Guyana Times - Friday, June 5, 2026

Guyana joins regional cybersecurity centre to strengthen digital resilience – PM

Gunmen cart off $12M in Canal No 1 Polder robbery

2 wanted for AK47 bust in Berbice turn selves in to Police

Essequibo Coast teacher arrested after ganja found in car

Govt negotiating “best possible commercial rate” with power ship operator – Indar

…assures

no interruption in power generation

The Guyana Government is currently engaged in active negotiations with the company that operates the two power ships that are supplying the national grid with some 96 megawatts (MW) of electricity.

The two power ships, one in the Demerara River at Meadow Bank producing 60MW and the other at Everton in the Berbice River supplying 36MW of electricity, began generating power in 2024 on a two-year contract between the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) and the Joint Venture of Turkishbased Karpowership Global DMCC and Qatar-based UCC Energy International LLC (UCC JV).

However, it has been reported that the contract has expired. On Thursday, Minister of Public Utilities Deodat Indar addressed the renewal of the contract between GPL and UCC JV with Karpowership.

“I would like to assure the public that the Government of Guyana is working in the best interests of the people of Guyana to get the best possible commercial rate for

the renewal of the contract,” the Minister stated.

Over the past weeks, there have been reports that the power ship company has threatened, via correspondence to the Public Utilities Minister, to shut off operations if a new deal is not reached.

But Indar has reassured that the two vessels are still operating as the Government and power ship operators iron out a new agreement.

“We continue to be in the negotiation process, while the power ship maintains an uninterrupted supply

of electricity to the national grid… I want to reassure the population that no power outage is occurring due to a lack of power generation,” the Minister contended.

In fact, contrary to reports, Minister Indar explained that the recent increases in power outages across the country may have been due to issues relating to the maintenance of the power grid and interruptions caused by private contractors, and not the shutdown of the power vessels.

According to the Public Utilities Minister, the pub-

lic will be apprised, at the appropriate time, on the completion of the contractual negotiations between GPL and UCC JV with Karpowership.

This statement from Minister Indar comes as Opposition parliamentarian A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU’s) Ganesh Mahipaul, on Thursday, submitted oral questions without notice to Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, about the status of the negotiations with the power ship company. These questions were filed ahead of today’s sitting of the National Assembly. The Guyana Government had contracted the two power ships to provide additional capacity in order to meet the country’s growing demand for electricity. This, the Government had explained, was a short-term solution as it awaits the completion of the highlyanticipated Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project that is slated to come onstream later this year, bringing some 300 MW of power using natural gas from offshore Guyana.

BRIDGE OPENING

JUNE

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, June 5 – 07:00h–08:30h and Saturday, June 6 –07:45h–09:15h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light showers are expected during the day, giving way to sunny skies in the late afternoon before thundery showers develop overnight. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 07:19h and 19:55h reaching maximum heights of 2.42 metres and 2.27 metres.

Low Tide: 13:25h reaching a minimum height of 0.80 metre.

US a strong, dependable security partner for Guyana, Region – President Ali

…lauds staff of Guyanese heritage on board US Navy ship

n demonstration of the growing defence partnership between the two countries and their respective militaries, Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces in Guyana, President Dr Irfaan Ali, recently led a group of Cabinet Ministers, top military leaders, and senior national defence officials on a visit aboard the United States Navy’s aircraft carrier – the USS Nimitz.

With over 4000 crew members and operating some of the world’s most advanced aircraft, the USS Nimitz is conducting exercises with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), thus strengthening alliances and building the capabilities needed to address shared security.

In a social media post on Thursday, President Ali recognised the US as a major security partner for Guyana

and the wider region, something that he says is demonstrated through action.

“The United States has long been a strong and dependable security partner for Guyana and the wider region. Its commitment to its allies is not expressed through words alone – it is demonstrated through action, partnership and a sustained presence in support of regional peace and stability. We are grateful for the unwavering support of the US Government, military and people, whose commitment continues to strengthen security cooperation and safeguard the prosperity of our region,” the Head of State noted.

Similar sentiments were expressed by the Head of State during the visit on board the USS Nimitz nearly two weeks ago. In a short video shared on Thursday, President Ali, while addressing the crew members aboard the warship, highlighted the important role of the US in the security of the region.

“When the US Government says that it is committed to its allies, it is not only words. The United States are serious when they say they want to be locked in to the security of this re-

for all the work that you

During the visit, President Ali had also used the opportunity to spotlight the diversity of the US military, revealing that three of the members on board the USS Nimitz are of Guyanese heritage.

“That is an even larger message that the United States military is comprised of men and women from different heritages, all with one common understanding that the world and the safety of humanity require everyone to work together with the same values, the same mindset, and the same understanding of what constitutes a peaceful world,” the President had stated.

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Braille assessment milestone & new era for inclusive education

The administration of the National Reading Assessment in Braille is an important milestone in Guyana’s education system and an important affirmation of the principle that every child deserves equal access to learning opportunities. While much attention is often placed on infrastructure, curriculum reform, and examination performance, the true measure of an education system lies in its ability to serve all learners, including those who face physical and sensory challenges.

For decades, children living with disabilities have encountered barriers that extend far beyond the classroom. Limited access to specialised learning materials, insufficient teacher training, inadequate assistive technologies and the absence of comprehensive data have often restricted educational opportunities for many students. As a result, talented and capable learners have frequently been disadvantaged by systems that were not designed with their needs in mind.

The introduction of Braille-based national assessments demonstrates a meaningful shift from simply recognising the rights of learners with disabilities to actively implementing measures that support those rights. It reflects a growing understanding that inclusion cannot remain a policy aspiration or a statement of intent. Inclusion must be reflected in practical actions that allow every student to participate fully and independently in the educational process.

The importance of this development extends beyond the successful completion of an examination by two visually-impaired pupils. Its significance lies in what it represents for the future of educational equity. National assessments play a critical role in measuring literacy, academic progress and learning outcomes. If students are unable to access these assessments in formats suited to their needs, they are effectively excluded from a fundamental aspect of the education system. Providing assessments in Braille ensures that blind and visuallyimpaired learners are evaluated on their knowledge and abilities rather than on limitations imposed by inaccessible testing methods.

Equally commendable is the emphasis placed on independence and academic integrity. The use of specialised technologies such as Braille embossers and Braille writing machines allows students to complete assessments on their own, preserving the credibility of the examination process while promoting learner confidence and selfreliance. This approach reinforces the principle that accommodations should not diminish standards but rather remove barriers that prevent students from demonstrating their true capabilities.

Genuine inclusion requires sustained investment, long-term planning and institutional commitment. The planned expansion of Braille training for teachers across multiple regions is therefore a critical next step.

Teacher preparedness remains one of the most important factors in determining whether inclusive education succeeds. Even where learning materials and technologies are available, students cannot fully benefit without educators who possess the knowledge and confidence to support diverse learning needs. Strengthening teacher capacity in Braille literacy and inclusive instructional practices will help create classroom environments where visually-impaired learners can thrive alongside their peers.

The decision to conduct a comprehensive review of national databases to identify children living with visual impairments and blindness is equally important. Effective policymaking depends on accurate information. Without reliable data, educational planning becomes reactive rather than strategic. Understanding the number of affected students, their geographic distribution and their specific support requirements will allow resources to be allocated more efficiently and interventions to be designed with greater precision.

Such data collection efforts may also reveal broader gaps in service delivery and accessibility that require attention. The findings could inform future investments in specialised educational materials, assistive technologies, transportation support and school infrastructure. More importantly, they could help ensure that no child remains invisible within the education system due to a lack of documentation or identification.

As Guyana continues to modernise and expand educational opportunities, inclusion must remain at the centre of national development efforts. A society that invests in the education of all children strengthens its human capital, promotes social cohesion and advances equality. Excluding any group from educational opportunities carries long-term economic and social consequences that extend far beyond individual learners.

The successful implementation of Braille-based national assessments, therefore, deserves recognition as an educational accomplishment as well as a declaration of national values.

The challenge now is to maintain momentum and sustained support; expanded training, improved data collection and continued investment in assistive technologies will determine whether this achievement becomes an isolated success or the beginning of a transformative chapter in Guyana’s education system.

The students of Karaudarnau Primary School, South Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) showcased their pets at the school’s Pet Show last week (Karaudarnau Primary School/Facebook)

National Reading Assessment administered for 1st time in Braille

The Education Ministry has achieved a historic milestone in the advancement of inclusive education, successfully ad-

ministering the National Reading Assessment using Braille.

This landmark initiative marks an unprecedented

step towards ensuring equal access for all learners, reinforcing the Ministry’s core mandate that no child is left behind due to disability, ge-

US a strong, dependable...

Meanwhile, the visit by the Guyana Government officials onboard the naval ship came after an invite was extended by US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot.

The US Embassy in Georgetown, in a May 23 statement following the visit, said the visit was a powerful demonstration of the US’s growing defence partnership with the Guyanese military.

“The United States and Guyana share a commitment to regional security and prosperity. The visit of the USS Nimitz demonstrates our dedication to working hand-in-hand with Guyana and our Caribbean partners to address shared challenges and build a safer, stronger hemisphere for all our citizens,” Ambassador Theriot emphasised in the missive.

The USS Nimitz, the US Navy’s most historic aircraft carrier as part of Southern Seas 2026, represents American naval excellence and their unwavering commitment to regional security and cooperation.

As part of this deployment, the Embassy said the USS Nimitz is conducting exercises with armed forces from the GDF, strengthening alliances and building the capabilities needed to address security challenges together.

Moreover, it noted that Guyana’s role as a founding member of the Shield of the Americas Coalition underscores the shared commitment to hemispheric security. Back in March, Guyana was one of two Caribbean nations that joined US President Donald Trump’s Shield of the Americas – an alliance that includes several countries from the Latin American region that committed to work with the US Government to address narco-trafficking and other illicit activities in the region.

“Our partnership extends beyond military exercises,” the US Embassy noted. “Under the Shiprider Agreement between the United States and Guyana, Guyanese law enforcement officers embark on US law enforcement vessels to assist in conducting counter-drug patrols and pursuing suspected drug traffickers that flee into Guyanese territorial waters – a testament to our collaborative approach to combating transnational crime.”

Also joining the Guyanese delegation on the visit was Lieutenant Commander Clint Venture, a Guyanese naval officer who previously spent six weeks on the Nimitz as an embarked international staff (EIS). As a member of the EIS, Venture took part in the planning and exe-

cution of bilateral engagements between Nimitz and partner nations throughout the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) area of responsibility.

ography, or lack of resources.

The assessments were recently completed by two blind Grade Four pupils, who participated independently alongside their peers.

of the ACEO Literacy, led by Stembiso Grant.

cialised assistive technology.

The examination papers were produced in Braille using a Braille embosser, while the pupils utilised Braille machines to complete their written responses during the examination process.

These technologies serve as essential tools that allow learners who are blind and visually impaired to participate independently and meaningfully in mainstream classrooms, promoting true inclusion and academic success.

Looking ahead, the Education Ministry is already moving into the next phase of strengthening Braille literacy nationally. Plans are currently underway to implement a National Braille Training Workshop aimed at building the capacity of teachers across Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven and 10, in an effort to provide structured, regionalised support to blind and visually impaired learners in these regions.

Additionally, the Ministry will conduct a comprehensive review of existing national databases to identify children with visual impairments and blindness across the various regions of Guyana.

The information gathered from this exercise will directly help to inform national strategies and interventions designed to better support the academic journey, accessibility needs and equal educational outcomes of these learners. FROM PAGE 3

This achievement was driven by a collaborative effort within the Ministry, led by the Office of the Assistant Chief Education Officer (ACEO) for Special Education Needs/ Disabilities, headed by Dr Keon Cheong, and the Office

The process was further supported by the recently-appointed National Blind Education Monitor Rosemarie Ramitt, whose mandate is to strengthen academic access and opportunities for learners who are blind and visually impaired across Guyana.

