embrace of this initiative is equally encouraging. GCCI’s leadership has signalled a willingness to go beyond rhetoric by pledging concrete support and by positioning childcare services as an extension of corporate social responsibility. This is a welcome evolution in the role of business associations, reflecting a deeper recognition that employee welfare and community development are not separate from, but rather integral to, economic success.

Of particular note is the initiative’s entrepreneurial dimension. By inviting companies to hire service providers, adopt consortium models, or encourage women-led enterprises in childcare, the programme not only expands access to services but also creates new business opportunities. With technical and training support from the Childcare and Protection Agency and the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN), women and men alike are being equipped to launch and sustain care-based enterprises. This dual benefit – meeting a social need while fostering entrepreneurship – strengthens both the workforce and the economy.

Another promising feature of the initiative is its inclusivity. While childcare remains the focal point, the ministry’s simultaneous push for Brave Centres to support men underscores a holistic approach to gender empowerment. These safe spaces address issues such as anger management, conflict resolution, and healthy relationships, while also tackling the societal scourge of gender-based violence. By extending responsibility for family well-being beyond women, the Ministry is fostering a healthier balance in how caregiving and personal development are viewed.

The proposed National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal adds yet another layer of accountability. By introducing a structured assessment and certification system, companies are incentivised to adopt policies that promote gender equity, fair opportunity, and safe workplaces. The awarding of bronze, silver, and gold seals will not only recognise progressive companies but also set benchmarks for others to emulate. Such a framework can drive lasting change in workplace culture and corporate governance.

Businesses must move from verbal support to tangible investment, allocating space, resources, and capital to childcare facilities and related services. The Ministry, for its part, must ensure that its technical and policy support is sustained, comprehensive, and responsive to the unique needs of different industries and communities.

There is also a need for monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track outcomes: how many companies implement childcare centres, how many employees benefit, and what measurable improvements are observed in workforce productivity and retention? Transparency and data-driven reporting will help refine the model and inspire confidence among stakeholders.

What is clear is that Guyana stands at an inflection point. Economic growth, driven largely by the energy sector, has created new opportunities but also new pressures on families and communities. The introduction of workplace childcare facilities is an economic imperative that can support a more resilient, skilled, and motivated workforce.

The GCCI-Ministry partnership reflects an understanding that social policies and economic policies cannot be divorced from one another. If scaled effectively, this initiative could transform the culture of employment in Guyana, embedding family-friendly policies at the heart of business strategy.

NRF withdrawal cap – bigger fund,

Dear Editor,

smaller cap (not 99%)

“The new NRF rule doesn’t ‘take 99%.’ It’s a cap that tightens as the Fund grows. We’re using our revenues to build – while keeping debt under 30% of GDP. That’s fiscal responsibility, not depletion.”

Key Points

The amended NRF formula is a cap that scales with fund size and production; it does not enable depletion.

• The higher the Fund’s balance, the lower the effective withdrawal rate – by design.

• Example: On US$6B: old rule cap = 23%; revised formula ceiling = under 75%, calibrated to production rising from ~120,000 bpd (Dec 2019) to 600,000+ bpd (2024/25).

• On US$12B: maximum effective withdrawal rate = 41%. As the Fund grows further, the effective cap declines.

Policy intent: minimise borrowing, keep debt-to-GDP under 30%, and match investment to rapidly rising inflows; in effective terms, the withdrawal rate is virtually unchanged relative to the old rule.

• The “99%” claim is false and not supported by the formula.

Myth vs Fact

Myth: The opposition leader claims, “The government changed the law to take 99% of the Natural Resource Fund.”

Fact: The new rule is a moving cap tied to the projected growth in the Fund’s size and production. On US$6B the ceiling is under 75%; on US$12B it’s 41%; and the effective cap tightens as balances grow. No depletion clause.

Production Timeline (Context)

• Dec 2019: first oil; ~120,000 bpd. 2024/25: sustained 600,000+ bpd.

• 2030 (planning horizon): ~1.7 million bpd capacity as additional FPSOs come online.

I’ve heard the line: the government “changed the law to take ninety-nine per cent of the Fund.” It sounds explosive. It’s also wrong.

The revised NRF rule is a cap, not a syphon. It scales with reality – the size of the Fund and the volume of production – and it tightens as the Fund grows. Bigger balance, lower effective withdrawal rate. That’s by design.

Now for the maths. On a US$6B balance, the old formula capped withdrawals at 23%. Under the revised rule – calibrated to oil output rising from 120,000 bpd in 2019 to 600,000+ bpd in 2024/25 – the ceiling is under 75%, not 99%.

At US$12B, the new cap is 41%, while the old formula would lock it at 13%.

And here’s the kicker: as the fund grows, that effective cap keeps falling. No “99%”. No raid. Just a rule aligned with production growth and fiscal prudence.

Why adjust the cap? Because Guyana is rapidly transforming. Output is expected to peak at nearly 1.7 million bpd by 2030, more than double the current output level. Freezing a smaller-economy cap in a much larger economy would push us into more foreign borrowing to finance the national budget. Therefore, the reform enables the utility of more of our own cash now, saves more as the Fund grows, and pays less

in interest – all while keeping debt under 30% of GDP. That is fiscal discipline, not depletion. Why adjust the cap? Because the economy is rapidly transforming and expanding. Oil output is set to peak near 1.7 million bpd by 2030 – more than double today’s level. Freezing an old cap in a booming economy would force more foreign borrowing to fund the budget. The reform fixes that: use more of our own cash now, save more as the Fund grows, and pay less in interest – all while keeping debt under 30% of

GDP.

That’s not depletion. That’s fiscal discipline in action. Governance still matters. Transfers are published, debated, and scrutinised – as they should be. But politics shouldn’t replace arithmetic literacy. The new formula is a guardrail, not a getaway car. Bigger fund, smaller cap. Build more, borrow less. That’s how you turn oil into broad-based prosperity without mortgaging Guyana’s future.

Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin

Thieves are lurking around and breaking into persons’ vehicles at MovieTowne Parking Lot

Dear Editor,

A few weeks ago I parked my car in the MovieTowne parking lot to go into the Massy supermarket to pick up a few items. I spent not more than half an hour, and someone or a group of persons broke into my car and stole a large sum of money.

I only spent like half an hour in the supermarket and was not parked very far from its entrance. In fact, my vehicle was parked where the Massy security could have seen it clearly. To my surprise, when I discovered the money was stolen from the car, I went back to the Massy Supermarket to find out if they could have reviewed their camera footage to see if I could have seen who did this. A supervisor indicated that I would need the police’s permission to access the footage. I made the police report,

but to this date I have been given no feedback. Massy was very unhelpful in providing any assistance. This shows clearly that they are not serious about offering any security to persons’ property when they go to the establishment to do business. It was only after the incident that some of my colleagues told me that this has happened several times to other persons before right in the parking lot. Thieves are lurking around to break into persons' vehicles, and I am urging persons going there to be very careful. You need to look out for yourselves, as they (Massy) seem not to care about the protection of persons’ property.

Yours truly, Name and address supplied

Voters must remember history before believing empty promises LOO hides behind arrogance, ignorance and nescience

Dear Editor,

The election period is often dubbed the “silly season” because some politicians make outrageous promises they have no intention of honouring. When it comes to making empty promises, you can bet your last dollar that the PNC will not disappoint. Indeed, since Independence, the PNC has been known for making promises that it is incapable of honouring or never intended to deliver. During the 1970s, this party promised to "feed, clothe, and house the nation". However, by the end of their three decades in power, the country had become one of the most impoverished in the Western Hemisphere, and squatting was the only viable means of obtaining shelter for countless citizens. This tragic history is well documented.

In his book titled From Autocracy to Democracy in Guyana, Odeen Ishmael provides a comprehensive account of the failure of the PNC’s “pie in the sky” fiveyear plan to feed, clothe, and house the nation. In the area of housing, the PNC promised to build 65,000 housing units by the end of 1976. However, according to the statistics, only 4,167 housing units, or 6.5%, were completed. Because of the colossal failure of the PNC's housing programme, an estimated 108,000 people lived in squatter settlements during the early 1990s, according to the United Nations. In these squatter settlements,

the citizens had no access to sanitary facilities, potable water, or essential infrastructure.

Fortunately, the housing situation was reversed by the PPP/C when it was voted into office in 1992. During the first five years of the PPP/C Government, more than 21,000 house lots were distributed, and by 2015, this figure had grown to 115,000. Beyond simply distributing house lots, the PPP/C made housing more affordable through various initiatives, including the lowering of interest rates on mortgages, offering housing subsidies, and providing mortgage interest relief (MIR), among other measures. Between 1991 and 2012, the housing stock of the country increased by more than 42 per cent due to the housing initiatives of the PPP/C.

In its new incarnation, the APNU-AFC, the PNC promised the electorate in 2015 to provide every Guyanese with access to affordable housing through innovative financing for housing, mortgage interest support, and incentives for aided selfhelp. However, staying true to form, the APNU-AFC not only failed to deliver on its promises but also inflicted severe damage to the housing sector. The decimation of the housing sector was initiated with the conversion of the Ministry of Housing to a department of the Ministry of Communities. The party continued its destruction of

the housing sector by shifting from the distribution of house lots and construction of homes to experimenting with attached houses (or duplexes) when no legislative framework existed for that housing model. The APNU-AFC also limited the Mortgage Interest Relief to $15 million and imposed VAT on building materials. Unsurprisingly, a new wave of squatting emerged.

Now that another election season is upon us, the PNC is once again promising to make housing accessible to citizens who have reached the age of 18, at no cost. Given its historical track record in the area of housing –33 years in power, from 1966 to 1992 and 2015 to 2020 – this new pledge by the PNC should be taken with a “bag of salt” and not “just a pinch”. History shows that the PNC’s promises have repeatedly been honoured in the breach.

I urge all voters to remember our history. More importantly, I would like them to heed a sign in Jonestown that famously read: "Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it." Let us heed this warning, think critically, and avoid being seduced by cheap political rhetoric. In other words, avoid drinking the Kool-Aid served by the PNC during this silly season.

Kind regards, Kevin Persaud

Dear Editor,

With some ten days to go, there is no sign of letting up as the six contesting parties advance their campaigns to contest the Guyana General and Regional 2025 Elections. From a list of 24 parties originally submitted, 6 parties are vying for the coveted crown. The PPP/C and APNU remain the main contenders, with newcomer WIN receiving attention. The remaining 3 are overlooked as underdogs, with the ALP and FGM fighting for recognition. Those two are struggling for space to place a face in this race. The third is there for the ride.

The Army For Conspirators is desperately struggling to remove a “Dead Meat” stigma. This is no enigma due to the sole fact that it was mainly the AFC who stabbed the Berbice sugar workers in their backs by fooling, lying and cajoling them in 2015. Their leader, who “finagles” as a huge guy and one full of controversies, contradictions and contentions, is anything but committed to the loyalty to the country he wants to be king of. Being one of the architects in helping to affront Guyana's interests, the electorates will not forget our lopsided oil contract being the worst signing agreement in the world!

The PNC, WPA and the other “nonentities” are understandably Any Person’s Nightmare Understood. With LOO coming as a Burnhamite creature, it is easy to see why he brags, boasts and bullies his way to brutalising his own buddies, many of them walk-

The declining political stardom of Azruddin

Dear Editor,

Lured into politics by disgruntled power seekers of the likes of Chris Ram and others, Azruddin Mohamed first gained notice and attention by travelling the country, distributing gifts to residents along the way – a house here, an E-bike or wheelchair there – and he quickly earned the praise and admiration of recipients of his generosity. Drowning in wealth, many thought he was following in the footsteps of his father, a known Guyanese philanthropist who donated portions of his huge, accumulated wealth to worthy causes and organisations. But the flamboyant, pampered son soon manoeuvred his way into the world of national politics, declaring his candidacy for Guyana’s presidency through the formation of the WIN party. Like any dedicated father, Mohamed came out in support of his son. Given his access to and generous utilisation of wealth, Azruddin initially experienced little to no difficulty in attracting crowds to his rallies, most of whom were apparently eager, or allegedly paid, to welcome the “new kid on the political block”. Lavished with praise by opposition forces, Azruddin gladly embraced some of the anti-Government advocates into his (WIN) party fold. Soon thereafter, anti-Government advocates such as Chris Ram brazenly compared Azruddin to the legendary his-

torian Dr Walter Rodney as if to boost the former's likeability and political ascendancy. However, Azruddin himself soon proved Ram not only wrong but also ridiculous. For, unlike the eloquent and brilliant Rodney, Azruddin's bumbling speeches became publicly evident, and his inability to command the attention of attendees at his campaign rallies readily surfaced in their inattentive behavioural displays and early departures from the events. In addition, his paternal uncles, disquieted by his entry into politics, voiced their apprehensions in supporting him, pointing to his lack of qualifications and political immaturity in vying for the presidency. Furthermore, his fiscal irresponsibility, evident from his possession of luxurious cars and other material possessions, coupled with his flaunting of wealth publicly – through gifts and cash distributions – gradually invited increasing scrutiny.

As the days and weeks of political campaigns continued, Azruddin’s lack of knowledge of Government, Governmental relations, parliamentary functions, developmental policies, international relations, geopolitics, diplomacy, race relations, etc., became burdensome to his candidacy and political campaigns. Feedback voluntarily provided called into question the very title of his WIN party – We Invest in Nationhood – with some ques-

tioning Azruddin’s proficiency in “building” nationhood when he does not understand multiculturalism in a heterogeneous pluralistic society, to which a few added that he supports hostility and divisiveness. So how can he build nationhood? they asked.

Now, in the waning days of political campaigning, the beleaguered Azruddin’s political stardom seems to have received another blow, this time from PPP/C leaders’ continued efforts to extol the benefits of developmental policies to all Guyanese. For example, during their re-election campaign speeches in Lethem, both the president and vice president linked the benefits of the PPP/C policies of national development to the benefits these brought to families, individuals and communities. In so doing, the vice president and president energised attendees and reaffirmed their support come election day. In promising to increase familial support through augmentation of financial allotments to children and ageing adults, campaign attendees walked away pleased that they are not being ignored or left behind.

