Guyana Times - Monday, September 1, 2025

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, September 1 – no retraction and Tuesday, September 2 – no retraction.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, September 1 –10:20h–11:50h and Tuesday, September 2 – 12:15h–13:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Sunny skies are expected during the day, interrupted by thundery to light showers in the morning hours. Clear to cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.92 metres.

High Tide: 10:33h and 22:58h reaching maximum heights of 2.01 metres and 2.07 metres.

Low Tide: 16:23h reaching a minimum height of 1.24 metres.

General and Regional Elections

“Vote free from fear, intimidation & pressure; your choice is yours alone” – President

As Guyanese head to the polls today to cast their ballots, incumbent President Dr Irfaan Ali has encouraged citizens to exercise this democratic right without any fear while calling on political parties contesting the General and Regional Elections to act responsibly in the interest of the country and accept the results.

In an Address to the Nation on Sunday, Dr Ali underscored the importance of this sacred right to vote in any elections. He said the right to elect a Government and representatives of the National Assembly and Regional Democratic Councils (RDC) was not handed down without cost but earned through sacrifice and struggles.

“The right to freely and fairly elect a Government of one’s choice is the very lifeblood of democracy. It is the solemn instrument through which we, the people, give direction to our nation’s course and determine the leadership that will, over the next five years, guide our destiny… To neglect this right is to dishonour their sacrifice. To surrender it carelessly is to imperil our sovereignty.”

“Therefore, I urge every Guyanese, wherever you reside, whomever you support, whatever your station in life, to go forth on Monday (today) and cast your ballot. Do so with confidence, do so with dignity, and do so in a manner befitting a proud and free people. Vote free from fear. Vote free from intimidation. Vote with the assurance that your choice is yours alone, and that the right of your neighbour to make his or her choice is to be respected as zealously as your own,” the Head of State noted. According to Dr Ali, elections should not divide the people of Guyana but serves as a mechanism to unify them under the banner of democratic sovereignty. He urged citizens to respect each other’s choices, but more so respect the collective will of the Guyanese people.

Act responsibly, accept results

To this end, he urged that the results of the upcoming elections, whatever they may be, is accepted by all stakeholders.

“When the ballots are counted and the results declared, let us not allow bitterness, enmity or disappointment to stain the

process. Let us not allow divisiveness, hatred, or suspicion to corrode the bonds of fraternity that bind us as one nation. Instead, let peace and good order characterise these elections, as they must characterise the life of our Republic. And when the results are known, and the nation turns its face towards the future, we must be prepared to set aside narrow partisan differences and join hands in the service of the common good,” he added.

The Guyanese leader went onto to state that the conduct of these elections must set the tone for a spirit of collaboration, a willingness to compromise, a

dedication to national development, and a renewed commitment to the unity and harmony of the country’s people. As Commanderin-Chief, Dr Ali said the law enforcement agencies have already given the assurance that they stand vigilant, ready to safeguard the peace and to preserve order.

“They have pledged to respond firmly and condignly to any threat of disruption, and I have every confidence in their capacity to secure the stability of our land. Yet, I submit that the greater responsibility lies not with them, but with us, all of us. Peace will prevail not because it is enforced, but because it is embraced.

I therefore appeal to every citizen, and particularly to our political leaders and activists, to act responsibly in word and deed. Let us avoid inflammatory rhetoric, let us respect the rules of the electoral process, let us temper our passions and allow good sense and decency to guide our actions,” he implored.

Ali’s pleas come on the heels of at least two political parties contesting the elections previously indicating their intention to reject the results and have threatened electoral peace. Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken has already warned that “any attempt to create disorder, intimidate others or break the law, will be dealt with swiftly.” Nevertheless, reminding that the eyes of the world are upon Guyana at this time, President Ali implored that the country set an example of a people who can disagree without discord, contest without contempt, and choose without chaos.

“I urge that through our actions we ensure that these elections are peaceful and orderly; that our democracy once more prevails with honour; and that our Motherland emerge stronger and more united. May God bless our people, safeguard our democracy, and guide our beloved Guyana,” he posited.

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The benchmark of elections

Today, Guyana goes to the polls to elect our Government for the next five years. The US has had the longest experience with democratic elections and their exposition on “The Benchmark of Elections” is salutary: “Elections are the central institution of democratic representative governments. Why? Because, in a democracy, the authority of the Government derives solely from the consent of the governed. The principal mechanism for translating that consent into governmental authority is the holding of free and fair elections.”

But it cautioned, that based on its experience, “All modern democracies hold elections, but not all elections are democratic.” In answering the question, “What Are Democratic Elections?”, the statement pointed out that “Jeane Kirkpatrick, scholar and former US Ambassador to the United Nations, has offered this definition: "Democratic elections are not merely symbolic....They are competitive, periodic, inclusive, definitive elections in which the chief decision-makers in a Government are selected by citizens who enjoy broad freedom to criticise Government, to publish their criticism and to present alternatives."

The US statement elaborated in more concrete terms on the non-negotiability of “free and fair elections” for democratic governance: “Democracies thrive on openness and accountability, with one very important exception: the act of voting itself. To cast a free ballot and minimise the opportunity for intimidation, voters in a democracy must be permitted to cast their ballots in secret. At the same time, the protection of the ballot box and tallying of vote totals must be conducted as openly as possible, so that citizens are confident that the results are accurate and that the Government does, indeed, rest upon their "consent."

When the election is over, the losers accept the judgment of the voters. If the incumbent party loses, it turns over power peacefully. No matter who wins, both sides agree to cooperate in solving the common problems of the society. The losers, now in the political Opposition, know that they will not lose their lives or go to jail. On the contrary, the Opposition, whether it consists of one party or many, can continue to participate in public life with the knowledge that its role is essential in any democracy worthy of the name. They are loyal not to the specific policies of the Government, but to the fundamental legitimacy of the State and to the democratic process itself.

As the next election comes around, Opposition parties will again have the opportunity to compete for power. In addition, a pluralistic society, one in which the reach of Government is limited, tends to offer election losers alternatives for public service outside Government. Those defeated at the polls may choose to continue as a formal Opposition party, but they may also decide to participate in the wider political process and debate through writing, teaching, or joining one of many private organisations concerned with public policy issues. Democratic elections, after all, are not a fight for survival but a competition to serve.”

In Guyana, however, some politicians who are vying to represent “the people” in Government exploit our divisions when they seek to agglomerate votes by claiming to be willing to articulate the interests of the particular camps. Democratic politicians, then, represent “part” of the electorate; hence the term “party” to describe their vehicle of representation. This origin also gave us the word “partisan” to describe the stance of both those who represent, and are represented, in politics.

In the development of our politics, the dangers of partisanship become obvious when the positions of the various camps are severely dichotomised and the camps begin to see politics as a zero-sum proposition and opponents become “enemies”. Politics become a “no-holds-barred” affair where parties are not only willing to rig elections but unleash violence that can extend literally into civil wars.

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) hosted a two-day Customer Service and Serving Etiquette Training for Wait Staff last week, which aimed to equip trainees with practical service skills to enhance service quality in Guyana’s hospitality industry. Day One focused on customer service principles while day two provided hands-on training in a real service environment

China summit has been called “axis of upheaval” – and that feels right when you look at guest list

IGuyanese know who have violated these democratic rules – as recently as March 2000 – and who have observed them and deserve their vote today. We should vote for the party that has shown it governs for all Guyana. B y H elen -A nn S

t's the start of a very big week for China, and there is a clear sense they know the world is watching.

Amidst a fractious time for the world order, as wars rage and previously trusted international norms are cast into doubt, China is playing a calculated diplomatic game, and this week is about showing off what it can do.

Indeed, at a time when Donald Trump's America feels increasingly unilateral, with traditional allies overlooked or alienated with tariffs, China is showcasing its ability to convene, its ability to lead and its thinly-veiled desire to forge a new world order around distinctly anti-American themes.

You may well not have heard of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit or the SCO, but it's the first in a series of major events in China this week, convening leaders from some of the world's most significant and some would say 'disruptive' nations.

On the face of it it's a security forum, founded initially with just a handful of China's immediate neighbours to discuss border disputes. But it has ballooned into a network of some 26 countries from

Asia, Europe and Africa covering a remarkable 43 per cent of the world's population and 23 per cent of its GDP.

Some have termed it the "axis of upheaval" and that feels about right when you look at the guest list; leaders from Russia, Iran, India, Pakistan, Myanmar, Belarus and Turkey will all be there.

And while they are not bound by any sort of mutual defence treaty and there will unlikely be any major pacts or agreements, the optics will no doubt be striking and absolutely designed to rattle those looking on from the West.

Of course, a key focus will be the war in Ukraine and Trump's faltering attempts to forge peace.

Vladimir Putin will be a guest of honour and there could hardly be a better forum for him to shore up his support amongst the nations that have kept his country afloat.

China has consistently cast itself as neutral on Ukraine, but it's been an economic lifeline for Putin's war effort, providing it with components, a ready market for its oil and gas, and significant diplomatic cover.

While China does have some interest in the war coming to an end – it loathes unpredictability and is already lining up to

secure contracts to rebuild Ukraine. But it also won't want to see any outcome that leaves Putin looking weak or Trump looking successful.

Indeed, in China's view, the war is a good distraction for America. While Trump is caught up with Putin, he has less bandwidth to direct his ire towards them.

The presence of India's Narendra Modi is also a remarkable coup for Xi Jinping. Be in no doubt, there is no love lost between the world's two most populous nations. They share a bitter border dispute that turned violent in 2020 and an intense regional rivalry. Also Modi has not been to China for seven years.

But this summit comes at a time when the USIndia relationship has soured dramatically. For years, the US has worked hard to court India as a vital partner in the region, but now Trump has slapped a total of 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, while Modi was reportedly furious at the way he took credit for 'resolving' a flare-up of tensions with Pakistan earlier this summer.

China is more than happy to welcome those Trump pushes away.

A week of frenzied diplomacy will climax

on Wednesday with an enormous military parade through Beijing's Tiananmen Square to mark 80 years since the surrender of Japan in World War Two.

This time Xi will be joined not just by Putin, but by Kim Jong Un of North Korea too, the first time the leader of the hermit kingdom has attended a multilateral event of this size.

They will watch tens of thousands of soldiers marching alongside "fourth generation" weaponry, some which will be unveiled to the public for the first time.

It will be a fitting way to end a week of stark symbolism.

Because ultimately, this week is about China burnishing its power. Its firepower yes, but its political power too.