To ensure strict independence and academic integrity during the assessment, the Ministry utilised spe-

Page Foundation

◄ Factors

Factors are numbers that will divide into a whole number with no remainder

For example:

• 2 is a factor of 12 because 12 ÷ 2 = 6

• 3 is a factor of 12 because 12 ÷ 3 = 4

In the same way,

• 6 is a factor of 12 because 12 ÷ 6 = 2

• 4 is a factor of 12 because 12 ÷ 4 = 3

Every whole number greater than 1 has at least 2 factors: 1 and itself.

For example:

• 12 is a factor of 12 because 12 ÷ 12 = 1

• 1 is a factor of 12 because 12 ÷ 1 = 12

So, the factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.

Factors are always whole numbers and can sometimes be called divisors. They can also be paired together to multiply and make a number.

For example, the factor pairs of 12 are:

1 and 12 (1×12=12)

2 and 6 (2×6=12)

3 and 4 (3×4=12)

A composite number is the product of two or more factors. In this scenario, 12 is the composite number.

Prime factors

Prime factors are prime numbers that are also factors

For example,

At night when you look up to the sky, if you try to focus on a star, you might see it twinkling or flashing. This is called “stellar scintillation”. We can see up to 6000 stars at night with the naked eye.

Stars twinkle because we are viewing them through Earth’s atmosphere, which has lots of thick, moving air in it. The light is refracted (bent) through the atmosphere in lots of different directions, which causes the appearance of twinkling.

This light refraction also makes the twinkling appear as if the colours of the star light are changing. Light is composed of a spectrum of colours, and this includes starlight.

Light travels in “waves”, and different frequencies of the waves produce different colours. Because the light is being bent at so many different angles and travelling at different speeds when it passes through

To find the prime factors of a number, divide it by prime numbers until you cannot divide any further.

For example: 12.

12 = 2 × 6

6 = 2 × 3

So, 12 = 2 × 2 × 3

The prime factors of 12 are 2 and 3, and we say that the prime factorization is 2 × 2 × 3.

Highest Common Factor

The Highest Common Factor (HCF) is the largest integer that two or more numbers can be divided by.

For example:

The HCF of 4 and 6.

• Factors of 4: 1, 2, 4

• Factors of 6: 1, 2, 3, 6

We can see that the highest number that occurs in each list is 2, so for the numbers 4 and 6, the Highest Common Factor is 2.

Earth’s atmosphere, it causes many different wave patterns in the light. This causes the twinkling of the star to be multicoloured!

You can see this refraction at home by shining light through a prism. The light slows down or speeds up as it travels through the prism at different angles and produces a rainbow!

Planets do not usually appear to twinkle, because they are much closer to Earth than the stars. The stars are very far away points of light (like our sun) that are travelling very far through space. The planets have a more stable image because the light that we can see coming off them is reflected from our own sun and is much closer!

Stars that are closer to the horizon appear to twinkle more than stars that are high up in the sky. This is because there is more atmosphere between you and a star on the horizon than between you and a star

in the sky.

If we were in outer space, stars would not twinkle, because the light coming off them would not be warped by any atmosphere. This is one of the reasons why the Hubble Space Telescope is so effective – it is already in space, so it can get much clearer pictures of the stars and can see galaxies that are billions of light-years away. Some other telescopes here on Earth can see the stars without the twinkling by using complex mirrors that are constantly moving. The mirrors try to reflect the light from the star into a consistent beam and combat the effect of the turbulence in Earth’s atmosphere. This is called “adaptive optics” and is very useful for astronomers to more clearly view stars from Earth. The Hubble Space Telescope is much better … but very expensive!

(Adapted from planetsforkids.org)

Some people who were with me from the start, Veiled now like the sea behind the curtains, Moving with the ship against the grain

Of time: by degrees I saw them slip Into a longitude inhabited By withered waves, a high and frightened foam— My watch disintegrates, the sextant drops Fathoms toward their eyes, that stare at suns

The captain shoots. Father dove

Deeper than the sunken stars, and Mother’s moons Dissolved.

We inch our way toward clouded latitudes.

(Source: Poetry [March 1972])

Describe a UFO landing in your backyard and who or what is inside.

WORD SEARCH

Floodwaters recede across Region 9, but damaged roads, bridges keep communities cut off

After a tumultuous period of flooding across the Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) that left several communities waterlogged, signs of improvement are beginning to emerge as waters gradually recede. However, challenges remain, with some areas still inundated as efforts continue to ensure relief and response measures remain in place.

Providing an update on the situation to this publica-

Albert said systems have been put in place to ensure continued access to education.

“Yakarinta students are attending Massara Secondary School, so they have to travel every sin-

into Karasabai, but for villages such as Yurong Paru, Rukumuta, Tipuru, Pai Pang, and Taipang, waters have receded.”

She added that while access roads are slowly reopening, damaged infra-

tion, Regional Chairperson Vania Albert revealed that areas seeing receding floodwaters include Yakarinta and several other communities.

Receding

“Deep South and South Central, water has now receded, but the roads need immediate attention. A lot of bridges and culverts have been damaged and washed away. Water has receded except for places like Yakarinta,” she explained.

Yakarinta remains a key passageway for students travelling to school, and

gle day and return. What we are trying to do now is arrange fuel so that boats can transport them so they can catch buses and head to secondary school. So far, with health services, we do not really have shortages of drugs.”

Meanwhile, speaking about the South Pakaraimas, Albert revealed that waters have also started receding there.

“For the South Pakaraimas area, which includes Karasabai, waters are now receding there as well. The only area still flooded right now is the access point

structure continues to create challenges.

“We now have access roads, but the issue is that bridges are damaged where creeks remain high, so some areas are still cut off due to damaged bridges and culverts.”

Albert further explained that the Hunt Oil stretch along the main roadway to Georgetown has also seen improvements, though new concerns remain around the Pirara Bridge area.

In Region Nine, the Hunt Oil stretch refers to a wellknown 10.5-mile straight section of roadway in the

North Rupununi, often described as one of the longest straight roads in Guyana.

“The Hunt Oil stretch has receded, but around the Pirara Bridge area, water levels continue to rise. This morning, the water increased further, but as floodwaters recede from the Karasabai area, they are naturally flowing towards this location. That is why water levels around the Pirara Bridge continue to rise. However, today the Takutu River has receded slightly, and the water is gradually going down.”

Albert explained that Government officials have already visited several affected communities, noting that the Prime Minister visited parts of the region last week to assess the situation first-hand. She added that following discussions with the President, flood relief assistance is expected to be deployed to affected residents.

She further noted that authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage, particularly within the agriculture sector, as efforts continue to determine how many farmers and farms have been impacted by the flooding.

Farmers affected

To date, Albert reported that approximately 700 farmers across the region have been affected.

“So, to this date, for the entire region, we have approximately 700 farmers affected.”

However, she noted that there is no update on how flooding has affected fishing in the South Rupununi.

On Sunday, education officers visited more than 75 per cent of schools across the country to assess conditions and ensure that learning environments remain safe and accessible. Following these assessments, it has been confirmed that only seven

schools have temporarily closed due to weather-related challenges. The Ministry said that it is working closely with affected institutions to provide support and ensure that learning continues through alternative arrangements where necessary. It also commended the dedication of education officers and expressed gratitude to parents, teachers and communities for their cooperation.

Conditions along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway were also recorded to be deteriorating, with rising waters inundating sections of the carriageway and prompting drivers to exercise extreme caution. In Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), while some vehicles are cautiously making their way across the Pirara Bridge, several trucks have reportedly overturned and had to remain stranded on the Lethem side of the crossing.

Henry cousins murder trial Case enters final phase as both murder accused deny involvement in killings

The trial of Anil Sancharra and Vinod Gopaul, accused of the 2020 murders of West Coast Berbice cousins Isaiah and Joel Henry, is now entering its final phase, with both men denying any involvement in the killings and attorneys making their final attempts to persuade the jury before deliberations begin.

The matter was heard before Justice Simone Morris at the Berbice High Court on Thursday.

The prosecution, led by State Counsel Marisa Edwards, closed its case after calling 16 witnesses, including relatives of the slain teenagers, community witnesses, Police investigators, key witness Akash Singh and Government pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh.

Throughout the trial, the prosecution sought to build a chain of evidence through relatives, community members and Police investigators before relying on the testimony of Akash Singh.

Among the witnesses was farmer Indeejeet Singh, who told the court he saw

Isaiah Henry and another youth pushing a bicycle towards the backdam on the day the teenagers disappeared. Gladstone Henry, Isaiah’s father, recounted the family’s search efforts and the eventual discovery of the bodies, while relatives Winston Henry and Laurce Fullington provided evidence about the boys, their movements and events surrounding the search.

The medical evidence came from Dr Nehaul Singh, who testified that both teenagers died from haemorrhage and shock caused by multiple chop wounds inflicted with a sharp object. His testimony established the brutal nature of the killings and later became a key pillar of the prosecution’s argument that the injuries were consistent with the account provided by Akash Singh.

The State also called several Police witnesses who traced the course of the investigation. Rural Constable Devindra Paradat testified that he arrested Akash Singh and Vinod Gopaul on September 6, 2020, in relation to a firearm matter.

Inspector Shane James told the court about the arrest of Sancharra in January 2021, while Detective Sergeant Alexie Anys and Sergeant Sheldon Harvey gave evidence regarding interviews and confrontations conducted during the investigation.

Superintendent Rodwell Sarrabo, one of the lead investigators, was extensively challenged by the defence regarding alleged discrepancies in records, the identification of the crime scene and aspects of the overall investigation.

Marijuana camp

The prosecution’s case rested heavily on Akash

Protecting…

…the environment

Well, today’s “World Environmental Day” – as declared by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) since 1972!! It was around then that the realisation of how some of our activities to push “development” – such as the increased use of insecticides and herbicides, for example – were destroying the world that was our home!! Thing is, this consciousnessraising Day’s now 54 years old. But, along with other aligned “Days”, like “Earth Day” and annual world conferences like the UNFCCC-launched Conference of the Parties (COP) to tackle climate change, it doesn’t seem to’ve done much to handle the identified dangers of Earth turning into one global desert!!

We’d been warned that a 1.5°C rise in global temperature was the limit and tipping point. But we’re now crossing it with record-high temperatures in large swathes of the world. Who’s taking notice?? The world has heard the climate story – warnings, targets, distant deadlines. But were the developed that did the damage? They’ve just basically shrugged cynically!! Their response has been clouded by noise, delay, distraction, and denial!! Small, underdeveloped countries like us are now being pressured – even by some of our own “woke” citizens – to hold back our development that’s finally being fuelled by our carbongenerating oil production that’s scheduled to move beyond the one million bpd level!!

Singh, who testified that he was present in the backlands and witnessed the killings. Singh told the court that he had accompanied Sancharra and Gopaul to a marijuana camp in the backdam and that the two cousins later encountered the men there. According to Singh, an exchange followed before the teenagers were attacked and killed.

His testimony became the foundation of the state’s case and the central issue around which both the prosecution and defence built their arguments.

After the prosecution closed its case, Justice Morris-Ramlall called upon the accused to lead a defence.

Sancharra took the witness stand and spent two days giving evidence. During cross-examination by State Counsel Edwards, he repeatedly denied being present at the alleged crime scene and rejected Singh’s testimony.

The accused maintained that Singh was not telling the truth and insisted he had no involvement in the murders.

At one stage, when asked whether Singh was lying, Sancharra responded, “Everything Akash Singh say is lie.”

