CAL adds US$1525 fuel surcharge as global fuel prices soar DPP condemns false social media claims on Clonbrook drug bust Min Mustapha outlines Guyana’s push for
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla PersadBissessar along with ministers of government from both countries during a meeting on Friday at the Office of the Prime Minister in Trinidad and Tobago
Mahendra Ramkellawan clinches Guyana title at El Dorado rum heritage cocktail competition on 3rd attempt
Mahendra Ramkellawan, from LEHR Inc, has been named the winner of the 2026 Guyana leg of the El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition, which took place on Friday at Demerara Rum Heritage Centre, Plantation Diamond.
Ramkellawan stood out among the finalists with his cocktail "Tomasoul" – a creative play on tomato, crafted with a vintage El Dorado Six Year Deluxe, clarified “invisible” tomato juice, and a touch of MSG to enhance its umami profile, inspired by the abundance of fresh tomatoes in the local market and nostalgic memories of his mother returning home
on Sundays to prepare stew or tomato choka.
The runners-up were Omani Rodrigues from Yugo Japanese Restaurant with his cocktail “Mani Daiquiri” using El Dorado Three-YearOld Rum and El Dorado 12-Year-Old Rum, who finished in second place, and Christopher Johnson from the Guyana Pegasus Hotel with his cocktail “Sorrel Sensation” using El Dorado Three-YearOld Rum, who placed third.
The other finalists were Joseph Tenpow (Froggy’s Grill), Komal Harcharan (Cara Lodge), Jose Diaz (Realm Sky Bar and Steakhouse), Kenrick Williams (Four Points by Sheraton), Joanna Seaward (Guyana
Marketing Director of DDL, Sharda Veeren-Chand, with winner of the Guyana Leg, Mahendra Ramkellawan, and El Dorado Global Brand Ambassador, Oren Coleman
Marriott Hotel), Francis Albert (Amici Restaurant and Bar), Shawn Munroe (Palm Court) and Johnny Bryan (Original Sheriff Bar).
The Guyana leg of the competition was judged by Oren Coleman, internationally acclaimed UK mixologist; Santi Dady,
tion of rare El Dorado Rums. The global competition, held in Guyana at the renowned Diamond Distillery, Guyana’s last remaining distillery, will see eight bartenders from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Barbados, Netherlands, Norway, and Guyana compete for the title.
El Dorado brand manager (USA); and Raveena Mangal, El Dorado brand manager (Guyana).
As the winner of the Guyana leg, Ramkellawan will advance to the Global Finals, where he will compete for the top prize of US$5000 and a collec-
“As they say, the third time’s the charm. I gave it another try, put my best forward, and won. I reflected on where I fell short before, made the necessary adjustments, and came back stronger. I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in this competition and am very proud to have won, and I look forward to learning even more from my fellow competi-
tors in next week’s competition,” Ramkellawan related.
“The completion of the Guyana leg of the El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition reflects our commitment to investing in local talent and supporting the creativity of our bartending community. Each year, we are inspired by the innovation and passion displayed, and we are proud to provide a platform that allows Guyanese mixologists to showcase their skills on a global stage. We congratulate this year’s winner and look forward to seeing Guyana represented at the global finals,” Marketing Director, DDL, Sharda Veeren-Chand stated.
BRIDGE OPENINGS
FERRY SCHEDULE
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily. Saturday April 11 –11:35h–13:05h and Sunday April 12 – 12:35h–14:05h.
WEATHER TODAY
Sunny skies are expected to be interrupted by isolated instances of light showers, followed by clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 4.02 metres and 5.81 metres.
High Tide: 11:27h reaching a maximum height of 2.04 metres.
Low Tide: 17:46h reaching a minimum height of 1.12 metres.
COMMODITIES
– as Pres Ali, PM Persad-Bissessar agree on working group to remove
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister (PM) of Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) Kamla PersadBissessar have agreed on a development, trade, and economic agenda aimed at deepening bilateral relations and advancing greater integration between the people and economies of the two countries.
This commitment was made during a high-level engagement in Port-ofSpain on Friday between the two Caribbean leaders.
President Ali travelled to the Twin-Island Republic on Friday to deliver the feature address at the T&T Chamber of Industry and Commerce Annual Meeting. While there, President Ali and his delegation, comprising several cabinet Ministers, met with the Trinidadian PM and her team.
According to a brief statement from the Office of the President following the bilateral engagement, "...the two leaders discussed key areas including food security and investment opportunities, energy integration, technology exchange, human capital development, and strengthening security."
These discussions also paved the way for the two countries to work on tackling trade barriers.
"They also agreed to establish a working group to remove trade barriers and improve competitiveness," the missive detailed.
Reciprocal visit
It was further agreed that PM Persad-Bissessar would undertake an official visit to Guyana, leading a joint working group comprising Private Sector representatives from both countries that would be tasked with addressing development challenges and unlocking new opportunities for the two sides.
Meanwhile, during
President Dr Irfaan Ali with T&T PM Kamla PersadBissessar during the high-level meeting in Port of Spain on Friday
the high-level engagement, President Ali also thanked the Prime Minister for her strong support for Guyana's territorial integrity and sovereignty, expressing appreciation on behalf of the people of Guyana.
"It was also agreed that both Governments would continue to collaborate closely on the areas discussed in order to deepen the bilateral relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana," PM PersadBissessar added in a sim-
ilar statement.
President Ali was accompanied by Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat; Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar; Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally; and Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, along with other Government officials and Private Sector representatives.
The T&T Prime
Minister was joined by Attorney General John Jeremie; Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Sean Sobers; Minister of Public Utilities Barry Padarath; and Minister of Energy and Energy Industries Roodal Moonilal during Friday's meeting.
72-hour engagement
This commitment by the two leaders to work on addressing trade barriers between Guyana and T&T comes as the Guyanese Private Sector, as well as the Government, continues to bemoan the restrictions that hinder free trade between the two Caribbean nations.
In fact, President Ali, during his address at the T&T Chamber's Annual Business Meeting earlier on Friday, called for the two countries to come together for a 72-hour period to iron out the bureaucratic issues that pose hindrances to a strong economic partnership.
The introduction of structured sporting programmes within children’s homes is a commendable investment in the holistic development of some of society’s most vulnerable young people. The collaboration announced between the Human Services and Social Security Ministry and the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry signals an advanced shift towards ensuring that children in state care are afforded opportunities equal to their peers across the wider society.
For far too long, discussions surrounding child welfare have been narrowly confined to basic needs such as shelter, nutrition, and formal education. While these remain fundamental, contemporary approaches to child development underscore the importance of emotional well-being, social engagement, and the nurturing of individual talents.
