Guyana Times - Monday, August 25, 2025

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, August 25 –03:55h–05:25h and Tuesday, August 26 – 03:55h–05:25h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, August 25 –05:10h–06:40h and Tuesday, August 26 – 05:40h–07:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Sunny skies with light to thundery showers in the morning to early-afternoon hours are expected during the day. Cloudy skies followed by thundery showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South-Easterly between 1.79 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 17:55h reaching a maximum height of 2.65 metres.

Low Tide: 11:33h and 23:47 reaching minimum heights of 0.56 metre and 0.53 metre.

US crackdown on Venezuelan cartels

“These elections are serious… You are voting for our sovereignty, our national security” – Pres Ali ...says PPP/C has built "greatest international coalition" to defend country

s Guyanese head to the polls September 1, 2025, President Dr Irfaan Ali has underscored the importance of the upcoming elections, especially to Guyana’s sovereignty and national security.

“These elections are serious elections. You are voting not only for today, you are voting for the future of this country. You are voting for our sovereignty, our national security – and that vote must be to protect who we are, what we have and what made us this beautiful land of Guyana. And if on September 1, your vote is to do just this, then there is no other choice than the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C),” Ali declared. His comments comes as tensions rise in the region between the United States (US) and Venezuela. The US has deployed three warships and more than 4,000 military troops off the coast of Venezuela as part of efforts to crack down on the drug trade in the region. The warships were expected to arrive sometime Sunday, according to international media. Washington has stated that designated narco-terrorist organisations like Venezuela’s Cártel de los Soles are using the region’s air and sea corridors to funnel drugs into the US, thus posing a direct threat to American lives and security. Speaking on this issue during a massive rally held by the incumbent PPP/C on Sunday evening at Stewartville, West Coast Demerara (WCD), President Ali stressed what is at stake for Guyana and its future. He said that after fighting for Guyana over the last 75 years, the PPP/C is still fighting today to give the country and its people the best future they can have. “Our region is undergoing tremendous changes in the security framework… Venezuela is a threat to our sovereignty and we have seen today international security forces are mobilised. More than ever before, our country needs leadership you can rely on. Leadership you can trust. Leadership that will ensure the sovereignty of our country, that will ensure the protection of our country. Leadership that the world wants to work with,” Ali, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Force, stated. He noted that this current PPP/C Administration has mobilised the “greatest international coalition” in defence of Guyana’s sovereignty – from the Middle East, the Commonwealth, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organisation of American States (OAS), the US, the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, among a host of others who are in support of

the country’s sovereignty.

Only recently, the Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) Government has declared its strong support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana.

In a statement on Saturday evening welcoming the deployment of American military assets to the region to tackle terrorist drug cartels, the Office of the PM in Port-of-Spain said that while T&T has always had good relations with the Venezuelan people, and this will continue, there will be full support in all efforts to defend Guyana’s territory. According to the missive, no requests have ever been made by the American Government for their military assets to access Trinidadian territory for any military action against the Nicolás Maduro-led Venezuelan regime but this could change.

“I want to make it very clear that if the Maduro regime launches any attack against the Guyanese people or invades Guyanese territory and a request is made by the American Government for access to Trinidadian territory to defend the people of Guyana, my Government will unflinchingly provide them that access,” the Kamla Persad Bissessar administration declared.

According to President Ali, this did not come by accident but because of the PPP/ C’s relentless work to build international trust and confidence. “Our partners know

President Dr Irfaan Ali

they can rely on us for the rule of law. They can rely on us for democracy, and they can rely on us to stand up for what is right,” he stated.

This, he added, is compared to the PPP/C’s political opponents – one set that believes fundamentally in racism, hatred and rigged elections, and the other in criminality, smuggling, and brutality. “That is the alternative to a strong, stable, secure Government PPP/C Government,” Ali declared.

Only on Friday, the Guyana Government underscored the need for strengthened co-operation at the regional and hemispheric levels to tackle the threats posed to regional security from transnational crime and narco-terrorism.

In a statement, the Government expressed grave concern over the threat to peace and security in the region by transnational organised crime and narco-terrorism, including criminal

networks, such as the Cartel de los Soles from Venezuela, which has been designated as a terrorist organisation by some countries in the region.

According to the missive, “Such criminal networks have the capacity to overwhelm state institutions, undermine democracy, pervert the rule of law and threaten human dignity and development. The Government of Guyana underscores the necessity for strengthened cooperation and concerted efforts at the national, regional, hemispheric and global levels to effectively combat this menace.”

To this end, the Guyana Government reaffirms its commitment to and support for a collaborative and integrated approach to tackle transnational organised crime by working with bilateral partners to dismantle criminal networks, safeguarding the region’s shared security.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Development and our Diaspora

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s manifesto explicitly “acknowledged the vast potential of the Guyanese Diaspora to contribute to Guyana’s transformation”. It promised “Through targeted and sustained engagements, the Government will ensure that the members of the Diaspora remain informed of national developments and priorities. It will encourage investments, foster collaborations, and create pathways for the Diaspora to participate in key sectors, including oil and gas. Additionally, Diaspora outreaches will continue to unlock expertise, capital, and innovation, strengthening the connection between overseas Guyanese and their homeland. These efforts aim to empower members of the Diaspora to maintain a strong connection with Guyana and serve as ambassadors.”

The inaugural “Diaspora” had been formed out of the dispersal of the Jewish people subsequent to their conquest thousands of years ago, when most had been driven into slavery to Babylon and Egypt. In more modern times, the process was not much different for several other “peoples”. Between the sixteenth and nineteenth century, two sets of “Diasporas” were formed when millions of Africans were snatched from their native lands by Europeans and shipped to the “New World” as slaves – Africans and Europeans of several nationalities.

Following the abolition of slavery in the 19th century, Indians, Chinese and some other groups were shipped as “indentured labour”. The shipments of Indians and Chinese created two new Diasporas that become very significant because of their numbers. Intellectuals from people of African descent – from the USA, the West Indies and Africa – were the first to organise their Diaspora and launched the 1st PanAfrican Congress in 1900.

When the 5th Pan-African Congress was held in Manchester in 1945 at the end of WWII, the individuals who were to become leaders in the struggle for independence – such as Eric Williams of Trinidad and Tobago and Jomo Kenyatta of Kenya and Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana from the African Diaspora –honed a common strategy for their countries’ development that integrally involved their Diaspora. However, the developmental focus on the Diaspora subsequently waned during the 1980s.

The successive Governments of post-Mao China much more self-consciously mobilised its Diaspora and very successfully tapped into the skills and resources in its drive for development starting in the 1980s. The Chinese Diaspora – like India’s – were quite successful in accumulating First World skills and asset accumulation that could be tapped into by their country of origin. When the Government of India initiated the annual Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in 2003 for its Diaspora, it attempted to accommodate two imperatives –the drive for India’s development by harnessing the skills and resources of its Diaspora and the desire for cultural contacts of the latter. With the advent of the nationalistic Government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, a decision was made to host the event biennially, and to have preparatory structured meetings and discussions in New Delhi with representatives of the Diaspora on identified subject areas. Several Guyanese leaders – including Pres Ali have attended PBDs which have been very successful in directing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India .

In 2022, the inaugural AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) was launched in Barbados and expressed its support for closer economic and trade ties between the two regions, “which share historic and cultural ties and face critical challenges of climate change and economic reliance on commodities”. The forum, with the theme “One People, One Destiny, Uniting and Re-imagining Our Future” took place in September 2022 in Bridgetown, Barbados. Afreximbank, Export Barbados and Invest Barbados organised the event which has been repeated three times with the fourth – ACTIF2025 –taking place in St George's, Grenada, last July.

For Guyana, the experience of its delegates to PBD and to ACTIF over the years should be tapped to facilitate our own aspirations to utilise our multiethnic Diaspora and involve them in our development as articulated in the PPP’s Manifesto 2025, summarised above. Once again there have been efforts for Guyana to achieve this goal through the explicitly named “Diaspora Unit”.

President Ali should direct the unit to analyse India’s, Africa’s and China’s strategies and perchance adopt some of the policies from their successful models.

Guarding Democracy: Elections must not be weaponised

Dear Editor, Guyana stands today at the crossroads of immense opportunities. Given the buoyancy in our economy, Guyana’s rising global relevance, and the strategic vision as outlined in the People's Progressive Party/ Civic's 2025 Manifesto, Guyana is poised for another wave of unprecedented social and economic transformation. Yet, unlike most countries across the globe that are grappling with economic headwinds, the greatest threat to our continued progress is not economic or financial, but political.

The imminent regional and national elections scheduled for September 1, 2025, risk being hijacked by visionless politicians who have mastered the art of inciting fear, sowing division, and disrupting development.

History offers sobering reminders of how elections were weaponised in Guyana to create economic, political, and social instability. The 1992 and 1997 elections are painful examples that are etched into our national memory and impossible for anyone who lived through those elections to forget. The 1992 elections, delayed to sanitise the voter list and certified free and fair by international observers, were nonetheless followed by riots in Georgetown. Rumours of disenfranchisement by the People's National Congress (PNC), which had formed the government at the time, poisoned the atmosphere and sparked violent riots.

The 1997 elections were also marred by unrest, even

though international observers declared these elections to be 'free and fair'.

Unfortunately, the then-opposition, the PNC, fuelled the unrest by launching the infamous "slow fyah, more fyah" campaign, which sought to make the country ungovernable.

Unlike the 1992 election riots, the unrest that followed the 1997 elections continued for years, forcing constitutional reforms and fresh elections by 2006. Although elections in 2011 and 2015 were more peaceful, the scars from the 1992 and 1997 remain, and worrying signs suggest some politicians are preparing to deploy these destructive tactics once again.

Already, some opposition politicians are echoing the rhetoric of the past. The age-old allegations of a "padded voters list" are being constantly peddled by some politicians, notwithstanding the opportunity provided by GECOM for anyone to remove ineligible electors from the Official List of Electors during the recently concluded claims and objections exercise.

Meanwhile, the leader of a newly formed political party has gone so far as to claim that her supporters will be disenfranchised if her party's symbol does not appear on the ballot paper. Further, the leader of the main opposition has openly threatened to "behave bad" if the results are not in favour of his party.

These antics/pronouncements are not merely acts of democratic dissent; they are deliberate strategies to delegitimise the electoral process

in advance.

Editor, I am concerned that the 2025 elections may be weaponised because the aforementioned antics/pronouncements bear a striking resemblance to those that preceded the 1992 and 1997 elections. Importantly, these antics/pronouncements are being made to lay the groundwork for post-election unrest.

It is widely anticipated that the PPP/C will win the 2025 elections handsomely, and I am fearful that the divisive politicians in our midst may resort to violence when the results are declared. It is a replay of the past, a dangerous cycle of sore-loser politics, where divisive politicians resort to violence instead of accepting electoral defeat.

Editor, Guyana cannot af-

ford any form of instability at this juncture in our history. Every responsible Guyanese must therefore act with clarity and conviction and reject these visionless politicians who thrive on division, sow discord, and have every intention of derailing our hardearned development for personal gain.

As we approach the 2025 elections, we must also demand that these visionless politicians respect the will of the people when the results are declared. Importantly, we need to send a clear and loud signal that, as responsible citizens, we will defend our democracy, protect our progress, and move forward as 'One Guyana' - united, resolute, and unshaken.

Sincerely, Kevin Persaud

A note to PPP/C supporters

Dear Editor, Allow me this opportunity to communicate directly with PPP/C supporters. It is evident that you, the PPP/C base, is highly motivated and ready for another five years of solid leadership by President Ali and his excellent team.

For that to happen, it is necessary that during this coming week you redouble your efforts.

You should concentrate on the following things: First and foremost, make sure you know where you are voting on September 1. On that day, you should go to the polling station first thing in the morning. The polls open

at 6 A.M. If there are younger voters in the home, be sure to get them up and ensure they go out and vote. Secondly, do your best to engage neighbours, family, and friends to be actively involved in the PPP/C campaigns. Go to meetings and rallies near you. The show of support is crucial. Later today, there is a rally at Roberts Square, Enmore. We want to see all of Enmore and surrounding villages in attendance. Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony will speak, and PPP General Secretary and VP Dr Bharrat Jagdeo will deliver the main address.