He also denied allegations that he instructed Singh to dispose of weapons or evidence and rejected suggestions that he participated in any attack on the two teenagers.

Sancharra further challenged portions of Singh’s testimony, including claims that the witness had been living in the Black Bush Polder area during the period in question.

Gopaul subsequently took the stand and also denied any involvement in the killings.

This year, the UNEP’s trying to make the situation as stark as possible, and under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future”, has declared that “the planet doesn’t argue. It doesn’t negotiate. It sends signals – rising seas, raging wildfires, heatwaves, melting glaciers”!! They supplemented this with a powerful statement that conveys the message of environmental chemistry and its urgency to take action – ACT #ForClimateNow. Nature is not an option; it’s our future!! But the organisation’s call for us to “Join the Climate DANCE Challenge” struck your Eyewitness as just probably sending mixed signals!!

Is it possible that from their elevated position they’ve seen something your Eyewitness missed?? That beneath all the noise, another signal’s rising from the solar panels stretched across rooftops – like over in Mabaruma, Buxton, and across countries like China and India?? Those wind turbines now lining the horizon in many coastal cities? Smart cities – like our Silica City being environmentally redesigned by visionaries like Pressie?? Forests being sequestered, like with our Iwokrama, and replanted, like in India?? Is it that climate solutions have taken root in so many corners of the planet that we can jump – and dance! – in joy??

Well, even though your Eyewitness is an eternal optimist, he doesn’t think we’ve turned the corner. This ain’t gonna happen till the developed world – especially the Yanks – quit their denial and get with the programme!!

…their interests

Our leaders should take note of the actions of two of our allies, the US and India, vis-à-vis Venezuela and Devious Delcy!! A couple of weeks ago – signalling their total control of Venezuela – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that interim President Delcy’s travel itinerary would include a visit to India: “We want to sell them [India] as much energy as they’ll buy. We also think there are opportunities with Venezuelan oil. In fact, it’s my understanding that the interim President of Venezuela will be travelling to India next week as well.”

Well, Devious Delcy’s in India and has met Modi to discuss upping the Venezuelan oil shipments back to their pre-sanction 400,000 bpd levels!! That’s gonna provide a tremendous boost to the Venezuelan economy – and Devious Delcy’s hold on power!! We should note too that neither the US nor India made acceptance of the ICJ’s upcoming decision on our border controversy a condition precedent to improved relations!!

Even though India was invaded by China, which ignored a colonial-drawn border!!

…a different ceasefire

A reporter recently asked Pres Trump how he’d define a “ceasefire” with Iran. The US President responded quite interestingly: “I’d say, in that part of the world, ‘ceasefire’ is when you’re shooting more moderately.”

Pensioners’ electricity subsidy takes effect this month

The annual $30,000 electricity subsidy budgeted for pensioners will begin to be applied to their electricity bills from this month end, according to a notice from the Human Services and Social Security Ministry on Tuesday.

This applies to all pensioners who have a Guyana Power and Light (GPL) account in their names. Pensioners who do not see the subsidy reflected on their June bill are asked to contact their nearest GPL office.

For post-paid customers, the $30,000 will be applied directly as a credit on their June 2026 electricity bill, while for prepaid customers the funds will be deposited directly into the customer’s electronic wallet within the GPL system. For the prepaid customers, eligible seniors can then visit any GPL Commercial Office or Customer Service Centre to convert the subsidy into an electricity token.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Erica

Govt negotiating “best...

Back in February, Team Lead at GPL, Kesh Nandlall, had indicated that the country’s current peak electricity demand is at 236MW and is expected to surge by a whopping 600 per cent in the next five years.

“By 2030, we estimated it to be 1650MW or 1 gigawatt (GW), 650MW of peak demand output that we’ll have to have generation in place [to meet]… that means 600 per cent increase in our generating capacity from now to 2030,” Nandlall had stated during a panel discussion at the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo held in Georgetown.

The current 236MW peak demand marks a significant increase from 2020, where it stood at 120 megawatts –representing a 100 per cent increase over the last five years.

The GPL head explained that this increase is driven not only by growth in the consumer base, which moved from 201,000 in 2020 to now 244,000, but mostly by the rising power demands of existing consumers.

At present, GPL’s generation output stands at 1485 gigawatt/hour compared to 903 gigawatt/hour in 2020.

The Demerara Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS), the country’s primary grid that links the western Demerara system and the eastern Berbice system generating facilities, currently has approximately 260MW of firm capacity available – a figure that is likely to spike to around 285MW this year.

“We have to now equip ourselves to bridge that gap until the end of the year when the GtE Project will come onstream,” Nandlall had stated.

Located at Wales, West Bank Demerara, the GtE Project comprises a 300MW combined cycle power plant and a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility. The Guyana Government has touted this initiative as the country’s answer to both reliable and cheap electricity, with prices set to be slashed by half when it comes on stream later this year.

But with power demand expecting to increase by 600 per cent over the coming years, the power plant will be inadequate to meet Guyana’s growing demand. Against this background, the government is embarking on a second power plant to add another 300MW of electricity to the national grid. That second project – GtE Phase Two, which also includes an-

other

Forte explained that the subsidy is directly related to GPL and would only pertain to customers who have GPL bills in their name, while the Government is working to bring cost-cutting measures to residents who fall outside of the Demerara Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS).

“Here at the Ministry, we have a GPL pensioners’ programme and the GWI pensioners’ programme. But the Government has other systems in place [for other utility providers]. And they have things like solar power and so on, which gives back to the people once implemented. So there are different ways that they’re addressing

it. In Region Seven, for example, they are doing solar farming, so everybody’s getting a 25 per cent reduction,” Forte noted.

The $30,000 electricity subsidy is part of a slew of measures that were catered for in the 2026 Budget, which was passed in February.

Pensioners, who include all Guyanese citizens 65 years and older, also benefit from a monthly old age pension that was increased to $46,000 in 2026. A transportation grant of $20,000 per pensioner was also budgeted for in 2026.

Under a subsidy programme with the GWI, pensioners get up to $750 off their water bills every month.

25 of 138 cases completed during Demerara April Criminal Assizes

…majority of murder accused plead guilty to manslaughter

During the Demerara April 2026 Criminal Assizes, which commenced on April 7, 2026, with some 138 matters to be heard before six Judges of the High Court, only 25 of those matters were disposed of.

The State successfully disposed of 25 matters, including 20 cases heard in the High Court and five cases that were discontinued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) through nolle prosequi.

The matters heard by the court comprised 15 murder cases, two cases of attempted murder with alternative counts of felonious wounding, and three sexual offence matters.

According to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the assizes

resulted in 11 guilty pleas, three convictions, four acquittals by jury verdicts, and one hung jury, involving a total of 20 accused persons.

A significant number of murder cases concluded with accused persons pleading guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter.

Before Justice Joy Persaud-Singh, four accused entered guilty pleas to manslaughter, with one juvenile offender receiving a sentence equivalent to time already served on remand, while the remaining three await sentencing. Another accused in a murder trial before the same Judge was acquitted by a jury.

Similar outcomes occurred before Justice Nicola Pierre, where two accused pleaded guilty to man-

slaughter and await sentencing, while another was acquitted.

In addition, before Justice Sandil Kissoon, three accused also pleaded

guilty to manslaughter; two have already been sentenced to 18 years and 30 years imprisonment, respectively, while the third awaits sentencing.

Additionally, one murder accused was convicted by a jury and awaits sentencing, while another case ended in a hung jury and will be retried.

Before Chief Justice Navindra Singh, an accused charged with murder also pleaded guilty to manslaughter and is awaiting sentencing.

With respect to the sex-

ual offence matters, one accused was convicted on two counts of sexual activity with a child family member and sentenced to 17 years’ imprisonment on each count, to run concurrently.

In another case, an accused charged with sexual assault and rape was acquitted on both counts, while a third sexual offence matter remains ongoing before the court.

The assizes also saw the resolution of two attempted murder matters where one accused was acquitted by a majority jury verdict, while the other was found unanimously guilty of the alternative offence of felonious wounding and is awaiting sentencing.

In another notable case, an accused charged with murder pleaded guilty as charged and received a sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment after receiving credit for his guilty plea. The five matters discontinued by the DPP all involved sexual offences.

Cuban national in Guyana stages kidnapping; demands US$1500 from father – Police

olice are investigating an alleged staged kidnapping of a Cuban national in Georgetown after he reportedly sent his father in the United States a photo showing himself with what appeared to be a gun in his mouth and requested US$1500. Upon receiving information about the alleged kidnapping, detectives carried out a thorough investigation, including a review of CCTV footage from cameras at various locations.

2 wanted for AK-47 bust in Berbice turn selves in to Police

Gregory Anthony Persaud, also called “Greg”, 21, and 33-year-old Antonio Alonzo Lawrie, also called “Lanzo”, both of Farm, New Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, turned themselves in to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters in the company of their attorneys.

Ryan “Satan” Singh, from Parika Outfall Seadam, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), is still wanted by the Police in connection with the crime.

It was reported that the Police were executing a stopand-search exercise in the vicinity of the Berbice River Bridge Access Road late last month. Reports indicate that Police ranks attempted to stop a black Toyota Fielder waggon bearing registration number HC 9018, but the vehicle fled the scene.

They were arrested as investigations continue. So far, 33-year-old Stephen Rajah, a taxi driver of Back Street, Goed Fortuin Village, West Bank Demerara (WBD), has been charged and remanded to prison.

Gunmen cart

off $12M in Canal No 1 Polder robbery

Police are on the hunt for two males who reportedly invaded the property of a 64-yearold farmer from Uitkomst, Canal No. 1 Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD), on Wednesday evening and carted off over $12 million in cash and other items.

Police stated that on the day in question, at about 20:15h, the victim was sitting under a shed on the lower flat of his residence with relatives when two males entered the yard. Both of them were reportedly armed with handguns.

As such, the victim and his relatives were ordered to lie on the floor in the kitchen area as the suspects demanded valuables. During the ordeal, the elderly man was assaulted, and out of fear, he led the suspects to a white bucket inside the home, where $12 million was kept.

In addition to the cash, the men took four cellular phones. They later made good their escape in a silver-tinted Toyota Axio motor car. The matter was reported, and an investigation was launched. No arrests were made.

It was also reported that, acting on information received afterward, investigators conducted a search along the Number 11 Village Public Road, East Coast Berbice, where the 10 rifles were allegedly found wrapped in plastic and cloth.

Police said the weapons bore markings consistent with 7.62x39mm AK-47 rifles. Investigators also re-

ported that sections of the firearms appeared to have been tampered with, leading to suspicions that efforts were made to obscure serial numbers.

Further investigations later led Police to Rajah, who was intercepted at Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara (ECD), while allegedly driving the same Toyota Fielder waggon identified during the operation.

Police have also linked a second vehicle, a white Toyota Runx bearing registration number PSS 4272, to the investigation. The car was later discovered abandoned at Second Street, Savannah Park, New Amsterdam. Investigators suspect the vehicle may also have been used in transporting the weapons.

Guyana joins regional cybersecurity centre to strengthen digital resilience – PM

Guyana has formally joined the Latin America and Caribbean Cyber Competence Centre (LAC4) in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s cybersecurity capacity and supporting its ongoing digital transformation efforts.

This is according to Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who signed the Letter of Adhesion on Thursday at the Office of the Prime Minister.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the PM said the Government views cybersecurity as a critical national priority that is essential to the country’s development, governance, and digital transformation objectives.

“The Government of Guyana regards cybersecurity as a critical national priority, one that is fundamental to our development, governance, and digital transformation objectives. As our nation continues to embrace technology and expand digital services, we recognise that this progress must be supported by strong cyber resilience and effective risk management,” Phillips stated.