The power of its allegiances, the power of its economy, and the power for it to provide alternatives at a time when America is increasingly unpredictable.

The only question is to what extent the rest of the world is buying in – from here it feels like many are.

(SkyNews)

(Helen-Ann Smith is an Asia correspondent, based in Beijing, with a particular focus on China, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and North Korea.)

GECOM “fully prepared” for today’s elections – CEO Persaud …results

to be known by September 3

intact and accounted for.

Head of Election Secretariat at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud, has assured that they are fully prepared for the holding of General and Regional Elections today. At a press conference on Sunday –less than 24 hours before polls open today, Persaud said, “We, at this time, are fully prepared to conduct the General and Regional Elections tomorrow (today)… We, at the level of the [Election] Secretariat…reaffirm our commitment to deliver free, fair and credible elections.” According to the CEO, this position was bolstered by feedback received from the Returning Officers (RO), as of Sunday, that “everything is in place for the conduct of these elections.”

Over the last few days, ballot boxes and other sensitive materials were transported to the 10 Districts across the country and will be distributed within adequate time ahead of the opening of polls at 06:00h today. Persaud explained that materials for polling stations that are located in some riverine and remote hinterland areas were dispatched on Sunday to ensure they are fully equipped for the timely opening of the poll. However, in one instance, during the transportation of the ballot boxes to remote polling stations in District Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), the GECOM staff, while being escorted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers, came under fire from the Venezuelan shore while in the Upper Cuyuni River.

The Guyanese officers returned fire and managed to get everyone to safety, the Joint Services said in a statement on Sunday.

On the other hand, GECOM, in a separate missive, confirmed that all ballot boxes scheduled for delivery were successfully delivered without damage or delay, with all election materials fully

There are 757,690 registered voters across the 10 Administrative Regions (Districts) who are listed to vote at some 2,790 polling stations across the country. In a late notice on Sunday evening, GECOM indicated that there was a change in the location of one of the polling stations in District Four along the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

Relocation of polling station

According to the Commission, it was contacted by the owner of a private residence at Hibiscus Drive, Peters Hall, EBD, on Sunday, indicating that he was no longer interested in his property being used as a polling station.

“Against this backdrop, GECOM’s logistics team immediately sought and finalised an alternative arrangement. As such, the persons initially listed to vote at that place will now vote at the CARICOM General Insurance Company which is located a short distance away from the original location.

Electors who were listed to vote at the Hibiscus Drive location are asked to take note of the new venue of their polling station,” the election body stated. Meanwhile, one of the six political parties contesting the elections, the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), had made a request to GECOM to increase the number of polling stations in some areas along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) where there were too many voters listed at certain locations and where persons had to go a far distance to vote.

According to CEO Persaud, while there were no disagreements on this request, the seven-member Commission during a meeting on Saturday unanimously decided not to approve it, given the short notice before elections day. Notwithstanding this decision, the CEO noted that GECOM’s Logistics Manager examined the locations highlighted and found that the party was

“justifiable” in its requests for at least 12 of them. “The conclusion was that the time available to facilitate this change was insufficient and therefore, they were not approved,” he explained.

Another issue that the seven-member Elections Commission had to deal with during Saturday’s meeting was the late submission by at least four political parties for the appointment of their polling day agents. Section 24 (2) of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) requires that such notification be given to the respective RO no later than seven (7) days before election day. But the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), Alliance for Change (AFC), Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) and Assembly of Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) political parties had all missed the statutory timeline for the submission of the appointment of Assistant Agents, Polling Agents and Candidates to the Poll and to the Count. Nevertheless, the Commission again unanimously agreed to facilitate the late submission – a decision that the CEO says was done “…in the inter -

est of fairness and transparency and to ensure the integrity of the [electoral] process.”

Of the six parties contesting the elections today, the PPP/C, WIN, AFC and APNU are contesting in all 10 Regions while the FGM party is contesting seven regions and ALP party is contesting six regions.

Election results

GECOM has employed a total of 11,718 staff in varying positions and roles to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections. According to the CEO, “These staff have been trained to ensure consistency, transparency and professionalism throughout the implementation of their respective tasks.”

Previously, Persaud had disclosed that persons were declining to take up the responsibility of Presiding Officers (PO). On Sunday, he reported that this issue was sorted after they rearranged and shifted around staff members. “We have no void of Presiding Officers or any other officers,” the CEO declared. He further dismissed claims that army officers would be used to fill these gaps, stressing, “That will not hap -

pen.” Meanwhile, the GPF will deploy approximately 8,700 officers to maintain order during the electoral process today and the days afterwards. The transparency and credibility of the election process will be further enhanced as some 500 local observers and about 200 international observers will be monitoring the activities. CEO Persaud indicated on Sunday that, practically, results from each district/region can be expected by the evening of September 3 – one day later than he had previously indicated. This timeline, Persaud explained during the press conference, takes into account the extensive

tabulation process and the time it would take to upload the Statement of Polls (SoP) from each of the polling stations in the various districts. He added that arrangements have been put in place to ensure every polling station is adequately equipped and powered to allow for a smooth flow of these processes. According to the CEO, once the results are declared in each district by the evening of September 3, and barring there are no major delays or Requests for Recounts from any of the contesting political parties, national results could be declared by GECOM the following morning.

Quadrilaterals

A quadrilateral is a 2-dimensional figure with four sides – and four angles. The following are the main types of quadrilaterals

TExercises:

Identify: Determine the type of quadrilateral

By DA Powell

either the postagestamp-bright inflorescence of wild mustard or the drab tassel of prairie smoke, waving its dirty garments either the low breeze through the cracked window or houseflies and drawn blinds to spare us the calid sun one day commands the next to lie down, to scatter: we’re done with allegiance, devotion, the malicious idea of what’s eternal picture the terrain sunk, return of the inland sea, your spectacle your metaphor, the scope of this twiggy dominion pulled under crest and crest, wave and cloud, the thunder blast and burst of swells this is the sum of us: brief sneezeweed, brief yellow blaze put out so little, your departure, one plunk upon the earth’s surface, one drop to bind the dust, a little mud, a field of mud the swale gradually submerged, gradually forgotten and that is all that is to be borne of your empirical trope: first, a congregated light, the brilliance of a meadowland in bloom and then the image must fail, as we must fail, as we graceless creatures that we are, unmake and befoul our beds don’t tell me deluge. don’t tell me heat, too damned much heat

Source: Poetry (January 2008)

Create a new acronym by picking four random letters of the alphabet. Write a scene or story that includes this acronym—and the full phrase represented by the letters.

US, UK, Canada, EU call for peaceful voting today

Diplomatic representatives from the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Canada and Delegation of the European Union (EU) in Guyana have all underscored the importance of free and peaceful voting as Guyana heads to the polls today.

US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot said she and her team from

the Embassy have been accredited by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to observe the process. “We expect election day to be calm and peaceful, with registered voters casting their votes freely. The United States reaffirms our respect for Guyana’s sovereignty and values Guyana as a strong, stable democratic partner,” the embassy stated. British High

Commissioner Jane Miller also confirmed her participation. “September 1st is an exciting day for Guyana, as the people of this country have the opportunity to vote. We are looking forward to a peaceful day — one where people freely cast their vote,” Miller said on Sunday. Canadian High Commissioner Sébastien Sigouin echoed similar sentiments, noting that

his team will also be observing the polls in a social media post. “Tomorrow [Monday] is an exciting day for Guyana: elections day. With the team at the Canadian High Commission, we are preparing to observe this process. The people of Guyana will express their will by voting freely, and when the outcome is known, the people will have spoken. May it be

a peaceful and joyful day for democracy,” Sigouin said.

Meanwhile, the Delegation of the EU in Guyana in a social media post said that today is “an exciting day for Guyana, as

ERC warns against actions that could

the people of this beautiful country exercise their right to vote. The EU is looking forward to this celebration of democracy – a day when Guyanese freely and peacefully cast their vote.”

divide nation

…urges all parties, citizens to put national interest above partisanship

With Guyana’s General and Regional Elections today, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is urging all citizens, political parties and stakeholders to ensure the process is conducted peacefully and with respect. In a statement issued themed “A Call for Peace, Unity & Respect Ahead of the 2025 General & Regional Elections,” the ERC reminded that elections are a critical part of the democratic process and must be approached with responsibility and discipline.

The Commission cautioned against actions, words, or behaviours that could incite division or

heighten tensions, stressing that partisanship should not overshadow the collective interest of the nation. “All political parties and their supporters must respect and abide by the laws of our country, allowing the democratic process to proceed freely and without hindrance,” the

ERC said, adding that law and order are essential to safeguarding the rights of all citizens.

The body also encouraged eligible voters to exercise their franchise with dignity and discipline, noting that elections should serve to reinforce national unity rather than deep-

en divisions. “As Guyanese, it is our collective responsibility to preserve the peace, security and safety of our homeland,” the ERC stated, while calling on all to ensure that the 2025 elections are remembered for orderliness, inclusivity, and respect for diversity.

Security guard stabbed to death after dispute over cell phone

Fifty-seven-year-old Shawn Lovell was fatally stabbed while on duty at the Guyana National Museum, North Road, Georgetown, on Saturday evening.

According to police, the incident occurred around 19:00h. Lovell, who resided at Lot 96 Campbellville Housing Scheme and was employed by Atlas Security Service, succumbed to multiple stab wounds after an altercation with a fellow guard.

The suspect has been identified as 38-year-old Junior Anthony Lindore, also attached to Atlas Security. Police said Lovell had completed his shift at 17:40h when Lindore relieved him. Shortly after, Lovell reportedly returned to the guard hut and accused the suspect of stealing his cell-phone.

A heated exchange reportedly followed, during which Lindore allegedly pulled two knives from a haversack. Police said Lovell was stabbed twice in the back, once in the right shoulder, and four times in the right hand. He managed to run from the guard hut but collapsed into a concrete drain east of the museum. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) were summoned and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Crime Scene Unit (CSU) ranks recovered three knives and one cutlass inside the guard hut. The suspect was arrested at the scene, informed of the allegation, cautioned and later gave a video/audio recorded confession. Investigators also interviewed several persons as part of their probe.

A family in mourning

Speaking to Guyana Times on Sunday, Lovell’s sister, Tiffany Lovell, recounted the moment she learned of

her eldest sibling’s death.

“I got a call last night, approximately like nine o’clock,” she said. “Somebody was saying something, but I couldn’t quite understand what they were saying. But then, as I listened, I thought it was some police story. But then the guy said, ‘Your brother is dead.’ I’m like, brother’s dead? Because I know that he had came home, and he went back because he said he forgot the phone in some drawer. So, he went back to get a phone and, you know, probably he – and the next thing – the guy would have stabbed him because they had an altercation”, she said

The grieving woman said the news came as a shock.