There’s a special classification for this type of behaviour exemplified by Mr Panday. It’s called “ungratefulness"

Dear Editor,

In today’s Stabroek News, Mr. Panday emphatically denied ever being dismissed from GuySuCo. However, contrary to his claim, when I undertook a detailed review of the Skeldon fiasco, I came across his dismissal letter.

In the course of my research, I examined volumes of documents related to the Skeldon project, including court filings in the case brought by the PPP/C government against Booker Tate for contractual breaches. My inquiry extended beyond paper trails.

I interviewed key stakeholders, including the former Chairman of GuySuCo under whose authority Mr. Panday was summarily dismissed.

The record shows that after Mr. Panday received his dismissal letter, he appealed for his pension, to which he was eligible. The Board, acting out of sympathy, instructed him to tender a resignation so that he could access his pension benefits. This was a humane accommodation, but it did not erase the blemishes on his employment record, which remain evident in the documents (including the dismissal letter referenced and attached herein).

My research into the Skeldon project was voluntary, born out of a genuine desire to understand the case and its implications. For decades, one man— the former President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo—has borne the brunt of blame for Skeldon’s failure. Yet, like a true leader, Dr. Jagdeo never sought to deflect responsibility onto others. He carried it himself and refrained from publicly naming the real culprits—until only recently, when for the first time last year after two decades, he explained the role played by Booker Tate in the project’s downfall.

To me, this is the hallmark of genuine leadership: accepting responsibility in

the face of adversity. But Dr. Jagdeo did not merely stop at acceptance; he acted. His government filed a case against Booker Tate over the Skeldon project, seeking in excess of $4 billion in damages for contractual failures.

However, by the time the appeal reached the court, the APNU+AFC coalition had taken office in 2015. At that point, Booker Tate’s attorney, Nigel Hughes—who was then Chairman of the same political party that had just assumed government— stepped in. In what was a glaring conflict of interest, he withdrew the appeal. The PPP/C government’s claim was abandoned, and Booker Tate was released from all liability.

The result was catastrophic for Guyana. A professional firm contracted to deliver on a project of national importance walked away without consequence. Billions of dollars in damages that could have been recovered for the people of this country vanished because of political compromise. And yet, the blame for Skeldon continues to be unfairly pinned on one man, while those truly responsible—the contractors who failed and those who shielded them—have gone unscathed.

The truth is clear: Guyana was betrayed, not by political interference in the Skeldon project, but by failures in management and, later, by the abandonment of justice at the hands of those who placed political interests above the nation’s.

It is against this backdrop that I find Mr. Panday’s recent denial disingenuous. The record, both documentary and testimonial, contradicts his narrative. More than that, Mr. Panday was fortunate to have been rehired not once, but twice, after his 2010 dismissal under the Presidency of Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. President Ramotar reinstated him following

A note to...

Thirdly, participate as much as possible in the social media campaign. The opposition parties are spreading lots of lies on social media. These lies are only believed if left without responses. Do not allow the APNU to fool you with fake promises, or WIN to make you forget about gold smuggling and the OFAC sanction against Azruddin. And don’t forget that Nigel Hughes of the

AFC once delayed answering when asked if he would put Exxon’s interest ahead of Guyana’s. Finally, do everything to keep the momentum going. An election can only be won if our PPP/C supporters go out and vote. Talk, sing, and dance are not enough. Vote PPP/C.

Yours sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud

Who should have our vote is an answer staring us in the face

appeals on his behalf by Mr. Komal Chand, and once again, under President Ali, he was brought back for a third time.

Yet, despite these repeated opportunities, he seemingly never learned from past failings. Instead, he continues to absolve himself of responsibility and shifts the blame onto politicians. In reality, it is poor management that has undermined GuySuCo and driven it into its current state of affairs.

There’s a special classification for this type of behaviour exemplified by Mr. Panday. It’s called “ungratefulness”.

My case study revealed a crucial truth: there was never political interference in the Skeldon project. A professional firm with decades of global expertise— Booker Tate—was hired to perform a professional job. The government abided by Booker Tate’s recommendations. The problem did not lie in political direction, but in management failures within GuySuCo itself.

The evidence is clear. The documents, the testimonies, and the sequence of events tell a very different story than the one Mr. Panday now insists upon.

Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin

Dear Editor, We have all read the news over the past few days of the Trump government mobilising a significant presence of US Naval fire power and with troops on board, in the Caribbean seas, close by to Venezuela.

The US President has also put a bounty of US$50M on Nicholas Maduro’s head, which is about to be doubled by legislation in the US Congress. The Trump government has also declared that they do not recognise Maduro as the President of Venezuela, nor his party as the legitimate government of Venezuela.

With typical bravado, Maduro, has announced a creation of “a new people’s militia”, which he claims to be one million four hundred thousand (1.4M) people, for the purpose of defending against any American military attempt to enter Venezuela and arrest him. According to Maduro, he has also armed the People’s Militia with missiles and guns.

Maduro has also claimed to have mobilised some 4.5M troops to fight any American invasion, though there has been no detectable evidence of any such mobilisation.

All at the same time, US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has stated that “Maduro’s government” is, in fact, a “masquerade” and is, nothing but the Venezuelan Cartel de los soles also called the “Cartel of the

sun”, a criminal enterprise which now threatens “US oil companies that are operating lawfully in Guyana”. Mr Rubio, of course, is referring to EXXON.

He further announced at the State Department, that the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Control (OFAC), on 25 TH July 2025, has designated the Cartel as a “specially designated global terrorist” headed by Nicholas Maduro.

We are all very familiar with OFAC which has sanctioned Presidential Candidate Azruddin Mohammed, along with his father Nazar Mohammed, and all of their businesses.

There has been a number of misleading stories and headlines in the Stabroek and Kaieteur News about this matter.

OFAC has in fact stated unequivocally, in response to the Mohammeds lawyers, that “non-US persons”, Guyanese for instance, could “face sanctioned risk for certain activities involving sanctioned persons, such as providing material support to them”. The OFAC statement goes on to define” material support” as “including any property, tangible or intangible or service”.

Highly respected lawyer, Sanjeev Datadin, in a recent post by him, underlines the fact that those persons who support Mohammed and his party WIN “believe wrongly, that this path would some-

how free them…of offering material support”. Put simply and practically, if you join and support a political party you are offering it “material support”.

To return, however, to the action being taken by the US government against Venezuela’s Maduro. When we vote on 1st September, we need to ask ourselves this question: “which of the contesting parties and contesting Presidential candidates command the unreserved respect of the US government and which does not”?

The answer, of course, is staring us in the face.

The Trump government, for which US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, spoke, when he visited Guyana, manifestly demonstrated the respect it has for President Mohammed Ali and his government. We can, on the other hand, take it as a given that the support of the US government for and the protection it offers Guyana against Venezuela, would disappear overnight if, by some miracle, the likes of Azruddin Mohammed were to become President of Guyana. We can also take it as a given, that if Mohammed were to become President, it would not be long before Exxon would also disappear from Guyana.

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

Measuring angles

An angle is formed by the rays of two intersecting lines when the rays have the same vertex. An angle is named by both of its lines, with the vertex in the middle of its name.

Rays OA and OB intersect at Point O, a shared vertex to form angle AOB.

Angles are measured in degrees. A straight line is 180o , so an angle will always be less than that. Angles that are less than 90o degrees are called acute angles. Angles that are more than 90o degrees are called obtuse angles. Angles that are exactly 90o degrees are called right angles, and are often indicated with a very small square at the point where the two lines meet.

AExercises: Identify the following angles as either acute, obtuse or right angles

scissors and markers, black and

1: Choose a scale in the top third of the pinecone, but not at the very top. Carefully stick the straight pin into the end of the scale. This is the pointer for the instrument

2: Find a small cardboard box that is just a little bigger than the pinecone. Cut the box so

that it has a bottom and three sides.

Step 3: Glue the bottom of the pinecone to the bottom of the box, positioning the pinecone so that the pointer is near the back side of the box. Let the glue dry.

Step 4: Use the red marker to make a small line on the box wall where the pin head is pointing. This mark is for reference as a starting point.

Step 5: Try the instrument! Place the pinecone hygrometer outside in a shady location where it won’t be disturbed overnight. (Adapted from startwithabook.org)

CONCLUSION

By Allison swenson

The revelations to the magic tricks were magic themselves, as if, when Toto pulled back the curtain in the Emerald City, the Wizard was not a fraud but rather even more magnificent than imagined. Back then, it made perfect sense to us, that by piecing together these atomic LEGOs, we could create anything and everything we dreamed of: castles and bikes and narwhals and sugar and moons. And dream we did beneath the sky as limitless and star-studded as our imaginations.

Source: Poetry (January/ February 2025)

In the Listings

Find a listing for a home for sale anywhere that piques your curiosity. Take a look at the photos. What type of story do you envision taking place inside this home?

‘Security forces prepared to deal with anyone who disrupts peaceful elections’ – PPP GS warns opposition

General Secretary (GS) of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Bharrat Jagdeo, on Sunday warned opposition parties that the “security forces are ready to take on anyone who tries to disrupt the peaceful polls in these upcoming elections”.

According to Jagdeo, APNU leader Aubrey Norton has threatened that there will be problems in the country if his party does not win the upcoming elections.

Similarly, Azruddin Mohamed, who is sanctioned by the US for gold smuggling and public corruption, has claimed a poll shows that he will win the presidency and that there will be trouble in Guyana if he doesn’t.

“I want to promise them that in case they try to create trouble when they are defeated by this massive victory of the PPP, they’re going to get into big trouble,” Jagdeo told supporters at a massive Election Rally held at Stewartville, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

The PPP/C GS reminded of the events in 2020 when the APNU/AFC regime attempted to steal the elections but the party took them on, rising to every challenge and defeating them – something they are ready to do once again.

“And so, we have to be

careful about these people. They are losing it now,” he added.

On this note, the PPP/C GS emphasised the importance of the upcoming elections, stressing that everyone has a stake and should think about what their lives would have been like without the PPP/C in office over the last five years.

Noting that citizens already had a taste of this in 2015, Jagdeo urged Guyanese to head to the polls on September 1 and ensure the PPP/C return to office to continue delivering development to the country and its people.

On the side of the people

“You know that our party will always be on the side of the people; that we’d always work day and night to ensure your concerns become our policies,” Jagdeo told supporters.

He said that on September 1, the party is looking to secure a huge, decisive and overwhelming victory, but this can only be possible with citizens’ support.

Heading into the upcoming polls, the GS acknowledged that many Guyanese are convinced that the PPP/C Government did its job over the last five years and have heard the party’s plans for the next term to change lives, communities and the coun-

try – from cash grants, increase in pensions; more money for children; support to build homes or buy lands or improve homes; plans for communities –better drains, lights, security cameras, garbage collection; more and better paying jobs, better transportation and improved services like healthcare and education.

According to Jagdeo, persons have been assured that these will be accomplished because the PPP/C has demonstrated that when it promises something, it delivers.

Discrimination, hardship under APNU+AFC regime

Jagdeo used the platform to address all demographic groups, highlighting what he described as discrimination under APNU+AFC’s 2015–2020 tenure. He argued Amerindian communities, Afro-Guyanese, IndoGuyanese, miners, farmers, and youth had all faced hardships under the Opposition but were now seeing tangible benefits under the PPP/C.

“Every group of Guyanese has a home in the policies of the People’s Progressive Party,” he said, stressing invest-

ments in land distribution, scholarships, grants for children, job creation, and infrastructure.

“Everyone has a stake in these elections. If you're an Amerindian Guyanese, you think without the PPP in office, what your lives will be like. You had a taste of it between 2015 and 2020. When APNU stopped the land titling programme, fired 2,000 Amerindians, stopped any development in those communities, you saw it. You can see it, the acts of dis-

crimination. When in Parliament they said that if Amerindians got more land, they would never be able to benefit from all resources”.