He noted that as Guyana continues to expand its use of technology and digital services, stronger cybersecurity systems and risk management mechanisms are required to protect national interests and ensure the reliability of digital infrastructure.

According to the PM, membership in LAC4 will provide Guyana with opportunities to strengthen its national cybersecurity capacity through technical, policy, and strategic-level training. He said the partnership will also deepen

collaboration with regional and international stakeholders in addressing cybersecurity challenges.

“It is within this context that Guyana views membership in LAC4 as a valuable opportunity to advance these objectives,” he said.

Phillips highlighted that Guyana has already benefited from engagement with LAC4 through participation in its annual CyberWeek events in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

“These much-appreciated engagements have reinforced our commitment to strengthening cybersecurity and advancing digital resilience,” he added.

LAC4 is a European Union-funded initiative established in 2022 and implemented by the Estonian Information System Authority and EU CyberNet. Based in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the centre serves as a regional hub focused on building cybersecurity capacity across Latin America and the Caribbean.

The PM said Guyana expects the formal partnership to further enhance its cyber capabilities while facilitating greater cooperation in responding to emerging cyber threats.

The partnership is expected to provide access to specialised cybersecurity training programmes, including cyber drills, breach simulation exercises, institutional capacity-building initiatives, and cybersecurity crisis management planning.

The National Data Management Authority (NDMA) has been designated as Guyana’s national focal point for the initiative.

Among those attending the signing ceremony were Ambassador of the European Union to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni; First Counsellor and Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Guyana, Joan Nadal Sastre; Head of the Latin America and Caribbean Cyber Competence Centre, Leonardo Daniel Ortega Prudencio; General Manager of the NDMA, Christopher Deen; and technical staff from the authority.

“We look forward to sharing knowledge and expertise, enhancing our cyber capabilities, and working more closely together to address the evolving cybersecurity challenges facing our region and the wider digital world,” Phillips said. Guyana’s participation in LAC4 also supports the objectives of the European Union-Latin America and the Caribbean Digital Alliance, which the country joined in 2024.

Essequibo Coast teacher arrested after ganja found in car

A19-year-old teacher of Cullen, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) is in Police custody after officers discovered 92.3 grams of cannabis during a cordonand-search operation in the Suddie Police Station district on Wednesday evening.

Police said the exercise was conducted around 18:15h by a Detective Inspector and ranks.

During the operation, officers observed the teacher, who is known to Police, sitting on the north western side of a shop approximately 25 feet southeast of his parked motor car, a black Mazda bearing registration number PAD 2574.

According to Police, the teacher consented to a search of his person, which was conducted in the presence of other ranks. No illegal items were found on him.

He also consented to a search of his vehicle, and during the search, officers found a bulky black plastic bag on the left-side rear passenger seat. The bag was opened and contained a transparent plastic bag with leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.

Police stated that the teacher was informed of the offence and cautioned. He reportedly denied ownership of the substance, saying: “That is not mine. I left my car unlocked and went out and returned and sat on the chair where y’all found me.”

He was subsequently arrested.

A further search of the vehicle uncovered a Guyana Police Force cap badge af-

fixed to the driver’s side roof area. When questioned about it, he said, “A Police Officer had hire one of my cars and forgot it inside, and I took it and put it in this car.”

The suspect was escorted to the Suddie Police Station, where the cannabis was weighed in his presence and amounted to 92.3g. He remains in custody pending charges.

Labourer remanded over alleged theft from guest at Charity hotel

A28-year-old labourer of Charity River Dam, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), has been charged with simple larceny following an alleged incident at a hotel in the region.

Huey Anthony Corlette is accused of committing the offence against 37-year-old self-employed Telisa Burry of Caneville, East Bank Demerara. The alleged offence occurred on May 26 at the Xenon Hotel in Charity, Essequibo Coast.

The charge was laid under Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. It is alleged that he stole a cellular phone and cash from Burry, who was a guest at the hotel. Corlette appeared before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty. The prosecution objected to bail, and Corlette was remanded to prison. The matter has been adjourned to June 22.

Cuban national in Guyana stages...

Footage from a hotel on North Road, Georgetown, reportedly showed that on Wednesday at about 09:10h, a white Toyota Axio bearing the number PAH 9098, registered to one Shamar King, who claimed to be a Police Constable from Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), arrived at the hotel. He exited the car along with Cuban national Daikol Manuel Tartabull Rodriguez, and they both went inside.

At about 09:15h, they, along with the alleged victim, Ivan, reportedly exited the hotel, got into the car, and drove off. Further CCTV footage revealed that after making several spins around the city, the car then proceeded further up EBD.

Based on this information, the detectives went to Grove, where they observed the alleged victim along with King sitting in the back seat of another motor car, PHH 3432, registered to Travis Fletcher from Middle Road, La Penitence,

who was seated in the driver’s seat. The other suspect, Daikol, was in the front passenger seat. At the time, the vehicle was parked in front of King’s residence.

As such, a search was conducted in the car, during which a black Astra Glock 17 air pistol that fit the description of the firearm seen placed in Ivan’s mouth was found on the floor of the back seat of the car. The four men were all arrested, and during interrogation, King reportedly claimed that Daikol, who is renting his aunt’s house, hired him on Wednesday to transport him to Georgetown.

He added that Daikol told him that the alleged victim owed him some money and wanted to reach him at the hotel. As they arrived at the hotel, he accompanied Daikol into the building, where he met Ivan, and they started to speak in Spanish to each other. He further related that they exited the building and sat in the back seat of the car,

continuing to converse in Spanish.

After driving around the city, Daikol reportedly instructed him to take them home to Grove, where they exited the car. However, at about 20:00h, King said he received another call from Daikol, who wanted to go partying, and as such, he contacted another taxi to take them, but instead, they were intercepted by the Police.

Ivan, the alleged victim, during questioning, claimed that the air pistol belonged to him and that he had given it to Daikol and instructed him to put it in his mouth, take a photo, and send it to his father, Ivan Ruallo Ruiz, who resides in the US. Further, he claimed that he told his father that he was in some trouble and wanted US$1500 and never told his father that he was kidnapped.

The four men remain in custody as investigations continue.

3 Essequibo Coast men fined $150,000 over traffic-related offences

Three men of Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) were fined on Wednesday when they appeared at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir on separate traffic-related charges under the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02.

In the first matter, 22-year-old labourer Anil Mahase of Devonshire

Castle, Essequibo Coast, was charged with failing to have an identification mark (rear). The offence occurred on February 1, at La Belle Alliance Public Road, Essequibo Coast. The charge was laid under Section 13 of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act. Mahase pleaded guilty after the charge was read to him and was fined $100,000, with a default of three months’ imprisonment.

In a separate case,

29-year-old labourer Shawn John of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, was charged with refusing to provide a breath specimen

for a breath alcohol test. The offence occurred on May 17 at the Lima Sand Access Road. He was charged under Section 39B (5) of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act. John also pleaded guilty and was fined $25,000, in default of three months’ imprisonment.

In the third matter, 26-year-old operator Fabian Williams Wolfe of Dryshore, Essequibo Coast, faced a similar charge of refusing to provide a breath specimen for a breath alcohol test. The offence occurred on May 22 at Cotton Field Public Road. He was charged under the same section of the Act. Wolfe pleaded guilty and was fined $25,000, in default of three months’ imprisonment.

Gold miner slapped with inflicting grievous bodily harm charge

A27-year-old gold miner of Mainstay Lake, Essequibo, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) was arrested and charged on June 1 with the offence of inflicting grievous bodily harm.

Gavin Rodrigues is accused of committing the offence against Tyesha Morris on May 29 at Mainstay Lake, Essequibo. The charge is contrary to Section 50 of the Criminal Law Offences Act, Chapter 8:01.

Rodrigues appeared at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir, where the charge was read to him. He was not required to enter a plea. The Administration of Justice Act was applied, and Rodrigues pleaded not guilty. He was granted $50,000 bail. The matter was adjourned to August 4.

Sparta Primary School emerges as champion of GNBS’ Academia Quiz Competition 2026

Sparta Primary School of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) emerged as the winner of the fourth edition of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards’ (GNBS) Academia Quiz Competition 2026, which culminated on Friday last at the Bureau’s Head Office, Exhibition Centre, Sophia.

The competition sought to foster awareness and a deeper understanding of GNBS’s role and the importance of standards and metrology among primary-aged pupils. This year, 16 schools from Regions Two, Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) were selected to participate in the competition.

The biennial competition challenged the Grade Five pupils through a variety of questions, including multiple-choice, fillin-the-blank, spelling, true-or-false, and short-answer questions focused on the benefits and importance of standards, usefulness of reliable measurements and the International System of Units (SI Units), and other crucial details about the functions and services of the GNBS.

Following several rounds of intense competition, Sparta Primary secured first position with 36 points. St Agnes Primary of Georgetown finished a close second with 35 points, while Cropper Primary of Region Six placed third with 28 points. Watooka Day Primary of Region 10 secured fourth place with 12 points.

For securing first place, Sparta Primary received the Champion’s trophy, a $50,000 voucher for school supplies, and the grand

prize of an Essequibo River tour, including a visit to Fort Zeelandia for two teachers and two pupils.

St Agnes Primary, which placed second, received the runner-up trophy and a $25,000 voucher for school supplies. Tokens of appreciation were also presented to all finalist schools in recognition of their achievements.

Best-performing pupil Maanav Mahabir of Sparta Primary, who accumulated 20 points, was awarded a laptop for his outstanding performance.

“I revised the booklet every day... I feel excited because I have always wanted a laptop,” Mahabir shared, expressing his delight upon receiving his prize.

Moneta Jacobus, a teacher from Sparta Primary, expressed gratitude to the GNBS for creating an engaging and educational competition that encourages learning and exposes pupils to important concepts like standards, measurements and quality. She explained that the competition complemented the Mathematics curriculum, adding, “In terms of the Mathematics syllabus, especially with the SI Units and so on, it is very beneficial for the pupils. They did not take a long time to grasp the concepts.”

Jacobus added that she was overwhelmed when Sparta was announced as the winner, “I was moved to

tears ... It is a joy and honour to be with both of them [Maanav and Tellesha], and it was a tough competition... I would like to say thanks to the GNBS for giving us the opportunity to participate in the competition.”

During the prize-giving ceremony, Executive Director of GNBS, Trevor Bassoo, congratulated all the participating schools and commended the pupils for their enthusiasm, preparation and competitive spirit.

He noted that initiatives such as the Standards in Academia Quiz Competition play an important role in introducing young minds to the principles of quality, standards and measurement, which are essential to national development.

Bassoo further explained, “From the food we eat, the time we use to plan our daily activities, the products we use, the services we receive, and even the safety measures that protect us, standards influence every aspect of our lives. By introducing these concepts to our young people, we are helping to shape a generation that values excellence, accountability, safety, and informed decision-making.”

Assistant Chief Education Officer (Primary), Rabindra Singh, also commended the GNBS for its continued investment in educational initiatives that complement the Ministry of Education’s curriculum while promoting critical thinking among pupils.

He explained, “While

listening to the questions that were asked in the various areas, I was really happy to see that the competition has a direct linkage to our curriculum, especially for our Grades Five and Six pupils. The Mathematics aspect of the competition, like measurements, includes all the topics that we do from grades four to six that are tested in our grades five and six exams. So, these children are not only exposed to content from our curriculum but also from the GNBS booklet. It is also linked to our English language exam that helps the children to build their skills in spelling and grammar.” Singh also encouraged other agencies to develop similar competitions that support examination preparedness for the pupils.

“I would be more grateful if more agencies could come in and have competitions like these prior to our national Grade Five and Six exams, since it would help to boost the children’s preparedness for the exams. I really appreciate the competition by the GNBS,” he said.