The value of sport extends well beyond physical fitness, as participation in organised activities introduces structure, discipline, and a sense of routine that is essential for young minds. It creates an environment where goals are set and pursued, where effort is rewarded, and where resilience is cultivated through both victory and defeat. These are life skills that cannot be adequately taught within the confines of a classroom alone yet are indispensable to personal growth and societal contribution.
Equally important is the role of sport in supporting mental health, and children in institutional care may face unique emotional challenges, including feelings of uncertainty or isolation. Engaging in sporting activities provides a constructive outlet for stress and anxiety, allowing for the release of pent-up energy in a positive and supervised setting. It fosters a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and mutual respect among participants, qualities that are critical in building confidence and self-worth.
The deliberate inclusion of a diverse range of sporting disciplines is particularly noteworthy. Exposure to activities such as football, basketball, badminton, futsal, and even archery ensures that children are not limited by a narrow definition of athleticism. Instead, they are encouraged to explore varied interests, discover hidden talents, and develop skills that may otherwise remain untapped. Such diversity enhances the likelihood that each child will find a discipline that resonates personally, thereby increasing engagement and long-term participation.
This initiative also shows an understanding that talent identification and development must begin early and inclusively. By creating access to professional coaching and structured training, the programme lays a foundation for excellence while maintaining a focus on participation and personal improvement. The involvement of trained coaches, supported by the National Sports Commission, further strengthens the credibility and sustainability of the effort, ensuring that children receive guidance that is both technically sound and developmentally appropriate.
Apart from individual benefits, the societal consequences are equally significant, as sport has long been recognised as a unifying force, one that transcends social and economic barriers. By investing in the development of children in state care, the initiative contributes to the creation of more inclusive communities where every child is given the opportunity to thrive. The cultivation of discipline, teamwork, and emotional control among young participants ultimately supports the emergence of responsible and well-rounded citizens.
Moreover, the emphasis on resilience and emotional regulation within sport cannot be overstated. Learning to navigate competition, manage disappointment, and celebrate success with humility are experiences that prepare young people for the complexities of adult life. These lessons, learned on the field or court, translate seamlessly into academic, professional, and social settings, reinforcing the programme’s long-term value.
Importantly, this initiative sets a precedent for how multi-agency collaboration can effectively address complex social challenges. By combining resources, expertise, and shared objectives, the partnering ministries have demonstrated a model that could be replicated across other areas of child development. Such collaboration ensures that interventions are not fragmented but are part of a cohesive and strategic approach to national development.
Continued investment, regular evaluation, and expansion to other institutions will be necessary to maintain momentum and maximise impact. Equally, the engagement of community stakeholders, including volunteers and private sector partners, could further enhance the reach and effectiveness of the programme.
In advancing this initiative, children in state care are deserving of the same opportunities to dream, explore, and excel as any other child. Sport, in this context, becomes more than recreation; it becomes a pathway to empowerment, self-discovery, and social inclusion.
Such efforts deserve both recognition and support, as they lay the groundwork for a future in which no child is defined by circumstance but rather empowered by opportunity.
The Chairman of the US Export-Import Bank (EXIM), John Jovanovic, met with the executives of AmCham Guyana and others at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston.
The meeting was attended by representatives of several companies, including Bechtel, Halliburton, Lindsayca, the Beharry Group, and Macorp. Several Private Sector leaders from the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, joined by US ambassador Nicole Theriot and members of the embassy’s commercial arm, were at the engagement too (AmCham Guyana)
Lawlessness crosses paths with lawfulness
Dear Editor,
A thriving Guyana, composed of six races with a seventh as an adjunct to its population, is at a juncture where lawlessness crosses paths with lawfulness.
Regardless of the emotional pleas from many sources, including people, Police, politicians, Government agencies, private and public organisations, and religious institutions, this provocation has reached an unbearable height, affecting the body, mind, and soul of all law-abiding Guyanese. “To each their own” is invariably amplified.
A country rich in diversity from ancestral heritage and inherited culture, Guyana has adopted modern customs and lost touch with traditional values. Guyanese have refined their ancient beliefs to define practices that are morally questionable in the eyes of decorum while simultaneously fighting to maintain a touch of class from the past. “Old is gold” and it must be respected for its worth.
Not being judgemental but practical, the washing tide has shifted the sands to expose loose pebbles, shaky ground, and porous soil. Our roots have been fertilised with too many dangerous chemicals; too much flooding
has watered down our quality, and heavy winds have removed the barriers that hamper our safety nets. Thus, our production is of poor quality and limited in quantity. “Changes start with us changing”, but changes must be for the better, not for the worse.
Every day, the media cries profusely with foul accusations and assaults, treacherous complaints and compromises, reporting news of more crime and corruption. Guyana is not isolated from this stigma, but the constant creation of loopholes and flaws accommodates the sustenance of breaching contracts and breaking binding arrangements. Rules and regulations are bypassed, contaminating law and order. The Matthew effect is conveniently summarised as “the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.”
Guyanese society is steadily deteriorating into an abyss of a lost cause, where the environment is constantly bombarded with foreign influences. With the ambience of loud, lewd, and ludicrous music, this tragedy is a trajectory of a language littered with linguistic battery and assault as its lyrics. This is not the beginning or end of Guyana’s lawlessness. Tony Robbins wrote, “Set high stan-
dards for yourself and don’t settle for anything less.”
The case of low salaries has been put forth in defence of bribery. Those grand and great-grandparents who tilled and toiled the soil in the past fielded a cricket team for children and were not inclined to walk on the wrong side of the road. They suffered and endured hardship while making sacrifices to see their children progress successfully without complaint and in the absence of all the current comforts considered today’s necessities. “Don’t hang your hat where you can’t reach it in a hurry” is a proverb that needs resurrection.
Nepotism has dominated the majority of our business entities, both public and private, with unscrupulous behaviours harnessing the smooth system and leaving harassed customers frustrated, out of pocket, and forced to endure an unavoidable process. The weak are being exploited through extortion, and the question of “left or right” is no longer a laughing matter. Fiddling, finagling, and fraud in financial fiascos are fixtures that start from the top and work their wiggling way downwards. “Do as I say, not as I do” has become a laughing stock.
PNC’s survival in modern politics
Dear Editor, Political indoctrination is the deliberate process of instilling specific political beliefs, ideologies, or values into individuals – often in a way that discourages critical thinking, questioning, or consideration of alternative viewpoints. It relies on non-rational persuasion, repetition, and emotional appeals to ensure acceptance of a specific political agenda. Some might argue that this is “informative”, but education aims to teach how to think, and encourages questioning and evidence-based reasoning, whereas indoc-
trination aims to teach what to think, prioritising obedience and adherence to dogma over evidence.