“The discrimination was palpable, rampant, and the Amerindian communities now, you think they're going to be fooled by a $10,000 payment by Azruddin Mohamed or by the false promises of APNU again? They've lived through that. They've seen what happened,” he said.

Risking your future Against this backdrop, he reminded that Azruddin Mohamed’s bid for Presidency is directly linked to selfish pursuits to evade taxes and a US sanction by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

“You think in any other sane country in the world, would he even make it on the ballot? He will not be on the ballot. We know that the US congressmen said that they are linked to Maduro.

TURN TO PAGE 12

Kwakwani Secondary School destroyed by fire

– Public Works Minister announces speedy rebuild

Afire of unknown origin completely destroyed Kwakwani Secondary School in Pathville, Upper Berbice River, in the early hours of Sunday.

The school, a one-storey concrete building measuring approximately 30 feet in width and 100 feet in length, was engulfed in flames before firefighters could bring the blaze under control.

A Corporal stationed at Mackenzie Police Station said he was at the annual Kwakwani Village Fair at the nearby ballfield around 03:40h when he noticed a large fire in the Pathville area.

He immediately alerted the Kwakwani Police Station. A Police Sergeant and two other ranks responded to the scene, discovering that the school was already on fire. The ranks quickly summoned auxiliary staff and a fire pick-up vehicle, and went into action. Despite their efforts, the flames had already consumed the building, leaving it completely destroyed.

The school was powered by electricity from Kwakwani Utility Inc., and it was reported that frequent power outages occurred in the area during the night. Homesafe Security Service provided security, and the guard on duty that morning said he discovered smoke emanating from the Headmistress’s office on the southwestern side of the building. He immediately notified his

supervisor, who contacted the authorities. Investigations into the fire are ongoing, and the origin remains undetermined.

Following the incident, Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, speaking about the Kwakwani fire, said, “It was painful when I answered my phone in the wee hours of this morning [Sunday] and the sad news was about the fire at the Kwakwani Secondary School. Whatever is the cause of that fire, it is regrettable. Children need to be served; a community needs to be served.”

He further announced the government’s commitment to the school’s reconstruction: “I would like to take this opportunity that having engaged my superiors, I am proud to announce that the President Ali PPPC Administration now, and the one that will be elected as of September 1st, will rebuild the Kwakwani Secondary School, and this will be done speedily. This will be done speedily. So, parents, students, community of Kwakwani, please be assured your pain, your suffering, and your loss will be remedied swiftly.”

The Minister added that alternative arrangements will be made to prevent disruption in students’ learning: “We will work with the regional authorities and the local authorities

to ensure that by the time school is ready to be reopened, alternative accommodations are made, there will be no learning loss, and we will overcome every challenge. Just like we would have done from 2020 when we came into government and we overcame all the challenges of COVID, of two floods, of all the challenges that we have had. Kwakwani, be assured your government will work for you, is working for you, and will continue to engage you and work with you.”

He concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment: “So while there is heavy conversation and pain and loss, factor in that the President Ali’s PPP/C government commits to the people of Kwakwani and to the people of the Berbice River that the Kwakwani Secondary School will be rebuilt and will be rebuilt speedily.”

The Kwakwani blaze is the most recent of devastating school fires in Guyana over the past five years.

Earlier in March of this year, Mae’s School in Subryanville, Georgetown, was destroyed by an early-morning fire that consumed both its wooden and concrete sections. Though no injuries were reported, the blaze left hundreds of students without classrooms. Reconstruction of Mae’s School is set to begin in September 2025.

Porter stabbed to death during argument at Vreed-en-Hoop –

suspect on the run

Alate-night stop for food turned deadly in the wee hours of Sunday when 30-year-old Toralpher Simon Harry, a porter with Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), was fatally stabbed during an argument at Vreeden-Hoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

The incident unfolded at about 03:00h along the Vreed-en-Hoop Public Road, in front of the Bright Star Chinese Restaurant. Harry, of Lot 24 Best Village (Foreshore), had been returning home from the Car and Bike Show at the Leonora National Stadium with his friend, 30-year-old Naipaul Sukhdeo, when they decided to purchase hot dogs from a roadside stall.

Police reports stated that it was there that Harry reportedly became involved in a heated argument with an unidentified Venezuelan national. The exchange escalated into a scuffle, which carried both men across the southern side of the roadway near Dalga Luck Chinese Restaurant. Witnesses recounted that the suspect was armed with a knife during the altercation. Harry, in an attempt to defend him-

self, removed his belt and tried to ward off the attacker. However, he was soon seen running towards the northern side of the road, blood pouring from his neck. He collapsed shortly after in front of a nearby yard.

The suspect fled the scene, boarding a minibus parked near the hot dog stand before escaping east towards the Vreed-en-Hoop junction.

Sukhdeo, who witnessed the incident, said he rushed over to his friend and observed a stab wound to Harry’s neck. With the assistance of others, the injured man was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.

Investigators who processed the scene recovered a knife without a handle stained with what appeared to be blood, along with a brown belt believed to have been used by the deceased in his attempt to defend himself. Police also canvassed the area and confirmed the presence of several CCTV cameras that may have captured the incident and the suspect’s escape.

The body was examined, and a single stab wound was noted on the left side of the neck. Harry’s remains are now at Ezekiel Funeral Home, where a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted.

Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspect, who remains at large.

Breaking…

…“racial voting’s (back)”

On the hustings – which some of us can be forgiven for seeing as “hustlings”!! – puffery becomes the norm!! One newly-launched party led by a fella sanctioned by the US Treasury’s OFAC – like Mad Maduro next door!! – insists he’s gonna win the elections, hands down!! Seems he’s taking his party’s name acronym – WIN – literally!! All of the Opposition parties are racing to throw out the most zeroes behind $ they’ll be doling out “when” they win. And let’s not even talk about beating Roosevelt’s “chicken in every pot” promise – here it’s a “house lot and a $1M annual cash payment for every person over eighteen”!!

So when your Eyewitness heard our energetic AG – a veritable “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”! – announce that come Sept 1st his party – the PPP – will be “breaking the back of racial voting”, he was sure some might see it as just matching the Opposition’s braggadocio!! “So how does your Eyewitness see the claim?” Is that the question that popped into your head just now, Dear Reader?? Well, not to say the PPP ain’t prone to inflating particulars of their rivers of red across the country – elections aren’t called “the silly season” for nothing! But as your Eyewitness has been stressing, after five years of running the country we’re in a better position to judge whether their promises are being pulled from that place where the sun don’t shine. In other words, just like the Opposition!!

We all know that from the time Burnham broke away from the PPP – because he demanded to be “leader or nothing” and lost! – our voting’s been dominated by racial sentiments rather than parties’ programmes – which may even be in our interests! So voting in national elections became identical to voting in Parliament – the Speaker already knows how the MPs will vote and doesn’t even lift his head when he announces “the ayes have it”!! And so in our dear Mudland, elections were dubbed “racial censuses’ because once you knew the racial composition of our country, where you knew which group was the majority, you jus’ KNEW who’d win!!

But after the elections of 2011, 2015 and 2020, everything changed!! The PPP won the Executive in 2011 –but had a minority in Parliament; they lost in 2015 after the APNU and AFC hitched up as a coalition; then returned to office in 2020 on a one-seat majority!! What happened?? The national racial census had changed – that’s what!! If folks just voted by their racial origins, no one party could win no mo’ – since no ethnic group was a majority!!

So returning in 2020 – the PPP overcame their diffidence in mentioning race in their mobilisation – and spending from oil revenues!!

And voila!! Broke the back of racial voting!!

…T&T’s diffidence

T&T’s PNM used to play a “hold me, loose me” game when it came to Mad Maduro and his actions against us. Maybe it was the Dragon Gas Field that was shared with Venezuela and they were hoping would save them after their oil ran out – and poverty and crime ran in. Be as it may, new TT PM Kamla – universally known by her first name – has come out to give unequivocal support both against Mad Maduro’s annexation grab of our Essequibo and the US action to take on the Drug Mafia the madman runs from Miraflores Palace!

This, of course, is contraposed to the simpering sycophancy of St Vincent’s Ralph Gonsalves who slavishly sucked up to Mad Maduro to denounce the US’ “unprovoked attack on Venezuela”! Now, no one denies that the US will always act to further their interests – which may go beyond the destruction of the Drug Cartels facilitated by Mad Maduro.

So Ralph ain’t concerned about drugs in St Vincent??

…kneecaps??

In the US, the Mafia’s notorious for loan sharking with humongous interests – “the Vig”! But even more notorious for their collection method – baseball bats condignly applied to kneecaps!!

Here, our local Mafioso’s collector got bitch-slapped silly by the borrower!!

Disciplined Services “votes not being counted at GECOM” – Commissioner

...dispels misinformation disseminated by AFC leader, urges against mischief

Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)

Commissioner Sase Gunraj has firmly rejected claims made by Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader Nigel Hughes that ballots cast by members of the Disciplined Services are being counted prematurely at GECOM. Gunraj clarified that the ballots—cast on August 22 by members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and Guyana Prison Service (GPS)—remain sealed. He explained that the envelopes are currently being sorted in preparation for their lawful intermixing with other ballots on Elections Day, September 1, 2025.

“Votes are not being counted at GECOM,” Gunraj stated. “Disciplined Services ballots in sealed envelopes are being sorted

for intermixing on E-Day, in the presence of agents of ALL parties.”

The Commissioner’s remarks came in response to Hughes, who earlier alleged that discrepancies had emerged between manual recounts of the ballots and spreadsheets generated by GECOM’s Information Technology (IT) system.

Hughes claimed that in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), the manual count revealed two more envelopes than recorded electronically, while Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) showed one fewer envelope each. He said another recount was underway to address the differences.

Gunraj urged political leaders to refrain from spreading misinformation, warning that such statements could undermine

the national polls, in keeping with electoral law that requires their early voting to facilitate deployment on Elections Day. This included 6,909 ranks from the GPF, 3,106 from the GDF, and 466 from the GPS.

Balloting took place at 87 polling stations across the country, with each rank required to vote in their respective electoral district.

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

public confidence in the electoral process and fuel unnecessary tension.

Ballots

On Friday, 10,481 members of the Disciplined Services were eligible to cast their ballots ahead of

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) though often included in the Joint Services, will cast their votes alongside the general population on September 1. As customary during any elections, members of the disciplined services are required to vote 10 days prior to the polling day so that they are available for posting at the various polling stations and other strategic locations as required by law without disenfranchising them.

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

Smooth process

Following last Friday’s exercise, Public Relations Officer at GECOM, Yolanda Warde, told the Guyana Times that the D-Day activities were “generally a smooth process.”

“Upon the close of poll [on Friday], when those ballots are returned, those ballots will be sorted by the respective district, and they

will be placed in secured custody according to districts. We have gazetted the list of polling stations where those ballots will be intermixed on election day… So, those ballots will be counted in the respective districts where the officers are registered to vote,” Warde noted. Similar sentiments were echoed by several representatives of the various political parties, including Presidential Candidate of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Dr Irfaan Ali, also visited Camp Ayanganna on Friday morning.

Ali told reporters, “So far, we have observed a process that is smooth, very efficient. From all the reports we’re having across the country, there is nothing to create any uneasiness at the moment.”

Technical training centre for Kamarang – Pres Ali at public meeting

– details plans for transportation, housing & employment support

The next People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government will be establishing a technical training centre at Kamarang, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), to build capacity in areas such as mining and forestry, among others. This was revealed by incumbent President Dr Irfaan Ali during a public meeting in the community hosted by the PPP/C on Sunday. According to Ali, who is seeking a second term in office at the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections, they will be partnering with heavy-duty operators in the country to provide the training for res-

idents in the Region Seven.

“So, what we want to do is to set up not only the training centre, but we’re going to invest in the tools through which your young people will be trained to provide the services to the mining, the forestry [sectors] and other services, Government services, right here in your community,” he told residents.

The PPP/C Presidential Candidate further noted that work on this training facility will commence before the end of this year.