And, with the WIN party promising tremendous increases in cash grants, one wonders how prudent such a promise is, especially since the Government’s coffers can be likened to one’s bank account, savings, or income. It is accrued incrementally – not

Mohamed

all at once – and budgeted in accordance with the various needs of the country, similar to how a family budgets for food, clothing, children’s schooling, amenities, family emergencies, etc. If a family spends all its financial resources at once, it places family members at risk. Even Azruddin would not give away all his money because such would most likely put him and his family at risk. Correspondingly, it would be foolhardy for the PPP/C Government to deplete its revenue by distributing huge sums to the people. This would most definitely bankrupt the country and result in a national crisis that negatively affects every citizen. One wonders whether Azruddin understands the principles and value of good governance. And the way he squanders his family fortune attests to his fiscal irresponsibility, a disqualifying trait of Governmental leadership and an abomination to Guyana’s electorate.

When taken as a whole, the information presented attests to the declining political stardom of Azruddin. Premature? I think not. For Azruddin, dwindling public appeal and disapproval would become glaringly evident on election day when voters re-elect the PPP/C and thereby relegate Azruddin into the abysmal darkness of hasbeen politicians.

Regards, Narayan Persaud, PhD

ing away from him and joining a bigger, better and wealthier party in all respects and one that is not a loser, the PPP/C.

The shame and disgrace manifested by the APNU and the AFC when they attempted to pull off the flimsiest election rigging in 2015 will forever be stained as a blemish on the foreheads of all their supporters. This obvious blot will perpetually be a slur of dishonour to the APNU and AFC parties. Schoolchildren will advise their parents that those parties are the worst mathematics teachers in the world. Unable to correctly calculate the absolute majority of the number 65, no wonder they allowed Exxon to overpower the oil negotiation, with Guyana having to settle for pittances!

Guyanese now have to experience, explain and expose what the Worst Interrupter Needs in order to interpret why the new kid on the block is so desperate to swim with the sharks. Living a lavish life with Lamborghini, luxury and laurels will not influence the small man who will not be the real man under any party except the ruling party. His story is being told that he comes with a baggage of heavy load filled with gold. The old know that Mr Bold’s road is cold and cannot hold and will evidently fold.

The Guyana 2025 General and Regional Elections will be remembered by a portrait painted with the picture of a Red Tsunami, rolling in rollicking rhythms, as revellers reveal, reflect and reminisce on a Road to Guyana. The Grandmother of all elections has been a well-fought battle by the PPP/C since the 2nd of August 2020. They have not let their guard down and have continued to face the nation by constantly visiting all the people in all the communities in all the 11 regions, including the Diaspora. Their powerful performances, superb successes and remarkable results are ingrained in the local, regional and global acknowledgements,

unsurpassable by any administration in this land.

Undoubtedly, history is being made with many firsts by the PPP/C Government during this 2020-2025 period. They have saved this nation from the “Jaws of Death” when the APNU/AFC was undermining democracy in 2020. The PPP/C has revamped, revived and remodified a new destiny to mould in the journey of peace, progress and prosperity for Guyana and Guyanese. The world is shaking the hands of a true universal leader at a time when the opposition leader hides behind arrogance, ignorance and nescience.

The armed forces will cast their votes today to exercise their democratic rights in choosing which party and leader should catapult this country and their future with honesty, happiness and harmony. The proven track records of past performances by the PPP/C, APNU and AFC will determine who deserves to lead this nation in its best defence with dignity, loyalty and integrity. The remaining 3 parties can be easily overruled, overlooked and not be overrated because they are not in the same league.

Guyanese cannot afford to risk any chance by gambling with Lady Luck or alternatives which have taken this country down on the Road to Perdition before. No one can deny that the PPP/C is the only party which has ever provided this country with sensible, responsible and doable projects which have developed a holistic and viable infrastructure, catering to the betterment of all Guyanese without prejudice. As members of the disciplined forces head to the poll today, only one thing they will remember, i.e., which party has best served their interests, their family’s needs and the nation’s welfare. The obvious answer is blowing in the wind, oblivious of any doubt.

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Probability – What Are the Chances?

Probability is the math of chance. It tells us how likely something is to happen.

The Probability of event to happen = Number of favourable outcomes/Total Number of possible outcomes

Example 1: Flipping a Coin

A coin has 2 sides: heads and tails.

• Probability of landing on heads = 1 out of 2, or 1/2

• Probability of tails = 1/2

Example 2: Rolling Dice

A standard die has 6 sides.

• The chance of rolling a 3 = 1 out of 6, or 1/6

• The chance of rolling an even number (2, 4, or 6) = 3 out of 6, or 3/6 = 1/2

Practice

1. A spinner has 5 equal sections: red,

blue, green, yellow, and orange.

(a) What is the probability of landing on red?

(b) What is the probability of NOT landing on red?

2. A bag contains 10 marbles: 3 green, 4 yellow, and 3 black.

(a) What is the probability of picking a green marble?

(b) What is the probability of picking a yellow or black marble?

3. You roll a die (1–6).

(a) What is the probability of rolling a number greater than 4?

(b) What is the probability of rolling an odd number?

4. In a class of 20 students, 12 have pets and 8 do not.

(a) If you randomly choose one student, what is the probability they have a pet?

(b) What is the probability they do not have a pet?

Materials:

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•

•

•

•

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multicoloured. Who says dragons have to be one colour?!

Instructions:

• Gather all the supplies you’ll need.

• Cut a piece of construction paper to be the exact length of your paper roll. Spread glue from a glue stick onto one side of the paper. Line up the ends of the paper with the ends of the paper roll, then wrap the paper around the roll so it’s completely covered.

• Using a glue gun or glue dots, attach one of the googly eyes to the middle of one of the larger pom poms. Repeat for the second googly eye and second larger pompom. These will be your dragon eyes (you should have two eyes).

• Using a glue gun or glue dots, attach each of the dragon eyes to one end of the paper roll.

• Using a glue gun or glue dots, attach the two smaller pom poms near the other end of the paper tube to make the dragon’s nose.

• For the fire, cut scraps of red, yellow and orange tissue paper to be long pointy strips, about 9″ or 10″ long.

• Spread some glue from a glue stick onto the straight end of one of the strips of tissue paper, then attach it to the inside of the paper roll under the dragon’s nose. Repeat, and keep gluing tissue paper to the inside of the paper roll as you work your way around the roll. Your paper roll dragon is complete! Take a deep breath, put your mouth on the end of the paper roll and BLOW!

By Allison swenson

I remember first hearing rumors of the atom. We are all made up of crumbs, Q told me when we were kids. In those days, nature’s magic tricks were still mysteries to us, secrets we sought to unravel: how astronauts float in outer space, how leaves turn from green to gold, how the sea becomes the clouds and the clouds become the sea. Q’s mom was a scientist who worked in a research lab and conducted experiments with worms. We pulled threads from her spools of knowledge, cut lengths of different colors, and, with them, tried to stitch together the universe. Atoms, Q said:

If you could go to work with one of your parents for a day, what do you think the day would be like? What types of things do your parents do at work all day long?

WORD SEARCH

PPP has no apology for campaigning on delivered promises, record – Jagdeo on Carter Center’s report

…welcomes preliminary report but flags missed vote-buying, banking

concerns

While generally welcoming the findings of the Carter Center Electoral Observation Mission in Guyana, the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has raised several concerns with the preliminary report released ahead of the September 1 General and Regional Elections.

Speaking at a press conference today, Jagdeo said that although the report validates several critical points long maintained by the PPP/C, it also contains notable flaws.

Closure of WIN candidates' accounts

One major point of contention, Jagdeo noted, is the Carter Center’s commentary on the actions of local banks regarding US sanctions. The report expressed concern that banks in Guyana might be over-complying with US sanctions by closing the personal accounts of approximately 40 We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) candidates, party members, and

associates.

Jagdeo criticised the Carter Center for appearing to instruct local banks on how to operate in this sensitive area, pointing out that even the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has not provided clear guidance on whether transactions involving associates of sanctioned individuals place banks at risk.

“Even OFAC has not done that… I find that very strange,” Jagdeo said.

“When a local bank operates here in Guyana, they will safeguard themselves. They will not; they don't care about what the Carter Center says. Tell them, 'Oh, don't de-risk', but the US banks are busy de-risking. Every US bank is doing this, but the locals must not do that. If they lose their correspondent relationship, the Carter Center can't help.”

In a previous press conference earlier this month, Jagdeo had explained that the banks’ move to close accounts was part of efforts to safeguard themselves, not-

ing that all financial institutions will be forced to de-risk their services to protect relations with US banking facilities.

Similar sentiments were subsequently echoed by the Guyana Association of Bankers Inc. (GABI), who defended the decision by local financial institutions to sever ties with several WIN party candidates, emphasising that the move is critical to safeguarding the country’s financial system.

In an official statement issued, the association reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining robust compliance systems that protect against illicit financial flows, noting that banks must operate within risk-based frameworks and adhere to international sanctions regimes.

Voter inducement

Jagdeo also took issue with the Carter Center report’s failure to document what he described as blatant acts of voter inducement. He referenced a widely circulated video of WIN’s

presidential candidate, US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, handing money to a citizen – an incident that prompted the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to issue a public warning that vote-buying is illegal.

“They missed the biggest one with Azruddin Mohamed handing out money, which prompted GECOM to issue a statement saying that it’s illegal to buy votes or to be paid for your vote… which also prompted APNU to call for a ban of cell phones in polling places. How could they miss that big one?”

He also referenced an incident involving WIN supporter Bradley “Doggie”

Sampson at the Square of the Revolution, which he felt deserved mention in the report.

The incident Jagdeo recalled was displayed on social media and received widespread criticism after a woman visited the East La Penitence Police Station and reported that she was beaten and assaulted by Bradley Sampson, also known as “Doggie” – a supporter of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party.

The woman told the police that she was employed by Sampson, a key organiser in the political party, for Nomination Day progression, and in return, she would get paid $50,000.

The police said the woman further claimed that she went to the Square of the Revolution, also known as Cuffy Square, Georgetown, to uplift the payment from Sampson. However, he only paid her $10,000.

This consequently led to an argument during which Sampson allegedly dealt her several kicks and punches about her body and lashed her with a gun to her head, causing her to receive multiple injuries.

The police had stated that the woman said she was offered $500,000 to drop the matter.

State funds

The PPP/C General Secretary further criticised the report’s suggestion that the governing party is improperly using state resources in its campaign. He defended the use of official vehicles by President Irfaan

Ali and Prime Minister Mark Phillips, pointing out that both remain in office and are entitled to such use.

Jagdeo drew a contrast between the current scrutiny and the Carter Center’s silence in 2020, when the former APNU/AFC government reportedly spent billions in public funds after falling to a no-confidence vote and continued to use state resources for months after losing the election.

These developments are strange, he said, “but no big deal.”

Jagdeo reiterated that the PPP/C will continue to campaign based on its record and promises. “We make no apology for that. We campaign on keeping our promises,” he asserted.

However, he also expressed satisfaction with two major findings in the report: that the voters list is not bloated and that political parties are campaigning freely and peacefully.

“I’m extremely pleased with those findings because they’re crucial to the conduct of elections,” Jagdeo said. He emphasised that claims by APNU regarding a bloated list have long lacked merit.

“This has been APNU’s battle cry for years… that people who should not be on the list are on the list. They provided absolutely no evidence for it, and they continue until today; I saw it to make that claim,” he reasoned, adding that “the Carter Center examined all the evidence, and they found no evidence of a bloated list.”

Driver charged, remanded for fatal Supply hit-and-run

Almost one week after a hit-and-run accident at Supply, East Bank Demerara (EBD), which claimed the life of 23-year-old Alex Persaud, a 30-year-old truck driver was charged and remanded to prison.

David Ragnauth of Kalicharan Road, Soesdyke, EBD, appeared before Magistrate Wanda Fortune at the Friendship Magistrate’s Court, where he was charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

He was not required to plead to the charge which stated that on August 13, he drove motor lorry GAC 5784

in a dangerous manner, thereby causing the death of Alex Persaud. As such, he was remanded to prison and will make

his next court appearance on September 10, 2025.

Persaud of Timehri Base Road, EBD, was struck down by a truck driven by

Ragnauth. He sustained injuries to his head and body and was later pronounced dead at the Diamond Regional Hospital.

The lorry involved in the hit-and-run accident was later found locked and abandoned at Sarah Johanna, East Bank Demerara.

The suspect had reportedly failed to stop after the collision continued, driving further south and fleeing the scene. He was later apprehended at the Demerara Harbour Bridge overpass during a police operation.

Persaud had only tied the knot some three weeks before his demise.

Widow of Lindener shot dead by police files $200M lawsuit

The common-law wife of 21-year-old Ronaldo Peters of Linden, who was shot and killed by police on April 7, 2025, has filed a $200 million lawsuit against the state.

The fatal shooting occurred in April and sparked widespread protests across Linden. Police Sergeant Philbert Kendall has since been charged with Peters' murder and remanded to prison. According to reports, the lawsuit was filed by attorney-at-law Darren Wade, which revealed that Benjamin is seeking damages for negligence, claiming that the police officer's actions violated Peters' constitutional right to life under

Article 138.

The widow, Ashanti Benjamin, alleges that Peters was unarmed and posed no threat and that the use of lethal force was un-

against state

necessary, excessive, and unlawful. Benjamin is also seeking aggravated and exemplary damages, along with any other relief the court deems just.

She further argues that Peters' right to protection of the law under Article 149 was violated when he was denied prompt and adequate medical attention after being shot. Moreover, Benjamin is asking the Court to declare that the conduct of the police – both in the use of lethal force and their failure to provide medical aid – amounts to a violation of Article 141, which protects against inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

She argues that the treatment Peters received before and after the shooting fell far below the standards of decency guaranteed by the Constitution and international human rights law. It was reported that the now-deceased man was wanted for questioning in connection with the alleged rape of a child under 16.