Unlike education, which fosters inquiry, indoctrination demands uncritical acceptance of a specific, often one-sided, political viewpoint. It presents conspiracies as absolute truths while dismissing or suppressing REAL TRUTHS AND FACTS. It often involves a deliberate effort by politicians to impose a worldview, ensuring that their bigoted and divisive agenda is “sown” into the minds of their support base so that it
lives on for generations.
We are living this reality in Guyana today, a consequence of decades of political division to maintain influence and power, and NO political party plays this game more successfully & PUBLICLY in the 21st century other than the PNC (APNU).
The levels of indoctrination in the PNC camp start from the early stages of life, often with young, politically unconscious minds, shaping their adult behaviour by reinforcing specific values often littered with racism, arrogance and brainwash-
ing through “information overload” and “emotional stoking”. The primary objective of this ideological training and divisive rhetoric is to consolidate power, build relevance, and maintain a dedicated support base, particularly within the AfroGuyanese community.
The result is often extreme, violent protests or “lawless profanity-laced racial profiling”, which they gaslight by misrepresenting and twisting the truth, using their minions in the media to mix their journalism with “strategic opinions” that seek to keep us as Guyanese divided
Lawlessness crosses paths with...
Travelling in the fast lane is trendy for the young and restless. The highway has become no way, leaving angry, impatient, and undisciplined users with low or no tolerance levels. The hero figure often finds itself becoming a zero. Our public transportation system is unacceptable, and it is an embarrassment for seniors and juniors to use. Those customers are exposed to indecency at all levels, including passenger refusals, overcharging, overloading, unacceptable noise instead of music, abusive language, and ill-fitting conductors and drivers. As the saying goes, “What goes around comes around.”
The school system has been taken over by gangsterism. The use of drugs and alcohol has penetrated the psyche. Sex is a promiscuous exercise. Fondling, hugging, and kissing are typical love-making scenes in corridors and classrooms. Student pregnancies are on the rise. Dropouts are the norm. Violence in school is a current feature among students and between students and teachers. Weapons have infiltrated the classrooms. Teachers face a hard-fought bat-
tle to maintain control of their classes. Students are often absent from school unbeknownst to their parents. Prayer in school is an alien activity. Some private schools have been liberated from these ‹extra-curricular activities! ‹Remember, «teachers open the door, but you must enter yourself.»
Making a quick buck has become a way for the fast and furious, the dirty-dinged daredevils. The choke-and-rob situa-
tions, hold-ups, and robberies in supermarkets and homes are consistent with the dark side of those determined not to walk on the right side of the road. You can never foresee unexpected mishaps, day or night, in any of the ten regions. But “the moon does run till daylight catches it.”
Recent developments from aggressive proactivity by the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs suggest that the Government is serious
about having clean, safe, and noise-free communities in Guyana. How this is translated into a permanent remedial effect and how quickly the repercussions will be implemented are left to be seen by an anxious Guyanese public.
But there are faith, hope, and trust in these devoted servants of the people.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
while they advance their ONLY agenda of “power over the purse”. It’s like a form of “Stockholm Syndrome” among supporters.
They use this psychological phenomenon to force their support base to be provoked and “lash out” against the opposing political leaders, Government projects, policies & systems that actively reduce their success as a viable option for governance.
The party has used propaganda to instil fear by indoctrinating its base with varying fabricated beliefs. However, such drastic and divisive agendas may not serve its long-term policies well, but rather they are designed for shortterm political relevance rather than long-term survival. The endgame of the PNC is to continue a 20th-century tactic in a time when access to information, historical records and past events are easily available to disprove their argument.
It is a masterclass manoeuvre in the playbook of “dictator-like leadership”. But to the supporters of the PNC, I ask this: do you support your party on your own free will or because you have been told what to support?
And at what point do you morally draw the line between national development for all Guyanese vs the PNC forcing us to believe that we should refuse and reject those same policies meant to help us?
The PNC want you, their supporters, to remain poor and desolate so they can continue to use their struggles as “clickbait” for scoring cheap political points, and when national development comes along, they create uncertainty around it (the recent debacle over the streets of Georgetown is a classic example). We must ask ourselves why!
They have NO positive track record (whilst in Government) to argue on, AND THEY KNOW IT! The only thing they can do is claim “racial persecution”. By using the alleged plights of AfroGuyanese to attack the Government, they create uncertainty around policies implemented by the Government to help those same Guyanese they are “fighting for”.
Warm regards, Dev Harry
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026
19:00 Movie - Game, Set, Love (2022)
20:30 Movie - Sweeter Than Chocolate (2023)
22:00 Movie - Red Notice (2021)
Page Foundation
NGSA Questions
1. At the inter-schools championship, Alex participated in the 3,000m race, which he won. How many kilometres did Alex run?
(A) 3km
(B) 30km (C) 300km (D) 3,000km
Question 2 refers to the clock below.
2. Mark arrived at the birthday party at the time shown on the clock above. What time did he arrive?
Materials
• Sewing needle (about 1 inch long)
•Small bar magnet (refrigerator magnets will also work)
• Piece of foam
• Scissors
• Small bowl of water
Instructions
1. Cut out a small cube of foam, about 1/2 inch long on each side.
2. Lay the needle flat against the magnet. Then rub the magnet along the needle in one direction. Do this
20 times, making sure you always move the magnet the same way. This will magnetize the needle.
3. Carefully stick the needle all the way through the piece of foam. Ask an adult for help if needed,
(A) 09:15h (B) 09:45h (C) 10:00h (D) 10:15h
3. Uncle John works from 08:00h to 16:00h daily. If he works from Monday to Friday, how many hours does he work in 1 week?
4. A basket with 100 identical oranges weighs 51kg. If the mass of the empty basket is 1,000g, what is the mass of each orange?
(A) 50g (B) 100g (C) 500g (D) 1,000g
and be careful not to prick yourself.
4. Float the foam and needle in the bowl of water. The needle should lie parallel to the surface of the water. The bowl, water, foam, and needle together make up your compass.
5. Place your compass on a flat surface and watch what happens. The needle should turn until one end points north and the other end points south (the needle is aligning with Earth’s magnetic field).
6. Now place the bar magnet close to your compass. What happens? Try moving it closer and farther away. How close does the magnet have to be to affect your compass?
(Adapted from amnh.org)
BY LISEL MUELLER
It was soon after my mother died, a brilliant June day, everything blooming.
I sat on a gray stone bench in a lovingly planted garden, but the day lilies were as deaf as the ears of drunken sleepers and the roses curved inward. Nothing was black or broken and not a leaf fell and the sun blared endless commercials for summer holidays.