“We’ll build out the training facility, and we’ll fill out the facility with all of the equipment so that all of that service will be provided right here. So, that is an

important investment that we’re going to make in your sub-region, and you can be guaranteed that before the

end of this year, that facility, investments in that facility, will commence,” the incumbent President stated. This, according to Ali, will be complemented by more investments to give residents, especially children, the same access and educational opportunities like any other person across the country. A fully equipped study hub is among the upcoming investments in the sub-region. The facility will provide children with access to resources and technology to pursue degrees, diplomas, and other programmes offered by the University of Guyana (UG) and through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship initiative.

Modern school

Moreover, he revealed plans to not only upgrade the DC CaesarFox Secondary School in Kamarang, but also plans for a modern school that will foster post-secondary education and training.

“The school must be linked to the new hospital that we are building because we want that hospital to be a teaching hospital... The next Government would ensure that not only you have a modern DC Caesar-Fox Secondary School, but that that school will be offering medical technologist, nursing, dentistry – all of these programmes [will be] attached to the teaching hospital that we will build here,” Ali stated.

He added, “That is the future we’re talking to you about, not only giving you secondary education, but ensuring that after that secondary education you can find meaningful jobs. That after that secondary education, you can have the opportunity to advance your educational level right here in your sub-region, and to sup-

port that, we want your children to have modern facilities.”

On job creation, the President also detailed plans to not only expand the Community Service Officers (CSOs) and train them for professions like nursing and healthcare technicians to serve their communities, but similarly, upgrade the skillsets of the part-time workers so that they can get permanent employment.

Transportation costs

Meanwhile, the incumbent leader went on to highlight planned interventions for challenges that Kamarang and other surrounding communities in the region face, such as high transportation costs.

“So, I’m committing to you today that your new Government will invest in assets that will reduce the transport cost for you here in Kamarang and the surrounding communities… The Government must support the communities directly to reduce their transport cost so your goods can come in cheaper, and you can have lower prices for goods here in your community,” he noted.

To further lower costs, Ali promised to build a cold storage facilities in the area to store produce as well as equipping the communities with assets like ATVs, school buses, ambulances and tractors for farmers along with upgrading the local airstrips.

He added that his administration will support residents there to own key services in the communities, as well as for them to benefit from projects, so that the spending goes back into the local economy.

“We will use local labour and local contractor [s] - not just to grade the road, but to build an all-weather road connecting these two important areas (Kamarang and Waramadong] – a farm to market access road. And we want as much of these opportunities that we are creating to stay right in the villages,” he emphasised. Moreover, the PPP/C Presidential Candidate also highlighted the party’s plan to transfer money to families to either build new homes or rehabilitate or expand their existing homes, as well as providing 24-hour electricity and enhanced water supply. “So, my friends, as we confront the challenges of the future, you have a Government that is committing to more expenditure in transportation to reduce your transport cost, to invest in health and education, improve your community infrastructure, expand your tourism, increase investment in your security, transferring more money to your local bodies so that they can have greater resources to service the needs of the people… We ask of you to give us the responsibility of building a better community, a stronger community and a more united country,” Ali urged.

PM Phillips urges West Demerara to return PPP to office because of its all-round accomplishments

Prime Minister (PM)

Brigadier (Ret’d)

Mark Phillips has urged residents of Stewartville and the wider Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) community to once again throw their support behind the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections, declaring that their decision in 2020 to return the party to office was “the best political decision of their lives.”

Addressing what he described as “the largest political gathering in Region Three,” PM Phillips rallied supporters with a call for

“five more years” of leadership under President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

“In February 2020, we stood right here and asked you to give us five years,” Phillips told the enthusiastic crowd. “You delivered and your vote changed not only Stewartville or Region Three, but all of Guyana. That was the best decision you made in your political life.”

“Your vote is the most powerful weapon that you have, and we respect your vote. And that’s why we’re here, asking you for your vote. Your vote and our diligence in implementing our manifesto plans, projects and programmes to you is what has resulted in us being here today, thanking you and asking you for five more years. Five more years of development. Five more years of economic growth and economic empowerment. Five more years of youth empowerment. Five more years of empowerment of our women folk,” Phillips assured.

Promises made, promises kept The PM pointed to major developments achieved under the PPP/C Administration since assuming office in August 2020, citing new roads, water treatment plants, health facilities, internet connectivity for hinterland communities, and major education sector

expansion. According to Phillips, the Government has constructed 42 secondary schools, 45 primary schools, and 67 nursery schools across Guyana in the past five years. He also highlighted advancements in healthcare, including the building of 12 new hospitals and the introduction of telemedicine in remote areas.

“When I get sick as Prime Minister, I go to the same health centre or hospital as you,” Phillips said, underscoring the administration’s push for equity in healthcare access. The PM also reminded supporters that upon taking office, the PPP/C Government reversed over 200 “burdensome taxes and fees” introduced by the previous A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Administration, while restoring initiatives such as the “Because We Care” cash grant for schoolchildren.

This year, the grant reached $50,000 per child, and Phillips revealed that in 2026 it will increase to $200,000—split between a $100,000 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant and a $100,000 transportation grant.

He also cited salary increases of more than 46 per cent for public servants, along with major infrastructural projects such as the imminent completion of the new Demerara

Harbour Bridge.

“You must get free services in this country. Free facilities in this country. And that’s why education is free. That’s why health facilities is free. That’s why the bridge is free. Shared prosperity. We promise that and we deliver on that. All these free services for the people,” the PM reminded.

Convert this tsunami into a super majority

As the crowd roared in approval, Phillips urged voters to turn their numbers into a decisive victory at the polls. “This gathering tonight is a tsunami. On September 1, we must convert this tsunami into a super majority for the PPP/C,” he declared. “Your vote is the most powerful weapon you have. Five more years means five more years of youth empowerment, women’s development, economic growth and shared prosperity.”

In a pointed critique of the opposition, Phillips dismissed APNU and AFC as “a waste of time” and “dead meat,” while assuring supporters that the PPP/C would continue to deliver on every promise made. “Guyana’s economy is getting better every day. And as we earn more money, we will ensure more services of a high standard are delivered free to you, our people,” the PM concluded.

‘Security forces prepared...

They went into the Venezuelan embassy… So would you risk putting your children's future in their hands? Would you risk putting your own future in their hands? That is what at stake,” Jagdeo said.

Mohamed, who is the Presidential Candidate of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), has been charged for allegedly undervaluing a Lamborghini and submitting falsified documentation to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

The US-sanctioned man was placed on $500,000 bail for tax evasion and fraudulent declaration charges in relation to the purchase of the Lamborghini Roadster SVJ.

The first charge alleged that the 39-year-old on or about December 7, 2020, caused to be made and subscribed, a false declaration to the GRA when he stated on the GRA’s custom declaration form that the purchased amount for the Lamborghini was US$75,300, instead of the true purchase price of

US$695,000.

The second charge accuses Mohamed of, on the same date, fraudulently declaring to the Revenue Authority US$75,300 as the purchase price for the luxury vehicle thus resulting in the sum of $383,383,345 in taxes being evaded.

Mohamed, who is also currently facing sanctions by the US Government over gold smuggling and tax evasion allegations, had pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Further, in 2024, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of

Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) had announced that it sanctioned Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, as well as several of their companies.

According to a statement from OFAC, this is related to the evasion of taxes on gold exports, noting that between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilograms (kg) of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.

Better prices, modern farming tools, expanded agri-opportunities in next term – Pres Ali tells Mahaicony farmers

President Ali, who is seeking a second term in office at the September 1, General and Regional Elections, addressing residents of Mahaicony, Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) on Thursday during a meeting hosted by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) said he is hoping to transform not only the country but also the lives of its citizens.

“I am impatient about this future because, as you know, I do not intend to leave any of this work behind for those who will come after me in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic. We have to get it done and get it done in the next five years.

It is a future about developing small businesses by supporting you with grants, by supporting you with investment opportunities, by supporting you with business innovation opportunities, by giving you the tools, the technical knowledge, the financial support, by giving you what is necessary to succeed in your small business,” he declared.

Region Five is the largest agricultural producing region in Guyana, and President Ali addressed some of his plans to boost agricultural production in

that region.

He said he wants to build a country where the economy will be diversified and farming will be profitable. One in which young people and women can be fully involved in farming.

“Building a country that would lead this region in food security; where we will be exporting food for the rest of the region. A country and for your region, let me speak specifically – we’re talking about building an economy in this region that would supply all of the Caribbean and North America with prawns, with processed food, with packaged lamb, with packaged beef.”

He pointed out that prawn production has already commenced in the region, while a modern abattoir has also been built in Region Five.

“We want to grow our livestock in this region by fivefold. We can’t do that through the normal cycle. That is why we will import bred, high-yielding animals and give it to the farmers, give it to the women, and give them to the young people,” President Ali continued.

“We are not only going to bring in the animals and give them to you. We are going to build a feed mill that

will get corn and soya produced right here in Guyana, so we can get you high-quality feed for your livestock. And then we know also we have to help you, the farmers, with the transportation,” he added.

Rice farming

Making mention of crop insurance, President Ali said the new Government will assist farmers in accessing capital. “We are going to invest with you,” he pledged.

President Ali said small and medium-sized rice farmers must come together and form a consortium, and the Government will give them the needed tools and equipment in an effort to reduce the cost of production, increase their yield and expand their production.

“It is not only about investment in D&I (drainage and irrigation), it is making the farmers the owners of the system, giving the farmers the equipment and empowering them to manage the system so that our farmers will manage the system that protects their farms. It is about working with the new scientists in Guyana and around the world to bring the new variety of paddy that can withstand salt water so that we can have

a risk-averse agricultural system in rice,” Ali told the residents of Mahaicony, of which a large percentage were farmers.

He said his administration will guarantee stable prices for paddy, “Because we will create a stabilisation fund. It is about ensuring that you don’t have to wait for the second crop to be paid, but that there is a fund that ensures you are paid a fair price for your paddy. It’s about building predictability in the system.”

Cash crop farming

The Government will be investing in cold storage facilities in Region Five to assist cash crop farmers.

“So when you have high production, you don’t have to dump it, but you can store it, and the Government will create a purchasing mechanism through the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) to purchase excess production and to take that excess production into value creation,” President Ali said.

“We are building a comprehensive system to support our farmers so they will have predictability in their income, so that they can reduce their risk, increase their profitability, so when they go to the bank, the risk

will be reduced. We will co-invest with them to bring down the cost of interest rate, to reduce the collateral requirement, so that our farmers can borrow cheaper and easier through the banking system.”

President Ali said the Government will be investing in drone technology and precision agriculture technology. The technology to make extension service available to farmers through the telephone of a 24-hour basis. “It is about taking farmers’ education to the field, not to bring farmers to an office in Georgetown. We have to see what the problem is in the field and take the technical service to the field because we have to fix

the problems in the field. It is about working with a financial system to support you, bigger and better, that is what it is about. It is about a future that builds prosperity and creates opportunity.” President Ali said the aim is to also identify opportunities and lead farmers to those opportunities.

“There is no other country in this world that will grow the way we will grow, that will invest in the people the way we will invest, that will build prosperity in your life like we will build – none. Because the aim of this Government in the next five years is to do ten years of work, minimum. So we have to make 24 hours a day count,” he avowed.

Pres Ali lauds CCWU for over 70 years' services to Guyanese working class

President Irfaan Ali, lauded the Clerical and Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU) for its seven decades of dedicated service to the working class, noting that its survival and continued growth

over 77 years is a testament to strong leadership, commitment, and the unwavering support of its members.

“The commitment, the vision and the support of the membership have sustained the CCWU across the decades. I offer sincere congratulations to the CCWU, its leadership, members, and all those who through sacrifice and dedication have carried this noble union from strength to strength,” President Ali expressed.

According to Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton in a social media post, the President on Saturday evening, made the remarks during his feature address at the 6th Triennial

Delegate Conference and 77th Anniversary of the CCWU.

The conference, hosted at Cara Lodge Hotel, was held under the theme “Refine and Reshape Workers’ Identities through Change.”