Police stated that on the day in question, a police sergeant from the Wismar

Police Station received information that Peters, also known as "MMR", was seen at a popular bar in the One Mile area. As a result, the sergeant, armed with a 9mm service pistol, and another officer, armed with a .38 service revolver, went to the location.

Both officers were in full uniform. Upon arrival at the location, Peters was reportedly spotted, but upon seeing the police ranks, he attempted to flee and tried to jump a nearby fence. According to police, the sergeant managed to pull Peters off the fence, and during the process of restraining him, his service pistol, held in his right hand, discharged, striking Peters.

Peters was taken to the Mackenzie Public Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment. The Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) launched a probe into the incident and subsequently recommended charges be laid against 45-year-old Sergeant Philbert Kendall. He was subsequently charged and remanded to prison.

Pushing…

…elections back

Back in the first decade of the millennium, the PPP Govt had to stave off an insurrectionary movement using a violent strategy dubbed “slow fyaah; mo’ fyaah” by PNC leader Desmond Hoyte. Well, that fire was eventually “outed” by several outside forces that more than matched the insurrectionaries’ firepower and ruthlessness!! In retrospect, more than anything else, the “slow fyaah; mo’ fyaah” forged then-rookie PPP leader Jagdeo into one tough cookie!!

Anyhow, since then the PNC’s been trying one stratagem after another to return to office to get their left hand on the lever of power – and, more to the point, their right hand in the cookie jar we call the “Consolidated Funds”! They exploited the lust for power and pelf of the hustlers in the AFC by suckering them into believing that Burnham’s army protégé Granger – as PNC leader – would be less Machiavellian just because he went to church!! In addition to kicking the AFC’s Nagamootoo and Ramjhaat in the teeth and onto the kerb, he went to the courts to claim the PPP’s no-confidence motion – backed by 33 MPs in a 65-member House – was not a majority!! Even though he’d become president with 33 MPs!! Your Eyewitness won’t mention the election-rigging attempt since that’s expected for any PNC politician!!

Anyhow, following in that not-so-grand PNC tradition of dirty politics – with two weeks to go for the Sept 1 elections, up comes Amazda Walton coming up with another “33-ain’t-the-majority move” to delay the said elections!! Now, dear reader, you might retort that Amanza ain’t PNC no mo’ since she was rigged out by Norton in their internal party leadership elections –and she’s representing her new baby party, the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM). But all this new manoeuvre shows is you can take the girl out of the PNC, but you sure can’t take the PNC out of the girl!!

Let’s first look at the reason why Amanza would challenge a GECOM rule that’s been in place since the constitution was changed in 2000 – and unchallenged to date. Surely, she knew that if she wasn’t able to collect the required 150 to 175 nominators for four geographical regions, she wasn’t gonna be on the topup lists for those regions!! The rationale your Eyewitness understood behind that interpretation arguably might impinge on the clearly stated position that her party had complied with the six-regional constituencies rule!!

But why didn’t she raise the issue before?? And the answer is she’s just hoping to delay the election to give the Opposition more time to recover. But she doesn’t realise that her gambit just gives the PPP further evidence that these Opposition parties don’t really believe in the SUBSTANCE of democracy.

Just in cynical gamesmanship!!

…out Mad Maduro?

Even as Pres Trump’s brokering a peace for the Ukraine War, thankfully he’s been more than keeping an eye on Mad Maduro – who’s lusting for our Essequibo!! The Madman hasn’t been mad enough to actually invade us with his 150,000-man FANB – including a powerful air force with Russian fighter jets and a navy with a full complement of warships!! Let’s not forget he called out all three forces back in Dec 2023 when England had sent out a patrol vessel, Trent, on a routine visit!!

Well, Trump’s sending out a veritable armada to take out the madman who’s convicted of drug smuggling to the US!! Three guided missile destroyers – the USS Gravely, USS Jason Dunham and the USS Sampson – a submarine and other assets (including several P-8 spy planes). Plus 4,000 Marines aboard an Amphibious Ready Group made up of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU)!!

How’s Mad Maduro’s 4.5 million militia gonna counter THAT??

…integrity

The Opposition’s been making a big to-do about corruption in the PPP Government. Fair enough. But are they willing to have all candidates – including theirs –file with the Integrity Commission, as do the confirmed ones?

Dare ya!!

“Nonsensical” – Jagdeo on Amanza Walton-

Desir

FGM’s

last-minute bid to delay elections

…says parties must field candidates in regions to appear on ballots

General Secretary (GS) of the People's Progressive Party (PPP) Bharrat Jagdeo has labelled the court challenge mounted by the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) as nonsensical.

FGM, led by former APNU Member of Parliament Amanza WaltonDesir, has filed a High Court challenge against the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), accusing the body of excluding duly approved political parties from ballots in several hinterland regions ahead of the September 1 General and Regional elections.

In a fixed-date application filed by attorney Dr Vivian Williams, FGM candidate Krystal Hadassah is seeking urgent constitutional relief under Part 56 of the Civil Procedure Rules. The party argues that GECOM’s ballot design violates Articles 59, 149, and 160 of the Constitution, as well as provisions of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA).

According to the affidavit, both FGM and the Assembly of Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) were approved to contest the upcoming polls. However, their names were not from ballots in Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine, and ALP in Regions One and Two. The parties claimed that they satisfied all legal requirements to contest nationally.

But Jagdeo told report-

ers during a press conference today that the arguments make no sense.

He posited, “If you don’t submit a list of candidates [for the geographical constituency], how will you be on the ballot for that region?”

“To qualify to contest the Presidential elections, you have to contest a minimum of six regions, which they did… But that doesn’t mean you’re going to be on the ballot for every region; you have to submit geographical candidates for every region to be on that region. She [Walton-Desir] did not submit the geographical candidates for three regions… So if you don’t submit…how do you expect to be on the ballot for those regions?” Jagdeo contended.

In fact, the PPP GS highlighted that this has been the procedure in previous elections, as recently as 2020.

Meanwhile, one local attorney has since rubbished the legal action filed by FGM, branding it one of

the most illogical challenges ever brought before the courts.

According to the attorney, taking legal proceedings to be on the ballot in regions where a person is not contesting is illogical. The attorney stressed that the law is clear: political parties must field candidates and meet prescribed requirements in each region if they wish to appear on that region’s ballot. Additionally, another attorney has since said that ballots are tied to regional participation, meaning that if a party does not contest in a particular district, its name cannot appear on the general election ballot in that region.

On Wednesday, Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) filed a High Court challenge against the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), accusing the body of excluding duly approved political parties from ballots in several hinterland regions ahead of the September 1 General and Regional elections.

In a fixed-date application filed by attorney Dr Vivian Williams, FGM candidate Krystal Hadassah is seeking urgent constitutional relief under Part 56 of the Civil Procedure Rules. The party argues that GECOM’s ballot design violates Articles 59, 149, and 160 of the Constitution, as well as provisions of the Representation of the

People Act (ROPA).

According to the affidavit, both FGM and the Assembly of Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) were approved to contest the upcoming polls. However, their names were not from ballots in Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine, and ALP in Regions One and Two. The parties claimed that they satisfied all legal requirements to contest nationally.

The claimants argue that the omission denies electors in those regions the right to vote for all qualified national lists, thereby undermining the principle of proportional representation. FGM contends that the move disproportionately affects Amerindian-majority communities, amounting to discrimination on the grounds

of race and place of origin.

Declarations & orders sought

As a result, the applicant is asking to court to grant several orders under Part 56 of the Civil Procedure Rules including a declaration that: 1) GECOM’s exclusion of political parties from ballots in certain regions violates constitutional rights to vote, equal suffrage (Article 59), and inclusionary democracy (Article 13); 2) Such exclusion is discriminatory based on place of origin and race, contrary to Article 149; 3) The practice distorts proportional representation, undermines representative democracy, and is unconstitutional; 4) The exclusion of the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) from ballots in Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine denies its candidate’s constitutional right to contest free and fair elections; 5) any elections conducted without including all qualifying political parties on ballots in all regions are null and void.

The applicant is also asking the court to order that GECOM must include all political parties contesting national elections on ballots in all ten regions and that GECOM be restrained from conducting the General and Regional Elections unless FGM’s candidates are included on ballots in every region.

GECOM seeks electricity guarantees from GPL at tabulation centres

…as voters are assured their intent, not just an “X”,

Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud has revealed that he has written to Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) for guarantees of no power outages at tabulation centres across the country.

He made this revelation during a recent stakeholder engagement with representatives of the various observer missions that will be monitoring the country’s elections.

Nevertheless, the CEO noted that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has systems in place in the event of power outages.

“There is no requirement for the use of any electronic gadget to process Statements of Poll at the level of the polling station, so our lamps will be sufficient to take care of that should there be a blackout… At the higher level, I have been in contact with the head of Guyana Power and Light; in fact, I have writ-

ten him, providing him with the location of all of the places where we will be doing tabulation and requesting that, as far as is practicable, we should not lose power… That apart, we are putting in place to have not one but two standby generators at every tabulation location,” the CEO explained.

Deputy Chief Elections Officer Anneal Giddings has

To cast their vote, electors are required to mark an “X” in the box next to the political party they wish to elect.

According to GECOM’s voter education material, a ballot is considered spoilt if it was accidentally torn by an election official; incorrectly marked or torn by an elector; ink gets on the ballot while staining a finger; or the elector displays the marked bal-

emphasised that once a voter’s intention is clear, then the ballot will be considered valid.

He made the assertion during a recent stakeholder engagement with representatives of the various observer missions that will be monitoring the country’s elections.

lot, indicating whom he/she has voted for. Spoilt ballots are not placed in the ballot box.

On the other hand, a ballot is considered rejected if the ballot paper has no official mark (six-digit number); has not been marked for any party; if it cannot be estab-

will count

lished for whom the elector has voted; has been marked for more than one party; or is marked in such a way that the elector can be identified.

The DCEO explained that presiding officers are trained to determine what can be considered a valid ballot. He admitted that some voters are unable to follow instructions and would often put indicators on the ballot other than the required “X”.

“We’ve seen more than ‘X’s before – stars, ticks, circles, all kinds of things – our presiding officers are trained to make a determination if the intention of the voter is clear, then that vote shall be awarded to whatever party is clear to them … They [electors] are guided and instructed to vote using an ‘X’ within the boundaries of the box; many persons don’t follow guidance pretty well,” Giddings noted.

Chief Elections Officer Vishnu Persaud added that GECOM will provide polling day staff as well as party agents with examples of valid and invalid ballots “so that they are guided if and when they run into such a situation”.

Security guard stabbed to death after slapping teen

A63-year-old security officer, Paul Devonish of Sheriff Security, was stabbed to death on Monday following a confrontation with a teenager along Barrack Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

Police said the incident began around 13:00h when an 18-year-old security officer, also employed by Sheriff Security, was on duty at Teleperformance. Devonish reportedly confronted a female colleague and verbally abused her, before confiscating her mobile phone. When the teenager instructed Devonish to return the phone, Devonish allegedly slapped him several times.

The teen then left his post and went to the Doctor’s Quarters at New Market and Main streets, where he complained to his mother who was with her colleague. She told him to remain there, and that they would later go back to collect his lunch bag, which he had left at the work site. The colleague went with the teen to retrieve the bag.

At that point, Devonish confronted them and allegedly threatened the teen, telling him he was lucky he did not “box off” his head. The moth-

er’s friend intervened, accusing Devonish of taking advantage of the teenager. A heated argument broke out, escalating into a scuffle.

During the struggle, the woman reportedly pulled a knife from her pocket and stabbed Devonish in the left upper thigh. He collapsed and bled profusely, and was later pronounced dead.

Police said the suspect disposed of the knife in a nearby trench, then returned to her workplace to collect her bag before going to the teen’s home. She was later arrested and, during interrogation, confessed to stabbing Devonish. She remains in custody pending charges.

Over 10,000 Disciplined Services members to vote today

…GECOM cautions against obstruction, molestation, interference at polling places

Some 10,481 ranks of the Disciplined Services – the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and Guyana Prison Services (GPS) – are set to cast their ballots today, ahead of the upcoming General and Regional Elections on September 1, 2025.

As customary during any elections, members of the disciplined services are required to vote 10 days prior to the polling day so that they are available for posting at the various polling stations and other strategic locations as required by law without disenfranchising them.

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) had indicated that some 6909 ranks from the GPF are listed to vote, 3106 ranks from the GDF and 466 ranks from the GPS. Though the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is often included as a member of the joint services, those members will be voting on Elections Day and are not catered for on D-Day.

The ranks will be voting at 87 balloting stations across the country and will be voting using ballot papers in accordance with the district that the ranks are from.

Each polling station will be provided with a list of

the ranks who are qualified to vote at each respective balloting station. When the ranks vote, their names will be crossed off the disciplined services list provided at the ballot station.

Ranks who do not vote on D-Day will still have the opportunity to vote in their respective district as per normal on Election Day.

While there are 87 balloting stations, there will only be 63 ballot boxes, with some polling stations sharing ballot boxes due to the remote nature of the location.

The balloting stations were gazetted on August 9, with six stations in Region One; four stations in Region Two; four stations in Region Three; 30 in Region Four; two in Region Five; six in Region Six; another six in Region Seven; two in Region Eight; another two in Region Nine; and five stations in Region 10.

The ballots cast today will not be counted separately. The disciplined services ballots are kept under seal and guarded until Election Day. The Disciplined Services ballots are sent to regular polling stations on Election Day and are intermixed with regular ballot papers before they are counted. The intermixing is done to protect the voter pri-

vacy of the ranks, as well as uphold fairness and secrecy.

“We are well-poised for the conduct of this election, of these elections on Friday. All of the logistical arrangements have been made. At this point in time, there is nothing, aside from maybe force majeure, that can prevent such conduct,” Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO), Aneal Giddings, had declared during a press conference on Monday.

According to the Deputy CEO, the sensitive election materials, including ballot papers, statements of poll and tally sheets, arrived from Canada earlier this month. Following their arrival, GECOM immediately began the process of extracting and packaging ballots for Guyanese diplomatic missions abroad, disciplined services and the returning

and what could be our expectations. But the answer is yes. As a result of our collaboration that we have, we have constant communication with particularly the police and the joint services as a grouping. And as part of that, these things came out. As a matter of fact, they raised it as one of their concerns,” Giddings indicated to reporters earlier this week.