I sat on a gray stone bench ringed with the ingenue faces of pink and white impatiens and placed my grief in the mouth of language, the only thing that would grieve with me.
(Source: Poetry [October/November 1987])
Write a story from the POV of a child becoming a teenager, then a senior citizen. When I am asked how I began writing poems, I talk about the indifference of nature.
WORD SEARCH:
US EXIM Bank offers to fund Guyana’s deepwater port facility
The United States (US) Export-Import (EXIM) Bank has offered to finance Guyana’s deepwater port facility – a project that the Guyanese Government has been pushing in recent years to position the country as a major regional hub.
During a high-level engagement with President Dr Irfaan Ali and other Government officials in Georgetown on Thursday, it was revealed that the Chairman of the US EXIM Bank, John Jovanovic, issued a letter of interest (LI) for the deepwater port project. “One of the highlights from the lunch was our chairman issuing a letter of interest for the deepwater port. And so, this is yet another project in which we can support the infrastructure requirements of the Guyanese people,” one of the EXIM Bank officials who accompanied the chairman revealed following the meeting.
Another member of the visiting delegation added, “As the Export-Import Bank, we have the opportunity to build on our Buy American, Build the
Future framework here in Guyana. And I think it’s been really exciting to see that in action. And I think we’ve taken some really great steps [on Thursday]. And the next six to twelve months are going to pave the next 20 years for our relationship. So, we’re really excited to be here and be a part of it.”
An EXIM Letter of Interest is a pre-export tool that indicates the institution’s willingness to consider financing for a specific export transaction, subject to further review and submission of a formal application. As part of the LI review process, EXIM will also assess the bank-
ability of the transaction and the likelihood that EXIM financing could ultimately support it.
The Guyana Government is already collaborating with US-based Bechtel Corporation to develop the major deepwater port at the mouth of the Berbice River.
Last October, President Ali disclosed that they are finalising the design of this facility. “We are working on the move towards the final phase of the deepwater port in Berbice, which will see the design completed, and then we will move towards construction,” the Head of State
said to stakeholders at a breakfast event held on October 2, 2025, by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). Days later, the local private sector, including the GCCI, renewed calls for the establishment of a deepwater port facility in Guyana, with many stakeholders saying this is the best solution to the prolonged delays with shipments at the port in Trinidad and Tobago. Guyanese businesses, both big and small, have been complaining bitterly about the continued delays in shipments to and from Guyana as a result of major conges-
tion at the Port of Port of Spain in the Twin-Island Republic. Previously, the Guyana Government had been eyeing the £3 billion loan facility that the United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) is offering Guyana to possibly fund the deepwater port facility in Berbice. Now, there is another financing option with this offer from the US EXIM Bank.
The EXIM Bank is the official export credit agency of the US. Back in July 2022, Guyana and the EXIM Bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for financing of up to US$2 billion for projects in several sectors, including infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, water treatment and sanitation, and agriculture. The MoU provides a framework within which financing can be provided by EXIM to advance developmental projects either by the state or the private sector in Guyana while promoting the export of USmade goods and services. Already, the financial institution has injected some US$527 million into the transformative Gas-
to-Energy (GtE) Project, which is being executed by Houston-based contractor Lindsayca Inc. During Thursday’s meeting, Chairman Jovanovic assured President Ali of the US’ unwavering support to see this transformative project through to completion. They also discussed exciting opportunities ahead, with the EXIM Bank ready to finance additional development projects that align with Guyana’s national priorities.
According to the EXIM Bank Chairman, “I’m here today with my team in Guyana visiting President Ali and his cabinet to advance very key initiatives on the Guyanese-American relationship... And we hope that we can build a Western Hemisphere together that’s safe, prosperous and secure.”
“We hope that it sends a very clear message to investors all around the world that Guyana is open for business and that the big red carpet that President Ali has rolled out is wide open for partnership and for great investment.”
Guyana, T&T to advance “development, trade...
“If we care about partnership, if we care about building consortiums, and if we care about building a joint economic front between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, then we must care about fixing the problem. Let's get in that room, lock ourselves up for 72 hours, and fix the damn problem," the Guyanese leader declared during his address at the event in Port of Spain.
President Ali, questioned by reporters in Trinidad following his remarks, declared that he and the Guyanese Government are ready to sit down and fix these issues. "It is needed. We all know it is needed. It is critically needed," he emphasised.
Artificial barriers
Only back in February, the Guyanese head of state had renewed calls for the removal of what he had described as "artificial barriers" and bureaucracy surrounding trade with T&T
"A major issue is us getting our goods into Trinidad without the bureaucracy and with-
out the type of delays that we face. I believe that the time has come for those barriers – the artificial barriers – to be removed and the bureaucracy to be removed so that we can facilitate trade in a more efficient way and facilitate the movement of goods in a more efficient way,"
Dr Ali told reporters on the side-lines of the 50th Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government Meeting in St Kitts and Nevis.
For years, Guyanese companies have been complaining bitterly about the trade restrictions encountered with the twin-island republic, which is allowed to freely export its products to Guyana with ease.
In recent years, local businesses have encountered issues with products such as honey and dairy items that were blocked during transhipment through Trinidad.
Minister Indar, who is Guyana's lead representative on the regional body set up to oversee the operationalisation of the regional ferry service, had indicated that current trade restrictions on some 54 products, including ground provisions and fresh fruits, would be removed when the regional ferry service comes on stream.
Initially, a total of 67 items were identified as problematic regarding trading within the region, and these were divided into two priority groups, A and B, to have the trade restrictions on them removed.
"They have about 13 items in Priority B that are difficult and the countries need to fix to get normalised procedures for free trade. But there were 54 items that you could work with from the get-go while you worked on the others. And that is what we approved," the Minister had previously stated, noting that each country had its own type of barriers impacting free trade.
Back in 2024, however, it was revealed that more than 50 items were cleared for free trading as Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad advanced on a regional ferry service to move people and goods.
President Dr Irfaan Ali with Chairman of the US EXIM Bank, John Jovanovic, and his delegation at State House on Thursday during their high-level visit to Georgetown
President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing the T&T Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Annual Business Meeting on Friday at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Port of Spain FROM PAGE 3
Taking on…
…China
The US – under Donald Trump’s leadership – has quit pussyfooting and declared this hemisphere as theirs – and China better keep its (sticky) fingers off!! His 2025 National Security Strategy placed renewed emphasis on the hemisphere and declared a “Trump Corollary” to the 1823 Monroe Doctrine. This promises to “deny non-hemispheric competitors – read: China – the ability to position forces or other threatening capabilities, or to own or control strategically vital assets, in our hemisphere”.