Other participating schools in this year’s competition were Hampton Court Primary, Queenstown Primary, Fisher Primary, North Georgetown Primary, Winfer Gardens Primary, FE Pollard Primary, Eversham Primary, Corriverton Primary, Skeldon Primary, Wismar Hill Primary, Christianburg Primary, and St Aidan’s Primary.

Case enters final phase as...

He told the court that on September 5, 2020, he was arrested by a rural constable in connection with a firearm matter and remained in custody until September 11. According to Gopaul, he was never in the Cotton Tree backlands and could not have participated in the murders because he was already being held by Police.

Gopaul said he first learned of the murders months later when he was arrested again in January 2021.

He denied Akash Singh’s allegations, denied instructing anyone to dispose of weapons and told the court that he had been wrongfully implicated.

During his testimony, Gopaul also alleged that he was assaulted while in Police custody and claimed he was pressured to sign documents. However, he acknowledged signing a caution statement.

With both accused having completed their evidence, defence attorney Chandra Sohan addressed the jury on Gopaul’s behalf. Sohan argued that the

prosecution had failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt and urged jurors to carefully examine what he described as significant gaps in the State’s evidence.

The attorney questioned why records relating to Gopaul’s September 2020 detention were not produced and argued that the prosecution had failed to adequately address evidence that his client was already in custody when the murders occurred.

He also highlighted what he described as inconsistencies in Akash Singh’s testimony and pointed to the absence of certain evidence from the preliminary inquiry.

According to Sohan, the jury should be cautious about relying on the testimony of a witness whose account changed on important details.

Accept Akash Singh’s evidence

She contended that Dr Nehaul Singh’s findings were consistent with the manner in which Akash Singh said the attack was carried out.

Edwards also pointed to testimony from Winston Henry, who told the court that Akash Singh approached him after seeing photographs of the slain cousins in a newspaper.

In response, State Counsel Edwards urged jurors to accept Akash Singh’s evidence, arguing that his account was supported by other witnesses and by the medical evidence presented during the trial.

The prosecutor argued that Akash Singh’s account should be believed because he implicated himself in criminal activity while recounting what occurred and had no reason to falsely accuse the defendants. She further submitted that while the defence focused on discrepancies and record issues, those matters did not undermine the core of the prosecution’s case. Justice Simone Morris is expected to sum up the evidence and provide legal directions to the jury on Tuesday before jurors retire to consider their verdicts.

Guyana’s XM rums, Maximum Vodka strike gold at Monde awards

Banks DIH has secured yet another international accolade, with XM Rum and Spirits recently winning gold medals at the prestigious Monde Selection International Quality Awards for its premium aged rums and vodka.

The company’s five-, 12-, and 15-year-old rums, along with Maximum Vodka, earned gold medals at the internationally recognised Monde Selection Quality Awards. Company officials attributed the recognition to employees’ dedication, precision, patience, and the company’s longstanding commitment to maintaining global quality standards and excellence in taste, aroma, and craftsmanship.

Only a few weeks ago, Banks DIH Limited received the 2026 Monde Selection International Gold Quality

Award, securing multiple Gold Quality Awards across five of its outstanding beverages.

Monde Selection is a globally renowned quality institute. A gold medal from the organisation signals excellence in taste, aroma, and craftsmanship. Management said this international recognition belongs entirely to the dedicated employees of the Rum Factory, adding that their patience, precision, and hard work made the achievement possible.

Before delving into the details of the award, Rum Factory Executive Gregory Garraway explained that the recognition is strongly backed by the company’s commitment to global standards.

“I am proud to highlight that our rum and vodka

plant is fully ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management certified and ISO 22000:2018 Food Safety Management certified,” he said.

He also stated that the achievement reflects Guyanese excellence competing and succeeding on the world stage. Addressing employees of Banks DIH Limited, he added that the gold medals are the result of collective effort aligned with the company’s mission statement.

“We are committed to building on our tradition of excellence by providing quality products and services, financial results, and management performance that meet the interests of our shareholders, employees, customers, suppliers, and the communities in which we operate.”

He further emphasised that innovation has been central to earning the recognition, highlighting the XM rums as key examples.

“That fusion of legacy and innovation is why we win today. Every rum we craft begins with premium alcohol, aged to perfection in oak bourbon barrels. Each bottle carries a distinct character that reflects its precise age,” he explained.

He noted that the XM Five-Year-Old Rum offers a versatile and well-balanced profile within the XM portfolio. Matured for five years, it achieves a pleasing harmony between oak influence and vibrant fruit character,

making it both approachable and premium in style.

He described it as golden amber in appearance with brilliant clarity, delivering fresh tropical fruit aromas accented by hints of oak, molasses, and vanilla. Mediumbodied on the palate, it features notes of ripe banana, caramel, gentle spice, and light wood, followed by a smooth, warm, and remarkably clean finish.

He further highlighted that the XM 12-Year-Old Special Rum is another distinguished expression of Guyana’s rum-making heritage.

“Our XM 12-Year-Old Special, aged for twelve years in oak casks, has developed remarkable depth and complexity while remaining one of the Caribbean’s most respected rum profiles. With its deep

amber colour and mahogany highlights, it presents rich aromas of vanilla, toasted oak, dried fruit, and warm baking spices.”

Turning attention to the XM 15-Year-Old Rum, he described it as one of the pinnacle expressions of the company’s rum-making excellence. Carefully matured in oak casks, this prestigious blend commands respect among rum connoisseurs worldwide. Complex, refined, and deeply satisfying, it embodies the rich heritage of Guyana’s rum-making tradition. He added that the XM 15-Year-Old Rum delivers a full-bodied and exceptionally smooth profile with layers of caramel, ripe tropical fruit, dark chocolate, and aged wood, finishing with lingering notes of oak and vanilla.

He further highlighted the maximum vodka as a key product in the range.

“Maximum Vodka stands as Banks DIH’s flagship premium vodka, produced to the highest standards of quality and consistency for discerning consumers who expect excellence in every glass.”

Some weeks ago, the award-winning products spun across many of the company’s signature beverages in the beer award category, including Banks Beer, Classic Premium Lager Beer, Malta Supreme Coconut and Ginseng, Malta Supreme 0.0 per cent and Sorrel Shandy, evidence of the consistent, high-calibre standards that Banks DIH Limited has maintained throughout its over 70-year history of production excellence.

UG professor receives lifetime achievement award for distinguished service in legal field

rofessor Justice

P(Retired) Courtney A Abel, Professor of Law (Legal Practice) and Head of the Department of Law, Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Guyana (UG), has been honoured with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award by the Society of Caribbean Lawyers (SOCAL).

The prestigious award was presented at SOCAL’s Spring Gala 2026, held at Plaisterers’ Hall in London, England, in recognition of his decades of distinguished service to the legal profession, legal education, public service, and the advancement of Caribbean jurisprudence.

The honour places Professor Abel among a revered group of Caribbean legal professionals whose work has helped shape legal systems, strengthen institutions, and influence legal thought across the

Caribbean and the wider Commonwealth. Presented before an audience of Judges, lawyers, academics, community leaders, family members, and friends, the award celebrated a career defined by service, leadership, scholarship, and commitment to justice.

For Professor Abel, the recognition carries a significance that extends far beyond personal achievement. “Recognition within the Caribbean legal and academic space touches something deeper than professional achievement,” he reflected. “International recognition is humbling and gratifying, but to be recognised by and within the Caribbean legal community carries a special emotional and moral significance,” he said.

SOCAL honoured Professor Abel for a remarkable career that has spanned legal practice, judicial ser-

vice, scholarship, mediation, arbitration, and legal education. Called to the Bar of England and Wales as a member of the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, he has served as a barrister, regional bar leader, mediator, arbitrator, Judge, scholar, teacher, and mentor.

His contributions have extended across local, regional, and international spheres. As a Justice of the Supreme Court of Belize, he played an important role in strengthening the administration of justice, advancing civil procedure, and promoting mediation and arbitration. Throughout his career, he has consistently championed constitutionalism, access to justice, professional integrity, and confidence in Caribbean legal systems.

Despite the recognition of a lifetime of achievement, Professor Abel views the award as a call to continue serving. “I see this recogni-

tion from SOCAL not as the conclusion of a legal journey, but as a renewed call to responsibility. The law is never merely a profession. At its best, it is a vocation of service, memory, discipline, imagination, and responsibility,” he explained.

Today, Professor Abel continues that vocation at the University of Guyana, where he teaches and mentors future legal professionals. Drawing on decades of experience in practice, the judiciary, and academia, he is committed to helping students understand that the law is about far more than mastering legal principles.

“I hope my students understand that law is not merely a profession or a discipline of rules and doctrines. At its highest, law is a form of service. There is no higher calling and no greater satisfaction than to serve,” he added.

(Story written and sub-

Report warns offshore oil exploration could threaten Jamaica’s marine ecosystems

Anew report released on Thursday by Earth Insight has warned that some of Jamaica’s most ecologically significant marine habitats could face direct threats from offshore oil and gas exploration in the WaltonMorant block off the island’s south coast.

The report was produced in partnership with the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) and 10 other civil society organisations worldwide.

In a statement, JET said the report shows that the Walton-Morant block and its associated risk zones overlap with nearly all of Jamaica’s coral reefs, sea-

grass beds, and key fishing grounds that have supported coastal communities for generations.

The findings were released ahead of World Oceans Day on June 8 and the Our Ocean Conference, a global gathering focused on ocean conservation, scheduled for June 16–18 in Mombasa, Kenya.

According to JET, the Walton-Morant block is considered Jamaica’s most prospective hydrocarbon asset. Earth Insight’s analysis found that the project’s mapped risk zone overlaps with approximately 11,070 square kilometres of ecologically or biologically significant marine ar -

eas (EBSAs), an area nearly equivalent to the size of Jamaica itself.

The report further noted that Jamaica’s exclusive economic zone contains a total of 60,159 square kilometres of EBSAs, meaning the Walton-Morant block potentially threatens nearly one-fifth, or 18 per cent, of the country’s most important marine ecosystems.

The findings are part of a broader global analysis spanning 11 case studies across Kenya, Tanzania, Cameroon, Norway, Alaska, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Mexico, Indonesia, and Australia. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

3 T&T residents arrested as Police, army block peace walk

Police Officers arrested three persons – two men and one woman – at what was supposed to have been a peace walk seeking to end gang violence in East Port-of-Spain yesterday. Those arrested were said to be two men suspected of being “snatchers” and one woman who is alleged to have behaved in a disorderly manner while Police were attempting to get residents to disperse after alerting them to the fact that they did not have permission to conduct the activity. The three were held along Queen Street, near the Duncan Street Plannings.

Soldiers arrive in Port of Spain to assist Police with disbursing people involved in the peace walk

As the men were carted off, residents, who were at first upset that an officer had pulled his handgun out of the holster while chasing the men, soon congratulated the Police for arresting the men, saying they wanted a crime-free community.

One of the organisers, Lynelle Gaskin, said the reason she championed the walk was to put an end to gang violence.

The walk was blocked after Police said the organiser had no permission to conduct the event.

Head of the Port of Spain

Division, Snr Supt Raymond Thom, said the Police service welcomed the idea of a peaceful East Port of Spain but preferred that the organisers not only seek but be granted permission to host the walk, especially during the ongoing State of Emergency. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

New alliance could change how cancer is diagnosed, treated in Saint Lucia

Anew partnership be-

tween CariGenetics

Saint Lucia and Lab Services & Consultations could change how some diseases, like cancer, are diagnosed and treated in Saint Lucia.

The partnership aims to make genetic testing, advanced cancer diagnostics, and sequencing services easier to access, bringing technology that is often found only overseas closer to patients in Saint Lucia. With access to tumour and special tissue testing, doctors will be able to better understand a patient’s cancer and choose the best

treatment options.