According to Tiffany, Lovell had only been employed with Atlas Security for a short time. His sister said, “He has been with them, only two weeks. This would have been the third week.”

As such, she had not known the suspect.

She said too that the job was unexpected. “My brother worked at Sankar for 12 years… He would have sent in a resignation and all these things. He said he doesn’t want to stay home, he was going and look for a job. And it’s not even that he went looking for a job. He said he was on the road somewhere, and he walked into this guy, and the person introduced himself. And the person told him that he has a security firm and asked him if he’s interested. Just like that. And he said yeah.”

While the Campbellville family is in mourning after Lovell’s death, it is doubly painful, coming less than a year after their mother passed away.

“I don’t feel good at all about it,” Tiffany said. “You know, we just lost

our mother. September last year. You know, we’re still recovering from that, and you know, to lose our brother now, who is the eldest one, that’s very tragic. It’s like you haven’t even recovered from one situation and there it is, into a next situation that we didn’t even ask for.”

Suspect alleged to have mental health issues

Tiffany said the family was told that the suspect had displayed troubling behaviour in the past. “From what we were told by someone at the firm, this suspect was allegedly a person with a mental health issue,” she revealed. “Because just last week, we heard he dragged an employee out of the guard hut, out of a chair….”

She stressed that private security companies must take their responsibility seriously when employing individuals who are tasked with protecting lives and property. “These security firms need to do background checks on this person,” she said. “You don’t employ somebody because you want money... What if somebody has mental issues, or they have some kind of issue at home or whatever, and because of the mental issue, they come to work, you’re giving them a firearm and all these things, what do you think they would do with it? They could snap and kill other people, and it would be unfair to people’s families. It is unfair to lose your family members to people like this. They just need to be careful and do more background checks,” she pointed out.

Tiffany described her brother as highly intelligent and sociable. “His personality, he was a man of many, many words. Very intellectual, you know, very smart,” she said.

She added that Lovell had recently used a settlement to pay for a motorcycle he expected to collect in September. “And, you know, come September, he wouldn’t even be here to even collect it,” she said quietly.

The grieving sister made it clear that the family expects accountability.

“I’d like for the police to do the investigation, and a thorough investigation, and we would like to see, you know, some kind of justice come about in this case,” she said.

“Because a senior family member just left, like any other morning, and this person returned home. It’s not that they didn’t come back home, but because, you know, of the phone incident. So, he left his phone at work. Because of the phone incident, he went back. And that’s how he lost his life.”

Police confirmed that an autopsy is expected to be performed on Wednesday.

The last… …hurrah

Well, there you had it– the last hurrah of the political parties contesting today’s elections. For three – PPP, PNC/APNU, and WIN – it ended with bangs!! But for the remaining four – AFC, FGM, etc.… it ended with whimpers of varying cringiness! It ain’t nice to see grown folks cry – but hey…they asked for it!! Their performances raised a variant of the old conundrum – if a party calls a rally but no one shows up to rally, was the party really a party – or just a projection of some inflated egos??!!

The PNC/APNU – not surprisingly – chose the Square of the Revolution for their last hurrah. Fat Boy Burnham tried to rewrite history to identify himself with Cuffy –who’d rebelled against the Dutch – because HE, on the other hand, had shamelessly collaborated with the British! He installed Cuffy’s statue near his Office of the President and regularly summoned the faithful to pay obeisance to him under Cuffy’s baleful gaze!! Aubrey showed up with his ragged incarnation of the PNC – and was able to muster a decent crowd.

However, he lost his chance to show some creativity and redeem his party from being humiliated today when he once again promised everything under the sun – and then some!! – but didn’t apologise for his party’s rigging attempt after the 2020 elections!! To anyone who might’ve wanted to give the PNC a chance for auld lang syne, it must’ve been a disappointment. If he unrepentantly refused to change the script on rigging, how could anyone not believe all his grandiose promises were just mama-guying??!! The rally on Saturday will prove to be the last rites for the PNC. Ironically, the WPA – which Fat Boy had derided as the “Worst Possible Alternative” – was there to help read the rites!!

Sanction Man’s WIN party selected the Kingston beachfront behind Guyana’s emblematic Marriott Hotel –ironically built by VP Jagdeo, the man he loves to lambast! – for their last hurrah. It was in form – the Scrapeheads he’s stolen from the PNC could revel in the locale under the illusion they were sharing the high life their leader had enjoyed from his ill-gotten gains!! Anyhow, Sanction Man finally revealed his PM candidate just before the midnight hour – not Fatta who’s stood by him through thick and thin – but a gal who’s hopscotched from four parties in five years!! Taste and buy??

And then there was the PPP’s last rally at Lusignan –in the constituency from where Dr Jagan launched modern politics in Guyana – and the PPP!! The PPP’s top brass were there and simply had to remind the mammoth Red Tsunami they could expect more of the development they’d experienced over the last five years – just bigger and better!! 39 seats?

…Opposition blathering?

Listening to the PNC/APNU complaining about the PPP’s Government since 2020 – have they forgotten in 2000 they beat, looted, burnt and stuck pins into Janet dolls until the Constitution was changed to give them and other Opposition parties real-time powers to scrutinise governmental spending?? The old Public Accounts Committee’s also still around under their Chair to deal with past spending.

Your Eyewitness is talking about the four Parliamentary Sectoral Committees (PSCs) that cover EVERY aspect of the Government’s activities – Economic, Social, Foreign Affairs and Natural Resources!! The Chair of these committees are rotated every year. So, at any point, the Opposition chairs of two PSCs have the authority to summon anyone in the Government – save the President – and interrogate them on where our money’s going!!

So, why’s the Opposition blathering on ad nauseam that the Government’s doing their own thing with no oversight?? If this is happening, isn’t it because they’ve lapsed in their duties?

Which they gotta uphold for the next five years at least?

…complaint?

GECOM’s allowing WIN to field polling agents even though they didn’t comply with the legal requirements. Sanction Man had threatened to not recognise the results – with the implication he woulda sicced his Scrapeheads to repeat the post-Adriana mayhem!!

Police ranks trained, deployed to safeguard today’s elections

With Guyana’s General and Regional Elections set today, the Guyana Police Force over the past week had intensified its preparations to ensure security and order today.

tions, managing traffic, assisting voters when necessary, and ensuring the safe transport of ballot boxes and other election materials.

Standard operating procedures covering crowd control, communication,

Police Stations. The sessions focused on the duties of police ranks at polling stations, maintaining impartiality, conflict de-escalation, communication protocols, and coordination with the Guyana Elections

On Saturday, Deputy Commissioner Simon McBean and his administrative team for Division 4A held a briefing at the Guyana Police Force Academy in Georgetown. The session outlined responsibilities for each rank and reviewed protocols to be observed during the electoral process.

Commander McBean stressed the importance of professionalism and discipline, noting that each officer has been assigned to a specific sector to avoid overlap and confusion. Duties include securing polling sta-

and rapid response to potential disturbances were also reviewed. Commander McBean urged officers to act impartially and safeguard the democratic process. He expressed confidence in the ranks, stating, “Good luck to all the ranks. We have a vital role to play in ensuring a safe and fair election for all citizens.”

Meanwhile, in Regional Division One (Barima-Waini), Senior Superintendent Ramana conducted election preparedness training at the Mabaruma and Port

Commission (GECOM).

Human rights and respect for voters’ rights were also highlighted as part of the training. Commander Ramana reminded officers that discipline and professionalism are essential to maintaining law and order on Election Day.

The Guyana Police Force said it remains committed to protecting the democratic process and strengthening community trust during the elections.

Similar training was conducted in all other divisions.

Joint Services, GECOM staff come under fire near Guyana-Venezuela border while escorting ballot boxes

…all election materials remain safe, fully intact – GECOM

AGECOM officials who were transporting election materials to polling stations in Region Seven. In a statement, the GPF said that the Joint Services responded to the attack and were able to maneuver the vessels out of danger. No personnel were injured, and none of the election materials were damaged or compromised. Despite the incident, the escort team completed its mission. Ballot boxes were successfully delivered to polling stations at Cumang Landing, Kurutuku, and Dukquarie Landing, while an earlier delivery at Tumbung had been carried

out without incident.

Joint Services said that it remains on high alert and continue to work closely with GECOM to safeguard election operations. An investigation into the cross-border gunfire has been launched.

No damage or delay

Meanwhile, GECOM also confirmed the incident and said that all ballot boxes scheduled for delivery to remote polling stations in District Seven on Sunday were successfully delivered without damage or delay. “Whereas the Joint Services have confirmed an isolated security incident during

the escort operation in the Upper Cuyuni River, we wish to assure the public that no GECOM staff were harmed and that all election materials remain fully intact and accounted for,” GECOM said in a statement. The Commission thanked the Joint Services for their continued operational support and reaffirms that this incident will have no impact on the conduct of the elections today.

“GECOM remains focused on fulfilling its constitutional mandate and is fully prepared for Election Day across all ten regions,” the statement read.

Reports are that the incident occurred at approximately 14:30h in the vicinity of Bamboo, where

Joint Services patrol escorting ballot boxes for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) came under fire on Sunday while travelling along the Upper Cuyuni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) near the Guyana-Venezuela border.

shots were fired from the Venezuelan shore at the patrol team. The escort consisted of ranks from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), along with nine

Only GECOM will declare election results, public must avoid rumours – Chair …appeals for unity, order at today’s polls

Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice of Appeal (Ret’d) Claudette Singh has issued a call for calm and cooperation from all stakeholders. In a statement addressed to candidates, voters, local and international observers and members of the media on Sunday evening, Singh emphasised the importance of peace and civility during the electoral process. “Elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, a time for the expression of the people's will, and this expression must occur in an atmosphere free from intimidation, misinformation and unrest,” she said.

Singh assured that all systems are in place to ensure an efficient and

Chair of GECOM, Justice (Retired) Claudette Singh

transparent voting process. GECOM has prepared extensively, including the distribution of sensitive materials, the readiness of polling stations and the training of election staff.

“Our dedicated staff are ordinary citizens who have undergone comprehensive training to perform their duties

effectively and impartially,” she noted, urging all stakeholders to treat them with respect.

The GECOM Chair also stressed that the Commission is the sole authority responsible for tabulating and declaring election results. Singh warned against the premature dissemination of unverified information, noting that such actions could undermine public trust and create unnecessary tension.