While we all know China’s poised to soon pip the US as the biggest economy in the world – when you go a bit more granular, you would’ve seen that the Chinese have already replaced the Americans as Latin America’s development partner with their Belt and Road Initiative and other investments!! The problem with the Yanks is that while they fretted at China’s “encroachment”, they didn’t express the same aggression in getting their companies to do business with the region!! So, while the Chinese here in little Guyana were building airports, bridges and other infrastructure, the Yanks basically only had Exxon pumping oil off the Atlantic. And even that consortium has a 25 per cent Chinese ownership!!
Well, the visit by the head of the US Export-Import Bank –which had already provided a US$2 billion line of credit for US companies willing to do business here – signals that the US looks like it’s gonna get into the (economic investment) trenches with the Chinks. More specifically, the fella’s looking into the large chunk of that credit – more than HALF A BILLION! – that was used to lure in the American investors in the Gas-to-Shore mega project at Wales.
Well, let’s hope the Yanks will now give the Chinks a full court press on investments – because the latter ain’t slacking off. The announcement that the Chinese consortium –CAMCE – Sinopharmintl - is gonna build the new state-of-theart Regional Hospital in Bartica is a reminder!! They’ve just completed constructing SIX regional hospitals in the country - at Lima (Region Two), De Kinderen (Region Three), Diamond and Enmore (Region Four), Bath (Region 5) and at No. 75 Village (Region Six)! And are gonna build the new $11.4 billion West Dem Hospital in Region Three!!
These projects are based on China’s “One Core, Two Wings” development framework, which spatially integrates an industrial core with differentiated cultural heritages and immersive consumer experiences!! Because they’re closer to our developmental trajectory – from the third world trying to reach the first – the Chinese are gonna be hard to beat. Your Eyewitness advises the Yanks to focus and stress QUALITY as their selling point – since Secretary Rubio’s (albeit unfairly!) crack about shoddy Chinese workmanship resonated widely!! He recommends that EXIM Bank Chairman John Jovanovic remind his hosts about how long the original Georgetown–Linden Highway held up!!
…Delcy
In her first overseas visit, Venezuela’s acting President, Delcy Rodriguez, jetted over to Grenada, where she was smooched by PM Dickon Mitchell as she announced she planned to use Grenada as a gateway to the Caribbean!! “We hope the bilateral agenda will be able to incorporate other countries in the Caribbean,” she simpered!! The trouble was, visiting a member of CARICOM, she was brazen enough to ostentatiously flaunt a brooch on her lapel that had a map of Venezuela which incorporated our Essequibo!!
Now your Eyewitness’ question is why the dickens didn’t Dickon – who was recently feted by President Ali right here when they opened a Grenadian consulate – register an objection?? CARICOM has made an unequivocal commitment to our territorial integrity and protested Mad Maduro’s bullyism!!
But could it be that Grenada’s membership in the Venezuelan-sponsored ALBA initiative, which provides oil at a concessionary price, has bought them off – as they’d done with St Vincent’s Ralph Gonsalves, who was the dictator’s biggest CARICOM cheerleader??
Thankfully, he was booted out!!
Dickon’s turn??
…WIN?
Looks like the PNC’s making an effort to staunch the bleeding inflicted by Sanction Man’s WIN. Today, they have an outreach in East Ruimveldt promoting a “Street Parliament”. Interestingly, the Leader, Chicken Man and Black Pudding Man are missing!!
Pilot feared dead as ASL aircraft crashes shortly after takeoff from Mahdia – special forces initiate search & rescue mission
Apilot is feared dead after an Air Services Limited (ASL) aircraft reportedly crashed shortly after taking off from Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), on Friday.
The single-engine Cessna aircraft, bearing registration number 8R-YAC, was being operated by a Nicaraguan national, Captain Ryder Castello,
with approximately 20 years of flying experience. He was the sole occupant on board and had been employed with ASL for about a decade. According to reports, the aircraft departed Mahdia at approximately 08:10h on a cargo shuttle flight bound for Imbaimadai, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), with an expected arrival time of 08:40h.
However, it failed to report its arrival, prompting a flight progress check at 08:44h. At the time, weather conditions in the area were reportedly poor, with heavy rainfall and reduced visibility. The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) swiftly responded to the incident, initiating protocols for a missing aircraft involving a Cessna 208 operating along the Mahdia–Imbaimadai route. Search efforts led to the visual identification of the suspected crash site by two Trans Guyana Airways Cessna Caravans and a Britten-Norman Islander. Subsequently, a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) rescue team, comprising special forces and medical personnel, was deployed to the location. Guyana Times understands that the rescue team has to
trek through mountainous terrains to reach the area where the plane crashed. This, according to experts, will take some time. However, the situation remains active, and all information is considered preliminary pending on-site verification.
Meanwhile, the Aviation Operators’ Association of Guyana (AOAG) has expressed deep concern and sadness over the incident.
In a statement on Friday, the association confirmed that a full-scale air search and rescue operation was launched, resulting in the rapid location of the aircraft. The AOAG noted that private aircraft operators across the country have mobilised in support of the national response, demonstrating strong collaboration within the aviation sector. The association also stated that it remains in close commu-
nication with the GDF and continues to offer its full support throughout the rescue operation. Additionally, the AOAG extended prayers and best wishes for the safe recovery of the pilot. The incident has triggered a coordinated national response, highlighting the aviation community’s commitment to safety, solidarity and swift action during emergencies.
The plane bearing registration number 8R-YAC that crashed on Friday
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GDF special forces on ground as search and rescue operation continues
Over 70 stakeholders trained to expand Guyana’s forest monitoring system
The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) in collaboration with the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) recently hosted a capacity-building workshop on monitoring forest loss and information sharing.
radation (REDD+). This broader scope improves the transparency and accuracy of LULUCF reporting, supporting access to climate finance.
proaches to improve forest governance and align with the InterGovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) requirements set under the Paris Agreement.
Over 70 key technical, policy-based and regulatory stakeholders attended the hybrid session organised with support from the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) through the project Strengthening Capacity of Guyana’s Monitoring, Reporting and Verification System (MRVS).
Stakeholders and officials at the workshop
Guyana’s Commissioner of Forests, Edward Goberdhan, related, “We are very
thankful for the support of the UK Government through the UK PACT programme and GGGI in the work of the Guyana Forestry Commission and the Government of Guyana in terms of expanding the MRVS system.”
Building stakeholder capacity allows Guyana’s MRVS to expand and cover land use, landuse change, and forestry (LULUCF) for the first time. Previously, the MRVS focused on reducing emissions from deforestation and forest deg-
In addition, Acting Deputy Head Commissioner, British High Commission to Guyana, Alain Archibald, noted, “By supporting skills development and reinforcing technical systems, we are collectively advancing evidence-based decision-making and fortifying the foundations for long-term sustainable development.”