Obstruction & Interference

officers across the 10 administrative regions. It was noted that a total of 92 ballots were dispatched to 20 overseas diplomatic missions to facilitate non-resident electors. Of that number, two sealed ballot boxes have already been returned and are in the secure custody of the Chief Elections Officer, Vishnu Persaud, as required by law.

“We are well poised for the conduct of these elections on Friday. All of the logistical arrangements have been made,” the DCEO noted, adding that the Commission has been guaranteed security for polling stations along border communities.

“We have been guaranteed security… [but] the plans are not final. We are yet to resume our talks on this, for them to tell us exactly what will be in place

Meanwhile, as it prepares for both Disciplined Forces Balloting and the conduct of the Elections on September 1, GECOM on Thursday reminded the general public of the statutory provisions as they relate to annoyance, molestation, interference and obstruction during the electoral process.

Specifically, the Commission pointed out that Section 78 of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) enacts that, “No person shall anywhere within a distance of two hundred yards of a polling place annoy, molest or otherwise interfere with an elector or attempt to obtain any information as to the list of candidates for whom any elector in the polling place is about to vote or has voted either on his own behalf or as a proxy on behalf of another elector.”

Further, the Commission noted that Section 78(A) is instructive, as it provides that “any person who, without due authority, obstructs or otherwise interferes with access to or egress from a polling place or the voting at an election by any person registered as an elector...shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of sixty-five thousand dollars together with imprisonment for a term of one year...”

Additionally, Section 79(b) of the Representation of the People Act clearly outlines the persons entitled to be at a polling place, polling station, and at a count.

“It is therefore against this backdrop that GECOM finds it necessary to advise all persons to abide by the legal provisions and avoid committing any of the above-stated election offences. The Commission anticipates the orderly and peaceful conduct of the polls and remains confident in delivering free, fair, transparent and credible elections,” the missive from the Elections Commission stated.

According to the elections body, the term “no person” indicates a total prohibition because it creates a broad absolute restriction for everyone, leaving no room for exceptions or specific allowances for certain individuals or groups.

Private Sector did not withhold support from APNU+AFC Government; responded to policy environment – Jagdeo

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has dismissed claims by the APNU (A Partnership for National Unity) opposition that the private sector deliberately withheld support from the former APNU+AFC Administration between 2015 and 2020.

Jagdeo, also Guyana’s Vice President, argued that the business community’s response during that period was not about withhold-

ing support but rather a direct reaction to the policy environment created by the Government of the day.

His comments follow remarks first made by APNU candidate, attorney Dexter Todd, and later echoed by the party’s leader and presidential candidate, Aubrey Norton. Both suggested that private sector hesitation was a key factor in the coalition’s struggles while in office.

Jagdeo countered that the private sector’s slow-

down stemmed from APNU+AFC’s own fiscal decisions, particularly the introduction of nearly 200 new taxes. He added that farmers were also hit hard, pointing to VAT on pesticides and fertiliser, higher taxes on machinery, and a threefold increase in land and water charges in places like Region Five.

“Now, if you promise the miners, as they did in their manifesto, to remove all the taxes that the PPP had on them, they will vote over-

“We revived a dead economy, breathed new life into it” – PM Phillips at Diamond rally

Prime Ministerial candidate for the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, declared on Tuesday evening that his party “revived a dead economy and breathed new life into it” after taking office in August 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 crisis.

Speaking to a large gathering of supporters Thursday at a public meeting in Diamond on the East Bank

of Demerara, Phillips made a strong case for the PPP/ C’s re-election at the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections, recalling the Administration’s track record on economic recovery, tax reform, and social welfare.

“When we took office, we took over a dead economy and breathed life into that economy,” Phillips stated. “When we got back into office in 2020, it was a rescue operation. We bought COVID-19 vaccines for every single Guyanese. We delivered,” he reminded the crowd.

Phillips credited the PPP/ C’s swift and strategic interventions for stabilising the country during one of its most challenging periods. He emphasised that the PPP/C Government, without introducing any new taxes, not only managed the economic fallout from the pandemic but also repealed more than 200 taxes and fees imposed under the previous APNU+AFC Administration.

“We ensured there were no new taxes, and we stuck to

that promise,” he recounted.

The Prime Ministerial candidate pointed to key achievements, including massive infrastructure development, youth and women empowerment initiatives, and increased welfare spending.

“Guyana is one huge construction site,” he declared.

“We are building roads, we are building houses. We had sustained economic growth thanks to Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and his team. There is development for all the people.”

As the campaign intensi-

fies, Phillips also pushes back against outlandish welfare promises being made by other political parties, accusing them of over-promising.

“They cannot stand by their figures. They’re telling you that to get your votes,” Phillips cautioned.

In contrast, Phillips assured supporters, under the PPP/C future, social support will remain tied to economic growth.

“We gave you $100,000 this year… Next year if the figures say we can give you more, you will get more, because we believe once the economy grows, you will get more,” he pledged.

“When you vote PPP/C, you vote for your children’s future in Guyana, for the empowerment of our youths in Guyana, for the empowerment of our women of Guyana,” he stated.

With just days to go before the elections, the PPPC is banking on its incumbency record and promises of continued development to secure another term.

whelmingly for APNU. And then the moment you get into office, you increase the tributary tax, you increase the royalty rate, and machinery and equipment for mining that was tax-free before, VAT-free, you put a 14 per cent VAT on it. So, if a miner has to buy an excavator now, he has to pay $5 million more in taxes than he didn't have to pay before under the PPP. Don't you think that the miners are going to slow down on investing? It's only logical. It's not withholding support. It is responding to the envi-

ronment,” Jagdeo pointed out.

He drew a sharp contrast between the APNU+AFC period and the PPP/C’s approach since taking office in August 2020. Despite the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, the PPP/C Government immediately issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) for hotel investments, recognising the urgent need for expanded tourism infrastructure.

To encourage investment, the PPP/C Administration revised the incentive regime – offering land at preferential rates, a 10-year tax holiday, and removal of the withholding tax on repatriated profits, in addition to existing duty-free concessions on building materials and equipment.

As a result, 11 new, internationally branded hotels are now under construction, six of which are expected to open next year. Jagdeo said these developments will create more than 6000 jobs and open new opportunities for Guyanese businesses in food supply, cleaning services, and transportation.

“As a result of that, today we have like 11 international hotels – new international hotels – six are going to be open next year, producing 6000 jobs for our people. People respond to

the policy environment you create. They didn't suddenly do that. Who is going to work in these hotels? Our people... They're going to be the managers. They're going to be the chefs. They're going to be the drivers. They're going to be the waitresses. They're going to be the people who are supplying food and services. A lot of Guyanese companies who have cleaning services will supply those. They would supply food to these hotels. Look at the linkages,” he said confidently.

Playing Victim Jagdeo accused the APNU+AFC leadership of attempting to “play victim” instead of acknowledging the impact of their own policies. “It’s only logical – when you burden businesses with taxes, production slows. The Ministers were incompetent, and the private sector simply responded to the environment they created,” he said. The PPP/C leader added that his Government’s decisions were deliberately structured to foster private sector confidence, attract foreign investment, and ensure Guyanese citizens benefit directly through jobs, management roles, and service linkages in the expanding economy.

Eastern carriageway along Grove Public Road reopens

Tproject.

The contractors and utility company representatives briefed the Minister on their relocation efforts to date.

The visit by Minister Edghill follows a meeting held by His Excellency Mohamed Irfaan Ali, with business owners and residents on the East Bank who are being inconvenienced

by the road construction.

Speaking to the Department of Public Information (DPI), Minister Edghill said, “Wires [belonging mainly to telecommunication companies] are on poles that must be removed to be able to get the western carriageway completed.”

He highlighted how much freer traffic will be -

come when it is a completed four-lane road and assured that Guyanese will be happy for the less stressful commute.

The ongoing GroveDiamond Road Widening project on the said GroveDiamond Public Roads forms part of the broader infrastructural upgrades along the East Bank corridor.

Fire destroys Charity supermarket, upper flat

he eastern carriageway in the vicinity of Grove on the East Bank corridor is currently open – though not fully finished, Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill noted – to motorists and vehicles, resulting in a smooth flow of traffic.

ty providers.

The Minister discussed the project while visiting the site early Thursday morning, where he engaged contractors and representatives from the various utili-

He met with representatives from One Communication, ENet, Digicel, and Guyana Power and Light (GPL) to talk about moving utility poles that were slowing down the

Police in Regional Division Two and the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) are investigating a devastating fire that completely destroyed the Best Choice Supermarket and an upper flat at Charity, Essequibo Coast, on Thursday afternoon.

Reports reaching Guyana Times indicate that the fire, whose origin up to press time is unknown, began at around 13:30h at the supermarket, which was owned by 22-year-old Chinese national and businesswoman Siyi Zheng of Lot 103 Charity River Dam.

The supermarket was housed on the lower flat of the two-storey wooden and concrete structure that also accommodated a hardware section.

The upper flat of the building was occupied by property owners Haimchandra Narine, 53, and his wife Vernel Narine, 51, both of Charity River Dam.

According to Zheng, she was inside the cashier booth when a staff member, identified only as Rachel, alerted her that smoke and flames were visible in the ceiling on the eastern side of the building. She immediately attempted to extinguish the blaze using a fire extinguisher, but the

flames spread rapidly.

She, along with employees, evacuated the premises, while Vernel Narine, who was in the upper flat at the time, also managed to exit the building safely.

The Charity Fire Station was alerted and quickly responded. The firefighters managed to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings.

Despite their efforts,

however, the two-storey building was reduced to rubble. An adjoining building to the east was scorched. No injuries were reported.

The full extent of losses is yet to be determined since the supermarket’s inventory and hardware stock were completely destroyed. Investigations are ongoing.

Human Services Ministry, GCCI launch partnership for work-site childcare

Astrategic public-private partnership between the Human Services and Social Security Ministry and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was launched on Wednesday to establish Day, Night, and Early Childhood Centres on-site at companies and business places, providing childcare services for employees.

Speaking in GCCI’s boardroom, Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud highlighted the Ministry’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Gender Empowerment programmes, emphasising the private sector’s key role in national development and securing a brighter future for all.

The Minister shared information on the newly established Day, Night Care, and Early Childhood Development Center in Region Three, which supports children aged 0–3

years 9 months through early intervention for their emotional and physical well-being, with the active involvement of parents and carers.

Additionally, Minister Persaud explained that the Ministry of Human Services will provide technical support, a model, staff training, and policy guidelines to businesses that wish to implement such centres within their workplaces.

She stressed that these on-site care facilities will ease the challenges parents face in finding childcare services, reduce costs, and offer peace of mind knowing their children are close by and cared for by trained professionals.

“Today’s initiative speaks of public-private partnership, where we want to work with all the persons in the private sector to ensure that the model is within your work environment. This policy will be one that I think will have the best im-

pact, because we want every parent to have peace of mind, knowing their child is safe,” Minister Persaud stated.

She also outlined approaches to boosting entrepreneurship in the area of care by encouraging companies to hire service providers to set up and manage the initiative or adopt the consortium model, which brings women together to start and run their own care enterprises.

Through training and support from the Childcare and Protection Agency’s ECD Unit and the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN), these businesses can operate directly on company premises, creating a better working environment. The initiative is expected to benefit both women and men trained through WIIN in childcare and early childhood development.

“You will increase your outputs and your deliverables coming from those employees, as they will be assured of their children’s care and safety,” the Minister told members of the GCCI.

Several persons at the meeting, including GCCI President Kathy Smith, lauded the partnership and pledged support for the initiative.

“This is a conversation that speaks not only to parents but also to business owners, service providers, and community leaders. It’s a public-private partnership initiative that we’re proud

to be a part of, and I believe it represents a critical step toward a more inclusive, family-friendly business environment in Guyana,” Smith expressed.

Several other members expressed interest in placing the facilities at their businesses or investing in and developing similar entrepreneurial enterprises.

Additionally, Minister Persaud discussed the Ministry’s Home-Based Care Policy, which will further support women establishing care initiatives in their communities, offering financial aid, technical expertise, and guidance. She emphasised that women can come together in consortia to offer vital childcare services while developing their entrepreneurship ventures.

The Minister urged business owners at GCCI to view corporate social responsibility as a way to transform communities.

“I want to ask you to partner with us to mentor

and to support the development of these community-based day, night, and early childhood centres. While you look at what is happening for you in the business world, think of a community that you want to support and come together as business entities and support those communities with the establishment of childcare centres,” Minister Persaud appealed.

Meanwhile, highlighting men’s empowerment, the Minister encouraged GCCI to expand the network of Brave Centres, creating spaces for men countrywide, following the successful partnership with the Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the West Central Mall.

These centres provide opportunities for men to engage with experts on issues such as anger management, conflict resolution, and healthy relationships, addressing key social ills including gender-based vi-

olence. She urged GCCI to identify additional spaces where the Ministry can collaborate to launch more safe spaces for men.

Minister Persaud also introduced the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal, which will assess workplaces on gender equality, equal opportunity, absence of harassment, and progressive policies to address these issues. The Ministry will provide technical support and training, and companies will be awarded bronze, silver, or gold seals based on performance and progress.

GCCI’s president praised the Government’s pro-private sector stance and highlighted the importance of valuing every employee:

“Normally, the private sector is at the head of the work, and the Government is supporting, but this Government is tit-fortat with the private sector. And we appreciate a Government that is pro-private sector and not anti-private sector,” Smith said.

Minister Persaud thanked GCCI and its president for their overwhelming support and partnership on these new initiatives.

She also toured the facility where GCCI will facilitate training for 30 women through the WIIN programme in collaboration with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC), equipping them with agro-processing skills to achieve financial independence.

2 arrested in separate ganja busts

Pafter they were allegedly found with quantities of cannabis.