The event brought together union representatives and stakeholders to reflect on the CCWU’s enduring contribution to workers’ rights and development.

The Head of State reflected on the union’s role in Guyana’s history, noting that the workers’ movement has always been intertwined with the country’s broader struggle for dignity, justice, democracy, and independence.

Highlighting the conference’s theme, President Ali emphasised that workers’ identity must continue to evolve in a rapidly changing global environment.

“Even as a leader, you are still a worker. The notion of workers’ identity is not abstract, it refers to how workers define themselves in relation to their rights, their labour, and their place in society. This identity has been shaped by historical, social and economic factors, and it must continue to adapt as the world of work changes,” he noted.

President Ali underscored the challenges and opportunities posed by globalisation, digitisation, de-

mographic shifts and climate change, pointing to the need for bold strategies to ensure Guyanese workers remain competitive and resilient.

He stressed the importance of reskilling and upskilling to prepare the workforce for emerging industries, particularly in the digital and green economy.

“This Government is going to work with you (unions) and union leaders on reskilling and upskilling the workers, on preparing our people, and on investing in them to meet the challenges of the future,” the President pledged.

He urged unions to expand their traditional roles and partner with Government and employers in shaping labour policy, promoting lifelong learning, and advocating for safe and equitable technological transitions. The President also highlighted his Government’s record of improving conditions for workers. This includes more than 110 collective labour agreements signed in the past five years, salary increases, higher income tax thresholds, and overtime incentives. He also noted the restoration of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant for schoolchildren, which had been discontinued under the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC)

Administration.

He also highlighted the Government’s nationwide distribution of over 53,000 house lots and 39,000 scholarships; the rollback of freight charges and reduction of import taxes to lower the cost of living, and the creation of more than 60,000 jobs opportunities through expanded economic growth. He further highlighted the country’s recently signed Decent Work Country Programme (2025–2030), developed in collaboration with national and international partners, which will strengthen workers’ rights, expand access to benefits, and prepare Guyana’s workforce for future opportunities.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to labour, President Ali stated, “Labour has and will always have a friend in my Government. We have the best interest of the working people at heart because our party has deep roots in the working-class movement. Workers in Guyana have never been better off than they are today and together we will ensure that they share in the prosperity of our nation’s most consequential decade.”

The President urged the delegates to use the conference to generate bold ideas and meaningful action for the future of workers in Guyana.

Faculty of Engineering for Leonora –Ali announces at massive Region 3 rally

ncumbent President

IDr Irfaan Ali has announced that the next People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government will establish a University of Guyana (UG) Faculty of Engineering at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

“Today, some young kids came to me and they said we applied to do civil engineering at the University of Guyana, but they were told that they are out of seats… I said nonsense! We will build the seats in the TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) Centre at Leonora and give you a Faculty of Engineering right here,” Ali told residents of Region Three this evening.

He was at the time addressing supporters at a massive PPP/C Elections Rally held at Stewartville, WCD. According to Ali, who is seeking a second term in office at the upcoming September 1 elections, “No longer must ‘no’ be the answer for the children of our country. We will break every barrier to give them the

opportunity they want [so that] they can be the best they want to be.”

This announcement comes on the heels of the incumbent leader recently revealing plans to establish a UG Medical College at the newly commissioned Tuschen Secondary School. UG currently offers about 17 programmes in its College of Medical Sciences and since the Government made it tuition-free to study at the institution, there have been hundreds of applications.

Ali revealed that over 200 of those applications are from Region Three and as such, to ensure no applicant is denied the opportunity to pursue their education, the decision was taken to make the Tuschen Secondary School a dual-purpose facility.

The school was constructed to the tune of $930 million and would accommodate 800 students, consists of 24 classrooms, scientific and research centres, a multi-purpose hall and cafeteria and a library.

“No one will tell you that there are not enough seats

at the University. We will invest in those seats so your children will be the doctors, the lab technicians, the dental technicians, the biochemists – whatever they want to do, they can do right here in Region Three,” Ali declared

at Sunday’s rally.

Turning to the wider elections campaign, Ali underscored that the PPP/C was offering not just promises, but a proven record of delivery. He contrasted the Government’s record

French Guiana tragedy

“He’s still free”: Mother’s

Tricia Sandy’s life has been consumed by grief and uncertainty since June, when her daughter, Coretta Blair Sandy, known affectionately as Mindy, tragically lost her life during a trip to French Guiana. Coretta, 34, a mother of one, was supposed to travel to the neighbouring country with her husband, Terrence Glasgow, to assist him with carrying personal items. What was meant to be a short visit quickly spiralled into a devastating nightmare that continues to haunt the Sandy family.

According to Tricia, the last time she communicated with her daughter was on June 11, when Coretta failed to check in as she normally did. Days later, Glasgow returned to Guyana alone and told the family that while in Suriname, an altercation occurred with a gang, during which Coretta was shot. However, he never revealed the location of the alleged incident, leaving the family desperate and uncertain.

Glasgow was later arrested and taken into custody in Guyana. But the circumstances surrounding Coretta’s death remained unclear, and despite repeated inquiries at the Cove and John Police Station on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), little information was forthcoming. Investigators had reached out to Surinamese

authorities for assistance, but there was no sign of the woman’s body in the country. Days later, however, the heartbreaking discovery was made that Coretta’s body was not in Suriname at all, but in French Guiana, where the couple were reportedly staying instead. Her body was found wrapped and dumped in a river behind the house where she and Glasgow had lodged. Following this revelation, Glasgow allegedly denied ever telling the family that Coretta had been shot in Suriname. Though he was initially held by police, he was released just 72 hours later under reporting conditions. According to Coretta’s relatives, officers explained that the suspect could not be further detained because the crime had not occurred in Guyana. Months have since passed,

of creating jobs, supporting farmers, and expanding education with what he described as the “hardship and neglect” under the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC)

Administration.

Since assuming office in August 2020, the PPP/C Government has invested heavily on major technological advancements that rely on engineering. The first being the Wales Gas-toEnergy (GtE) Project, which includes a 300-megawatt (MW) power plant and a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility, is already under construction. Once operational, it is expected to supply sufficient cooking gas to meet domestic demand and reduce costs for households. In fact, building on this, the PPP/C’s 2025-20230 manifesto outlines plan for a second Wales-based GtE Project, also with a capacity of up to 300-MW, designed to meet future electricity demand. Beyond Wales, the Government intends to monetise additional offshore gas reserves by developing a major industrial complex in Berbice. This could include power generation for export markets, supported by integration with a deepwater port, new road and bridge infrastructure and potential rail links to northern Brazil.

plea for justice after daughter’s death

but Tricia says the family is still no closer to justice. She revealed that authorities in French Guiana told her the suspect could only be apprehended through Interpol. “They said they will try to get the documents and make arrangements, but so far, nothing has happened,” she explained.

The grieving mother said the lack of formal coordination between jurisdictions has left her family both frustrated and fearful, especially as reports have surfaced that Glasgow has been spotted moving freely across Guyana. She recounted that during Coretta’s funeral in Suriname, investigators asked her to help identify areas on a map linked to Glasgow’s residence in Guyana. Searches are also still being carried out in places near where Coretta’s

body was discovered.

But despite these efforts, Tricia said her family remains in limbo, struggling with the devastating loss of her only child while justice seems increasingly out of reach.

“Every time I think about this thing, I cry… I need him to be arrested im-

mediately,” Tricia said, her voice breaking. “I don’t even live there; I live in Guyana. I have someone there communicating and so on, but if nothing happens, I will have to go back there. Her father was there, and they said they don’t have anything as yet, but they will get him there.” Though she

remains hopeful, Tricia is painfully aware of the toll the long wait for justice has taken. For her, the fight is not only about accountability but about honouring the life of her only child. “Every day is a struggle,” she admitted.

She is hoping that justice to be served swiftly.

Bethany community receives $35M water supply system

Anew $35 million water supply system was launched Friday by Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal at Bethany in Region Two. Approximately 500 residents of the community now have access to reliable drinking water, after community representatives called for a new well

to provide water to homes during this year’s National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference.

According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, residents relied on rainwater harvesting for their daily needs, as Government provided 180 450-gallon water tanks to the commu-

nity in February to alleviate the situation.

With the new system, 85 per cent of the community has a consistent supply of potable water.

The project included the drilling of a 6-inch PVC well, installation of almost two kilometres (km) of distribution network, construction of a photovoltaic

(PV) pumping system, and the erection of a 25 ft by 25 ft chain-link fence.

Fabra Enterprise built the well, while the PV pumping system, fence, and distribution network were completed through a collaborative effort between Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) and the Village Council.

St John’s, Jacklow,

Abraham’s Creek, and St Denny’s are among the communities to benefit from the drilling of new wells.

Wells have been completed at Akawini, Wakapoa, Hackney, Friendship, Marlborough, Dredge Creek, St Monica, and Karawab.

The water systems at Capoey and Mashabo will be

expanded to improve water service and access. At the launch, Minister Croal reaffirmed the Government’s efforts in bolstering access to clean, safe and reliable water in the hinterland regions and riverine communities. Almost $100 million has been invested to construct water systems for riverine communities across Region Two.

Man found dead outside La Penitence Market

The lifeless body of a man was discovered Saturday afternoon just outside one of the gates of La Penitence Market in Georgetown.

Eyewitnesses told this publication that the man, who has not yet been formally identified, was seen lying near the market’s entrance, close to a sponge and pieces of cardboard that vagrants in the area often use as makeshift bedding. He appeared to be of unkempt appearance and some persons in the vicinity suggested that he may have been a vagrant who frequented the location.

Up to Sunday evening, police had not released any official information regarding the discovery. It remains unclear whether the man bore any marks of violence, or if he may have died of natural causes. The grim discovery has unsettled vendors and regular market-goers, many of whom say that while va-

grants often seek shelter around the market, such incidents are rare. This latest case comes just days after the body of another man was found in the drain at a city church. Last Tuesday, an elderly man was discovered dead in a drain outside the Trinity Methodist Church, located between Leopold and High Streets.

According to reports, the man, who appears to be a vagrant, was first seen

sitting on a piece of cardboard in front of the church before entering the trench. He later removed his clothing and began swimming in the water. Moments after, he was observed motionless in the drain. Persons in the area alerted the police, who responded and removed the body from the location. The deceased, who appeared to be of African descent, has not yet been identified. Investigations are ongoing.

PPP/C to strengthen Indigenous communities across Guyana

– duty-free ATVs, boat engines; expanded LCDS funds; CSO stipends, village-level agro-processing access for improved livelihoods

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has committed to a wide-ranging package of measures aimed at strengthening Indigenous communities across Guyana. Among the promises are duty-free concessions for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and boat engines to improve transportation; increased allocations from the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) funds; stipends for Community Support Officers (CSOs), and targeted investments in agro-processing initiatives at the village level. The broad package of commitments for Indigenous communities’ form part of PPP/C’s 2025 elections manifesto, highlighting duty-free concessions, job creation and expanded access to essential services.

Themed “One Country, One People, One Future – Forward Together for a Better Guyana”, the manifesto outlines measures designed to strengthen livelihoods, expand opportunities, and deepen sustainable development in hinterland and riverine regions.

Duty-free taxes on ATVs

Since assuming office in August 2020, the PPP/C Administration has expended over $369 million in land and water transportation. Vehicles and vessels have been made available by the Government last year for residents of Amerindian villages nationwide. Facilitated through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs’

Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) villages were provided more than 43 boats and outboard engines, ensuring safe travel for residents and schoolage children. Against this backdrop, one of the headline promises is the removal of taxes on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and outboard engines of up to 150 horsepower – a move aimed at improving access and mobility across remote communities. Investments will also continue in hinterland roads, bridges, and airstrips to better connect villages with the wider economy.

Expanding LCDS benefits PPP/C also reaffirmed that at least 15 per cent of proceeds from the sale of carbon credits under the LCDS will be allocated directly to Amerindian communities.