“We are committed to a transparent tabulation process and the results will be declared in accordance with the law,” Singh said. She concluded by urging all stakeholders to work together to ensure that the elections reflect Guyana’s democratic maturity and promote peace and stability.

Guard against misinformation about electoral process – GECOM urges citizens

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is calling on the Guyanese electorate to be cautious of misinformation being circulated online regarding the electoral process. GECOM, in a statement on Sunday evening, said that it is aware of an information piece circulating on social media about the electoral process.

According to the Commission, this development is of utmost concern since the information is misleading and has the potential to confuse voters in relation to the voting process as they prepare to cast their ballot in General and Regional Elections today.

“In this regard, GECOM finds it necessary to remind voters to be cautious about where they access information regarding the elections, and urges citizens to rely only on GECOM’s official information channels as their primary source,” it stated. The Elections Commission further called on persons engaged in disseminating unverified information to refrain from such undertaking, noting that these actions can have damaging consequences for the electorate.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement on Sunday, GECOM had to denounce a false post on the Sherod Duncan-operated Facebook page, which alleged that GECOM’s staff who were assigned to a polling station at a private residence

at Hibiscus Drive, Peters Hall on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) were chased out by the proprietor.

According to the Commission, this was a blatantly false claim and in no way reflects the accurate account of the reasons for the movement of the polling station.

It was explained that the owner of the private residence indicated on Sunday that he was no longer interested in his property being used as a polling station. As such, GECOM’s logistics team immediately sought and finalised an alternative arrangement, relocating the polling station to the CARICOM General Insurance Company, which is a short distance away from the original location.

GECOM said it was necessary to debunk “the deliberate mischief” emanating from this social media page, especially on the eve of the General and Regional Elections.

“GECOM takes this opportunity to once again call on all stakeholders to be responsible in their reporting, and verify information before publishing, especially at such critical juncture: few hours before the conduct of General and Regional Election. These type of misinformation and disinformation are disruptive and can cause unnecessary panic and confusion in an already heightened political envi -

ronment,” the missive detailed. Moreover, during a pre-election day press conference earlier on Sunday, Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud and his Deputy, Aneal Giddings, played another social media post made by an overseas-based female who made certain allegations against the two senior GECOM officials, along with Chairperson, Ret’d Justice Claudette Singh. According to Persaud, the video in no way, shape or form affects or has any impact on him. He, nonetheless, rejected every insinuation and accusation made, stressing that “…there is absolutely no way that any of the falsehoods that are mentioned in that video can happen.” He pointed out that all six political parties that contesting today’s elections have agents in all of the polling stations – something which the Commission went out of its way to ensure that there is

no prohibition with them monitoring the process in the interest of transparency and integrity.

These party agents, he noted, along with accredited international and local observers will be looking on the polling day activities, the counting of ballots after the close of polls

and the tabulation process. Other safeguards like the posting of the Statements of Poll (SoPs) outside each polling station – all of which will also be uploaded on GECOM’s website, make it difficult for anyone to manipulate the results. He further noted that neither him nor the Deputy CEO nor the Chairperson have any input in the tabulation process at the polling stations.

According to Persaud, it is only after each of the 10 districts declared their results after completing the tabulation process that the results are sent to the Chairperson and the CEO.

Upon receiving the declaration for all 10 regions, the CEO then has 12 hours to put together the national results, which includes seat allocation by parties depending on the

votes they receive and submit this information to the seven-member Commission for ratification and declaration. Persaud said, “I needed to bring this out to dispel this notion that somehow by some magic, some voodoo, something, that the Chief Election Officer, Deputy Chief Election Officers and the chairman is involved or has concocted some scheme to manipulate the results of the elections.”

“It is with that in mind that we call upon all political parties and civil society organisations to appeal to their supporters, their constituents, not to attempt in any way to thwart the successful conduct of these elections. We at the level of the Secretariat…we reaffirm our commitment to deliver free, fair and credible elections.”

PSC condemns attack from Venezuelan shore on Joint Services escorting ballot boxes

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has strongly condemned an unprovoked attack on a joint patrol of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Guyana Police Force (GPF) along the Upper Cuyuni River in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

The patrol was escorting nine GECOM officials and ballot boxes when the aggression, reportedly originating from the Venezuelan shore, took place.

In a statement, the PSC described the attack

as a direct challenge to Guyana’s sovereignty and a threat to the ongoing democratic process. The Commission emphasised that any attempt to com

promise the safe and fair conduct of elections must be firmly denounced. The PSC also commended the professionalism and swift response of the GDF and Police ranks, whose actions ensured the safety of the GECOM officials and the security of all ballot boxes in transit. The incident concluded without injury and the election materials were suc -

cessfully delivered to their intended polling stations. Expressing gratitude to the Joint Services, the PSC highlighted the crucial role they play in protecting Guyana’s democracy and maintaining peace, stability, and electoral integrity. The Commission reiterated its full support for the Joint Services and GECOM and called on national and international stakeholders to acknowledge the significance of the incident as a measure of the country’s resilience and commitment to democratic principles.

5 arrested in Georgetown after illegal gun found

Police officers on an anti-crime mobile patrol received information around 15:50h on Sunday and proceeded to Guyhoc Park, Georgetown where they found three men and two women inside a house, along with an unlicensed 9mm pistol.

During a search of the residence, officers discovered a Glock 19 Taurus pistol with its serial number filed off, hidden under a chair cushion in the living room. The firearm was accompanied by a magazine containing 16 live rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The five individuals, ages 52, 26, 25, 22, and 18, were arrested and cautioned. All denied knowledge of the firearm and ammunition. They were taken to the East La Penitence Police Station and remain in custody pending further investigation.

Labour Ministry strengthens workers’ rights, safety through training, outreach

In a bid to reinforce workplace safety and promote workers’ rights across Guyana, the Ministry of Labour has recently undertaken two major initiatives targeting both urban and rural communities.

Earlier this week, the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, met with thirty-eight Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) instructors from six administrative regions, who are currently participating in the Basic Industrial Safety Training (BIST) Programme.

The programme, held in the Conference Room of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD), is designed to instil a “safety-first” mindset among students enrolled in technical and vocational training pro-

grammes. It equips instructors with essential knowledge to prevent accidents in training environments and, ultimately, in the workforce.

The training, conducted by LearnCorp International, included a one-hour Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) awareness session facilitated by Assistant Chief Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Roydon Croal.

During his visit, Minister Hamilton addressed the instructors, emphasising the critical role they play in shaping the next generation of skilled workers and fostering a culture of safety within technical fields. He noted that since assuming office, the Ministry has been working diligently to shift the national mindset towards prioritising safe-

Byderabo brawl

ty, particularly in high-risk sectors such as mining, construction, and agriculture.

The Minister expressed appreciation to the instructors for their contributions in advancing this effort, highlighting the importance of continuous education and technical training to strengthen health and safety systems across all sectors of the economy.

Outreach

In addition to these urban-based initiatives, the Ministry recently conducted a comprehensive sensitisation outreach in Moraikobai Village, located along the Upper Mahaicony River in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice). The outreach targeted workers in the agricultural and logging sectors, with a particular focus on child labour, workers’

Gold miner jailed for 3 months, fined $100,000

The violent confrontation that erupted at Byderabo, Bartica, on Wednesday continues to unfold in the courts, with one of the participants sentenced to prison while others await further hearings.

Albert James, a 54-yearold gold miner of Four Miles Squatting Area, Bartica, appeared before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Courts on Friday, where he pleaded guilty to unlawfully wounding 24-year-old excavator operator Alec Ault during the brawl.

James was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment and fined $100,000. The court further stipulated that should he fail to pay the fine, he would serve an additional six months in prison.

The charge was laid under Section 50 of the

Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 08:01, and his sentencing marks the first custodial penalty handed down among the eight persons now facing charges related to the incident.

The brawl has also led to ongoing legal proceedings involving Alec Ault, of Byderabo Road, Bartica, and 18-year-old Grace James.

Ault was arrested on the day of the confrontation and charged with assault causing actual bodily harm committed on Grace James, while Grace James was charged with unlawful wounding committed on Ault.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty and were released on bail, with Ault granted $10,000 and Grace James $20,000. Their matters have been adjourned to October 3, 2025, for continuation.

The Byderabo incident first came to public attention when five women, Evelyn Dalgetty, 47; Pauline Smith, 54; Alicia Ault, 26; Atalya Dalgetty, 22; and Serina Williams, 22, were charged with assault causing actual bodily harm against Grace James.

The women appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where they all pleaded not guilty and were released on self-bail. Their cases are also set to continue on October 3, aligning with the matters involving Alec Ault and Grace James.

In total, eight people have been charged in connection with the Byderabo brawl. Police reports indicate that several persons were injured in the melee, prompting the intervention of local law enforcement.

rights, and cooperative development.

Led by Labour Officer, Hardat Malchan and supported by Regional Cooperatives Development Officer Vikash Boodhoo, the initiative aimed to raise awareness among villagers about the functions of the Ministry and the services available through its various departments.

During the outreach, the team engaged directly with workers from the agriculture and logging industries, including cash crop farmers, through informal discussions that addressed labour laws, employee rights, occupational safety and health guidelines, and hazards and safety precautions in the workplace. Officials also provided guidance on the formation and registration

of Co-operative and Friendly Societies under Chapters 88:01 and 36:04, ensuring that villagers understand their rights and obligations in cooperative ventures.

As part of the visit, an official inspection was conducted at the registered location of the Moraikobai Farmers Association. The Regional Co-operatives Development Officer reviewed the society’s documentation and overall compliance, meeting with the Association’s Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, and other members.

Following the inspection, detailed discussions were held on auditing processes, proper record-keeping practices, the roles and responsibilities of the Committee of Management, and the steps required to maintain com-

pliance with cooperative regulations.

The Ministry also continued its follow-up work with three emerging co-operative societies in Moraikobai that are in the process of registering and seeking assistance from the Small Business Bureau. These include the Moraikobai Blossom View Co-operative Society Ltd., Nature’s Finest Apiary Cooperative Society Ltd., and Moraikobai Nature Touch Hydroponics Co-operative Society Ltd. Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Labour reaffirmed its commitment to supporting rural and hinterland communities, promoting cooperative entrepreneurship, ensuring sustainable development and decent working conditions for all workers.

Bartica resident fined for noise nuisance, traffic offences

ABartica resident was this week fined a total of $150,000 after pleading guilty to several traffic and public nuisance offences at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.