According to reports, at about 05:50h on Tuesday, ranks from Regional Police Division No. Two acted on information and went

to a red boathouse on the Supenaam Waterfront, Essequibo Coast. On arrival, the officers confronted 25-year-old construction

worker of Market Street, Supenaam.

Police said the man threw a white plastic bag through a window into the water upon their approach.

The bag was retrieved and, when opened in his presence, was found to contain a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.

He was immediately arrested. The suspected narcotics were taken to the Aurora Police Station, where they were weighed in his presence and amounted to 108.76 grams (g). The substance was sealed, marked, and lodged at the station. He remains in custody pending charges.

Meanwhile, in a separate operation on Wednesday, Police arrested a 34-yearold resident of Nabaclis

Squatting Area, East Coast Demerara, after he was found with 87.2 g of suspected cannabis.

The man was a passenger in a motor lorry, GAD 9344, heading to Quart Stone Backdam from Bartica when the vehicle was stopped at the Itaballi Police Checkpoint. A search of his belongings revealed the narcotics concealed in a Fruta juice box. Inside, officers found 52 transparent Ziplock bags containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.

When cautioned, he reportedly admitted ownership, telling the Police, “That is my weed, and I am taking it into the backdam to sell.” He was arrested and taken into custody. Charges are expected to be laid shortly.

Nazar Mohamed’s Venezuelan Embassy visit

“What

were you doing there?” –Jagdeo says country wants to know

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday intensified questions surrounding Nazar Mohamed’s reported visit to the Venezuelan Embassy in Georgetown, saying the Guyanese public deserves to know the purpose of the controversial businessman’s meeting, particularly in light of US sanctions and allegations of gold smuggling.

Speaking at his weekly press conference, Jagdeo, who is also the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) General Secretary, argued that while Mohamed’s camp has refused to confirm or deny his presence at the embassy, the Venezuelan Ambassador Carlos Amador Perez Silva himself acknowledged to Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd that Mohamed did in fact visit.

Guyana and Venezuela are currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the high-profile border controversy concerning the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between the two nations.

Against this backdrop, the General Secretary posed a series of pointed questions, stating that the country deserves answers.

“What were you doing there? What were you doing there? Why would you want to go to Venezuela on a vacation a couple weeks before

the elections? Or was it a visa you were applying for? Or were you getting some information? And how often did you go there to the embassy? Were you collecting something, information or otherwise?” Jagdeo asked.

“This is what they're avoiding. And it's a huge issue. It's a national security issue for Guyana. So all they could have done is to have a simple statement. He did not go. I'm still looking forward to them putting out this statement to make me a liar,” he noted.

Jagdeo had previously disclosed that there is a link between businessman and We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party leader Azruddin Mohamed and his family to the Venezuelan Government, stating that there is “video evidence” of the Mohameds entering the Venezuelan Embassy in Georgetown.

“He knows he went to the Venezuelan embassy. And he knows also that the entire public wants to know what he was doing there. Was he getting information from the Venezuelans to help their campaign? Was he trying to flee Guyana? Was he there for a benign purpose? But how benign could it be?

If weeks before the elections you go there, nobody wants to go to Venezuela now. Now, why would you want to go to Venezuela at this stage, especially in light of several US congressmen saying he's Maduro's puppet, the Mohameds are Maduro's puppets, and especially in light of reports that Venezuelan generals were linked to the gold smuggling in Guyana?”

Letter to CARICOM, UN

Jagdeo also addressed a recent letter sent by the Mohameds to CARICOM

2 slapped with rape charges in Essequibo Coast

Charged: Maniram Mohanroop, also known as “Terra”

Two men from the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), were charged this past week in separate rape cases and appeared before the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.

Charged: Dhaneshwar Budhoo, called “Timothy” or “Fatman”

Essequibo Coast. He was not required to enter a plea. Bail was granted in the sum of $250,000, and the matter was adjourned to September 3.

Meanwhile, on August 7, 2025, Dhaneshwar Budhoo, called “Timothy” or “Fatman”, a 43-yearold labourer of Johanna Cecilia, Essequibo Coast, was charged with rape of a child under 16, contrary to Section 10(3) of the Sexual Offences Act.

and the United Nations (UN), in which they sought to challenge the closure of their local bank accounts. He dismissed the move as “public relations” and pointed to correspondence from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) that, he said, contradicted the Mohameds’ narrative.

According to Jagdeo, OFAC’s clarification emphasised that not only US entities but also non-nationals could face sanctions for doing business with the Mohameds.

“The clarification in the document actually says that people could be non-nationals and could be sanctioned, too, for dealing with the Mohameds. Not just US companies, but non-nationals. Now, this is an indictment on the Mohameds. They've been lying to people all across the country. They've been lying to every

group of individuals. And so, they then took that statement, and they now wrote the Secretary General – well – of CARICOM and the UN. It's all PR. Nobody will pay any attention to them. No CARICOM country or the United Nations will tell a local bank how to conduct [their business], or any bank for that matter,” Jagdeo asserted.

Political claims, credibility

Jagdeo further criticised Azruddin Mohamed’s political ambitions, describing his claims of widespread support as delusional. He referenced Mohamed’s claim that a survey of 85,000 people showed he would secure 65 per cent of the national vote.

“In a country of fewer than a million people, such a survey is absurd,” Jagdeo said, adding that Mohamed’s rallies have drawn only a few hundred supporters de-

spite “fetching people from across Berbice.” He warned that Mohamed’s refusal to accept the election results, coupled with his ongoing legal and financial troubles, posed risks to national stability.

On this point, Jagdeo stressed that the Government and security forces were fully prepared to ensure peaceful elections.

“The President has indicated that the security forces are prepared. Police themselves have said they are ready to address any attempts to disrupt our country and harm our people. We want these elections to be conducted in a peaceful manner so that from September 2, we can go back to work. We have a lot of work for the next five years on changing people's lives everywhere, in their communities, in their homes, everywhere, changing our country,” he added.

Diamond-to-Buzz Bee Dam four-lane highway to be commissioned August 25

The Diamond to Buzz Bee Dam (Craig) four-lane highway is to be commissioned Monday, August 25, according to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report Thursday.

Great Diamond to Craig Roundabout.

On August 8, 29-yearold fisherman Maniram Mohanroop, also known as “Terra”, of Bamboo Dam, Sparta, Essequibo Coast, was arraigned before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir. He was charged with rape, contrary to Section 3(3) of the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03.

The allegation is that Budhoo raped a 15-year-old student on July 7, 2025, on the Essequibo Coast. He appeared before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court, where he was not required to enter a plea.

The charge alleged that Mohanroop raped a 62-year-old housewife of

Bail was set at $200,000, on the condition that he does not interfere with the victim and that he reports every other Friday at the Parika Police Station. The case was adjourned to August 14.

“We have already opened the road partially, but the commissioning will be this month,” Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal confirmed during a recent interview with the DPI.

President Irfaan Ali is expected to make an address during the commissioning ceremony, which will take place at the

Once fully open to vehicular traffic, it will greatly ease traffic congestion on the Lower East Bank public route and reduce the commute time from Georgetown to Timehri.

Eleven billion dollars in contracts were awarded for the project in November 2023.

The highway, built by the Ministry of Housing and Water, will be made of asphalted concrete.

The project is divided into 12 lots and includes more than 30 concrete

bridges, 4.6 kilometres of concrete highway, and two roundabouts to help manage traffic and further enhance connectivity and accessibility for thousands of East Bank residents and businesses.

The Diamond to Buzz Bee Dam connection is the third phase of the highway, after the Mandela to Eccles and Eccles to Diamond phases.

The contractors for the project are GuyAmerica Construction, VALS Construction, China Railway First Group, NABI, and H Nauth and Sons.

Health Ministry launches national EHR system at Festival City Polyclinic

The Health Ministry has officially launched the pilot of the National Electronic Health Records (EHR) system, known as eHEALTH at the Festival City Polyclinic.

Festival City Polyclinic, one of the four primary healthcare facilities under the Georgetown Public

tients can book appointments and services remotely using a computer or mobile phone, significantly reducing waiting times at the facility. The booking platform is currently only accessible within Guyana.

With the introduction of eHEALTH, paper-based records will gradually be re-

of health data.

Residents within the Festival City catchment area can scan the facility’s QR code to access the online booking portal. Appointments scheduled through the platform will be prioritised, while walkin patients will continue to be accommodated based on availability.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Anthony described the transition as “the beginning of a new digital era for Guyana’s health sector.”

He emphasises that the implementation will deliver faster, safer, and more coordinated care and reduced waiting times for patients, leading to greater confidence in the handling of health information.

The Ministry’s long-term vision is a fully integrated national health system in which laboratory results, imaging, prescriptions, and clinical notes are securely

Hospital Corporation (GPHC), has been selected as the first site to implement the digital system before it is rolled out to health facilities across the country.

This landmark initiative, led by the Ministry of Health with support from the Government of Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), marks a significant step in the transformation of healthcare delivery nationwide.

Through the system, pa-

placed by secure digital files, making patient information more accessible – retrieved by healthcare providers in real time; more accurate –reducing errors and duplication; and better protected – strengthened by advanced privacy and security safeguards.

Among the key benefits of the eHEALTH system are faster and more coordinated patient care, reduced waiting times at health facilities, and strengthened public trust in the secure handling

stored in a patient’s digital record and made available at any participating clinic or hospital in Guyana.

Located at 1934 Blue Mountain and Aubrey Barker Road, Festival City, Georgetown, the polyclinic is one of four primary healthcare facilities managed by GPHC. It offers a wide range of services, including adult vaccinations, asthma and COPD clinics, counselling services, family planning, general wellness, STI testing, and dental care.

Trump Administration says it’s reviewing all 55 million US visa holders

The United States (US) Department of State has said that it’s reviewing the records of more than 55 million foreigners who hold valid US visas for potential revocation or deportable violations of immigration rules.

In a written answer to a question posed by The Associated Press, the department said on Thursday that all US visa holders are subject to “continuous vetting” with an eye towards any indication that they could be ineligible for the document.

Should such information

be found, the visa will be revoked, and if the visa holder is in the US, he or she would be subject to deportation.

The department said it was looking for indicators of ineligibility, including visa overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, engaging in any form of “terrorist activity”, or providing support to a “terrorist organisation”.

“We review all available information as part of our vetting, including law enforcement or immigration records or any other information that comes to light after visa issuance indicat-

Govt commissions 2 Moruca, Reg One village wells

...$17M well at Skyland, $12M well in Koko Village provide access to safe water

Skyland and Koko village residents of the Moruca sub-region, Region One, have gained improved ac-

new water system. The $17 million project was executed through a partnership between contractor Diamond

ter. An Amerindian community along the Moruca River, Koko is home to approximately 498 residents in 193 households. With the completion of this project, an estimated 470 residents and 185 households – roughly 98 per cent of the population – now enjoy reliable access to safe water.

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal joined the community in celebrating this milestone achievement. He lauded the collaborative effort between Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) and the people of Koko, noting that the investment demonstrates the Government’s commitment to bridging gaps in wa-

cess to potable water with new wells commissioned by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, alongside Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Director of Hinterland Services Ramchand Jailall.

The initiative forms part of the Government’s continued efforts to expand water coverage and improve the quality of life in hinterland and riverine communities.

Minister Croal, in his remarks at the Skyland com-

Drilling and Supplies, which undertook the drilling works, and GWI, which installed the distribution network.

The scope of works included the drilling of a 6-inch PVC water well, installation of 1.5 kilometres (km) of distribution network, and construction of a photovoltaic pumping system to ensure sustainability. Additionally, a 25 ft x 25 ft chain-link fence to secure the facility and 15 standpipes were installed across the com-

ter access across hinterland communities.

The works were executed by GWI staff in collaboration with the community. The project included the drilling of a 6-inch PVC water well, installation of nearly 3 kilometres of distribution network, construction of a photovoltaic pumping system, erection of a 25 ft. by 25 ft. chain-link fence, and the establishment of standpipes and service connections across the village.

ing a potential ineligibility,” the department said.

Since taking office in January, US President Donald Trump has directed a large-scale crackdown on migration, going after those with legal status as well as undocumented migrants.

While the Government initially said it would focus only on dangerous criminals, thousands of people are being arrested daily, with the New York Times estimating this week that the Government is on track to deport 400,000 people in 2025. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

missioning, highlighted the Government’s commitment to achieving universal access to potable water, particularly in hinterland regions. He emphasised that the administration is working aggressively to ensure that by 2030, all Guyanese, regardless of their geographic location, will have access to safe and reliable water.

Skyland has a population of approximately 70 residents, of which about 95 per cent will now benefit directly from the

munity.

This development is expected to significantly reduce the burden previously faced by residents, who relied on creeks and rainwater harvesting for their daily water needs.

Koko Village well

In addition, a new $12 million well was commissioned for residents of Koko Village, Moruca Sub-region, Region One, providing them with enhanced access to potable wa-

Minister Croal was accompanied by GWI Hinterland Services Director Ramchand Jailall, Senior Councillor Rennita Williams, and other regional officials.

Importantly, the community’s old well, equipped with an 11 SQF pump, was interconnected with the new facility to ensure a more efficient and consistent water supply throughout Koko. Residents now benefit from both standpipe and direct service connections.

US withdraws Grenada Finance Minister’s visa over Cuban medical brigade issue

Grenada’s Finance Minister Dennis Cornwall is the first Government official in Grenada to be hit by Washington’s decision to target Government leaders in the Caribbean on the Cuban medical brigade issue.

High-level sources told The New Today that all three US visas (B1, B2 and A1) held by the senior Government Minister have been revoked by the US Government of President Donald Trump.

She also said that the US Government also withdrew the visa issued to Ophelia Cornwall, the estranged wife of Minister Cornwall. Ophelia Cornwall is now separated from the Congress Government Minister.

According to the source, the 3-year-old Government of Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell in St George has been officially notified about the withdrawal of the US visas for both Cornwall and his former wife.

During a recent sitting in Parliament, Minister Cornwall stated openly that he preferred to lose his US visa and to stand in solidarity with Cuba on the Medical Brigade issue.