The LCDS 2030, is a national framework aimed at fostering a low-carbon economy and sustainable development in Guyana and the globe, reinforcing the need to preserve and protect the planet. In 2023, the Guyana Government signed a multi-year agree-

ment totalling US $750 million with global energy giant, Hess Corporation, that will see $2.5 million in credits being sold to the company annually. These credits are generated by preserving Guyana's vast rainforests, which serve as critical carbon sinks in the global fight against climate change. Guyana's pioneering approach has garnered international acclaim, positioning the country as a leader in sustainable development.

The first payment of US$150 million was received in 2023 and US$22.5 million was disbursed to over 242 Amerindian, hinterland, rural and riverine communities/villages. In its manifesto for 2025- 2030, PPP/C intends to increase access to these funds, which supports Village Sustainability Plans (VSPs), giving residents control over transformative economic and developmental projects, particularly in agriculture, tourism, and community enterprises.

Jobs & youth empowerment

In addition, the PPP/C has pledged to further ex-

NIS expands WhatsApp service for pensioners

To meet the growing demands of the pension population, the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) has expanded its Life Certificate WhatsApp service. Previously limited to six numbers, the service now operates through 20 WhatsApp contacts, allowing pensioners to complete their Life Certificates via a simple video call. The initiative forms part of NIS’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility and convenience for pensioners, both locally and abroad. Through the service, pensioners can verify their identity directly with an NIS agent, eliminating the need for in-person visits. The added capacity aims to reduce wait times and ensure the timely processing of pension payments.

The expanded WhatsApp service can be accessed through the following numbers: +592 751 6401, +592 751 6402, +592 751 6403, +592 751 6404, +592 751 6405, +592 751 6406, +592 751 6407, +592 751 6408, +592 751 6409, +592 751 6410, +592 751 6411, +592 751 6412, +592 751 6413, +592 751 6414, +592 751 6415, +592 751 6416, +592 751 6417, +592 751 6418, +592 751 6419, and +592 751 6420.

The NIS encourages all pensioners, especially those residing overseas, to take advantage of this expanded service. Participants are required to have one form of identification and a blank Life Certificate ready during the video call.

Just a few years ago, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry announced that pensioners who have to provide quarterly Life Certificates to ensure continuous old age pension payments are deposited into their bank accounts, can now make a WhatsApp video call to the Ministry to confirm proof of life.

According to that release, the life certificates were signed and stamped by either a Justice of the Peace, Notary Public, Commissioner of Oaths, Medical Practitioner, Head Teacher, Minister of Religion or a Manager of a Bank or Branch of a Bank, and could be dropped off at any of the Ministry’s offices countrywide, or scanned and emailed to pension@mhsss. gov.gy.

pand the Community Service Officers (CSO) pro

gramme. This will include retraining, upskilling and new employment opportunities for young people in remote areas. Salaries for CSOs are set to increase, with monthly payments guaranteed.

President Dr Irfaan Ali stressed that CSOs will be empowered to move into higher-paying jobs through training in health, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), tourism, and entrepreneurship. Just last year, CSOs received a stipend increase in line with the wages paid to workers under the Government’s parttime jobs initiative. The adjustment raised the stipend from $30,000 to $40,000, The CSO programme is a youth empowerment initiative, specifically targeting Amerindian communities and those in riverine and remote areas. It provides employment and opportunities for personal development through

training in various fields, including tourism and ICT.

Under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) regime, some 2000 CSOs were fired and had to be rehired by the current PPP/C Administration.

Healthcare expansion

The manifesto pledges the rollout of additional telemedicine centres, the provision of better-equipped health posts and increased transportation for health emergencies in the hinterland. The challenges of delivering healthcare to remote and underserved communities have long been a reality for developing nations with geographically dispersed populations. In Guyana, where riverine and hinterland regions remain difficult to access due to terrain and infrastructure limitations, the integration of telemedicine presents a transformative opportunity to close long-standing gaps in the delivery of medical services.

Telemedicine, by design, facilitates two-way, real-time communication between a patient and healthcare provider who are not physically in the same location. Supported by secure audio and video technology, as well as remote diagnostic devices, telemedicine offers not only convenience but also life-saving intervention capabilities for com-

munities where medical professionals and specialised care are in short supply. Since its formal launch in Guyana in 2022, the telemedicine programme has grown to 81 sites across the country, and plans are in place to increase this number significantly on re-election to office following the September 1 polls.

Village-level economies

Moreover, to ensure food security and sustainable incomes, the PPP/C promises increased investments in agro-processing and community-based enterprises. The Government also plans to support the development of village-level tourism, including multi-village tour packages and training to raise service quality. Guyana’s thriving agriculture sector has gained global attention in recent years, listing the country as the only one in the world that can self-sufficiently feed all its citizens.

Guyana could feed its populations in seven food groups: fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, meat, plantbased protein and starchy staples and to support the easy manufacturing of agricultural products, a sum of $800 million was allocated for the agro-processing industry in the 2025 budget.

PPP/C plans to expand the budget for agro-processing and major emphasis will be placed on the expansion of the industry in Amerindian villages.

Twenty-five yearold Andrey Paul, a construction worker of Lot 7 Market Street, Supenaam, Essequibo Coast, was on Thursday charged with the offence of Possession of Narcotics for the Purpose of Trafficking, which occurred Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the Supenaam, Essequibo Coast waterfront.

Meanwhile, 18- yearold -year-old Amelia Couchman, a salesgirl of Supenaam, Essequibo Coast, was charged with the offence of Possession of Narcotics, which also occurred Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the Supenaam, Essequibo Coast waterfront.

Paul was charged for possession of 108.76 grams of cannabis, while Couchman was charged for possession of 29 grams of cannabis.

Paul appeared at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court

on Thursday, August 21 before Magistrate Mohabeer, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty.

Despite the prosecutor objecting to bail, Magistrate Mohabeer granted bail in the sum of a $100,000, on condition that the defendant reports to the Aurora Police Station every last Friday of every month, pending trial.

The case was adjourned to September 19, 2025 for disclosure of statements. Meanwhile, Couchman pleaded guilty when she appeared before Magistrate Mohabeer, also on August 21 at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to her. She was fined $26,100; in default, 2 months’ imprisonment.

Regional

Bolsonaro’s defence rejects Police accusations as “lawfare”

Former Brazilian President Jair

Bolsonaro’s legal team submitted a defense brief to the Supreme Federal Court (STF) on August 22, 2025, strongly disputing a Federal Police report that accused him of breaching court-imposed restrictions.

The filing, signed by attorneys Celso Sanchez Vilardi, Paulo A. da Cunha Bueno, and Daniel Bettamio Tesser, asks Justice Alexandre de Moraes to overturn the order placing Bolsonaro under house arrest or expedite a ruling on a pending appeal.

The report was based on data retrieved from two of Bolsonaro’s cell phones seized earlier this year, alleging violations including social media use, contact with other defendants, and financial transfers.

These measures had been imposed as part of Operation Tempus Veritatis, which investigates Bolsonaro’s alleged involvement in attempts to overturn the 2022 election.

Bolsonaro’s lawyers argue that the police report

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro

misrepresents private conversations and legitimate personal transactions as criminal indicators.

They describe the process as “lawfare”—the strategic use of legal mechanisms to sideline political adversaries.

Among the examples singled out is a draft asylum request to Argentina found on Bolsonaro’s phone in February 2024. Investigators cited it as evidence of a plan to flee, while the defense insists it was an abandoned rascunho (rough draft) that never materialized—pointing out that Bolsonaro complied with all

travel bans, attended hearings, and was at home when his ankle monitor was enforced.

Another contentious element is an SMS from retired general Walter Braga Netto, a co-defendant in the probe, providing a prepaid phone number.

The police concluded that this violated the ban on contact between defendants. Bolsonaro’s lawyers counter that no reply was sent, arguing that silence cannot constitute communication.

The defense also disputes claims related to financial transfers, including a Pix payment from Bolsonaro to his wife, which investigators suggested might indicate money laundering.

His attorneys insist the funds were of lawful origin and accuse authorities of leaking banking data to the press in violation of privacy laws.

A major focus is the use of WhatsApp. Prosecutors allege Bolsonaro used private messaging to bypass the social media ban. (Excerpt from Rio Times)

Antigua & Barbuda to open first dedicated sickle cell care unit

Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to open its first dedicated unit for patients living with sickle cell disease, marking a historic milestone in the country’s healthcare services.

Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph announced that the facility, based at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC), will provide a safe and specialised space for patients, offering overnight accommodation and continuous care for those managing the chron-

ic condition.

“This is the first time in our history that sickle cell patients will have a place where they can be treated and stay overnight. They now have a dedicated place where they can rest,” Sir Molwyn said.

The project is a collaboration between the Ministry of Health, SLBMC, the Sickle Cell Association, and the American University of Antigua. Officials say the unit will provide roundthe-clock care, improve patient outcomes, and help

reduce hospitalisation times.

Most of the infrastructure work has already been completed, with significant repairs made to the building.

The unit will be staffed by a team of specially trained doctors and nurses, with plans for at least two physicians to receive specialist training in sickle cell care.

Officials expect the facility to be fully operational within the next two weeks.

(Antigua News Room)

Jamaica parties attempt to woo Jamaicans with beach access promises at election debate

The ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has labeled as a “farce” the Opposition People’s National Party’s promise of greater access to beaches for Jamaicans if it forms the next government after the September 3 General Election. The JLP has instead proposed introducing a Beach Access Policy in the next Parliament, should it win the upcoming election, which it said would ensure citizens have greater access to the country’s beaches.

Jamaicans have often complained about the limited access to beaches, so it was not surprising that the

issue was raised through a question posed to the three-member PNP debate team at the election debates on Saturday night. In responding for the PNP, Sophia Frazer-Binns posited that under the nine years of the JLP administration, “there have been countless situations” relative to Jamaicans having difficulties accessing beaches, pointing to two popular beaches as examples.

According to a 2024 report, less than 1 percent of the Jamaican coastline is accessible to the public. People’s livelihoods and leisure rely on access to the waters, but locals are pre-

vented from beach access to make room for more all-inclusive resorts for foreign tourists.

Under the Beach Control Act of 1956, the Jamaican public have no inherent rights to bathe, walk or fish at the island’s beaches. The owner of a beachfront property maintains all rights for the access and use of the beach.

Jamaica gained its independence from Britian in 1962, but like Australia, retains the British monarch as its head of state. Many colonial-era laws remain intact to this day. (Source: Jamaica Observer, SBS News)

Flash flooding in parts of T&T after heavy rains

Minister of Rural Development and Local Government Khadijah Ameen says cleanup is underway by workers from the Diego Martin Borough Corporation and the Port of Spain City Corporation after heavy rains caused flash flooding in those communities on August 23.

In a statement on August 22, the Met Office said Trinidad and Tobago would experience periods of moderate to heavy rainfall owing to an active tropical wave.

On August 23, videos were circulating on social media showing flooded roads in parts of Port of Spain.

In a voice note sent to the media, Ameen said there were fallen trees in some areas of Diego Martin, including La Puerta Avenue and Claude Avenue. She said fire services and the TT Electricity Commission (T&TEC) were assisting in removing them.

“We also have flash flooding in Maraval, at Cassia Drive in Petit Valley, in Long Circular Road, Dibe, Goodwood Gardens, Cocorite, and in St James.”

She said there was at least 40 minutes of constant, heavy rainfall.

“The reports I’ve received indicate that it’s only street flooding. But, of course, it’s a concern because of the volume of silt we are seeing coming down and we must, as we continue our flood mitigation,

look to the hills in terms of where we have illegal developments or where the Town and Country Planning (Division) may want to come and revise the approvals that they give for certain parts of the hills and so on for now where the flooding is concerned.”

She said most of the water on the streets ran off in about 30 minutes, noting that some areas took a bit longer.

There was also flooding at East Dry River, where a dramatic scene was cap -

tured on video and quickly spread across social media.

The short clip showed a woman standing in the river as murky floodwaters rushed past her. A man was seen throwing a rope in an attempt to help her, while onlookers gathered at the scene. The woman appeared to be standing close to a wall as the water continued to rise.