Kemo Abrams, 23, of First Avenue, Bartica, appeared before Magistrate Teriq Mohammed, where he faced three separate charges. The first charge was for making a loud and continuous noise, contrary to Section 174(1) of the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:02, as amended by the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Amendment Act 1998.

Abrams admitted to the offence and was fined $10,000.

He was also charged with violating the prohibition of tinted glass on vehicles, contrary to Section 103A(1) of the Road Traffic Amendment Act, Chapter 51:02.

The court heard that his vehicle had window tints beyond the legal limit. Abrams pleaded guilty to this charge and was fined a further $10,000.

Finally, he faced a charge

for having an obscure identification mark on his motor vehicle, in breach of Section 13 of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02. Upon admitting the offence, he was fined $130,000.

In total, Abrams was ordered to pay $150,000 or serve six weeks in prison if he fails to settle the fines.

Noise nuisance

Earlier this year, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, announced that the government will continue using existing laws to address noise nuisance in the country until new legislation is introduced.

Nandlall acknowledged the persistent issue of loud music and disturbances, particularly from bars and entertainment venues, which frequently disrupt the peace of residents.

While residents have the right to enjoy music, Nandlall stressed that it should not infringe upon others’ peace. He expressed frustration over the continued non-compliance and mentioned that his of-

fice regularly receives complaints through social media and other channels.

As a result, there is a plan to amend the laws governing noise nuisance to better address the concerns. In the interim, penalties for noise nuisance remain in place under the Environmental Protection Act.

Fines range from $300,000 to $750,000 with a potential one-year imprisonment.

Additionally, under the Environmental Protection Regulations, fines range from $75,000 to $500,000 with a six-month prison sentence.

Nandlall also indicated that the Guyana Police Force will resume operations to seize loud music equipment from vehicles, as part of a broader campaign to curb noise disruptions.

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has set residential noise limits at 75 decibels during the day and 60 decibels at night. The ongoing enforcement and upcoming legislative changes aim to reduce the impact of noise nuisance across the country.

GNBS develops Guyana Standard specifications for salt fish, dried salt fish

Salt fish, or salted fish, is a widely consumed dish in Guyana’s culinary traditions. To guide its production and ensure quality, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has developed the Guyana Standard – GYS 53:2016 – specification for salted fish and dried salted fish. According to the GNBS, adapted from the CODEX STAN 167:1989, this National Standard sets out requirements for salted and dried salted fish produced for retail and distribution for human consumption. It ensures that – whether it’s added to your cook-up rice, or when making a simple sautéed dish – the salted fish you buy and use is safe, properly processed, and fit for your family’s table, the GNBS noted.

The GYS Standard applies to fish that is fully saturated with salt (heavily salted) and fish preserved by partial saturation, with a salt content not less than 12 per cent by weight, fit for consumption without further industrial processing.

Salted fish may be pro-

duced through brining, brine injection, dry-salting, pickling, or wet-salting, and can be made from a variety of species including shark, snapper, mackerel, and catfish. Drying may be natural (open air), artificial (mechanically circulated air), or a combination of both.

Processing standards

To ensure a safe and high-quality product, the standard requires that fish be wholesome and fit for human consumption. Importantly, the standard considers salted fish defective if it contains foreign matter like wood chips or bird droppings, has an objectionable odour, develops halophilic mould, or shows signs of pink/reddening, textural breakdown, bruising, or burning. Such defects can affect taste, safety, and consumer preference.

Additionally, the salt used in production must be clean, uncontaminated, and free of dirt, oil, or foreign matter, and foodgrade packaging materials must be used, with labels in English stating the product name (“salted fish” or

“dried salted fish”), lot identification, and manufacturer’s details. The standard also outlines hygiene, handling, storage, and transport requirements to protect the product throughout the supply chain. Sampling and analysis procedures, outlined in the standard, help determine factors such as net weight, salt content, moisture levels, toxic heavy metals, and overall quality.

Producers of salted fish are encouraged to acquire a copy of this standard and conform to its requirements which ensure a quality product for the consumer and a competitive advantage of their businesses in both local and export markets.

The GNBS, operating under the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce, is a semi-autonomous governmental organisation re-

sponsible for Standards and Quality in Guyana.

The only National Standards Body in Guyana, its mission is to develop and implement the National Quality Infrastructure in partnership with key stakeholders, towards sustainable socioeconomic development and consumer protection.

It is also an ISO 9001:2015 certified and

ISO/IEC 17025 accredited agency. Its core services are calibration and testing; certification (Made in Guyana, Product, Laboratories & Auditing); product inspection; standards development; training and technical assistance, and verification. The GNBS lists its role as supporting trade and enhancing business competitiveness through standards; facilitating business growth and development – standards are implemented to help industry enhance its efficiency and the quality of products offered for sale – while supporting the establishment of a National Quality Infrastructure: key services such as verification, calibration, testing and certification are offered to the National Framework to ensure quality products and services. It also protects consumers, as standards are enforced to protect consumers from poor quality products and services.

For more information, contact GNBS at 2190062/65, WhatsApp 6924627, or visit www.gnbsgy. org.

Mercy Hospital celebrates 80th anniversary

St. Joseph Mercy Hospital will celebrate 80 years of dedicated service in 2025. In a press release in commemoration of the event, the hospital looked back at its origins and years of dedication and service that made it become one of the most prestigious hospitals in the country. According to the release, the idea for the hospital began in 1943 with a group called the “Sword of the Spirit.” The group recognised the need for a pre-

mier healthcare facility that would serve all people regardless of race, religion, or social status. Discussions for its establishment brought together the Sisters of Mercy, the Bishop of Georgetown, prominent business persons, and the executives of the Sword of the Spirit.

Through donations, a nursing home called “Colona House”, also known as ColonnaBuilding, was acquired and renovated to serve as the hospital. The facility was equipped with

essential departments, including an admissions office, X-ray room, laboratory, operating theatre, and maternity ward.

A nursing school was also established to train nurses before the hospital’s official opening. This school later became a recognised institution and continues to operate today, producing skilled nurses who serve not only in Guyana but across the Caribbean and internationally.

Over the years, additional properties were acquired,

and new three-story wings were built to accommodate more patients.

On March 19, 1945, the Feast of St. Joseph, the institution was dedicated to its patron saint. It was officially blessed on August 15, 1945, the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, and just weeks later, On September 1, 1945, the hospital welcomed its first birth, officially opening its doors to the public.

The hospital quickly gained a reputation for excellence. In 1963, during

a time of national unrest, it played a crucial role alongside the Georgetown Hospital in providing care to citizens.

Founding doctors such as Dr. Romiti, Dr. Bettencourt, Sir Maly Gomes, Dr. Fredericks, and Dr. Honnet Searwar were among the pioneers who offered medical and surgical care. From the very beginning, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital has been a faith-based, non-profit institution committed to serving all in need.

A major setback came in 2010, when a devastating fire destroyed the hospital’s old wing. Critical areas including doctors’ offices, admissions, records, the emergency room, private wards, the operating theatre, and the ICU were lost. Yet, through generous donations from local and overseas supporters, the hospital rebuilt.

New facilities were established, including two modern operating theatres, a recovery room, and relocated ICU and admissions offices.

In the latter years the administration of the hospital shifted to laypersons.

However, the Sisters of

Mercy, together with the Bishop and the Board of Directors, continue to guide and oversee the institution. Fundraising efforts remain strong through the Friends of Mercy, an auxiliary support group that continues the mission of service.

Today, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital continues to stand as a pillar of healthcare in Guyana. With the implementation of a new Hospital Management Information System (HMIS) and the expansion of advanced medical services, the hospital now offers life-saving procedures that once required travel abroad including brain surgery, kidney transplants, and total hip and knee replacements.

Conveniently located on Parade Street, Kingston, Georgetown, the hospital remains a beacon of compassionate, high-quality healthcare in Guyana. As it celebrates 80 years, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital remains committed to its founding vision: to provide compassionate, high-quality healthcare to all who need it as Mission to humanity as its core motto.

International Day for People of African Descent

Justice, dignity, equality for people of African descent – UN SG

On the International Day for People of African Descent, celebrated each year on 31 August, United Nation (UN) Secretary-General (SG) António Guterres has called for justice, dignity and equality for people of African descent around the world. In his message, Guterres honoured the “extraordinary” contributions of people of African descent across every sphere of human endeavour. The Secretary-General also recognised the “long shadows” of slavery and co -

lonialism, which include systemic racism, unequal economies and societies and the digital divide (between those who are able to benefit from digital technology, and those who don’t have access).

Guterres hailed the Global Digital Compact

India High Commission, SVCC conduct yoga, dance workshops in Regions 5,6

As part of an initiative by the High Commission of India and Swami Vivekananda

Cultural Centre (SVCC), Guyana, to forge closer people to people ties and promoting Yoga, Ayurveda and

Indian music and dance, a team from the High Commission and SVCC visited Region 5 and Region 6 and conducted Yoga and dance workshops coinciding with Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Some musical instruments sponsored by Indian Council of Cultural Relations, books for a small ‘India Corner’ donated by External Publicity & Public Diplomacy Division of the Ministry of External Affairs and Yoga mats sponsored by Ministry of AYUSH were gifted on behalf of Government of India by the High Commission to the D’Edward Vigneswar Mandir and Sri Krishna Mandir as a token of our gratitude and appreciation. (Photos from ICCR in Guyana)

– adopted in 2024 as part of the Pact for the Future, which promotes a multilateral system that reflects today’s realities and delivers for everyone, everywhere – as a step forward, citing commitments to tackle discrimination and hate speech in digital technologies.

“White supremacy and dehumanising narratives,” wrote the UN chief, “are amplified by social media and too often, racial bias is encoded in algorithms.”

“Eighty years after the United Nations Charter reaffirmed the equal rights and inherent dignity of every human being, and sixty years since the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination,” he concluded, “it is long

past time to right historic wrongs.”

This year’s International Day is the first to take place during the second International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2034. The decade, which embraces the theme “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice and Development,” aims to highlight the importance of acknowledging the rights and contributions of people of African descent.

Guterres has called for the next 10 years to drive “real change,” including working towards a UN Declaration on the full respect of people of African descent’s human rights. The first Decade saw more than 30 countries change

their laws and policies to tackle racial discrimination and address specific issues faced by people of African descent – in some cases for the first time.

The Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, was created, and new International Days were launched to celebrate the contributions of the diaspora, including those of women and girls.

Building on the progress made between 2015 and 2024, the second Decade seeks to amplify global efforts toward justice and development for individuals of African descent and create a more equitable future, in which the aspirations and rights of people of African descent are fully recognised, honoured and celebrated.