No official statement has been issued by the Congress Administration on the US action against one of its most se-

The revocation of Cornwall’s US visa will result in him not being able to travel to the United States to attend meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank in his capacity as the island’s Minister of Finance.

Washington has decided to take action against Grenada, Cuba and Governments in Latin America and Africa, accusing them of being engaged in “a forced labour” scheme run by the Cuban Government with its medical personnel.

The New Today cannot

confirm reports that Grenada has been paying directly to the Cuban Government in US currency 65 per cent of the salaries due to the Cuban doctors and medical personnel who receive the other 35 per cent in their bank accounts.

Faced with the threat from Washington, several Caribbean Governments are said to be currently engaged in discussions with Cuba to change the conditions of the agreement reached on the supply of the Cuban medical personnel. (Source: The New Today)

Jamaica escapees recaptured

All nine detainees who had escaped from the Constant Spring Police lock-up in St Andrew, Jamaica, on Tuesday are back in custody.

In an update Thursday morning, the Jamaica Constabulary Force said the last escapee, 19-yearold Alonzo Espute, who was charged with murder, surrendered to the Police.

This follows the capture of 18-year-old rape-accused Fray

Messias of Pinto, Stony Hill in St Andrew.

The JCF had launched an island-wide manhunt in search of eight of the men who had managed to leave the station compound after reportedly cutting open their cell.

The men were discovered missing about 1 a.m. Tuesday during routine checks.

The St Catherine North Police has since charged a woman with harbouring a fugitive following the recap-

ture of Tavlik Chambers on Wednesday. Chambers was found in the company of 21-year-old Shamara Holmes during an operation in Waterloo Gardens in Spanish Town.

Police say the nine men managed to cut through a grille and a metal door and escape from the lock-up early Tuesday morning. The other escapees were swiftly rounded up by Police. (Source: Radio Jamaica, Jamaica Observer)

At least 18 die in Colombia in two attacks attributed to FARC dissidents

At least 18 people died and more than forty were injured on Thursday after two attacks in Colombia attributed to different dissident factions of the former FARC guerrilla group, authorities reported.

In Cali, the country's third most populated city, a cargo vehicle with explosives detonated near a Colombian Aerospace Force base, in an incident that left six people dead and 71 injuries, according to the mayor's office.

Hours earlier, a National Police Black Hawk UH-60 helicopter participating in a coca leaf crop eradication operation was shot down in the municipality of Amalfi, in the department of Antioquia, leaving 12 officers dead. Colombian President Gustavo Petro blamed the at-

(FARC) guerrilla group that rejected a 2016 peace agreement to end a prolonged inter-

Bolsonaro planned to flee to Argentina, Brazilian Police say

Police in Brazil have accused former President Jair Bolsonaro, 70, and his 41-year-old son, Eduardo, of obstruction of justice.

They allege that the two tried to interfere in the trial currently under way against the elder Bolsonaro, in which he stands accused of leading an attempted coup after his defeat in the 2022 Presidential election.

Police say they have found a document on Jair Bolsonaro’s mobile phone which suggests he planned to evade criminal proceedings by seeking asylum in Argentina.

They also accuse Eduardo Bolsonaro of lobbying the Trump Administration on behalf of his father – which they say led to the US imposing punitive tariffs on Brazilian goods.

The 170-page Police report comes less than two weeks before the start of the final phase of the coup trial and piles further pressure on the former leader.

Jair Bolsonaro denies conspiring to overturn his 2022 election loss to his leftwing rival, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

He told news agency Reuters last month that he had “no doubt” the five Supreme Court justices tasked with delivering the verdict had already made up their minds about convicting him.

But at the time, he denied ever having made plans to try to evade the trial.

“I’ve never considered leaving the country, never,” he told Reuters, adding that he believed the coup charges were designed to “eliminate” him from running for President in 2026.

But in their report filed on Wednesday, Police say they found a draft letter on Jair Bolsonaro’s mobile phone requesting political asylum in Argentina.

The 33-page letter was addressed directly to Argentine President Javier Milei, according to the report. Milei has condemned Bolsonaro’s “persecution” and is seen as a political ally of the former leader.

The letter is not dated, but Police say it was last modified on the phone in

February 2024, shortly after Bolsonaro had to surrender his passport to Police. It is not clear whether the draft was ever sent, and an Argentine Government source has told Reuters that the office of the Argentine President had not received a letter from Bolsonaro.

But Police argue the draft shows Bolsonaro’s intent to evade justice.

Alexandre de Moraes, the Judge overseeing the Bolsonaro trial, has given the ex-President’s lawyers 48 hours to provide an explanation for the alleged asylum request.

Jair Bolsonaro is currently under house arrest and is already barred from posting on social media and from contacting his son Eduardo for breaching court restrictions placed on him. (Excerpt from BBC News)

T&T: Gang leader, cousin, “love interest” among latest SoE detainees

Awoman described as the love interest of a Tunapuna gang leader, along with the gang leader himself and his cousin, who is accused of a recent kidnapping, are among the latest detainees held under the state of emergency (SoE).

The woman is said to be the second-in-command of the OCG Resistance Gang, while the gang leader, despite being in prison since 2020, was accused of communicating with and directing his gang members to “murder, kidnapping for ransom, and other violent offences”, making him an immediate and serious threat to public safety.

Nineteen detention orders signed off by Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander were gazetted as legal notices 285303 on August 19. They were signed between July 31 and August 15.

Legal Notice 294 alleges that the woman, the love interest of a suspected gang leader detained at a military facility, has operational control and leadership of the OCG. The alleged gang leader was also ordered detained by Legal

Notice 298.

Legal Notice 267, gazetted on August 8, had identified another St Augustine woman as also being the gang leader’s love interest with operational control and leadership of the Resistance Gang.

The allegations against the two women are similar, although one of them was implicated in the kidnapping of a doubles vendor’s daughter for ransom, the killing of a coconut vendor on more than one occasion and the extortion of several businesses in her area.

The gang leader’s cousin was identified as a gang leader with responsibility for his faction of the Resistance Gang in the Valencia community.

His detention order – gazetted as Legal Notice 287 – said he confessed that he has and will continue to engage in acts of violence by planning, directing, procuring and supervising gang activity for the gang.

“He has admitted to arming gang members with firearms and giving them instructions from the gang leader to engage in acts of kidnapping against the business community and to

kill state officials, including members of the TTPS, Prison Service, and the Judiciary.”

His detention order said that corroborating confidential informants provided evidence that the detainee is a suspect in the kidnapping of Satie Karim on July 17 and the murder of Kevin Paul on July 10. The detainees have been sent to various facilities, including the Eastern Correctional and Rehabilitation Centre in Arima, the Women’s Prison in Arouca, the Maximum Security Prison in Arouca, and Staubles Bay in Chaguaramas.

Since the start of the SoE, 13 similar orders have been signed by Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander, which authorise detention without warrant and indefinite holding at designated correctional facilities.

Alexander ordered the detentions under the authority of Regulation 14, which empowers the state to pre-emptively detain individuals suspected of endangering public safety. (Source: Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)

Around the World

Oil rises 1% on stalled Russia-Ukraine peace talks and strong US demand

Oil prices rose by nearly a dollar a barrel on Thursday as Russia and Ukraine blamed each other for a stalled peace process and as earlier US data showed signs of strong demand in the top oil-consuming nation.

Brent crude futures were up 85 cents, or about 1.3 per cent, at $67.69 a barrel at 1:42 pm EDT (1742 GMT), having hit a two-week high earlier in the session. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were up 86 cents, or 1.4 per cent, at $63.57 a barrel.

Both contracts climbed more than 1 per cent in the prior session.

The path to peace in Ukraine remained uncertain, turning oil traders cautious after a selloff over the past two weeks on hopes that US President Donald Trump would soon negotiate a diplomatic end to Russia’s war with its neighbour.

“Some geopolitical risk premium is slowly being pumped back into the market,” oil trading advisory firm Ritterbusch and Associates told clients on Thursday.

The uncertainty in the peace talks means that the possibility of tighter sanctions on Russia has resurfaced, said Tamas Varga, an analyst at PVM Oil Associates.

Oil prices were also supported by a larger-than-expected drawdown from US crude stockpiles in the last week, indicating strong demand.

US crude stockpiles fell 6 million barrels in the week ended August 15, the US Energy Information Administration reported on Wednesday, while analysts had expected a draw of 1.8 million barrels. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Israel tells medics, aid groups to prepare for Gaza City evacuation

Israel’s military says it has warned medical officials and international organisations to prepare for the planned evacuation of Gaza City’s one million residents ahead of an offensive to occupy it.

The officials were told that “adjustments” were being made to hospitals in southern Gaza to receive patients, a statement said.

Gaza’s Hamas-run health Ministry rejected “any step that would undermine what remains of the health system”. The UN and aid groups have also vowed to stay to help those who cannot or choose not to move.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is meeting security officials on Thursday to approve the military’s takeover plans despite widespread international and domestic opposition.

He announced Israel’s intention to conquer the entire Gaza Strip after indirect talks with Hamas on a ceasefire and hostage release deal broke down last month.

The Israeli military plans to evacuate Gaza City’s entire population and move it to shel-

Judge bars US, Florida from bringing new detainees into 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention center

Afederal judge on Thursday barred President Donald Trump's administration and the state of Florida from bringing new detain-

ees into a remote migrant detention centre in the Florida Everglades dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz."

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams also or-

dered the dismantling of some aspects of the facility as current detainees are moved out, according to a court filing in the U.S. District Court for the

Southern District of Florida. The judge sided with environmental groups who had said the facility is endangering the Everglades and its wildlife. (Reuters)

Court throws out $500m civil fraud penalty against Donald Trump

ANew York appeals court has thrown out the massive civil fraud penalty against Donald Trump, ruling on Thursday in the state’s lawsuit accusing him of exaggerating his wealth.

The decision, which was not unanimous, came seven months after the Republican returned to the White House. A panel of five judges in New York’s mid-level appellate division said the verdict, which stood to cost Trump more than $515m and rock

his real estate empire, was “excessive”.

After finding that Trump engaged in fraud by flagrantly padding financial statements that went to lenders and insurers, Judge Arthur Engoron ordered him last year to pay $355m in penalties. With interest, the sum has topped $515m.

The total – combined with penalties levied on some other Trump Organisation executives, including Trump’s sons Eric and Donald Jr – now

exceeds $527m, with interest.

“While the injunctive relief ordered by the court is well crafted to curb defendants’ business culture, the court’s disgorgement order, which directs that defendants pay nearly half a billion dollars to the State of New York, is an excessive fine that violates the Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution,” judges Dianne T Renwick and Peter H Moulton wrote in one of several opin -

ions shaping the appeals court’s ruling.

Engoron had also barred Trump and his sons from corporate leadership roles for several years. Those restrictions were paused pending appeal, and Trump delayed payment by posting a $175m bond.

The appeals court dismissed the financial penalty imposed by Engoron but left room for further appeals to the state’s highest court. The panel took nearly 11 months to issue its

decision, far longer than is typical.

In the aftermath of the ruling making headlines, Trump posted on Truth Social that it was a “great win for America”. In another post, he claimed, “These were all political trials in an effort to destroy my viability as a presidential candidate before, during, and after the election.” He continued to claim that the BidenHarris Administration attacked him and that “all of these judges should be ashamed of themselves for allowing them to happen.” That same post also took aim at New York Attorney General Letitia James and judges Juan Merchan and Lewis Kaplan.

James, who brought the suit on the state’s behalf, has said the businessman-turned-politician engaged in “lying, cheating, and staggering fraud”. On Thursday afternoon, she released a statement saying she will be seeking an appeal. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

World’s biggest rhino breeder arrested over £10m horn-smuggling operation

Aconservationist who bred the world’s largest private rhino herd has been arrested on charges of smuggling £10m worth of the endangered animal’s horns.

John Hume was arrested alongside five others as South African detectives said they had broken up “a major transnational rhino horn-trafficking network” sending horns to Southeast Asia.

Mr Hume was famed as South Africa’s “rhino baron” for breeding a herd of about 2000 white rhinos at

a ranch 100 miles southwest of Johannesburg.

Police said the arrests of five men and one woman were the result of a seven-year investigation.

An environment department statement said the suspects allegedly “defrauded the department of forestry, fisheries and the environment by securing permits under false pretences to buy and sell rhino horns domestically, while funnelling them into illegal international markets”.

Rhino horns can be sold legally to South African citizens with the right permits, but they cannot be

exported.

The six face charges of

fraud, theft, and breaking biodiversity laws, with additional charges of racketeering and money laundering under consideration.

The six were allegedly part of a syndicate “linked to a fraudulent scheme involving 964 rhino horns, worth millions of rand, destined for illegal markets in Southeast Asia”.

Christopher Singo, a spokesman for South Africa’s directorate for priority crime investigation, told AFP that Mr Hume and the five others appeared in a magistrate’s court in the

capital, Pretoria, and were granted bail.

As his herd grew to around an eighth of all white rhinos in the world, Hume had also unsuccessfully campaigned for the legalisation of international trade in the animal’s horns. The 84-yearold argued that horns could be sustainably harvested because they continue to regrow throughout the animal’s life, and legalising the trade would help conservation and stop poaching. (Source: The Telegraph)

Crank it up and make things happen. Plan your actions and execute them with force and precision. If you plan to make a difference, don’t hold back. Indulgent activity won’t bring about positive change, but intelligent acts of both kindness and consideration of others will help you reach your destination without malice.

Monitor carefully. If you let situations, conversations, or your emotions spin out of control, it won’t be easy to press replay and start over. Instead of testing others, focus on yourself, your needs, and what’s necessary to achieve the lifestyle you desire. Personal growth is your best option, not trying to change others.

Avoid detours. Connect the dots, go directly from point A to point B, and maximise your chance to get the most out of your day and the experience you desire. Something someone says will make a difference in how you think, what you do, and the steps you take to enhance your life.

Put your energy into something creative. What you discover will help you explore new possibilities at home or in the workplace. Distance yourself from people and situations that trigger your emotions. Simplicity, discipline, and common sense will help you be decisive and pennywise. Change begins within and jumpstarts your ambition.