The trainings, led by the consultants, Indufor and Durham University, highlighted the importance of using advanced digital tools and ap-
A session on Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) also emphasised inclusive and accessible forest monitoring processes.
GGGI Guyana Program Manager
Hansrajie Sukhdeo posited, “By equipping national stakeholders with the right tools, skills, and systems, we are supporting more robust, transparent, and inclusive forest monitoring that underpins Guyana’s longterm climate and development objectives.”
Min Mustapha outlines Guyana’s push for stronger food ecosystem at agriculture forum
– sees IICA’s AgriConnect initiative as an engine of sustainable growth, food security
Guyana’s Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha related that Guyana is moving in a direction that focuses on building the right food ecosystem – one with strong small-scale farmers, improved market linkages, and better access to finance and digital tools. He was at the time addressing the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture, which hosted a roundtable for its AgriConnect Initiative for Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) at its headquarters in Washington, DC, on Friday.
The event brought together Ministers of Agriculture and other senior officials from across LAC. “Guyana’s agriculture sector is transitioning from traditional practices to a modern, climate-smart and data-driven industry. Our initiatives are designed to
reduce production costs and enhance household incomes, demonstrating our commitment to progress. AgriConnect’s emphasis on investments in physical infrastructure, natural resources, human capital, digital solutions, training, extension services and research mirrors Guyana’s national agenda. We are prioritising modern drainage and irrigation systems, expanding farm-to-market roads, upgrading storage and cold chain systems, and building a digitally enabled extension service,”
Mustapha told the gathering. He also noted that the initiative calls for country-level commitments to improve opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses, as well as policy reforms to unlock investment in the agri-food sector. “Guyana has been aggressively pursuing such reforms, including the implementation of a successful crop insurance frame-
work in the rice sector and climate-smart agriculture initiatives such as shade houses, tunnel ventilation pens, and improved crop varieties. These have already begun to positively impact our farmers and their livelihoods,” he added. Furthermore, Mustapha told officials that there are several areas where AgriConnect can accelerate the transformation of Guyana’s agriculture sector. “The Guyana Development Bank (GDB), slated for 2026, will provide farmers and small businesses with easier ac-
cess to credit to expand their operations and invest in new production technologies. AgriConnect can help strengthen the financial ecosystem for farmers, turning agriculture from a survival activity into a bankable, investable, and profitable enterprise. Guyana is investing in megafood parks, modern port facilities, cold storage and a regional food hub. These investments position us to contribute meaningfully to the Caribbean Community’s regional agenda of reducing the region’s food import bill
by 25 per cent by 2030. AgriConnect can assist in harmonising standards, improving traceability, and expanding export readiness. Additionally, Guyana is advancing an Agriculture Information System and a Farmers Connect mobile application that provides timely updates and technical information. AgriConnect can further support this through AgriTech solutions such as digital advisory services, digital public infrastructure, and production-focused technologies,” Mustapha explained.
The AgriConnect Initiative has an estimated global funding requirement of US$9 billion per year, with the potential to mobilise an additional US$5 billion in investments, strengthening innovation, financing, and agriculture-oriented service ecosystems.
AgriConnect is a World Bank Group initiative designed to expand rural connectivity, promote digital inclusion, and integrate family farmers into markets. The initiative aims to support up to 300 million smallholder farmers worldwide by 2030 by strengthening access to technologies, financing, knowledge, and digital tools. It also seeks to improve producers’ incomes, generate jobs throughout agri-food value chains and enhance food security, contributing to more inclusive and sustainable rural development. In addition to expanding access to markets and technologies, the programme also seeks to create economic opportunities in rural areas, particularly for young people, by encouraging them to remain in the countryside through more innovative and productive activities linked to global value chains.
The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, continues to advance its nationwide efforts to improve solid waste management, with 22 trucks currently en route to Region Six to strengthen sanitation services and waste disposal operations across the region.
All 19 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and the region’s three municipalities are set to benefit from the distribution of the vehicles, which will significantly enhance the capacity of local authorities to execute timely and effi-
Mahaicony driver charged and granted bail for fatal Rome accident
Days after a 24-yearold pedal cyclist was crushed by an overtaking lorry along Rome Access Road, East Bank Demerara, the driver was charged and granted bail for the incident.
Surendra Bessesar, 30, of Little Abary, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, was charged with causing the death of Kevin Roache, which occurred on March 20, 2026, and appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, March 31.
He was not required to plead to the indictment but was later granted $300,000 bail with conditions that he report to the Police on the last Friday of every month and lodge his passport at the court until the matter is com-
pleted. He is due to make his next court appearance on May 20, 2026.
It was reported that the now-deceased pedal cyclist, a construction worker from Agricola, Greater Georgetown, came into contact with motor lorry GAK 7143 with trailer TYY 9718 attached.
Police stated that the motor lorry was proceeding along the Rome Access Road behind the cyclist.
However, while in the vicinity of Farm/Supply, the driver reportedly overtook the pedal cyclist, and the left-side rear wheel of the trailer came into contact with the rear wheel of the cycle, causing the cyclist to lose control and end up under the trailer, where the wheel ran over his left foot.
cient waste collection and disposal.
Emergency medical technicians were summoned, and the cyclist was examined by a doctor on duty at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A breathalyser test conducted on the lorry driver showed that there were no traces of alcohol in his system.
This latest investment forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to improving community infrastructure, sanitation, and environmental health throughout Guyana. The additional trucks are expected to improve garbage collection schedules, support cleaner communities, and assist local democratic organisations in maintaining public spaces and neighbourhoods.
Several NDC representatives have since underscored the significance of the initiative, describing it as a transformative development for their communi-
ties. Chairperson of the Hogstye/Lancaster NDC, Sheron Smith, noted that the additional resources will allow local authorities to better serve communities. In particular, the subvention funding this project will allow citizens to benefit at no cost.
The initiative underscores the Government’s recognition of the critical role proper waste management plays in public health, environmental sustainability, and national development. By equipping local authorities with the necessary resources, the Government aims to ensure more reliable service delivery and greater efficiency in sanitation management across all com-
munities.
The deployment of the trucks to Region Six is part of a wider national programme to modernise solid waste management systems and strengthen the operational capacity of local authorities countrywide.
Residents can look forward to improved waste collection services once the trucks are distributed and become fully operational.
The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to creating cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities for all Guyanese through continued investments in essential public services and infrastructure.
Reg 3 hosts an OSH walk promoting safe working environments
In observance of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), the Region Three office of the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning on Friday hosted its annual walk, which symbolises a vibrant display of teamwork and advocacy for workplace safety.