(Source: United Nations)

International Day for People of African Descent

ERC calls on Guyanese to honour legacy, promote unity

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) joined the international community in observing International Day for People of African Descent.

This year’s observance comes as the United Nations launches the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034), under the theme “Recognition, Justice, and Development.”

Adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2024, the Decade underscores the importance of acknowledging the rights and invaluable contributions of people of African descent worldwide.

In Guyana, the ERC recognizes the enduring role of our African brothers and sisters in shaping our nation’s history, identity, and progress. The renewal of

the Decade resonates deeply with our society, reminding us of the need to address historical injustices while advancing equality, justice, and respect for all.

On this occasion, the ERC calls on all Guyanese to honour the legacy and contributions of people of African descent while promoting unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among our diverse communities.

DR: 8 dead, 12 injured after garbage truck collides with pick-up

At least eight people, including a 13-yr-old girl, have died, and 12 injured in a multiple vehicle accident that occurred Saturday night in the community of La Ceiba, on the La Ceiba–Otra Banda highway in the municipality of Higüey, Dominican Republic, official sources reported.

The accident occurred when a privately owned garbage truck collided with a pickup carrying several people returning from a religious service; the vehicle also struck a motorcycle, according to a preliminary report from authorities.

According to witnesses, the tragic event occurred when the garbage truck attempted

to overtake the pickup truck.

So far, seven of the deceased who have been identified are of Haitian nationality.

Authorities reported that two of the deceased died of head injuries while receiving care at the General and Specialty Hospital Our Lady of Altagracia (HGENSA).

The 12 injured were tak-

en to local health centers for treatment. The medical status of the injured has not been officially confirmed, although reports say five are children.

A source revealed to the Listín Diario newspaper that the driver of the garbage truck tested positive for alcohol.

(Source: Listin Diario, El Dia, The New Daily)

Bermuda beachgoer taken to hospital after lightning strike

Emergency crews attended an East End beauty spot yesterday after a man was hurt as a result of a lightning strike.

Luca Legrenzi, who witnessed the incident, said the man was standing on a firepit near the Sunjammers restaurant and bar when lightning struck, knocking him to the ground.

Mr Legrenzi said that while most of the beachgoers moved to Sunjammers, one family moved to a covered firepit near by.

“The guy was standing on the grill. At that moment, lightning struck down in that general area.

“I believe it passed through the building and him, and he fell to the ground.”

He said that the injured man was immediately tended to by a family member, whom he understood worked

in a trauma department, and a doctor who happened to be at the bar, while staff at Sunjammers called 911.

However, Mr Legrenzi said it appeared that the man had escaped serious injury in the strike.

“He had an injury to the top of his head, his forehead area. I think that was from falling to the ground,” he said.

Mr Legrenzi said the man also appeared to have suffered a burn to his leg, which he described as looking like road rash.

While the injured man initially complained about a loss of sensation, Mr Legrenzi said his feeling had begun to return before emergency services arrived on the scene.

“Everyone was extremely surprised because the lightning could be felt by everyone at the bar,” he said.

“The impact could physi-

cally be felt by everyone under the cover. There was a burning scent, possibly from the tree near by.”

Jamal Albuoy, the duty principal officer for the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service, said that a call for assistance was received just before 2.40pm.

He said that a four-person crew from Clearwater attended an area near Sunjammers, and the injuries sustained by the man were not thought to be life-threatening.

“Once they did the assessment, the ambulance was right behind them; it got handed over to the ambulance personnel,” he added.

Phil Rogers, a meteorologist with the Bermuda Weather Service, said that the island was experiencing a slow-moving area of unstable weather, which brought showers and thunderstorms.

(Source: The Royal Gazette)

Girlfriend of former Grenada PM threatens legal action

The live-in companion of former Prime Minister Keith Mitchell is threatening legal action against THE NEW TODAY for its reporting on the U.S decision to recall the “A-1” class visa of both she and her ex-husband, Dennis Cornwall, the current Minister of Finance in the Congress administration.

Ophelia Wells who has reportedly dropped the name Cornwall following a divorce that took place in 2023, has hired former Attorney General Dia Forrester to write to the newspaper on the issue.

In the letter, Forrester said that Wells has no knowledge that her visa was recalled by the U.S State Department and that she is taking issue with her being

against newspaper

referred to as “the mistress” of the ex-Grenadian leader.

“While Dr. Wells was previously married to Mr Dennis Cornwall, that marriage legally ended in 2023, a public fact known to all. As such, she is not currently married and can therefore neither be described as the wife or the estranged wife of Mr. Dennis Cornwall. Further, Dr. Wells is not the mistress of anyone,” the letter read.

“The publication of these falsehoods are defamatory of our client as it is not only misleading but has caused, and continues to cause distress and reputational harm to Dr. Wells. Since the publication, our client has been bombarded with calls and messages from people in Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada and other

Caribbean states, regarding the contents of the publication,” the letter also read.

Wells, through her lawyer is giving THE NEW TODAY seven days to issue a public apology to her or face legal action.

THE NEW TODAY can report that the issue of the withdrawal of the US visas granted to Wells and her ex-husband was brought to the attention of the Cabinet of Ministers two weeks ago at its regular meeting.

The Trump administration in Washington took the action against Grenada for its involvement in the Cuban Medical Brigade issue.

As a public service, THE NEW TODAY reproduced in full the Ophelia Wells letter.

(Source: The New Today)

US warship crosses Panama Canal amid Caribbean build-up

on August

AUS guided-missile cruiser crossed the Panama Canal on the night of August 29, adding to Washington’s growing naval presence in the southern Caribbean close to Venezuela.

According to French outlet AFP, the USS Lake Erie, a Ticonderoga-class cruiser based in San Diego, California, was seen entering the canal at around 9.30 pm before continuing east-

ward into the Atlantic.

The vessel had been moored for two days at the Port of Rodman, near the canal’s Pacific entrance, before beginning its transit.

The ship’s passage follows the Trump administration’s decision earlier this month to deploy a significant naval force to the region.

US officials have described the mission as an anti-drug trafficking oper-

ation, targeting networks they link to Venezuelan state structures.

Trump has accused President Nicolas Maduro of leading a cartel-like regime and, in early August, doubled the reward for his capture to US$50 million. While no public threat of invasion has been issued, the deployment of heavily armed vessels has raised alarm across Latin America. (Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)

US Judge blocks deportations of unaccompanied migrant children to Guatemala

Afederal judge on Sunday issued a restraining order blocking the Trump administration from deporting unaccompanied migrant children in federal custody to Guatemala after lawyers said it would violate U.S. laws, and deportations appeared imminent.

The ruling followed a complaint filed in the early morning by the National Immigration Law Center, a pro-immigrant advocacy group, on behalf of 10 children ages 10-17.

Washington, DC-based District Judge Sparkle Sooknanan ordered the administration to halt the deportations for 14 days and called for an urgent midday hearing, saying it appeared the children were in the process of being removed from the country.

President Donald Trump’s administration struck an agreement with Guatemala that would allow unaccompanied children to be sent back to the country and planned to start deportations this weekend, one current and two former U.S. officials told Reuters. The plans

were first reported by CNN on Friday.

Migrant children who arrive at U.S. borders without a parent or guardian are classified as unaccompanied and sent to federal government-run shelters until they can be placed with a family member or foster home, a process outlined in federal law.

Melissa Johnston, director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement’s program for unaccompanied children, sent an email to staff on Thursday ordering no Guatemalan children in federal custody to be released in the U.S. except for those sponsored by parents or legal guardians in the U.S., according to a copy reviewed by Reuters and one of the former officials.

In a legal complaint filed on Sunday, the National Immigration Law Center and Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights said the deportations would be a “clear violation of the unambiguous protections that Congress has provided them as vulnerable children.”

“Defendants are im-

minently planning to illegally transfer Plaintiffs to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) custody to put them on flights to Guatemala, where they may face abuse, neglect, persecution, or even torture, against their best interests,” the complaint read.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, ICE’s parent agency, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Guatemala’s foreign ministry declined to comment. After blocking the deportations of the 10 plaintiffs on an emergency basis, Sooknanan extended her order to cover all Guatemalan children under the care of the U.S. Health and Human Services Department as of 1:02 a.m. ET. The plaintiffs said in a court filing that hundreds of Guatemalan children were in government care and could face imminent deportation to Guatemala under the Trump administration’s new program, which had not been disclosed publicly. (Excerpt from Reuters)

2 million impacted as Pakistan’s Punjab faces worst floods in its history

Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province is dealing with the biggest flood in its history, a senior official has said, as water levels of rivers rise to all-time highs.

Global warming has worsened monsoon rains this year in Pakistan, one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, according to a new study. Downpours and cloudbursts have triggered flash floods and landslides across the mountainous north and northwest in recent months.

Residents in eastern Punjab have also experienced abnormal amounts of rain, as well as cross-border flooding after India released water from swollen rivers and its overflowing dams into Pakistan’s low-lying regions.

“This is the biggest flood in the history of the Punjab. The flood has affected two million people. It’s the first time that the three rivers — Sutlej, Chenab, and Ravi — have carried such high levels of water,” the senior minister

for the province, Marriyum Aurangzeb, told a press conference on Sunday. Local authorities have been evacuating people and using educational institutions, police and security facilities as rescue camps, she said.

Pakistani TV channels also showed people clambering into rescue boats and sailing across fully submerged farmland to safety. Others loaded belongings into boats, salvaging what remained

from damaged homes, now abandoned.

“The water is coming in large quantities — we cannot fight it, we cannot stop it,”

Deputy Commissioner Wasim Hamad Sindhu said, appealing to people to seek shelter in government-run camps.

Punjab, home to some 150 million people, is a vital part of Pakistan’s agricultural sector and is the country’s main wheat producer. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Trump to offer Gazans US$5000 each to leave for 10 years

The Trump administration would pay Palestinians $5,000 to leave Gaza as part of a proposal for the US to take over the enclave for ten years.

The plans form part of a 38-page prospectus circulating the White House that would see the war-torn territory turned into a trusteeship under US control while it is transformed into a glitzy tourist destination and tech hub.

The Gaza Reconstitution, Economic Acceleration and Transformation Trust, or Great Trust would see all of Gaza’s two million population relocated through “vol-

untary” departures to another country or restricted, secured zones within the enclave in exchange for a digital token to give up their land.

The proposals, seen by The Washington Post, are likely to provoke concern among US allies and clashes with proposals put forward by surrounding Arab states for the rebuilding of Gaza to be overseen by Palestinians without the removal of the Strip’s population.