Two emergency crews from the Fire Service responded, and officers were able to rescue the woman.

(Excerpt from Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)

Colombian ex-leader pays tribute to assassinated presidential candidate

Former Colombian President Álvaro

Uribe paid tribute to assassinated presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay on Saturday in a park in Bogotá, where he was shot dead. He called for tighter security measures as violence escalates across the country.

The two men are not related but belong to the same political party.

Uribe Turbay died in August after two months in intensive care. His death shocked the country, which was once again confronted with the assassination of a politician campaigning for the presidency, something that had not happened in 30 years.

After his death, his father, Miguel Uribe Londoño, announced he would take his son’s place and run for president.

The visit was one of for-

mer President Uribe’s first public appearances since a judge lifted his house arrest while he appealed a 12-year prison sentence for witness tampering and fraud.

On Saturday, Uribe and members of his Democratic Center Party demanded justice and a thorough investigation into the death of

Uribe Turbay. Six suspects, including a minor suspected of pulling the trigger, are in custody. Authorities are investigating whether a guerrilla movement, which emerged from the now-defunct FARC rebel group of dissidents, was involved. (Excerpt from Star News)

3 sisters drown in migrant boat in Mediterranean, rescuers say

Tyoung sisters have drowned in a rubber boat carrying migrants in the central Mediterranean after waves of up to 1.5m (4.9 ft) repeatedly washed over the vessel, a German rescue charity has said.

About 65 people were rescued, including the sisters’ mother and brother, as well as three pregnant women and a seven-month-old baby, RESQSHIP added.

The “dangerously overcrowded” rubber boat had departed from Libya’s Zuwara city and “started taking on increasing amounts of water” a few hours later, the charity said.

Libya is a major launching pad for migrants who make the treacherous journey across the Mediterranean, hoping to reach the Italian island of Lampedusa.

The sisters who drowned were aged nine, 11 and 17

years, RESQSHIP said in a statement.

Recalling how their bodies were discovered early on Saturday, Barbara Sartore, the charity’s communications coordinator onboard the rescue ship Nadir, said that while survivors were being evacuated one by one, she heard “screams and someone pointed to the water inside the boat”.

“It became clear that there were bodies underneath the surface,” Ms Sartore said.

“The boat was dangerously overcrowded, it was pitch-dark, water was flooding in, people were panicking. In that chaos, it was impossible to see that the three sisters, sitting deep inside the boat, had already drowned. When the survivors realised, it was sheer horror,” she added.

RESQSHIP said that many of the survivors suffered severe chemical burns

caused by the mixture of seawater and petrol inside the boat, and required medical treatment.

One person who had earlier fallen overboard was still missing, the charity added.

Italy’s coastguard evacuated 14 people on Saturday afternoon and took them to Lampedusa, while the rescue ship arrived later with the rest of the survivors and the bodies of the girls.

“What happened to the three sisters is unimaginable, as is the danger that people on the move face in search of safety,” said Katja Schnitzer, a crewmember of the rescue boat.

The charity did not give the nationalities of the girls or the survivors.

UN agencies say that more than 700 people have died trying to cross the central Mediterranean from North Africa this year. (Excerpt from BBC)

States vow to fight Trump official’s stop-work order on offshore wind farm

The Democratic governors of Rhode Island and Connecticut promised on Saturday to fight a Trump administration order halting work on a nearly complete wind farm off their coasts that was expected to be operational next year.

The Revolution Wind project was about 80% complete, with 45 of its 65 turbines already installed, according to the Danish wind farm developer Ørsted, when the US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management sent the firm a letter on Friday ordering it to “halt all ongoing activities”.

“In particular, BOEM is seeking to address concerns related to the protection of national security interests in the United States,” wrote Matt Giacona, the agency’s acting director, adding that Ørsted “may not resume activities” until the agency has completed a review of the project.

Giacona said that the project, which had already

cleared years of federal and state reviews, now needs to be re-examined in light of Donald Trump’s order, on the first day of his second term, to consider “terminating or amending any existing wind energy leases”.

Giacona, whose prior work as a lobbyist for the offshore oil industry alarmed consumer advocates, also said that the review was necessary to “address concerns related to the protection of national security interests of the United States”. He did not specify what those national security concerns are.

Rhode Island’s governor, Dan McKee, criticized the stop-work order and said he and Connecticut’s governor, Ned Lamont, “will pursue every avenue to reverse the decision to halt work on Revolution Wind”, which was “just steps away from powering more than 350,000 homes”.

Senator Chris Murphy, a Connecticut Democrat, connected the decision to

Around the World

African Union backs campaign to replace Mercator map that distorts Africa’s size

The African Union has joined a campaign calling for the widely-used Mercator map, which makes Africa appear smaller than it is, to be replaced with a map that more accurately reflects the continent’s relative size.

AU Commission Deputy Chairperson Selma Malika Haddadi told Reuters when the size of Africa is misrepresented on maps, the world’s perception of the

continent is also distorted, including in media, education and policy.

“It might seem to be just a map, but in reality, it is not,” she said.

Organizations such as Africa No Filter and Speak Up Africa are leading the “Correct The Map” petition.

Trump’s reported pitch last year to oil industry executives to trade $1bn in campaign donations for regulatory favors. “When the oil industry showed up at Mar-a-Lago with a set of demands in exchange for a $1 billion of campaign support for Trump, this is what they were asking for: the destruction of clean energy in America,” Murpy said in a statement.

“This is a story of corruption, plain and simple. President Trump has sold our country out to big corporations with the oil and gas industry at the top of the list,” the senator added. “I will work with my colleagues and Governor Lamont to pursue all legal paths to get this project back on track.”

Trump recently called wind and solar power “THE SCAM OF THE CENTURY!” in a social media post and vowed not to approve wind or “farmer destroying Solar” projects. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

As of last Wednesday evening, the petition was about 800 signatures short of its

goal of 5,000.

“By correcting the map, we aim to shift perceptions and highlight the true scale, power, and potential of the African continent,” the campaign explained in a slideshow presentation about the effort, which is provided as a resource on its website.

Members of the Correct

The Map campaign are instead encouraging global entities to adopt the Equal

Earth map, which was developed in 2017 by cartographer Tom Patterson and his colleagues.

Patterson’s map projection is what’s known as an equal area map. It shows the true relative sizes of countries and continents, but their shapes are distorted. The Mercator map is conformal, which means shapes are preserved, but actual sizes are distorted.

The Mercator map was developed in 1569 by Gerardus Mercator, a Flemish cartographer. The map allowed explorers to plot their journey in a straight line without having to adjust their compasses.

“That was extremely useful during the age of exploration and European colonialism,” Patterson told NPR. “It almost became the de facto world map.”

On Mercator’s map, Africa appears to be about the same size as Greenland, he said. In reality, it’s about 14 times bigger.

“If you’re using the Mercator map as a world map, say, in the classroom, students would just have a completely warped view of the size of countries in the world,” Patterson said. (Excerpt from NPR)

Khameni says US seeks Iran’s ‘obedience’ ahead of nuclear talks with West

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that the United States wants Tehran “to be obedient” to it, but the Iranian people will resist such “a grave insult”, state media reported on Sunday.

“They want Iran to be obedient to America. The Iranian nation will stand with all of its power against those who have such erroneous expectations,” Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said during a religious event on Sunday.

“People who ask us not to issue slogans against the US … to have direct negotiations with the US only see appearances … This issue is unsolvable”, he

said amid a standoff with Western powers over Iran’s nuclear programme.

Khamenei’s comments come after Iran and European powers agreed

on Friday to resume talks to try to restart full negotiations on curbing Tehran’s nuclear enrichment work. France, Britain and Germany said they could reactivate United Nations sanctions on Iran under a “snapback” mechanism if Tehran does not return to the table. They are expected to hold talks on Tuesday. Tehran had suspended nuclear negotiations with the US after Washington and Israel bombed its nuclear sites during a 12-day war in June.

He urged Iranians to stay united to confront what he described as US efforts to subjugate the country. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Draw on your resources for facts and solutions. A shift in how you invest and earn a living is apparent. An unexpected event will turn into a blessing in disguise.

SUDOKU

Look for the good in everyone and everything. A pessimistic or stubborn approach will lead to trouble. Life is about more than perfection or always getting your way.

Set yourself up for success. Mingle, network and market yourself by offering your skills and experience to those you want or need to impress. Explore and express your thoughts.

Lead without force. Capturing the attention of those already on your team will help you build a solid foundation. Invest more in yourself, your skills and your dreams.

Draw on your resources and forge ahead with confidence. You have plenty to gain if you are open to suggestions, use your creativity to expand your interests, and welcome suggestions, changes and contributions.

Allocate your dollars to something that contributes to personal growth. A kind or romantic gesture can lead to a sense of responsibility and security, helping you put your life into perspective.

Refuse to get caught up in someone's drama. Spare yourself grief, save your reputation and maintain your position. Focus your energy on building wealth and fostering a healthy lifestyle.

Live, learn and experience pastimes that help you grow emotionally. Let your physical needs come front and center. Everyone has a right to freedom of thought.

Tidy up loose ends first, and you'll experience an attitude shift that will enhance your day. A commitment to someone special will lead to plans that require a budget and research.

Gauge your time and the requests others make, and refrain from taking on too much. Someone will take advantage of you or try to take ownership of something that belongs to you.

You're on the path to growth and gain. Review your options, set a budget and be relentless in your quest to excel. Personal and professional improvements are within reach.

Recognize when someone is jealous or uses emotional manipulation to hold you back. Sometimes, the ones you least expect are the ones you must watch out for most. Keep your eyes open and protect your secrets.

Centuries from Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and a maiden One-Day International (ODI) hundred from Cameron Green, off just 47 balls, took Australia to their second-highest ODI total, behind their 434 for 4 against South Africa 19 years ago.

But there was no repeat of that match, as South Africa were bowled out for 155 and slumped to their heaviest defeat by runs by 276 runs to finish the series 2-1 winners. The consolation win meant that Australia’s record of never being whitewashed in an ODI series at home remained intact and completed their second-biggest ODI victory.

While Australia’s seamers found movement under lights to blunt South Africa, the second innings belonged to Cooper Connolly. At 22 years and two days old, he became the youngest Australian to take a fivefor in ODIs and the first Australian to do so since March 2023. He also finished with the best figures by an Australian spinner in the format.

All three matches in the series have been won by the team batting first, and all by big margins. In Mackay, it was noticeable how much more the ball did under lights and that difference in conditions prompted Marsh to bat first for the first time in 22 tosses. He would have been even happier with the way Australia responded to his call.

After being bowled out for under 200 in the first two matches of the series, Australia showed they meant business when Marsh and Head shared in Australia’s fourth-highest opening stand

of 250. They batted together for 34.1 overs which still left plenty of time for Green to score the second-fastest ODI hundred for Australia after Glenn Maxwell. In the process, Australia also became only the second side in which the top three all scored centuries in an ODI innings.

The other team to have achieved that feat was South Africa against West Indies, a decade ago at altitude in Johannesburg. Australia’s trio of hundreds came on the Queensland coast, on a used but flat pitch, and against a weakened South African attack.

With Kagiso Rabada out of the series with an ankle injury and Lungi Ngidi rested, South Africa lacked discipline upfront and strug-

seven overs and only Keshav Maharaj conceded at under six runs an over.

Maphaka and Mulder took the new balls against an Australian pair who

gled to rein Australia in at any stage. Kwena Maphaka, playing in just his third ODI, gave away 73 runs in six overs, Wiaan Mulder was at his most expensive with 93 runs scored off his

showed no mercy. When they raced to 41 without loss after four overs, returning captain Temba Bavuma had to introduce spin early. While Maharaj and Aiden Markram’s first overs were boundary-less, the pause in power hitting was only temporary.

Head brought up fifty off 32 balls and at that point had scored twice as many runs as Marsh, and only faced 10 more balls. It looked as though Head would race to a hundred before Marsh reached fifty, but the Australian Captain got there when he drove Corbin Bosch square off his 50th delivery.