Participants walked from Crane Turn, West Coast Demerara, to the West Demerara Secondary School, pro-
moting this year’s theme, “Good Psychosocial Working Environment: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations”.
The programme featured remarks and contributions from OSH Officers Christa Simmons and Wycliffe Beckles, along with NIS representative Keneisha Musa Cox.
The event also included an engaging steel-
pan performance by the West Demerara Steel Orchestra and a poetry presentation.
The welcome and opening remarks were delivered by Assistant Chief OSH Officer Maxean Bess, who emphasised the importance of creating supportive and safe work environments.
Participants brought energy and enthusiasm to the event through friendly competitions,
with prizes awarded for categories such as Best Banner, Best Uniformed Group, Best Chant, and others, making the walk both meaningful and memorable.
Members of the public are encouraged to join the ministry’s ongoing OSH Month activities as efforts continue to raise awareness and promote a culture of safety and health across Guyana.
Minister Priya Manickchand in discussions with regional officials
The trucks assigned to Region Six
Workers showing support for a safe working environment
DPP recommends murder charge against mother who strangled daughter to death
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, has recommended a murder charge
against 26-year-old Sarah Elizabeth Shivpersaud, who suffocated her seven-year-old daughter at their Fyrish, Corentyne,
Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) home on Sunday. Guyana Times understands that the file was submitted to the DPP Chambers on Friday, and based on the evidence provided, legal advice has been given for a murder charge to be instituted against Shivpersaud. As such, the mother is ex-
pected to make her appearance on Monday at the Albion Magistrate’s Court. Shivpersaud was discharged from the Port Mourant Hospital on Thursday after she attempted to take her own life.
She is accused of killing her daughter, Isabella Dabadial, and also attempted to strangle her son, Ethan. The incident reportedly took place at about 11:30h.
However, as the investigation continues into the gruesome act, the woman, after her discharge, was taken back to the scene by detectives, where she reportedly claimed that she could not remember what took place on the fateful day. She is presently being psychologically evaluated. Despite her claims,
Police sources indicate that statements continue to be collected and key details verified as the probe advances.
It was reported that the woman had been experiencing emotional distress after her husband left the home several days prior and refused
to return. She is also said to have told investigators that she had nothing to eat on the morning of the incident and became overwhelmed. Prior to committing the act, she reportedly posted a photo of herself and the two children, seeking forgiveness for what she was about to do. After committing the act, Shivpersaud attempted to take her own life by cutting the veins behind her ankles.
Meanwhile, little Isabella Dabadial was confirmed dead after she and her brother were rushed to the same hospital. Her younger sibling survived the ordeal. An autopsy performed on the body of Isabella proved that she died from manual strangulation. She was laid to rest on Friday.
The father of the child next to her coffin on Friday
Dead: Isabella Dabadial
Suspect: Sarah Elizabeth Shivpersaud
20 oil & gas technicians graduates from Port Mourant training college
– Dr Ashni Singh hails graduates as pioneers of Guyana's energy
future
The Guyana Technical Training College Inc (GTTCI) on Friday graduated 20 new oil and gas technicians at the Port Mourant, Region Six (East Berbice–Corentyne), marking a major milestone in the Government's push to ensure Guyanese secure maximum participation in the rapidly expanding sector.
Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) of the Ministry of Education, Dr Ritesh Tularam, described the event as a significant national milestone, noting that it is a significant achievement.
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, who delivered the feature address, stated that the achievement reflects deliberate policy decisions taken by the Administration to create real opportunities for Guyanese in the industry, noting that "President Ali and our Government were very clear; we want to create business opportunities for Guyanese companies and employment opportunities for Guyanese nationals." He added that "the various steps that we took along the journey were all instrumental in getting us to where we are today".
The graduation ceremony brought together Government officials, in-
dustry leaders, faculty, and families to celebrate the success of trainees who completed the advanced diploma programme in key disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and production, areas critical to the country's oil and gas operations. Delivering the welcome address, Deputy
"Not only for our graduates but also for our institution and our country," he said while emphasising that the programme has equipped participants with the technical competence and professionalism required to meet the demands of the industry. Industry partners also highlighted the importance of building local capacity, with SBM Offshore Guyana's General Manager Martin Cheong noting that the training model is now transitioning fully to Guyana.
"Going forward, future trainees will be able to complete their full training right here in Guyana." Cheong added that the initiative was designed "to build local capacity and create opportunities at home". The current graduating batch is the last to have completed part of its training overseas, with earlier phases conducted in Canada before trainees returned to complete their programme at the state-of-the-art FACTOR facility at Port Mourant. The transition to fully local training marks a significant shift, reducing the need for costly overseas instruction while allowing more Guyanese to access internationally certified programmes within their own country. Director of GTTCI, Professor Clement Sankat, said sustaining
and expanding the institution will require continued investment and collaboration, warning that "these are not small tasks". They require thoughtful policy decisions, strong partnerships, and sustained commitment and action," which he said are necessary to ensure the longterm success and regional impact of the initiative.
The President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, reinforced the scale of opportunity facing the graduates, noting that the industry's rapid expansion will require a steady pipeline of skilled Guyanese workers.
He told the ceremony that production has already surpassed 900,000 barrels per day and is expected to exceed one million barrels per day before the end of this year, with longer-term projections indicating that output could reach as much as 1.5 million barrels per day by 2030, just over a decade after Guyana first began producing oil. Against that backdrop, Routledge said the role of trained Guyanese workers is critical to sustaining
growth in the sector. "We have high confidence that you're going to do wonderful things," he said, adding that it needs the right people with the right skills to make it happen.
"...you are an instrumental part of that."
Meanwhile, Dr Singh reminded the graduates that they are part of a historic first generation entering the sector, telling them that "you are the first generation of Guyanese employees working in the oil and gas sector; you are pioneers," while stressing that the Government intends to expand opportunities even further, adding, "We want thousands more to replicate what you have done."
The graduates, many of whom are already employed within the sector, were told that their success represents not only personal achievement but also the growing capacity of Guyana to train its own workforce to meet international standards, as the country continues to align education, policy, and industry to maximise national benefits from its oil and gas resources.
Pilot feared dead as ASL...
This tragic accident comes on the heels of the GCAA suspending ASL from operating flights to Matthews Ridge in Region One – following an incident on the runway there. The suspension only lasted a few days, after which the airline was allowed to resume its operations while the pilot involved in the incident was sus-
pended for a month. This incident also comes on the heels of the December 2023 GDF Bell 412 helicopter crash that killed five out of the seven soldiers onboard. That crash happened about 30 miles east of Arau near the Venezuelan border. Those dead are Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, Colonel Michael Shahoud,
Retired Brigadier Gary Beaton, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan. The two survivors are Corporal Dwayne Jackson and Lieutenant Andio Crawford.