Land tokens would give the US-administered trust the right to develop Palestinians’ property, which would be used to finance life

in another country or eventually to redeem an apartment in one of up to eight new “AIpowered, smart cities” to be built in Gaza.

Each Palestinian who chooses to leave would also be given $5,000 in cash, subsidies to cover four years of rent and a year’s worth of food.

It is not clear if the Great Trust was what Mr Trump had in mind, but large parts of it were allegedly designed to bring to life the president’s vision of transforming Gaza into a “Riviera of the Middle East”, sources told The Washington Post. (Excerpt from The Telegraph UK)

India and China partners, not rivals – Modi, Xi say

India and China are development partners, not rivals, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed on Sunday, as they discussed ways to improve trade ties amid global tariff uncertainty.

Modi is in China for the first time in seven years to attend a two-day meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation regional security bloc, along with Russian President Vladimir Putin and leaders from Iran, Pakistan and four Central Asian states in a show of Global South solidarity. Xi and Modi discussed expanding trade and investment, and Modi says

Around the World

Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida killed in Gaza, Israel says

Abu Obeida, the spokesman for Hamas’s armed wing, has been killed in an air strike in Gaza City, Israel has said.

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz congratulated the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel’s security agency, Shin Bet, for the “flawless execution” in a post on X.

He gave no detail on the time or location of the operation, but the IDF earlier said its aircraft attacked “a key terrorist” in the al-Rimal neighbourhood on Saturday, prompting reports in Israeli media that Obeida had been the target.

Hamas has not confirmed his death. The Palestinian armed group earlier said dozens of civilians were killed and injured in Israeli strikes on a residential building in the district.

Five missiles struck the second and third floor of the six-storey apartment in the al-Rimal neighbourhood building simultaneously from two different directions.

The flat that was targeted had been used as a dentist’s surgery. Witnesses reported seeing hundreds of

thousands of dollars flying in the air after the strikes, with large sums stolen by locals but later recovered by Hamas.

The joint statement said Obeida “served as the public face of the Hamas terrorist organization” and “disseminated Hamas’ propaganda”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Iceland is nice land: world’s most peaceful country

The Nordic nation of Iceland, famed for its volcanoes, hot springs and uniquely sublime landscapes, has once again been named the most peaceful country in the world by the Global Peace Index.

Produced by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), the index ranks 163 independent states and territories according to criteria including societal safety and security; the extent of ongoing domestic and international conflict; and the degree of militarization.

As well as topping the index for 2025, Iceland is No. 3 on the World Happiness Report’s list of the world’s most blissed-out countries, and is one of the most desirable travel destinations in the Northern Hemisphere.

So what are Iceland and the rest of the countries in the top five — Ireland, New Zealand, Austria and Switzerland — doing so right?

“The key to building peacefulness in times of conflict and uncertainty is Positive Peace: the attitudes, institutions and structures that create and sustain peaceful societies,” says the Global Peace Index report. “Positive Peace is strongly correlated with higher GDP growth, lower interest rates, societal wellbeing and more resilience to shocks.”

In the years since the Global Peace Index was created in 2008, the average country score has deteriorated by 5.4%. The gap between the most and least peaceful countries has also widened by 11.7% over this time.

“The world is facing a violent conflict crisis. There were 59 state-based conflicts in 2023, the highest number since the end of World War II,” the 2025 report says.

Russia is, for the first time, the world’s least peaceful country, followed by Ukraine.

The United States has a low ranking on the index, appearing at No. 128, below Honduras, Bangladesh and Uganda. This is largely down to its high level of militarization, which places it – under that criteria – down at the less

peaceful end of the index, closer to North Korea (No. 149), Israel (No. 155), Ukraine (No. 162) and Russia (No. 163). France is the most militarized country in Western and Central Europe, while South America was the only region to record an improvement of peacefulness in this latest index. The biggest improvements were in Peru and Argentina, while Canada and Costa Rica were the most peace-loving nations in North and Central America.

Mauritius, Botswana and Namibia — all with thriving tourism industries, attracting honeymooners, wildlife-lovers and adventure travelers respectively — were the most peaceful countries in SubSaharan Africa. (Excerpt from CNN)

Indonesian president says lawmakers’ perks to be cut after deadly protests

Iatmosphere of ‘peace and stability’ created on disputed Himalayan border.

Meeting between Asian rivals comes five days after

punishing US tariffs on India take effect as Xi, Modi seek to present united front against Western pressure. (Excerpt from Reuters)

ndonesian President Prabowo Subianto says political parties have agreed to revoke a number of perks and privileges for parliamentarians in a major concession to people taking part in antigovernment protests that have killed at least five people. Protests over what the demonstrators have criticised

as excessive pay and housing allowances for parliamentarians started on Monday and expanded into riots on Thursday after one person, a motorcycle rideshare driver, was killed in a police action at a protest site. Rioters ransacked or set ablaze the homes of some members of the political parties as well as some state in-

stallations as protests rocked major cities in Southeast Asia’s biggest economy.

The protests spread across Indonesia, including the capital, Jakarta, after a video of a motorcycle taxi driver being run over by a police vehicle at a rally against perks for lawmakers went viral. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

SUDOKU

HOROSCOPES

Let your creative imagination run wild and see where it takes you. Delve into a project that gives you free range to test your skills and raise your awareness.

Not everything or everyone will be forthright regarding their intentions. Don’t play with fire; when in doubt, take a pass. Don’t be afraid to move forward on your own.

Stick close to home and make domestic adjustments that will add to your comfort and joy. A creative approach to setting up your space will go hand in hand with your success.

Think before you speak or act, and consider ways to compromise to ensure you hold your ground without losing face. Get the facts and summarize your end goal before launching an attack.

Pay attention to how you present yourself to others. An opportunity to achieve both personal and professional growth is within reach. Think positively and engage in activities that lead to victory.

Take a moment to rethink your longterm plans. You may crave change and want to try a different professional direction, but consider how practical this is and what you might lose in doing so.

You can make a difference if you participate in a cause you honor. Take the initiative and adjust your approach and priorities to free up time for the things that matter most to you.

Pay attention to money matters. Networking, making cold calls and adapting your skills to meet today’s market needs will help open doors. Giving back to your community will have benefits.

Don’t sell yourself short. Speak from the heart and let your passion and persistence be the key to your success. Leave nothing to chance or in someone else’s hands.

Pay attention to detail. A premature move will cost you. Don’t share too much information, or someone will steal your ideas. Don’t limit your expectations; expand your vision.

Set a budget and live within your means. A change can save you money and ease stress. Keep an open mind, and you’ll discover you have more to offer than you realize.

Rethink your motives, conditions and how you want to navigate your way forward. Refuse to let your emotions interrupt your intentions. Be wary of joint ventures or shared expenses.

In this world nothing can be certain, except death, taxes, and Oval Invincibles winning the men’s Hundred. They topped the group stage to qualify directly for the Lord’s final for three consecutive seasons, and each night has ended with Sam Billings lifting the golden ‘H’ trophy. After two tight finals, this was a demolition job. The Invincibles have relied on continuity as their greatest strength, and three of their usual suspects performed when it mattered: Will Jacks and Jordan Cox added 87 off 55 balls to underpin their total of 168, and the livewire Nathan Sowter derailed the chase with three wickets in his first seven balls. All three have been with them since inception; so too Billings and Coach Tom Moody.

They joined a select handful of teams to pull off a ‘three-peat’ in short-form leagues, and achieved it without breaking a sweat. If they have not quite lived

up to their moniker, then Invincibles’ record across the last three seasons is still remarkable: 21 wins, one tie and only five defeats. In a format designed for unpredictability, they have become a winning machine. In fact, the Invincibles may have been too successful for their own good. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are lining up a squad “reset” next year – in the style of the Indian Premier League’s mega-auction – as new investors arrive in the Hundred. It is designed to uphold the ‘any given Sunday’ philosophy at short-form cricket’s core; on any given Sunday in the men’s Hundred, however, the Invincibles are usually winning.

Sowter’s starring moment

The Invincibles’ core is built around England players with international experience, with a single exception. Sowter, a journeyman legspinner, wondered if his professional career was over when Middlesex re-

leased him three years ago, but has become an unlikely linchpin in the Invincibles attack, and saved his best performance of the season for the biggest stage.

The Rockets were 35 for 0 after 30 balls when Sowter came into the attack, with Tom Banton and Joe Root struggling for fluency. Ten balls later, they were 38 for 3: Root holed out to long-on, Rehan Ahmed missed a straight one to depart for a second-ball duck, and Banton picked out longoff. Sowter celebrated each wicket with a huge roar, and

The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) has pledged $1,100,000 in support of the nine-member team set to represent Guyana at the 52nd Central American & Caribbean Bodybuilding and Body Fitness Championships, scheduled for September 24 to September 28 in St Lucia. The sponsorship cheque

was officially handed over by GOA President Godfrey Munroe and received by Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) President Roger Callender.

added an excellent catch at deep backward square leg to his night’s work.

Adam Zampa had flown in from Australia specifical ly for the final – a 20,000mile round-trip for 20 balls – and finished with typi cally frugal figures of 1 for 21. But despite the wicket of David Willey, brilliantly stumped by Billings, he was ultimately upstaged by his legspin partner.

Jacks, Cox lay foundations Jacks made a statement off the very first ball of the final, crunching Willey through midoff for four, then slashed the third through the offside ring to become the first man to score 1000 runs for the Invincibles. His opening partner Tawanda Muyeye fell after three early boundaries, but his dismissal brought in the tournament’s leading run-scorer in Cox at number three.

Cox has been in stunning form this month and was soon up and running with two rasping cuts. Jacks had a life on 28, plinking a full toss to midwicket which was deemed a no-ball on height, and was quick to make use of it, reverse-sweeping Rehan for four before launching him into the upper tier of the Grandstand.

Cox belted Rehan for six more before toe-ending him behind, but Jacks sensed his chance to put his foot down. He eventually fell for 72 off 41 after another flurry of boundaries and while the Invincibles were uncharacteristically quiet at the death, adding 25 off the last 20, that only served to underline the quality of Jacks and Cox’s strokeplay.

Rockets misfortune Is there a plague on the city of Nottingham? Andy Flower’s side have had no

smiling wryly as Muyeye edged a short, wide one behind. His figures of 1 for 23 from 20 were the Rockets’ best, but their bad luck was not over: George Linde could not complete his allocation after damaging a digit while attempting a return catch off Cox.