“Immunohistochemistry and cancer tumour genetics are the difference between giving a patient generalised treatment and providing truly personalised, effective medicine,” said Dr Stephen King, laboratory director at Lab Services.

The partnership, which officially started on Wednesday, will also make it easier for people to access genetic testing if they want to learn about inherited health risks, how they might respond to certain medicines, and other information that can help with healthcare decisions.

Besides patient care, the initiative is expected to help Saint Lucia better prepare for future health challenges. Increased sequencing capacity can support disease surveillance, monitor antibiotic resistance and improve preparedness for emerging public health threats.

Although the services will first be available in Saint Lucia, both organisations see the partnership as part of a broader regional effort to expand access to advanced diagnostics across the OECS. (Excerpt from St Lucia Times)

BVI: Hotel Castle Maria rooms designated as prison

Following longstanding concerns about overcrowding at His Majesty’s Prison (HMP) in Balsam Ghut, rooms at Hotel Castle Maria in McNamara were recently designated to be used as a prison.

However, no inmates are currently being held there, according to HMP Superintendent Jay Kendall.

The rooms – numbers 311, 315 and 317, along with a “recreation room” – were declared as such by Acting Governor David Archer Jr, under a section of the Prison Ordinance that allows the Governor to “declare any place to be a prison”.

“To support operational resilience during periods of pressure, the Acting Governor has designated accommodation for poten-

tial use by His Majesty’s Prison Service as a temporary contingency measure, should this be required,” Mr Kendall told the Beacon yesterday.

Hotel Castle Maria has been used as a temporary immigration detention centre for years, sometimes hosting dozens of immigration detainees at a time.

Reviews raised concerns about this arrangement,

noting that the hotel was staffed by private security. Mr Kendall added that he was unable to disclose “security arrangements, staffing, risk assessments, prisoner locations or contingency plans” due to security and public safety concerns. He did not respond to questions about the current population of inmates in custody. (Excerpt from The BVI Beacon)

Barbados charities push to improve literacy with “Little Libraries”

The Prince Godwill D Fomusoh Foundation (PGDFF), in partnership with Massy Foundation, is continuing its push for literacy with the installation of the 27th and 28th “Little Libraries” at Holy Innocents Primary School in St Thomas and St Margaret’s Primary School in St John last week.

Teaming up with the Ministry of Education Transformation, the Barbados Is Blooming initiative branched out to both schools as part of its mandate to improve literacy and ensure that students have greater access to books in safe, engaging and community-centred spaces.

Antigua and Barbuda (A&B) took centre stage on BBC MasterChef this week as the destination featured in a special Finals Week episode watched by audiences across the UK and beyond.

The programme saw the competition’s final four contestants travel to A&B for a culinary journey highlighting the destination’s food heritage, local chefs, culture and iconic locations.

The episode saw contestants undertake three challenges across the destination. The first took place at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson’s Dockyard, where Executive Chef Maurine Bowers guided the finalists as they prepared traditional Antiguan dishes for 20 local diners, introducing viewers to authentic island flavours and culinary traditions.

The competition then moved to the Jumby Bay

Prince Godwill D Fomusoh, founder of PGDFF, which is a registered non-profit corporation in California, United States, in a message stated: “Allowing us to be a part of the children’s journey is an honour. With investment and help from our corporate partners, we can be champions of hope in their lives.”

In addition to books, reading tools and word games were also donated.

Through the Massy Foundation, over $325 000 has been donated to the Barbados Is Blooming programme, contributing to its goal of establishing 35 stations across the country be-

fore year-end. At St Margaret’s Primary School, member of the advisory panel for the Massy Foundation Natalie McDowald said: “As the author Frederick Douglass once said, once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” Reading opens doors to knowledge, builds confidence and creativity, and allows children to imagine futures beyond what they see today. It strengthens their ability to think critically, communicate effectively and engage fully with the world around them. In short, it equips them with the tools they need not just to succeed, but to thrive.”

(Nation News)

Estate House, where acclaimed Antiguan chef Eustace Cabral Jr challenged contestants to recreate dishes inspired by contemporary Caribbean cuisine using locally sourced ingredients and modern techniques.

For their final challenge, the contestants created a bespoke dining experience inspired by their time on the islands for invited guests, includ-

ing cricketing legend Sir Vivian Richards, Sir Clare Roberts, KCN, KC, Deputy Governor-General of A&B, and Tourism Authority CEO Colin C James. The broadcast follows the successful conclusion of A&B’s Culinary Month and further strengthens the destination’s position as one of the Caribbean’s most exciting destinations for food lovers. (Excerpt from Antigua Newsroom)

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Iranian oil slips to discount on poor Chinese demand despite tighter supply

Iranian oil prices slipped into discounts for the first time since April, while Russian crude premiums eased as traders cut prices to entice Chinese buyers amid sluggish demand, trade sources said.

The drop in prices of Iranian and Russian crude in the world’s top buyer is expected to weigh on oil revenues in Russia and Iran, which is also facing a US blockade that has severely reduced its exports.

Iranian light crude cargoes are being offered at a discount of 50 cents to US$1 per barrel to the ICE Brent contract for delivery to China’s eastern province of Shandong this month, three traders said, down from premiums of US$1 to US$2 in the past two months.

Shandong is home to independent refiners, also known as teapots, which are the main consumers of sanctioned oil.

Prices of Russian ESPO, another popular grade for the independent refiners, have also weakened to a premium of about US$3 to US$4 a barrel to ICE Brent for June delivery, down from US$4 to US$5 last month, two of them said.

”Buyers aren’t accelerating procurement even if supply is tight, because prices are still too high for teapots who are suffering great losses,” said Xu Muyu, Kpler’s senior crude oil analyst. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Zelenskyy proposes face-to-face talks in open letter to Putin

Ukraine President Volodymyr

Zelenskyy has called for a face-to-face meeting between himself and Vladimir Putin in a renewed bid to end the war.

In an open letter to the Russian President, Zelenskyy said it would be ”wrong to simply wait” until the war in Europe becomes the focus of the US’s attention once more, adding peace could only come ”through direct engagement between” Ukraine and Russia.

He also called for a full ceasefire for the duration of proposed negotiations –something Putin ruled out earlier on Thursday.

Donald Trump said on Thursday he thought ”it would be great” if the two leaders met.

The Kremlin confirmed it had received the letter and Putin would be briefed on it.

Speaking to foreign Journalists in St Petersburg, without apparently having seen the contents of the letter, Putin said he was ”certainly prepared and willing

to reach an agreement with Ukraine”, but said certain compromises needed to be made.

Ceasefire negotiations have stalled in recent months since the Iran war began and previous peace talks in Geneva, Abu Dhabi and Istanbul failed.

In the letter, which is more than 1800 words long, Zelenskyy said: “It is not as if we in Ukraine are concerned about the fate of Russian soldiers after everything your war has brought to our country. But I do care about Ukrainians. We are losing our people, and every loss is painful to us.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Experts criticise US plan for Americanonly Ebola quarantine centre in Kenya

Former top US officials and other experts are urging the Trump Administration to abandon plans for an Ebola quarantine and treatment centre in Kenya, as the union for workers with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) calls for Americans exposed to Ebola to be brought home for treatment.

Soon after the US revealed it was setting up

a field hospital in Kenya for the Ebola quarantine and treatment of Americans, the Kenyan high court blocked the order – but the Kenyan and US Governments moved forward anyway, with the first American responders reportedly landing at the Laikipia airbase on Saturday.

Several former US health leaders, including previous top-level CDC officials, laid out their

objections in a letter to Congress. “This policy raises profound clinical, ethical, operational and legal concerns,” they wrote.

Yolanda Jacobs, the President of the AFGE Local 2883 Government employees’ union, said in a statement that the Trump Administration was “abandoning” CDC workers responding to the outbreak, in “a sharp departure from the standard upheld by every previous

Administration”.

The White House did not respond to enquiries about whether the facility would be accessible to Kenyans and others working on the Ebola response and whether all Americans working on the Ebola response would be required to quarantine or whether it would be required only of Americans with high-risk exposures. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

You’ll need to engage in a little give-and-take to avoid domestic disputes or confusion from someone you depend on for answers. Ask for second opinions, and find out what your options are before you initiate a change that can influence your lifestyle or put a dent in your love life. Compromising and researching are mandatory.

Haste makes waste. Refuse to make a snap decision that can affect your reputation or position. Your time is put to better use helping others, asking questions and upping your game through personal preferences, additional qualifications and a solid plan. Home and domestic improvements will be uplifting and promote good family ties. Romance is favored.

Tidy up before heading in a new direction. You’ll do much better if you focus on what you want to achieve instead of lingering on unfinished business. Keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself until you can gather more information regarding legal, financial or medical issues. A change of plans will lead to an unexpected opportunity.

Put your energy to good use. Reach out, pitch in and help. Do your part to make a difference. Someone you encounter will have an emotional impact on how you take care of yourself. Your good intentions will lead to an opportunity to meet someone special or to earn extra cash. Love and romance are favored.

Participate, do your best, help a cause or make a difference to someone struggling. Listen, but don’t believe everything you hear. If you don’t like the suggestions you receive, look for alternatives. Put in the work, and rewards will follow. A loving gesture will change how you feel about someone. A commitment will lead to a positive lifestyle change.

You have more choices than you realize. Reach out, get the lowdown on what’s available and align yourself with people who are heading in a similar direction. Sharing with others will motivate you to let go of the past and to discover your passion. Don’t shy away from opportunities, friendship or romance.

Be a good listener. Show compassion and understanding, and engage in discussions that allow you to share your skills, objectives and what you find uplifting. A partnership or joint venture will come with problems. Clear up any misconceptions before agreeing to participate. Time is on your side, and other opportunities are heading your way. Avoid temptation.

Envision what you want to pursue. Thoughts followed by actions will not disappoint. Steer clear of anyone trying to push you in a direction that benefits them more than you. Choose your words carefully, and don’t pass along information you have yet to confirm. Pay attention to how you present yourself to others. Romance is in the stars.

A diversion that sparks your imagination and encourages you to make a lifestyle adjustment will prompt a different perspective regarding the possibilities and motivate you to embark on something creative or energizing without taxing your emotions, health or finances. Don’t let anyone stifle your plans or bully you into following their dream instead of your own.

It will be tempting not to withhold information when under pressure. Think twice, and consider avoiding situations and people who bring out the worst in you. Putting energy toward home improvement and personal growth is in your best interest. When approached by people who ask for too much or try to back you into a corner, walk away.

Fire up your enthusiasm and finish off those home improvements that will make your life easier and more fulfilling. Creative thinking, coupled with discipline and desire for convenience and comfort, will help you make better lifestyle decisions. A networking function will be misleading regarding possibilities and financial prospects. Don’t get angry; step up and take the high road.

Pick a venue that interests you. Get out, socialize or pursue someone or something you enjoy. You don’t have to impress anyone. Be yourself, be honest about your likes and dislikes and let how others respond guide you. Romance is in the stars, but so is temptation. Choose to gravitate toward those offering stability, not chaos.

Robinson routs New Zealand top order as England hit back on 16-wicket day

The opening day of the 2026 Test summer proved to be wildly unpredictable, intermittently chaotic, and utterly compelling. It was blessed with moments of genius and splashes of ineptitude, as polarised as the bright sunshine and torrential downpours in which it was staged, and it finished with England in command against New Zealand despite their best efforts at self-sabotage.

The net result was scarcely distinguishable, in other words, from the last first day of an England versus New Zealand Test match at Lord’s – the original Stokes-McCullum launch party of June 2022, when 17 wickets tumbled in a madcap day of seam and swing, and England’s eventual total of 141 in 42.5 overs (compared to 140 in 39.4 this time around) ended up being the launchpad for greater things.