Refuse to contribute to someone else’s glory. It’s up to you to take care of yourself and achieve the gains that best suit your needs. Step into the spotlight, and you’ll gain ground and a following that’ll help you reach your pinnacle. Speak directly, enforce your plans, and don’t stop until the results meet your expectations.

Only change what’s necessary. Take a backseat and observe what’s unfolding around you, and you’ll gain insight into what’s needed to maintain your course of action and get positive results. Refuse to let anyone talk you into something you don’t need or want. Take control instead of being controlled. Personal gain and growth are apparent.

Participate, be the one to bring about change and make a difference. Use your intelligence and voice to plant seeds and gain support. A passionate approach to life, love, and happiness will encourage you to recognise and let go of what isn’t working for you and to embrace what offers positive results.

Emotions will fluctuate as you react to what’s happening around you. Listen, question, and act on facts and what will help you achieve your goal. Update your appearance and socialise, and you’ll attract new friends or lovers. A creative project will bring out the best in you. Your discipline and hard work will pay off unexpectedly.

Don’t skip a beat; learn as you go, and conquer whatever comes your way. Use your energy in positive ways and turn your back on negative influences, rhetoric, or nonsense. Change comes from within. Be observant and make moves that accommodate your needs. Think creatively, make domestic improvements, and follow your heart.

Take time out to do something for yourself. Pampering yourself, establishing a schedule that promotes a healthy lifestyle, and engaging in activities and events that stimulate your mind and encourage you to enhance your skills, knowledge, and interests will change your perspective on the meaning of life. Avoid impulsive reactions. Choose peace over discord.

Pay attention to how you look, feel, and present yourself to others. A commanding demeanour will draw attention and position you for advancement. Change is within reach, and pushing for what you want will play in your favour. Don’t hold back when you have so much to gain by sharing your thoughts.

Pay attention to an emotional rollercoaster ride that transpires as you engage in discussions that warrant choices, compromise, and serious decisions. Anger is never the answer; however, a show of appreciation and a willingness to compromise will bring you closer to your goal. Preparation will be your ticket to success.

USA Cricket terminates MLC deal: bold move, high stakes for American cricket

On Tuesday, August 19, the board of USA Cricket (USAC) voted to terminate its landmark 2019 commercial agreement with American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), the private consortium that owns Major League Cricket (MLC). Multiple insiders with direct knowledge confirmed the decision to cricexec

The move, years in the making and months in open dispute, represents a dramatic escalation in a power struggle that has defined American cricket for the past half-decade. It comes against a backdrop of USAC’s internal governance battles, financial struggles, and looming questions over its Olympic and ICC recognition.

While termination in theory strips ACE of its exclusive rights to operate professional T20 tournaments in the United States – including sanctioning for the Major League Cricket tournament itself –in practice, the immediate consequences are far less clear. ACE’s deep-pocketed backers, which include billionaires, media conglomerates, and IPL franchise owners such as CSK, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals (GMR), and Kolkata Knight Riders, now face a choice: renegotiate, comply with the contract, or litigate.

Some will call the decision reckless and unwise. Others will hail it as courageous. What is beyond dispute is that USA Cricket has crossed a Rubicon.

A drastic but deliberate step

Board members who spoke to cricexec in recent weeks foreshadowed this outcome.

They said they “could not continue any longer with the current situation” and called it “years in the making.” They described the governing body as having been “very restrained in the past” but ultimately left with no choice.

Several directors privately described the relationship with ACE as, at times, “abusive”. Yet they were quick to stress that their move was not an attack on Major League Cricket itself.

“We remain supportive of Major League Cricket and its success,” one said. “But that does not absolve ACE from meeting its contractual obligations,” said another.

fore the next edition of MLC, many insiders believe the timing is calculated: disruptive enough to force a renegotiation but early enough not to derail the league’s sponsorship cycle or international recruitment plans.

The grievances: years of tension, now at breaking point

The 2019 Term Sheet between ACE and USAC (which, as has been highlighted, is not a definitive long-form agreement) promised a billion-dollar transformation: six ICC-standard stadiums by 2024, high-performance centres, direct funding for national teams, and a 5% revenue share for USAC. In return, ACE was granted sweeping exclusivity over all men’s cricket under five hours in duration.

According to board documents, breach notices, and independent reporting from The Hindu and cricexec, USA Cricket alleged that ACE failed to meet multiple obligations:

Stadium delivery failure – Six venues were promised by 2024. Only Grand Prairie, Texas, is operational. Morrisville, Lauderhill, and Oakland are incomplete or not ACE-controlled. Timelines have slipped to 2028, well outside the contract.

Revenue share dilution – USAC’s 5% cut of gross revenues risks shrinking as ACE devolves local sponsorships and media deals to franchises.

Unapproved expansion – ACE pursued a Toronto franchise and tieups with New Zealand Cricket without USAC signoff.

Player and staff payment lapses – USAC cites $606,189 unpaid for 2024 and $647,603 for 2025. ACE claims MLC draft salaries should count toward obligations – a position USAC rejects as “essentially using USA Cricket to fund its player salaries.”

ACE claims Grand Prairie suffices; USAC disagrees.

Governance interference – USAC alleges ACE used its “good faith discretion” to influence athlete elections and national team selections by privileging MLC-contracted players.

Control of ICC funding – As Chairman Venu Pisike has repeatedly warned, “No external party should control ICC funding.” Yet under the 2019 agreement, ACE had discretion over increases in ICC grants, which Pisike says violates ICC membership criteria.

Antitrust risk –Exclusivity over all shortform cricket, Pisike argues, exposes USAC to litigation. “That level of exclusivity is a significant antitrust risk.”

In July, USAC formally communicated its concerns in a press release:

“Our partnership with ACE also carries certain obligations for MLC to assist as a partner in the development of American cricket,” USA Cricket said. “We remain committed to ensuring that all parties and partners meet their contractual obligations to advance and grow the game of cricket in a mutually beneficial way.”

ACE has denied wrongdoing, insisting its obligations have been mischaracterised. In response to The Hindu’s investigation, ACE said:

“The questions you have raised reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of the Term Sheet and the relationship between USAC and ACE and are both inaccurate and misleading.”

The broader governance crisis

This contractual showdown comes at a perilous moment for USA Cricket’s governance.

Committee (USOPC) standards. Cricket’s inclusion at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics makes recognition by both bodies non-negotiable.

As cricexec reported last month, USAC Chairman Venu Pisike has resisted calls for wholesale board resignation. “We are not stepping down,” he said bluntly. “We are confident we can fast-track and complete all elections within three months.”

But Pisike has also been candid that the ACE agreement lies at the heart of the crisis. “We strongly believe the contract violates the Ted Stevens Act and ICC membership guidelines,” he told The Hindu. “It grants ACE inappropriate control over ICC funding, infrastructure, and even player contracts.”

The ICC has so far declined to intervene in US commercial contracts. But the USOPC has made clear that autonomy, transparency, and athlete representation are mandatory for Olympic certification. The ACE deal, critics argue, undermines all three.

Financial fragility

Beneath the governance turmoil lies a fragile financial foundation.

USA Cricket ended 2023 with just $52,000 in cash against $615,000 in liabilities. Nearly half its receivables – $439,000 – were tied to ACE. Its auditors warned of “negative cash flows from operating activities” and raised doubts about USAC’s ability to continue as a going concern.

anteed a place as host. But recognition by the USOPC as the official national governing body is essential. Without it, the ICC and the IOC could appoint an alternative entity to field US teams.

That prospect, however unlikely, underscores why autonomy is paramount.

As The Hindu put it: “A contractual dispute between ACE – a private consortium – and USA Cricket threatens the board’s Olympic certification, its standing with the ICC, and its authority over the very game it is meant to govern.”

What happens next?

Termination is not the endgame but the opening gambit of a new phase. The board must now formally communicate its decision to ACE. From there, several scenarios loom:

Renegotiation – With nine months until MLC 2026, there is time to hammer out a long-form agreement that restores balance. Many insiders believe this is the likeliest outcome.

Compliance – ACE could begin meeting contractual obligations in earnest: delivering stadiums, funding national teams, and increasing transparency.

Litigation – ACE could dispute the grounds for termination, triggering arbitration or court action. With its wealthy backers, ACE is well-resourced for a legal battle.

in the USA.

In his first interview with cricexec, new MLC CEO Johnny Grave described MLC as “part of a billion-dollar investment” on the part of ACE and outlined plans to expand from six to ten teams, build local fan bases, and position the US national teams as Olympic medal contenders.

“The goal is to create a clear, visible pathway for boys and girls across the country,” Grave said. “So they can see that playing for Team USA is a real, tangible opportunity.”

Thus, whether publicly, behind closed doors or in legal proceedings, ACE is likely to highlight these steps and investments.

Courage or gamble?

For USA Cricket, the decision is a high-wire act.

Critics warn that taking on ACE and its billionaire backers could backfire, isolating USAC and jeopardising MLC’s momentum. Supporters counter that without autonomy, Olympic recognition, or financial transparency, USAC risks ceasing to function as a legitimate governing body. What all sides agree on is that the old status quo was unsustainable.

“This has dragged on for years,” one director told cricexec, stating that the board needed to act.

Technically, ACE has already lost its sanctioning rights. Other tournaments, such as the US Premier League (USPL), may seek approval. In practice, however, USAC has enforced exclusivity selectively, and few expect an overnight collapse of MLC’s operations.

The step is bold but not final. With nine months be-

High-performance centre delay – promised by 2020, still undelivered.

At the ICC Annual Conference in July, the board narrowly avoided suspension, receiving a three-month extension to complete overdue elections and comply with the US Olympic & Paralympic

In effect, USAC has been financially dependent on the very partner it accuses of breach. That leverage imbalance shaped the past half-decade. The termination vote is an attempt to reset it.

Olympic stakes

The stakes are Olympicsized. Cricket will return to the Summer Games at LA28, with the US guar-

The ACE/MLC perspective While ACE/MLC did not comment in response to the Hindu investigation, in recent months the MLC has highlighted the depth and extent of its investment in and commitment to cricket

Conclusion: a long fight ahead By voting to terminate the ACE agreement, USA Cricket has made the boldest move in its modern history. Whether it proves reckless or visionary will depend on what follows: negotiation, compliance, or confrontation.

For now, the clock is ticking – on governance reforms, on financial survival, and on the road to Los Angeles 2028. The ball is now in ACE’s court. (cricexec)

FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2025

Delroy James to headline Guyana’s National 3x3 Basketball Championship

Several overseas-based Guyanese players are set to return home to compete in the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) National 3x3 Championship, with veteran forward Delroy James among the headline names confirmed for action.

The tournament, slated for September 27–28 at the Seawall Bandstand, promises to blend high-level basketball with one of Georgetown’s most scenic and vibrant weekend spots.

For the GBF, it’s a bold move to take the sport to the coastline, combining the fast-paced half-court game with the historic and buzzing Seawall atmosphere.

This year’s championship will play a pivotal role in selecting the national team that will represent Guyana at the FIBA 3x3 AmeriCup in León, Mexico, from November 27–30.

The AmeriCup stands as one of the most prestigious events in the Americas, drawing elite 3x3 squads from across North, Central, and

South America, as well as the Caribbean.

For the first time in Guyana, the National 3x3 Championship will be contested on a FIBA-certified surface and tiles, the same standard used at major international tournaments. GBF president Michael Singh said the new playing conditions will elevate the competition.

“The surface is important, and we’re happy to have it in Guyana for the first time,” Singh explained. “It’s the same used at tournaments like the AmeriCup, and we’re

doing everything possible to raise the standard and quality of 3x3 basketball locally.”

A record 16 teams will take part this year, up from 10 in 2023. Defending champions Renegades will be aiming to retain their title, but with a bolstered field, including star-studded lineups of local and international talent, the path to glory looks far tougher.

The eventual winners will take home $500,000, with $200,000, $100,000, and $50,000 going to second, third, and fourth place, respectively.

James, who has represented Guyana in the 3x3 format at the 2022 AmeriCup, will suit up with the Predators, joined by fellow AmeriCup teammate Shelroy Thomas, Ray Victor (British Virgin Islands–based), and rising 18-year-old big man Jaden Simon.

“This is important for us at the GBF, to see all our top players in action locally, so we can select the best players for Mexico,” Singh said.

Other overseas-based standouts expected to feature include Berchell Glenn (leading Georgetown’s team), Deylon Bovell, and Akeem Ellis, all vying for a spot on the final national roster.

Singh highlighted the Federation’s commitment to transparency in selection, noting that Guyana has been one of the Caribbean’s most consistent participants at the AmeriCup, missing only last year’s tournament in Puerto Rico due to unforeseen circumstances.

This year, preparation will go a step further. Once the national team is selected,

Singh revealed that plans are underway to have them compete in multiple international 3x3 circuit stops, ensuring the squad is battle-tested against elite opposition before stepping onto the court in Mexico.

At last year’s championship, Renegades, featuring Jude Corlette, Travis Belgrave, Nikkoloi Smith, and Dominic Vincente, defeated a

ing Harold

Shane Webster,

and Orlan Glasgow with a 21–15 victory in the final at the National Gymnasium. Belgrave, Vincente, Adams, and Smith went on to represent Guyana at the 3x3 AmeriCup, gaining vital experience despite tough competition.

Rockets keep slim hopes alive with six-wicket win

Trent Rockets won a must-win game against Oval Invincible at The Kia Oval to keep alive their slim qualification hopes in The Hundred.

Both teams were coming into the match off the back of defeats, and a loss would have spelt the end of the Rockets’ campaign, but, having won the toss and elected to bowl first, they’d have been delighted at the break to have limited the hosts to just 109 for 7.

It was a curious innings for the home team, who seemed to struggle to adapt to the surface, never able to kick on in terms of run rate and kept in check throughout by the Rockets’ spin trio of Kirstie Gordon, Alana King and Ash Gardner.

Meg Lanning top-scored with a 35-ball 45, and she put on 47 for the second wicket with Alice Capsey (15), but the Rockets would have been the happier of the two teams between innings.