Head’s hundred came off 80 balls, with a single from Senuran Muthusamy and his signature helmet-on-bat celebration, fitting of the significance of the moment. Head last scored an inter-

national century 25 innings ago in all formats.

The Head-Marsh partnership grew to 200 by the 28th over, and was Australia’s first double-century stand since the 2023 World Cup, when Maxwell went wild in their victory over Afghanistan. Six overs later, their stand reached 250 as Head took 19 runs off Markram. With 150 and beyond in his sights, it seemed Head could do no wrong, but he could not clear long-off against Maharaj.

In the over after his dismissal, Marsh reached his hundred, from 105 balls. He was also set for more, but top-edged a slog-sweep off Muthusamy, and Ryan Rickelton ran from behind the stumps to square leg to take the catch.

Australia promoted Green ahead of Marnus Labuschagne and gave him a licence to thrill. By the time Maphaka was brought back in the 43rd over, Green had his eye in. He brought up fifty off 28 deliveries when he hit Maphaka over midwicket for six, in an over that cost 20. Maphaka’s day got worse when he dropped Alex Carey on 29.

Green then launched a magnificent assault on Muthusamy and sent him for a hat-trick of sixes to enter the 80s having declined a single to retain the strike. Twin sixes off Mulder put him on the brink and then Green reached his hundred with two off Bosch. He finished unbeaten on 118.

Carey iced the cake by reaching his 13th ODI half-century off 37 balls. The third-wicket stand between Green and Carey was worth 164 off 13.3 overs, at a scoring rate of 12.14 and Australia added 126 runs off the last 10 overs.

Faced with a daunting target, South Africa’s start was always going to determine how things went and it was badly. Markram’s struggles outside the off stump remain and he nicked Sean Abbott to second slip in the second over. Rickelton has also had a difficult tour and handed Connolly a catch at midwicket to depart for 11.

In the next over, Bavuma, whose approach was aggressive as he reached 19 off 10 balls, advanced on Abbott, swung and chopped on. By the ninth over, Tristan Stubbs was also dismissed, caught at cover off Xavier Bartlett. From 50 for 4, 431 was a world away. Tony de Zorzi and Dewald Brevis shared in South Africa›s best partnership, but de Zorzi played a poor shot and was caught at midwicket when he tried to pull Connolly over the inner ring. Brevis looked the best of the South Africans, especially with his two sixes off Adam Zampa, but holed out to long-off on 49 to give Connolly a second wicket.

Australia (50 ovs maximum)

Travis Head c Brevis

b Maharaj 142

Mitchell Marsh (c) c †Rickelton

b Muthusamy 100

Cameron Green not out 118

Alex Carey not out 50

Extras (b 2, lb 3, nb 1, w 15) 21

Total 50 Ov (RR: 8.62) 431/2

Did not bat: Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis †, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa

Fall of wickets: 1-250 (Travis Head, 34.1 ov), 2-267 (Mitchell Marsh, 36.3 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Kwena Maphaka 6-0-73-0

Wiaan Mulder 7-0-93-0

Keshav Maharaj 10-0-57-1

Aiden Markram 8-0-60-0

Corbin Bosch 10-0-68-0

Senuran Muthusamy 9-0-75-1

South Africa (T: 432 runs from 50 ovs)

Aiden Markram c Green

b Abbott 2 Ryan Rickelton † c Connolly

b Bartlett 11

Temba Bavuma (c) b Abbott 19

Tony de Zorzi c Carey

His next two came courtesy of spectacular catching by Labuschagne at long-on. He caught Mulder low off the turf running in, and Bosch when he dived full length and avoided the boundary rope. While Connolly had the fielders to thank for his earlier wickets, his fifth came through a clever piece of bowling. He drew Maharaj forward with a flighted ball, beat him as he slogged across the line and Josh Inglis did the rest. Zampa took the final wicket in the 25th over, as South Africa were bowled out with more than half their overs remaining. (ESPNcricinfo)

b Connolly 33

Tristan Stubbs c Abbott b Bartlett 1 Dewald Brevis c Green b Connolly 49 Wiaan Mulder c Labuschagne b Connolly 5 Corbin Bosch c Labuschagne b Connolly 17 Keshav Maharaj st †Inglis

Junior Lady Jags honoured at award ceremony following strong CFU U14 campaign

Guyana’s national under-14 girls’ football team, the Junior Lady Jags, returned home on Saturday to a warm welcome and an award ceremony held at the National Training Centre, where parents, coaching staff, and Guyana Football Federation (GFF) officials gathered to celebrate their impressive run at the 2025 Caribbean Football Union (CFU) U14 Girls Challenge Series.

Guyana topped its group stage undefeated, advancing to the semi-finals where they battled bravely against French Guiana. Despite falling short by one goal in a

penalty shootout to narrowly miss a spot in the final, the young and majority-Indige-

Guyana set for tough qualification path at FIBA 3x3 AmeriCup in Mexico

Guyana’s men’s 3x3 basketball team will once again face the qualifying round at the prestigious FIBA 3x3 AmeriCup, set for November 27-30 in León, Mexico.

The FIBA 3x3 AmeriCup is the premier competition for countries in the Americas Zone, bringing together the region’s top teams.

Guyana have yet to secure direct entry into the main draw of the men’s tournament.

The nation’s best performance came in 2022 when the quartet of Delroy James, Gordon James, Nikkoloi Smith, and Shelroy Thomas advanced from the qualifiers and narrowly missed out on a quarter-final berth in Miami.

This year, Guyana have been drawn in Group A of the qualifying round and will face Jamaica and St Lucia on November 27.

A successful outing will see Guyana advance to the main draw in Group B alongside regional powerhouses Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

The Main Draw already features host nation Mexico, defending champions USA,

Canada, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Chile, Brazil, and Argentina.

In addition to Guyana, Jamaica, and St Lucia, other countries battling in the qualifiers include Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts and Nevis, Haiti, The Bahamas, Venezuela, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Ecuador.

To prepare for the tournament, the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) will host its National 3x3 Championship on September 27-28 at the Seawall Bandstand.

The championship will serve as the official qualifi-

er to shortlist and select the players who will represent Guyana in Mexico.

GBF President Michael Singh described the draw as challenging, but expressed optimism, adding “St Lucia

and Jamaica are worthy opponents, but we believe in the talent at our disposal. We are determined to field a team capable of surpassing our 2022 showing.”

According to Singh, the GBF “look forward to the National Championships, and is excited to see locally-based players competing with those arriving from overseas. This will give us a good view of our talent pool and allow us to select the best possible team to represent Guyana”.

At last year’s AmeriCup in Puerto Rico, Guyana’s team of Harold Adams, Nikkoli Smith, Travis Belgrave, and Dominic Vincente fell short in the qualifiers against the Cayman Islands and Haiti.

Pushpargha Chattopadhyay praised the team’s commitment and spirit, noting that their achievements marked an important step for women’s football in Guyana. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the GFF Council for the players’ efforts in representing the country on the international stage and reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to supporting their continued

was joined by Blue Water Shipping Senior Vice President (Sales and Development) Richard DeNobrega, who also congratulated the team on the occasion. The GFF Council is grateful to Blue Water Shipping for being an important stakeholder of women’s football in Guyana. The company has served as the title sponsor for the U-15 Blue

development.

“The Junior Lady Jags have made us proud. Their fight, discipline, and passion show the potential of this new generation. The GFF will continue to support their journey as they grow, with the hope that many of them will one day make the transition to the senior women’s national team,” Chattopadhyay said.

The General Secretary

LWater Secondary Girls InterSchool Championship, from which the majority of the girls in the team were scouted.

The ceremony highlighted not only the team’s results but also the importance of building a pathway for young female footballers, ensuring that their international experience becomes a stepping stone towards future success.

Tucber Park brush Blairmont in BCB 2-day fixture

4-51. In response, Tucber Park managed 2425 when stumps were drawn on the opening day.

The lads from New Amsterdam resumed the second day and added 49 runs to be dismissed for 291 in their first innings.

ed by Kwesi Mickle and Zeynul Ramsammy, Tucber Park defeated Blairmont by an innings and 50 runs at the Blairmont Community Centre Ground in the second round of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) TwoDay First-Division fixture.

Batting first, Blairmont managed only 127 all out in 54.2 overs, with Nigel Deodat leading the batting with 39 runs. With his rightarm off-spin, Mickle captured 5-36 and was supported by Ramsammy, who had

Berbice managed only 111 all out.

Mickle was again the star performer, scoring a composed 65.

Earlier, opener Kevin Kisten scored a pugnacious 63 for Tucber Park to set the tone while wicket-keeper-batsman Tomani Caesar contributed 41 to give the visitors the upper hand.

Left-arm spinner Deodat capped off a solid all-round game with 5-83, and he had support from Seon Glasgow, who had 3-56 with his offspin.

Blairmont were behind the ball game, with a deficit of 162. Batting a second time, the boys from West

The classy Deodat scored an even fifty for Blairmont, but that proved insufficient. Leg-spinner Ramsammy returned in the second innings to claim 5-33, ending the game with nine wickets. Ramsammy, who played in the Breakout League earlier this year for Guyana Rainforest Rangers, extracted turn and bounce with his leggies.

The experienced Mickle had 3-30, ending the game with eight wickets, and a half-century to his name.

National senior fast bowler Nial Smith supported with 2-12 in Tucber Park’s dominant victory.

Tucber Park’s next opponent in the BCB two-day tournament will be Rose Hall Canje Community Centre Ground. The match is set for August 30-31 at Rose Hall Canje.

GRepublic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) was another riveting contest that went down to the final over with Antigua & Barbuda Falcons pipping Saint Kitts & Nevis Patriots by seven wickets with just two balls remaining.

Imad Wasim won the toss and the Falcons chose to bowl first in their last match on home soil in this tournament. A solid effort with the ball and in the field saw three run-outs in the final over as the Patriots failed to fire with the bat and lost regular wickets.

Jayden Seales impressed with a threatening and economical set of four overs that saw him return frugal figures of 1-20.

Sensational Shakib puts Falcons back on winning course

half-century of the tournament to get his side over the line at the last.

Jason Holder bowled the final over with three runs needed off it, the tension was palpable, but Gore held his nerve to strike a four down the ground that burst through the hands of the fielder at mid-on and sealed the win in front of jubilant home support.

The Falcons chalked up their third win of the campaign to extend their lead at the top of the table by three points over Guyana Amazon Warriors albeit they have played six matches to the Warriors’ two.

The defeat leaves the Patriots in mid-table with a few injury niggles floating around the camp that will be a concern to Holder and their fans as the tournament progresses deeper. (CPLT20)

St Kitts and Nevis Patriots (20 ovs maximum) Evin Lewis c †Gous b Salman Irshad 32

Andre Fletcher (c) c Springer

b Seales 16

Rilee Rossouw c Andrew

b Springer 10

Mohammad Rizwan † c &

b Shakib Al Hasan 30

Kyle Mayers c Usama Mir

b Shakib Al Hasan 18

Jason Holder run out (†Gous) 9

Navin Bidaisee c Salman Irshad

b Shakib Al Hasan 1

Abbas Afridi run out (Shakib Al Hasan/Imad Wasim/†Gous) 8 Naseem Shah not out 4 Ashmead Nedd run out (Allen) 0 Waqar Salamkheil not out 0 Extras (b 1, lb 1, w 3) 5

Total 20 Ov (RR: 6.65) 133/9

Fall of wickets: 0-19* (Evin Lewis, retired not out), 1-20 (Andre Fletcher, 3.6 ov), 2-32 (Rilee Rossouw, 6.2 ov), 3-81 (Evin Lewis, 13.1 ov), 4-95 (Mohammad Rizwan, 14.6 ov), 5-110 (Kyle Mayers, 16.2 ov), 6-112 (Navin Bidaisee, 16.5 ov), 7-127 (Jason Holder, 19.1 ov), 8-129 (Abbas Afridi, 19.2 ov), 9-132 (Ashmead Nedd, 19.4 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Imad Wasim 2-0-15-0