Marcus Stoinis did his best to keep the chase alive, belting five sixes in his in-

nings of 64 off 38 balls, but the asking rate soared out of the Rockets’ control. They nominally needed 27 to win off the final ball, and Invincibles got their celebratory moment when Saqib Mahmood trapped him lbw to clinch their third straight title. (ESPNcricinfo)

Monedderlust hold 2nd-ranked Western to entertaining draw

Monedderlust Football Club, after taking the lead first in an entertaining contest on Saturday night, came away with an upsetting draw against Western Tigers when the seventh season of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League continued.

Surely, one would assume that the second-place Western Tigers would be able to hold off the Berbice outfit at the GFF National Training Centre (NTC), Providence, East Coast Demerara, but Atlyn Brown soon put doubt in the minds of his opponents’ supporters.

In the sixth minute, Brown enjoyed a superb pass forward, making the breakaway run to slip the ball past Western’s keeper to put Monedderlust ahead.

However, Western equalised in the 30th minute through William Europe and then took the lead two minutes later with a goal off

It became a 3-1 affair in the 63rd minute when Europe completed his brace, but Western were not prepared for what was coming.

Monedderlust persisted in their press forward which eventually paid off in the 74th minute when Nial Reynolds found the back of

Northern

Superchargers rode their momentum to a maiden Women’s Hundred title with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Southern Brave.

Two wickets apiece to Kate Cross and Annabel Sutherland, followed by an unbroken 60-run partnership between Sutherland and Nicola Carey allowed Superchargers to pass a target of 116 with 12 balls to spare and reverse the result of the 2023 final before a record crowd for the women’s competition of 22,542 at Lord’s.

Ten days after her “savage” omission from England’s World Cup squad,

seam-bowling stalwart Cross blew the game open with two wickets in as many balls which left Brave reeling at 28 for 2.

Sutherland removed Freya Kemp and Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Brave’s highest run-scorers for the match with 26 and 25 respectively, to restrict them to 115 for 6.

Carey and Sutherland remained not out on 35 and 28 respectively after their fellow Australian Phoebe Litchfield’s 13-ball 26 had set the run-chase alight following the early loss of Davina Perrin, a centurion in the Eliminator, and Alice Davidson-Richards.

Brave now have just one trophy to show for four fi

SCOREBOARD

Southern Brave (Women) (100 balls maximum)

Maia Bouchier c Armitage b Cross 13

Danni Wyatt-Hodge b Sutherland 25

Laura Wolvaardt b Cross 0

Sophie Devine c Litchfield

b Higham 23

Freya Kemp c Carey

b Sutherland 26

Chloe Tryon not out 5

Georgia Adams (c) run out (Cross/†Heath) 1

Mady Villiers not out 17

Extras (b 1, lb 3, w 1) 5

Total 100 balls (RPB: 1.15) 115/6

Did not bat: Rhianna Southby †, Lauren Bell, Tilly Corteen-Coleman

Fall of wickets: 1-28 (Maia Bouchier, 23b), 2-28 (Laura Wolvaardt, 24b), 3-43 (Danni Wyatt-Hodge, 40b), 4-90 (Sophie Devine, 74b), 5-92 (Freya Kemp, 81b), 6-94 (Georgia Adams, 86b)

Bowling B-0s-R-W

10-7-6-0

Grace Ballinger

Kate Cross 20-8-23-2

Annabel Sutherland 20-9-23-2

Nicola Carey 20-8-25-0

Linsey Smith

20-7-23-0 Lucy Higham 10-3-11-1

Northern Superchargers (Women) (T: 116 runs from 100 balls)

Davina Perrin c Bouchier b Devine 17

Alice Davidson-Richards st †Southby b Villiers 7 Phoebe Litchfield c Bell b Tryon 26 Annabel Sutherland not out 28 Nicola Carey not out 35 Extras (w 6)

Total 88 balls (RPB: 1.35) 119/3 Did not bat: Hollie Armitage (c), Bess Heath †, Kate Cross, Lucy Higham, Linsey Smith, Grace Ballinger Fall of wickets: 1-28 (Davina

nal appearances in the Hundred’s five-year history and, despite entering Sunday’s match unbeaten in 2025, they never really got their innings going after being sent in to bat.

After a sluggish start in which the first 19 balls yielded just 15 runs, they looked to break the shackles as Maia Bouchier launched Sutherland for six over deep square leg, followed by Wyatt-Hodge’s 86-metre effort off Cross over long-on. But then Bouchier picked out Hollie Armitage, stationed at extra cover, and Cross bowled Laura Wolvaardt for a first-ball duck.

Sophie Devine, whose bowling had earned her four Player-of-the-Match awards through the tournament, never looked settled at the crease and when Sutherland beat Wyatt-Hodge with a length ball that jagged in, Kemp took charge of a 47run stand with Devine. Were it not for Kemp’s 16-ball knock, Brave’s total could have looked even more sub-par, although they needed more from her.

Devine’s laboured stay of 23 off 28 balls ended

when Lucy Higham had her caught by Litchfield at deep extra cover and Kemp followed, skying Sutherland high in the air over midwicket so that Carey had plenty of time to run in and await the catch.

With the dot balls mounting – Superchargers sent down 42 in all – Brave Captain Georgia Adams panicked into a non-existent single off Cross, who had plenty of time to toss the ball to keeper Bess Heath, the bails whipped off with Adams well short of her crease after being sent back by Chloe Tryon.

With Tryon struggling to pick gaps in the field, Mady Villiers offered an 11-ball cameo 17 not out, but she ran out of time to have a decisive impact.

Perrin was unable to reprise her starring role of 24 hours earlier, managing just 17 after her 42-ball century had led Superchargers into the final.

Kemp dropped a straightforward chance at deep midwicket to remove Davidson-Richards on six, but Devine covered the mistake two balls later when she removed the danger-

In the dying minutes of the game, Dawit Watts got one past the keeper, sending the ball into the left corner of the goal in the 85th to bring Monedderlust level with Western Tigers.

Time would eventually expire with the score locked at 3-3, as Monedderlust took

home some crucial points from their opponents. The Elite League is set to continue this Wednesday with a double-header at the same venue.

Ann’s Grove United will take on Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC at 18:00h while at 21:00h, Santos will battle Den Amstel FC.

ous Perrin, holing out to Boucher at long-on.

Litchfield unleashed with four off the last ball of Devine’s set followed immediately with 4, 4, 6 off Villiers. But Villiers responded with the wicket of Davidson-Richards, who attempted a reverse paddle only to see the ball bounce off wicketkeeper Rhianna Southby’s pad for a stumping.

Litchfield had faced just five balls for 19 runs at that point, but, after a 15-minute stoppage for an unexpected sun shower, she faced just two more deliveries as Tryon entered the attack and had Litchfield out to a mis-timed sweep collected by Lauren Bell at short backward square.

Tryon could have had Carey out lbw next ball, but Brave chose not to review, and Bell was luckless when she clipped the top of Sutherland’s pad and the ball struck the bails, which remained in place despite the wicket lighting up. It was the first time Bell had gone wicketless in a match this season.

That left Superchargers needing 16 off the last 20 balls and Carey and Sutherland made light work

Astunning centu-

ry from Tim Seifert helped St Lucia Kings pull off the fifth-highest chase in Caribbean Premier League (CPL) history with utter ease as they marched to the top of the table with a six-wicket win over Antigua and Barbuda Falcons at Gros Islet.

Seifert levelled with Andre Russell for the CPL’s fastest century as his 53ball 125* saw Kings overturn their 205-run target in 17.5 overs as Falcons slumped to their second consecutive defeat, despite a 26-ball 61 from Shakib Al Hasan.

Seifert started the chase in style, flat-batting the first legal delivery of the innings for a six over long-off. Imad Wasim conceded another six, to Johnson Charles, as Kings made their intent clear in the first over.

Charles then welcomed Jayden Seales into the attack with a six before Seifert went 6, 4, 4 against the West Indies quick.

There was some reprieve for the Falcons when Salman Irshad had Charles gloving behind off an at-

tempted scoop, but Seifert showed no signs of slowing down.

He swept Shakib for a six over square leg before skying a chance that fell safe between three fielders converging, much to Shakib’s angst.

Akeem Auguste hit Irshad for three consecutive fours before 24 was taken off Shakib, with two sixes and three fours. The 92 runs Kings plundered in the powerplay were the most in the season, and it was the third-best powerplay in CPL history.

Usama Mir saw Seifert hit him for a four and a six in his first over, right after the powerplay, but hit back in his next over when he beat Auguste in flight to have him stumped.

Seifert and Roston Chase kept the scoreboard ticking before Irshad took a blinder at short leg off Odean Smith to cut Chase’s innings short. However, in the next over, Seifert hit back-toback sixes off Mir to move to 99 and completed his century with a single off the next ball.

Tim David went 6, 4, 6

CPL 2025:

off Smith before Seales had him caught at deep midwicket in a wicket maiden amid the chaos.

Seifert, who had scooped Irshad in the over before for four, picked up another boundary off Seales’ third over before sealing the win with a mighty six off the final ball.

Seifert finished unbeaten on 125, posting the highest score of the season, going past his compatriot Colin Munro, who is the only other centurion this year. This was also the second-highest score ever in the CPL.

Openers Amir Jangoo and Jewel Andrew took Falcons to 51 for no loss at the end of the powerplay, but Tabraiz Shamsi’s introduction shifted the momen-

sixes, the second of which saw him bring up a 20-ball half-century.

Jangoo lofted Shamsi over long-off the next over before sweeping him fine on the leg side. Shakib’s shot of the day was when he pummelled Alzarri Joseph inside out for a one-handed six.

But an offcutter from

tum briefly. He had Andrew skying one off his first ball before drawing a thick edge from Karima Gore, and Chase took a good catch at slip to send the in-form batter back for a first-ball duck.

Shakib prevented the hat-trick by sweeping a loosener fine on the leg side before an edge off a reverse-sweep brought him four more next ball.

An 18-ball streak followed without a boundary, but that was ended when Shakib hit back-to-back sixes off Chase to end the 10th over – a slog sweep over midwicket was followed by a wallop down the ground.

Shakib hammered David Wiese for 25 runs, with three consecutive fours followed by two back-to-back

Potgieter drew a leading edge from Shakib and one over later, Jangoo miscued a reverse-sweep off Shamsi to David at short third for a 43-ball 56. Smith failed to fire in the death, ambling to 11 off 15, but Fabian Allen provided the punch at the death with a 17-ball 38, taking Falcons past 200. (ESPNcricinfo)