The parallels were hardly exact – notwithstanding another counterattacking cameo from Harry Brook, timidity rather than bravado proved to be the defining feature of England’s innings. It was as if their determination to play “smarter cricket”, as per Ben Stokes’ pre-match comments, had caused the entire order to second-guess their previously route-one methods. The key beneficiary was the returning Kyle Jamieson, who booked his place on the Lord’s honours board with a magnificent haul of five for 62, his first Test wickets since February 2024.

But then, in the evening sunshine, that performance was trumped by an even more startling comeback from England’s own rangy right-armer. Like Jamieson, Ollie Robinson charged in from the Nursery End, exploiting his towering release point and metronomic accuracy to prove that outright pace is no prerequisite for world-class status. He too was back after a two-and-ahalf-year absence from Test cricket, although Robinson’s

many critics would argue that his own back issues in that period had been a symptom, rather than the cause, of his banishment.

As far as the Lord’s crowd was concerned, however, all was forgiven by the end of Robinson’s astonishing opening over. Six balls, three wickets, no runs, and an almighty acclaim as he trooped down to fine leg at the end of it.

His first victim was Devon Conway, pinned by a third-ball nip-backer as he thrust his pad down the line; his second was the mighty Kane Williamson, caught off a looping inside edge at short leg as Robinson began his familiar aeroplane celebration before the ball had even nestled in Emilio Gay’s hands. One ball later, he was on a hat-trick, as Rachin Ravindra was late coming forward and thumped in front of all three. For the second time in the over, Rod Tucker’s verdict was shown to be marginal, but such was Robinson’s command of his own fingers on the seam, he effectively took ownership of the umpire’s too.

Gus Atkinson, 10 mph quicker but initially off the pace at the business end, then made it 12 for four when Tom Latham also played down the wrong line. Not to be outdone, Robinson flattened Daryl Mitchell’s middle stump as he shouldered arms to another bail-trimmer before Josh

Tongue ploughed through Tom Blundell’s defences to cap a sorry score-line of 29 for six. Though Glenn Phillips stepped into the Brook role with an enterprising 31 from 34 balls, the deficit at the close was still a daunting 79.

New Zealand’s concerns weren’t limited to the scoreline. Though it seemed immaterial for much of the day, the loss of their attack leader, Matt Henry, to a back spasm could have more serious ramifications as and when England’s second innings gets underway. He managed four of the ten overs in a truncated morning session, in which period the debutant Gay came and went. Though Gay showed glimpses of his potential, having helped himself to a first-ball four off Jamieson’s loosener, he soon fell to the same bowler when squared up and caught at slip.

In Henry’s absence, New Zealand resumed with the seam-and-swing pairing of Nathan Smith and Will O’Rourke, and all hell broke loose. From 31 for one in the second over of the session, England tumbled to 34 for four in the space of 14 balls, culminating in the priceless scalp of Joe Root for one. That then became 55 for five when Jamie Smith inexplicably shouldered arms to an in-ducker from Jamieson and lost his off stump, also for one.

It will be little consola-

tion to Smith that his dismissal was marginally less embarrassing than his awful slap to cover off Marnus Labuschagne in England’s previous Test at Sydney in January, but as an illustration of England’s scrambled post-Bazball mindset, it was perfect.

A glimpse of that commitment to “smarter cricket” had been witnessed from the outset of England’s innings. Duckett, fronting up for the first ball in the absence of his former partner, Zak Crawley, offered consecutive leaves to Henry’s opening deliveries en route to a maiden over and had struck just one boundary in 31 balls before lunch.

He wasn’t able to make his start count, however. Smith, fresh from a six-wicket haul against Ireland last week, roared in from the Nursery End with an aggressive full length and pinned Duckett on the back leg as he nipped the ball back down the slope – the first of six lbws in the day.

Jacob Bethell showed decent judgement in persuading his partner not to burn a review, but he couldn’t translate that eye on the ball into his own innings. After an indifferent spell with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL and the added distraction of a finger injury, the sparkling form of his 154 at Sydney in January felt like a fever dream. After nudging along to six from 22 balls, Bethell launched into a drive as O’Rourke fired in a full length, missed the ball by a distance, and was sent on his way via three reds on review.

At 33 for three, the stage was set for a Root special –he certainly had Lord’s full blessing to rebuild the innings at any tempo necessary. But O’Rourke had other ideas, and the ball with Root’s name on it was a beauty: a vicious lifter from

just back of a length, which kissed the edge on its way through to Blundell.

Brook, who had swayed out of the way of a first-ball bouncer and took 11 balls to get off the mark, initially seemed unsure how to pace his attempted fightback. But, as so often, a moment of good fortune helped to crystallise his thought process. At eight, he sliced into a cut-off O’Rourke, but Conway failed to grasp a routine chance as he attempted a reverse-cup take. Four balls later, Brook climbed through a trademark pull in front of square, and his innings was up and running.

His partners, however, were unable to find similar traction. After Smith’s aberration, Stokes emerged at his new berth at No. 7 but scarcely exuded an air of permanence throughout an off-the-pace display. And, just as he was beginning to find his range with a pair of leg-side fours, he was undone by a blinder from his old adversary, Williamson, in the cordon. A low edge off Jamieson looked for all the world to be going to ground, but Williamson flung himself across first slip from second, scooped the chance up in his fingertips, and clutched it to his chest to be sure.

Brook carried on swinging, taking lumps out of Jamieson’s heavy lengths to march towards a 64-ball fifty with nine fours. But with New Zealand setting in-out fields for the inevitable miscue, the bowler should have had the last laugh on 46, only for Ravindra to spill a

top-edged pull in front of the Mound Stand. It didn’t matter too much in the long run, however. After Atkinson had come and gone for four, Jamieson himself made amends on the fine leg rope to give Smith a deserved second, then landed his coveted place on the honours board soon afterwards too. Another downpour forced an early tea at 118 for eight, but two balls after the resumption, Robinson dangled his bat outside off and Latham smartly took the review with seconds to spare to reveal a thin edge off the toe of his blade.

Tongue and Shoaib Bashir were an unlikely source of late resistance. However, both men played the shots that their senior team-mates had scrapped from their gameplan to add 22 for the last wicket, the second-highest stand of the innings. By the close, that injection of impetus was looking significantly more important than it seemed at the time. (ESPNcricinfo)

I&S Trading joins sponsorship roster for One Guyana T10 Blast

The momentum ahead of the fourth edition of the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast continues to build, with I&S Trading becoming the latest corporate entity to join the tournament’s growing supporting cast.

Impressed by the competition’s rapid evolution, the Georgetown-based food distribution company has thrown its weight behind an initiative that has fast become the premier platform for grassroots cricket talent in the country.

Operating out of 218 Charlotte and Oronoque Streets in Bourda, I&S Trading noted that the tournament’s track record of community engagement and high-quality organisation made the partnership a natural fit.

Speaking on behalf of the company, spokesperson Taijram Persaud expressed immense satisfaction with the alignment.

“We have watched the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast grow from strength to strength, and it has truly become a marquee event on the local sports calendar,” Persaud said. “At I&S Trading, we believe in supporting initiatives that empower local communities and provide a stage for grassroots talent to shine. This tournament does exactly that, and we are thrilled to be part of a product that is clearly on the rise.”

FL Sport’s John Ramsingh warmly welcomed the distributor on board, emphasising that corporate backing is the lifeblood of grassroots sports development.

“Having a reputable brand like I&S Trading come on board is a testament to the credibility the One Guyana T10 Blast has established,” Ramsingh stated.

“We are incredibly grateful for their valuable sup-

port, which directly impacts our ability to deliver a top-tier experience for both players and fans. Partners like I&S Trading share our vision of taking tapeball cricket to unprecedented heights in Guyana.”

With the tournament scheduled to bowl off on August 8 in Berbice, organisers are urging teams to lock in their spots immediately rather than delaying their entry while trying to perfect their rosters.

Ramsingh emphasised that the registration operates on a strict first-come, first-served system, acknowledging that the fierce nature of the competition often causes Captains to overthink and deliberate on their line-ups for too long.

To guarantee a spot, teams must pay the GY$35,000 entry fee now, which allows Captains the flexibility to finalise their ultimate 15-man talent pools closer to their respective

TIMC approves tournament zones for 2026 O40s World Cup in Guyana

Cup 2026.” We are delighted to welcome players, officials, supporters, and cricket fans from around the world to Guyana. This tournament will not only showcase high-quality Masters cricket but will also celebrate friendship, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of the game.”

zonal start dates. Entry caps are strictly enforced to manage the intensive schedule.

The Berbice, East Bank/West Demerara, and Essequibo zones are capped at a maximum of 16 teams each, while the heavily populated East Coast Demerara/ Georgetown zone will accommodate a maximum of 32 teams.

Registration forms are currently available on the tournament’s official social media channels or via direct WhatsApp at +592 6352235.

The high-octane action begins with the Berbice Zone on August 8–9. Sixteen teams will battle across four premier venues, including the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground, No. 69 Ground, and the Welfare Ground in Canje.

The action will culminate with the zonal finals on Sunday, August 9, at the Albion Sports Complex.

From there, the tournament caravan moves to the East Bank/West Demerara leg on August 15–16, followed quickly by the Essequibo zone on August 22–23.

In a strategic move designed to maximise fan en-

gagement and support local cricket festivities, the competition will pause during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) window, allowing fans to fully immerse themselves in the professional franchise season without distraction.

Action resumes postCPL with the highly anticipated Georgetown/East Coast Demerara leg, spanning September 26–27 and October 3–4.

This gruelling regional phase leads directly to the historic national grand finale on October 11, 2026. For the first time, the tournament’s ultimate prize will be contested at the Anna Regina National Stadium in Region Two, bringing elite tapeball action directly to the passionate fans of the Essequibo coast.

The stakes for the 2026 season have reached an alltime high, courtesy of a revamped financial structure that introduces guaranteed cash prizes for every team that reaches the quarter-final stage of their respective zone.

Rewards begin at GY$25,000 for losing zonal quarterfinalists and scale up significantly, culminat -

ing in a hefty GY$500,000 purse pocketed by the zonal winners before they even advance to the National Finals.

At the national level, the rewards become life-changing for grassroots cricketers.

Teams will compete for a massive GY$2,000,000 grand prize, while the national runner-up will take home GY$1,000,000.

Beyond the financial windfall, the four national finalists will also earn the prestigious right to represent Guyana at the upcoming International T10 Tapeball Tournament later this October.

Individual brilliance will be celebrated just as handsomely alongside team success.

The tournament’s eventual Most Valuable Player (MVP) will walk away with GY$150,000 and a brandnew motorbike.

Furthermore, specialised awards for the leading run-scorer and the top wicket-taker will see both players receive GY$100,000 and a new television each, ensuring that personal milestones are met with premier rewards.

Equipment donation for Republican Gym as GBA eyes prison revival

Ahe International Masters Cricket (IMC) has recently announced that the tournament zones for the upcoming IMC Over 40s World Cup 2026 have now been approved by the IMC Tournament Committee’s Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA), in collaboration with its parent body.

The tournament will be hosted in Guyana from October 17 to November 1, 2026, bringing together 16 nations from across the globe to compete for the title of 2026 IMC Over-40s World Champion. The approval of the zones represents a significant milestone in tournament planning and allows participating countries to finalise their preparations for what is expected to be the largest and most competitive Over 40s World Cup ever staged.

The tournament format will see teams compete within their respective zones for seven rounds before advancing to the playoff stages to determine the 2026 World Champion.