They got off to a strong start in their run chase with Bryony Smith and the re-

called Grace Scrivens putting on 51 for the opening wicket, and despite a few blips – losing Nat Sciver-Brunt and captain Gardner – they were comfortable enough in hauling in the Invincibles’ total with 16 balls to spare, with Jodi Grewock and Heather

Smith claims Guyana’s 3rd bronze at Junior Pan

Am

Sprinter Keliza Smith, on Thursday evening, put on a strong performance on the track in Asunción, Paraguay, to earn herself a bronze medal, Guyana’s 3rd at the ongoing Junior Pan American Games.

Smith stopped the clock at 23.42s for the thirdplace finish. The Dominican Republic’s Liranyi Alonzo set a new championship record of 22.69s, while

Colombia’s Marleth Ospino finished second in 23.14s.

Smith’s progression to the medal was preceded by another dominant performance on the track on Wednesday, as the Guyanese sprinter clocked 23.73s for first place in Heat 2 to secure an automatic place in Thursday evening’s final. In that race, she finished ahead of Colombia’s Marleth Ospino (23.76s), Canada’s Emily Martin (23.81s) and

Jamaica’s Marissa Palmer (23.82s) in what was a photo finish to that race.

Meanwhile, also on Wednesday, Malachi Austin competed in the men’s 400 m final, clocking 46.67 s for seventh place. The gold was won by Jamaica’s Jasauna Dennis in 45.56 s. Jaden Marchan of Trinidad and Tobago grabbed silver in 45.80 s, while Brazil’s Vinicius Galeno completed the podium in 45.83s.

Graham adding a late flourish to finish the game in a hurry.

The Rockets’ next game is against bottom-placed Welsh Fire, a huge chance to keep their qualification hopes alive, while for Oval Invincibles they’ll need to reverse their slump at Headingley on Saturday to keep themselves in the fight.

Meerkat Match Hero Scrivens said, “I’m happy to get the win. I was really glad to be back in the team and to help contribute. Obviously, I would have liked to have finished it off, but I’m happy. I think Bry played her [Marizanne Kapp] really well. She obviously sat deep, used the bounce and the wicket and the square, so I

SCOREBOARD

Oval Invincibles (Women) (100 balls maximum)

Lauren Winfield-Hill (c)† c McCarthy

b Stonehouse 7

Meg Lanning c Nat Sciver-Brunt

b Gardner 45

Alice Capsey lbw b Gordon 15

Marizanne Kapp c & b Gardner 7

Paige Scholfield not out 16

Amanda-Jade Wellington st †Threlkeld

b King 7

Joanne Gardner c McCarthy

b Graham 2

Phoebe Franklin c Stonehouse

b Gordon 4

Kalea Moore not out 3

Extras (lb 1, w 2) 3

Total 100 balls (RPB: 1.09) 109/7

Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Lauren Winfield-Hill, 21b), 2-60 (Alice Capsey, 61b), 3-77 (Marizanne Kapp, 71b), 4-78 (Meg Lanning, 73b), 5-86 (Amanda-Jade Wellington, 80b), 6-91 (Joanne Gardner, 89b), 7-96 (Phoebe Franklin, 93b)

Bowling B-0s-R-W

Alexa Stonehouse 15-13-5-1

Cassidy McCarthy 20-6-25-0

Kirstie Gordon 20-8-21-2

Alana King

Ashleigh Gardner 10-4-10-2

thought it was a really good option for her. I thought it was a really good pitch. I thought they were under par, and I was happy when we chased them.”

Heather Graham 20-5-27-1

Trent Rockets (Women) (T: 110 runs from 100 balls)

Bryony Smith c Gardner b Moore 24

Grace Scrivens c Scholfield b Capsey 34

Nat Sciver-Brunt c Capsey b Kapp 2

Ashleigh Gardner (c) c Gardner

b Wellington 11

Jodi Grewcock not out 21

Heather Graham not out 19

Extras (nb 2) 2

Total 84 balls (RPB: 1.34) 113/4

Fall of wickets: 1-51 (Bryony Smith, 35b), 2-56 (Nat Sciver-Brunt, 44b), 3-71 (Ashleigh Gardner, 56b), 4-75 (Grace Scrivens, 63b)

Bowling B-0s-R-W

Marizanne Kapp 20-13-17-1

Daisy Gibb 5-2-12-0

Sophia Smale 10-1-27-0

Amanda-Jade Wellington 20-8-15-1

Kalea Moore 19-3-26-1

Alice Capsey 10-2-16-1

Asix rounds of intense competition at the International Chess Federation (FIDE) World Youth U16 Chess Olympiad in Barranquilla, Colombia, Team Guyana has had some mixed results, with Candidate Master Sachin Pitamber the top scorer so far. The nine-round tournament runs from August 16 to August 23, 2025.

Guyanese coach FM Anthony Drayton is providing updates from Barranquilla, Colombia, with the sharp display of top Guyanese young minds participating in the highly contested competition.

Pitamber shines in FIDE World Youth

U16 Chess Olympiad

ing with a pawn advantage.

Unfortunately, the fortunes of the Guyanese players dwindled after WCM Aditi Joshi and Alexander Zhang lost their matches to their Colombian counterparts, leaving the team with the possibility of securing only a draw.

Pitamber obtained a winning endgame position, but his more experienced opponent cleverly manoeuvred the fight into a drawn position, forcing Pitamber to accept the truce. Couchman’s lost in an endgame with a rook down.

team from the host country, Colombia Team One, on Sunday, August 17, 2025.

Although the Guyanese team prepared well, their stronger opponents prevailed on the opening day. Each match was a dynamic display of fighting spirit in a bid to score an upset. Spectators and broadcasters were glued to Boards One and Two of the Colombia vs Guyana matches – Kyle Couchman and CM Sachin Pitamber, respectively. Computer analysis behind the scenes revealed that Couchman was poised to gain an edge in an equal position, while Pitamber was dominat-

Rounds Two and Three saw improvement with Guyana winning a match against Colombia Team Sixteen, 2.5–1.5, and dominating Guatemala 3–1 with excellent performances from all players.

Guyanese Alexander Zhang and Aditi recorded wins on Boards Three and Four, respectively.

Guyana faced off against Venezuela Team One in Round Four, and Pitamber continued his stellar performance, beating his 1900-rated opponent on Board Two with relative ease. Couchman blundered a positional move order, fighting back in a pawn-

InSync, VMFA collaborate for high-performance camp

Acollaborative effort between InSync Therapeutics and the Vurlon Mills Football Academy (VMFA), some 20 pre- and early-teen footballers over the past three weeks had the opportunity of undergoing an intensive high-performance camp focused on assessing their skills, gauging them against worldwide standards and improving those skills over time.

Physiotherapist attached to InSync Therapeutics, Angelica Holder, gave an overview on the high-performance camp and the tests being carried out.

Holder explained, “Here we set out to do a speed camp which we aimed to develop the speed of the young athletes. We had 20 participants, and that is a mixture of both male and female athletes. What we aim to do is have strength testing in which we would have mimicked protocols that are established worldwide for football-specific drills. So, we included strength testing and speed and agility testing.”

Aside from testing, according to Holder, the camp was also focused on instilling best practices and principles in the young athletes.

“In these three weeks, we would’ve established good high-performance practices; we’ve introduced that to our young athletes here. We trained them 4 days within the week, two days on, one day

off, and what we’ve planned to do is test initially and then retest. We also aimed, within these three weeks, to look at consistency: how often any of these particular athletes could’ve executed their skills over the three weeks, consistently,” she divulged.

In addition, Holder revealed that the athletes benefitted from tutelage on warmups, warm-downs, hydration and nutrition practices, and the importance of recovery over the course of the camp.

Quizzed on why this particular age group is being targeted, Holder described it as the perfect age to establish good principles.

The physiotherapist enlightened, “This specific age group is what we would consider grass roots; most of the athletes here range from ages 13 to 8, so really and truly this is the foundation of where football training really begins. It’s perfect for us to be here because what we can do is establish good training practices, principles and patterns which the athletes can now take from this level and continue throughout.”

“So, they’re not starting at age 20, at the senior level, where they’re now learning how to stretch properly or why we need to stretch or why we need to drink electrolytes to hydrate. So, we’re starting them on professional and high-performance setups.”

The physiotherapist, who

has worked with several national teams throughout her career, further broke down their data-driven methods that assist in identifying improvements.

“I love that question,” Holder cheekily responded to the inquiry, “because what we’ve actually done is put data into the speed camp. So, it’s not just me saying, ‘Hey, I think the athletes look like they’re stronger’, and that ‘they’re moving faster’, or ‘they’re even kicking faster’ –with the testing that we did before, at the end of the camp, what we aim to do is a retest. That actually would give us objective data on how the athletes actually performed better. So, this is basically taking the science back into sport; how performance looks after three weeks of training.”

Though starting with football, InSync Therapeutics is hoping to carry out similar camps with other sport disciplines in the future.

InSync Therapeutics provides a range of services from physical rehabilitation to personalised exercise training, massage and mobility therapy, recovery room access, exercise testing, and team/event coverage. Located at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), they can also be contacted at https://insynctherapeutics. gy/, info@insynctherapeutics. gy and via telephone at 7318442.

down endgame. However, his efforts were not enough to clinch the win. Guyana ended up losing the match 3–1.

In Round Five, Guyana was paired against Colombia Team Seven. Although determined to redeem themselves, the Guyanese players experienced mixed fortunes. Zhang and Joshi went down with losses, leaving Pitamber and Kyle Couchman to keep the country’s flag flying.

Pitamber pulled off a brilliant win with a Queen sac against his opponent and won the game in style. Despite several winning chances, Couchman faltered and settled for a draw since his Board One opponent de-

Guyana’s Senior Women’s National football team, the Lady Jags, will soon embark on a journey to secure a spot in next year’s Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Women’s Championship when they take to the pitch for the 2025/26 CONCACAF W Qualifiers.

The official draw was conducted on Wednesday in Miami, where Guyana was drawn in Group B of the 29-team competition alongside the likes of Jamaica, Nicaragua, Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda.

The draw excluded the Confederation’s top two (ranked) teams and will be played during the FIFA Women’s International Match Windows in November 2025 and February and April 2026.

The remainder of the groups include:

Group A: Mexico, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, United States Virgin Islands

Group C: Costa Rica, Guatemala, Bermuda, Grenada, Cayman Islands

Group D: Haiti, Dominican Republic, Suriname, Belize, Anguilla

Group E: Panama, Cuba, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Curacao, Aruba

Group F: Trinidad & Tobago, El Salvador, Honduras, Barbados

At the conclusion of the CONCACAF W Qualifiers, the six group winners will join the United States (US) and Canada (the two highest-ranked teams) in the eight-team CONCACAF W Championship next year. According to the Confederation, the match schedule for the 2025/26 CONCACAF W Qualifiers

feated 2.5–1.5 in that matchup. In Round Six, Guyana won convincingly against Colombia Team Eleven, scoring 3:1 with victories from Couchman, Zhang, and Joshi.

With the last maining, the ed to continue

sent the Golden Arrowhead. Pitamber is already contending for the Board Two prize with the most games won. Forty countries from around the world with eightyfive registered teams are participating in the competition.

Guyana drawn in Group B for CONCACAF Women’s Championships qualifiers

will be announced at a later date.

2026 CONCACAF W Championship

The W Championship will be played in November 2026 and serve as the Confederation’s qualifier for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 and the 2028 Los Angeles (LA) Summer Olympics.

The eight teams participating in the five-round direct elimination knockout-style competition will include the US and Canada and the six group winners of the W Qualifiers.

The competition will begin with the quarter-finals, followed by a play-in, semi-finals, third-place match, and final. To determine the quarterfinal pairings and each team’s path to the final, CONCACAF will rank teams 1-8 based on the FIFA Women’s Rankings, with the highest-ranked team facing the lowest-ranked team.

At the conclusion of the quarter-finals, the four matchup winners will qualify for the semi-finals and guarantee their place in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027, while the four losers will progress to a playin, from which the 2 winning teams will each battle for a spot in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Intercontinental Play-Off.

The W Championship finalists will also secure a berth in the 2028 LA Summer Olympics Games Women’s Football Tournament. Should the US finish as one of the two W Championship finalists, then CONCACAF’s second berth will be awarded to the competition’s third-place winner (based on the precedent of host nations’ automatic qualification for previous editions of the Olympic Football Tournament at the Summer Olympic Games). Further details on next year’s W Championship will be announced at a later date. The US is the current champion of the CONCACAF W Championship, having secured the 2022 title with a 1–0 win over Canada in the final held in Monterrey, Mexico. The tournament also served as the regional qualifier for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Canada, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Panama, and Haiti joined the US in the global event, marking the first time six nations from the Confederation qualified for a FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Holder masterminds Patriots’ win

Game eight of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) saw another close and hard-fought contest between the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots and the Barbados Royals.

Chasing the Patriots’ 174/8, the Royals came close, but Jason Holder trapped Jomel Warrican lbw

with the second ball of the 19th over to seal their second straight defeat.

The 12-run victory lifted the Patriots to second place on the table, though they needed five matches to earn their two wins. Royals captain Rovman Powell won the toss and chose to field at Warner Park. Left-arm quick Ramon Simmonds

was the standout bowler for the Royals, taking 3/26 in his four overs, which included 11 dot balls and only three boundaries conceded.

The telling contributions with the bat for Patriots came from the engine room of Kyle Mayers (42) and captain Holder; the latter scooped the player of the match gong for his 38 off 21

deliveries with the bat and a scintillating 4/14 with the ball.

The Royals were well set in their chase at 92/3 off ten overs, but they fell away in the second half of their in nings, failing to build signif icant partnerships and ulti mately being blown away by Holder taktwo wickets with consecutive balls twice in their innings.

After failing to bowl sides out in previous CPL tournaments – the Patriots went fifty innings without taking all ten wickets –Holder’s side have now managed it twice in this year’s tournament already and have giv en their chances of making it to the latter stages a shot in the arm in the process.

Powell’s Royals, mean while, have plenty to ponder as they still look for their first win of the 2025 compe tition. (CPLT20)