Showcasing all of Guyana

A unique feature of the 2026 World Cup will be the inclusion of matches in the Essequibo Region, which matches will be played on October 24–25 at the new Anna Regina Stadium and

highlighting Guyana’s commitment to spreading the economic and social benefits of major sporting events across the country.

The decision to include Essequibo forms part of a broader national vision to showcase the entire country to international visitors and television audiences. Participating teams and supporters will have the opportunity to experience the diverse culture, hospitality, and natural beauty that make Guyana one of the most exciting destinations in the Caribbean and South America. The tournament will feature matches in Georgetown, Berbice, and Essequibo, creating a truly national event that extends beyond traditional cricket venues.

A global celebration of masters cricket

CWIMA Chairman Raj Singh welcomed the announcement, stating, “The approval of the zones is another important milestone as we continue preparations for the Over 40s World

CWIMA Secretary Roy Singh added, “This World Cup represents much more than cricket. It is an opportunity to bring nations together, strengthen international friendships, and showcase Guyana on the global stage. We are grateful for the support of the Government of Guyana, our sponsors, volunteers, and the International Masters Cricket Committee as we work together to deliver a truly world-class event.”

Economic and tourism impact

The tournament is expected to attract hundreds of players, officials, supporters, and international visitors, generating substantial benefits for the tourism, hospitality, transportation, and service sectors. In addition to the cricket competition, visitors will enjoy an official opening ceremony, Legends Nostalgia Event, Teams Dominoes competition, cultural and tourism excursions, sponsor and hospitality functions, community and youth engagement activities, closing awards gala and global live streaming coverage.

s the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) intensifies efforts to resuscitate the sport within the prison system, President Steve Ninvalle handed over a quantity of boxing equipment to the Republican Boxing Gym, making a significant step for the initiative.

The presentation on Wednesday was made to former national champion and current prison boxing coach Wincel Thomas, who was accompanied by prison officer Adrian Thomas, as preparations intensify for the return of the Republican Boxing Gym to national competition.

The donation is expected to play a crucial role in helping the prison-based gym prepare for next month’s National Novices Championships, where it is set to make its first appearance after a lengthy hiatus from the local boxing scene.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Ninvalle said the equipment would provide much-needed support for a programme that has historically played an important role in rehabilitation and reform within the prison system.

“This equipment will certainly go a long way in helping to re-establish a very important arm of the Guyana Boxing Association. The prison boxing programme has always been more than competition; it has been about reform, discipline and creating opportunities for individuals to positively transform their lives,” Ninvalle stated.

The presentation forms part of a broader initiative being spearheaded by the GBA under Ninvalle’s leadership to reintroduce organised boxing within the na-

tion’s correctional facilities.

Recently, the Association renewed efforts to revive prison boxing through a strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, headed by Oneidge Walrond.

The initiative followed a meeting between Ninvalle and Minister Walrond, during which both parties discussed the reintegration of boxing as a key component of the Ministry’s wider prison reform and rehabilitation agenda.

The move represents a return to a programme that previously delivered tangible results by using sport as a vehicle for personal development and rehabilitation.

Ninvalle described his discussions with the Minister as productive and encouraging, noting that her professional background as an attorney-at-law and former Magistrate allowed for a shared understanding of the positive impact sport can have on inmates.

“It was a very engaging and meaningful discussion,” Ninvalle stated, adding, “Minister Walrond fully understands the role sport can play in reforming lives, particularly within the prison system, and she was very receptive to the idea of bringing boxing back as a structured and impactful programme.”

“We’ve had success stories of boxing in the prisons and how much the sport has helped to transform the lives of those behind bars upon their release. Many of them are still involved in the sport,” Ninvalle said.

Despite producing several success stories over the years, the prison boxing programme experienced numerous challenges that eventually led to its dormancy.

The GBA is now seeking to reverse that trend with renewed Governmental support and a structured development plan.

Importantly, he stressed that the return of prison boxing must be viewed primarily as a rehabilitation initiative.

“We want the prison boxing programme to be seen as a genuine reform initiative, one that gives individuals a second chance, a sense of purpose, and a pathway back into society. Prison should not represent the end of life’s opportunities, but rather a point where meaningful change can begin,” he explained.

According to Ninvalle, Minister Walrond has pledged the Ministry’s full support for the programme and is committed to establishing the structures necessary for its long-term sustainability.

“The Minister was very clear in her support. She is keen on putting the framework in place not only for participation at the Novices Championships but also for long-term development, ensuring that inmates benefit from coaching, mentorship, and other GBA programmes,” Ninvalle added.

Windies Women shift focus to World Cup after Tri-Nation win

In spite of an abandoned match on Wednesday as a result of inclement weather, spirits in the West Indies Women’s camp remained high.

This is owing to a solid bowling performance from the Caribbean ladies, which came before their clash with Pakistan at Castle Avenue, Dublin, was abandoned.

Stand-in Captain Chinelle Henry, following the no-result, shared her thoughts on their performance.

“I think the team did really well; obviously, having them at 111 for like seven or eight in 17 overs is pretty good with the result we had the other game, which was very disappointing for us, and again today – another abandoned game,” Henry told CWI Media following the match.

T20 World Cup on the horizon, Henry highlighted the team’s flexibility with roles.

The stand-in Captain explained, “As I said, we’re going into a World Cup, so obviously everybody here knows the reason why they’re here. So, whether we switch players around or it’s the same players, everybody knows their job, and everybody knows what they have to do.”

and Pakistan on Thursday morning, West Indies’ Women were declared the winner of the Tri-Nation series, on the account of a higher net run rate. Both the West Indies and hosts Ireland had two wins, a loss and an abandoned game during their fourmatch campaigns.

Similarly, Assistant Coach Damien Wright thought the bowlers did a commendable job.

Wright chimed in, “It was a pretty good effort with

She added, “I couldn’t ask for much more support from the girls. First time out being Captain, and I can truly say I really enjoyed it.”

the ball, I reckon. We started really well; I was really pleased with Zaida’s efforts up front with the new ball. We’re taking early wickets on a pretty regular basis, so it was a nice start.”

With the 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s

St Rose’s, Bishops’, Tutorial, QC advance to YBG Regional semis

The quarter-final stage of the Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) ‘Geo City’ Regional Championships produced exciting action on Tuesday, June 3, as St Rose’s High School, The Bishops’ High School A, Tutorial High School and Queen’s College (QC) secured victories to advance to the semi-final round.

St Rose’s High School delivered the most dominant performance of the day, overwhelming Christ Church Secondary 70-1 in Game One. Leading the charge was Player of the Game Nathan Williams, who recorded 20 points and nine rebounds. He received strong support from Shequan Callendar, who contributed 15 points, six rebounds and six steals. Christian Williams added eight points, five assists and 10 rebounds, while Dequan Fraser chipped in with seven points, six assists and eight steals. Game Two featured a closely contested battle between The Bishops’ High School A and St Stanislaus College. Bishops emerged with a hardfought 35-30 victory behind a Player of the Game performance from Jonathan Nazier, who scored 13 points and grabbed three rebounds. Kimol Pickering controlled the boards with 13 rebounds while adding nine points and three assists, while Eli Acher contributed eight points, five rebounds and five steals. For St Stanislaus College, Quasie Newton led all scorers with 16 points in a valiant effort. Tutorial High School booked its

place in the semi-finals with a convincing 38-19 win over Marian Academy in Game Three. Player of the Game Keion Lynch paced Tutorial with 15 points, five rebounds and five steals. Julian Charles matched Lynch’s scoring output with 15 points and also collected six rebounds. Marian Academy was led by Lucas Pinol, who scored seven points and recorded five steals, while Nyl George pulled down 11 rebounds and added five steals.

In the final quarter-final matchup, QC defeated Brickdam Secondary 35-19. Player of the Game Deshawn Gurrick spearheaded the victory with 13 points, five rebounds and four steals. Darren Dublin provided valuable support with 10 points and four rebounds.

“The players I had today, I kinda had an idea what is it exactly we wanted to do as a unit, and I think the girls went out and did that really well,” Henry further noted.

As a result of another abandoned encounter between hosts Ireland

They will now shift focus to the World Cup warm-ups, which they will begin on Monday, June 8, against India’s women.

Elite League Qualification playoff to

kick off June 13

For Brickdam

Secondary, Akili Layne scored 10 points and grabbed four rebounds.

The Regional Championships are being sponsored by Edward B Beharry Ltd, G-Boats Inc, the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Education, and Banks DIH Ltd. With the semi-finals now set, fans can expect more intense competition as the remaining teams continue their quest for the Geo City Regional championship title.

Seven football clubs will battle for spots in the upcoming season of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Elite League, the federation has announced.

Following the conclusion of the East Bank Football Association’s (EBFA) qualifying tournament at the weekend, the GFF has conducted the official draw for the 2026 Elite League Qualification Playoff, which is set to get underway on Saturday, June 13.

The seven-team tournament will be conducted in a single-elimination knockout format, resulting in one team securing a bye to the virtual semi-final.

The upcoming competi-

tion will determine which club earns direct qualification to the 2026/2027 Elite League season and also offer a chance to the second-place finisher to challenge ninth place Fruta Conquerors (after the 2025 season) for their spot in the league.

Participating clubs include Bartica Football Association’s Potaro Strikers Football Club (FC), Berbice Football Association’s Paradise Invaders FC, East Demerara Football Association’s Mahaica Determinators FC, Essequibo Coast/ Pomeroon Football Association’s Queenstown FC, Georgetown Football Association’s Camptown FC, West Demerara Football

Association’s Beavers FC and East Bank Football Association’s Timehri United FC. Under the tournament regulations, each participating team is permitted to register a squad of up to 25 players and five officials for the duration of the competition. Team registration will close on Friday, June 5, 2026.

According to the GFF, the Elite League Qualification Playoff forms an important part of the Federation’s competition structure, providing clubs from member associations across Guyana with a pathway to compete at the highest level of domestic football.

Hope demands improvement in all areas after opening ODI defeat

West Indies Captain Shai Hope has urged his team to learn quickly from their opening One Day International (ODI) defeat to Sri Lanka, admitting that shortcomings in all three facets of the game contributed to the visitors taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Reflecting on the 41-run loss at Sabina Park, Hope said there was no single factor behind the defeat but rather a collective failure to execute consistently with bat, ball, and in the field.

The Captain was particularly critical of his side’s fielding performance, highlighting an early dropped chance that allowed Sri Lanka to build a substantial total.

“We gave a chance first ball of the game,” Hope said. “When you give great players the opportunity to go again, it’s always going to be difficult. You’re going to put yourself on the back foot every single time and be playing catch-up.”

Hope also felt the bowlers could have exercised greater discipline, especially during the opening stages of Sri Lanka’s innings.

“We know the Sri Lankan batters tend to prey on that width that we tend to give them. We’ve got to tighten up the lines in the next game,” he noted.

While acknowledging positive starts with the bat, Hope expressed frustration at the team’s inability to convert promising po-

sitions into match-winning performances.

The white-ball Captain shared, “Openers got off to a great start once again, and then we just keep finding ways to get out.” We’ve got to take more responsibility as batters, take the game as deep as we can and find ways to win games from any position.”

Despite the disappointing result, Hope remains focused on the remainder of the series and stressed the importance of moving forward rather than dwelling on the defeat.

“You need to put it away. You can’t change anything that’s happened. What’s gone is gone. The past is the past,” he said.

The West Indies skipper believes communication and adaptability will be key as his side prepares for the second ODI.

“We’ve got to keep talking, keep communicating and ensure that we have all the right remedies to come out victorious next game and make it 1-1 at the end of it.”

Sri Lanka will now look to seal the series when the second ODI takes place on Saturday, June 6, at 15:30h, while the West Indies will be aiming to level the contest and keep the series alive.

Equipment donation for Republican Gym as GBA eyes prison revival Windies Women shift focus