The report into that fatal accident has not been released for national security reasons, officials have said.
Minister Dr Ashni Singh and officials from ExxonMobil, along with the graduates
President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, during his address
DPP condemns false social media claims on Clonbrook drug bust
Clonbrook, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
Days after the Opposition Leader, through his social media outlet "Team Mohamed", published a post under the caption "Barrels of drugs found at PPP Councillor’s house, No Accountability: The PPP Protects Criminals!" the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, strongly condemned the deliberate dissemination of false, misleading and damaging information.
Following the discovery, Ronita Stuart Ram, Ranjeev Ram, Savitri Ram, and Maikhram Ram were arrested. After investigations were completed, the DPP stated that based on the evidence contained in the Police file, she advised the Police to institute charges against Ronita Stuart Ram, Maikhram Ram, Ranjeev Ram, and Savitri Ram for the offence of Possession of Narcotics for the Purpose of Trafficking. They were charged
and appeared before Magistrate Orinthia Schmidt at the Cove & John Magistrates' Court on March 4, 2026, where they pleaded not guilty. As such, they were granted bail in the sum of $1 million each. They were due back in court on March 31, 2026.
The DPP wishes to state that all legal advice given by the DPP's Office is based on the evidence contained in Police files from Police investigations, the relevant law thereto, and the Code for Prosecutors.
The post stated, "Barrels of cannabis found in Clonbrook, yet no names or faces published because the PPP protects criminals."
According to the DPP, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) conducted investigations related to the discovery of a quantity of cannabis on November 29, 2025, at Section C
Mahendra Ramkellawan clinches...
In addition, Manager of Training & Licensing, Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Chetnauth Persaud posited, “The Guyana Tourism Authority is proud to partner with Demerara Distillers Limited on this growing initiative, which continues to strengthen
the tourism and hospitality sector by providing local bartenders with a platform to refine their craft, expand their knowledge, and showcase their creativity using Guyana’s finest rums.”
The Global Final offers participants a unique opportunity to immerse
themselves in Guyanese culture, lifestyle, and heritage before showcasing their final creations to a panel of esteemed judges. This competition will take place in Guyana, at the Diamond Distillery, home of El Dorado Rums, from April 13 to 17.
The Global Finals of the
El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition will be tasted and judged by Sharon Sue-HangBaksh, Master Blender at DDL; Daniele Dalla Pola, International Rum and Cocktail Specialist (USA); and Sasha Siegel, bar owner and celebrated bartender (Canada).
The ganja found in the barrel during the Police operation
Leader of the Opposition, Azruddin Mohamed
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack
Flyover, flag raising ceremony planned for Guyana’s 60th independence anniversary in NY
The Consulate General and the Guyana Permanent Mission to the United Nations (UN) in New York on Friday stated that they will host a series of activities in observance of Guyana’s 60th independence anniversary. These events will bring together Guyanese nationals, members of the diplomatic corps, friends of Guyana, elected officials and the wider public to salute Guyana’s independence and development over the years. On Monday, May 24, and Tuesday, May 25, 2026, from 12:00h to 18:00h, there will be an aerial flyover featuring a giant Golden Arrowhead across key areas of New York City, including Lido Beach, Coney Island Beach, the Hudson River (NY side), George Washington Bridge, Battery Park, New Jersey, Liberty Park, and
Brooklyn. On Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 17:00h to 19:30h, the Golden Arrowhead will be raised, followed by a reception at the Helen Marshall Cultural Centre (Queens Borough Hall), 12055 Queens Blvd, Kew Gardens, NY 11424. This flyover with the large
national flag will again bring a sense of pride to the large Guyanese diaspora in New York and surrounding areas. It is intended as a unifying moment for Guyanese nationals abroad, a tribute to their resilience, and a visual reminder of the nation’s enduring journey since achieving independence in 1966. Members of the public are encouraged to attend the scheduled events and to view the flyover from public parks, waterfronts, and open locations along the aforementioned flight path. The Consulate General will provide further information in the weeks ahead.
CAL adds US$15-25 fuel
surcharge
as global fuel prices soar – New
prices take effect from April 10
Caribbean Airlines (CAL) on Thursday announced that it will add a US$15-25 fuel surcharge to all regional and international tickets.
The surcharge will apply per sector and will be applied to all tickets purchased on or after April 10. Tickets bought before April 10 will not attract the fuel surcharge, and tickets for flights between Trinidad and Tobago will remain unaffected.
The announcement comes as the aviation industry grapples with soaring global jet fuel prices due to the US/Israel–Iran conflict.
In a statement to Guardian Media, the airline said the fuel surcharge only helps to offset a portion of the rising costs, and CAL will continue to absorb a significant share of the costs in a bid to minimise the impact on passengers. The airline also said its base fare remains unchanged.
Airlines across the world have been introducing fuel surcharges, cutting capacity, and raising baggage fees as they seek to offset the additional fuel costs, which in some cases are accounting for approximately 50 per cent of operating costs when it usually is around 27 per cent. At least five American carriers have raised baggage fees by $10, with the latest announcements coming yesterday from Dallas-based American Airlines and
Seattle-based Alaska Airlines.
CAL said, “No decisions have been made at this time regarding any increase” in baggage fees, but the airline continues to review its cost structure.
While CAL’s base fares aren’t increasing, the additional fuel surcharge means ticket prices will go up. According to International Air Transport Association (IATA) Director General Willie Walsh, higher fares, at least in the short term, are inevitable.
Speaking at IATA’s World Data Symposium in Singapore on Wednesday, Walsh said, “What the industry struggles with is the short-term reaction to the rapid increase, and it’s how quickly we can respond to that… This is not a crisis that is anywhere close to what we experienced in COVID. And airlines still have a lot of levers that they can pull to respond to this, but the immediate one will be to reflect the higher costs through higher ticket prices. It’s just inevitable that that will happen.”
He said most airlines should be able to navigate their way through this latest challenge once they make sensible decisions, but did raise concerns about the possibility of fuel shortages even if the two-week ceasefire deal between the US and Iran holds.
“The concern at the moment is around the potential shortage of the refined product of jet fuel,” he said.
Adding that “It will take some time for refineries outside of the region to adapt and increase the supply of jet [fuel].” But India has the capacity to increase refining; Nigeria has a big refinery there. So, you know, we could see an increase in the refined product; it will take a bit of time to adjust. Then there has been damage to some of the infrastructure for the refineries, and that will take time to recover.” Walsh is predicting that prices will return to where they were by the end of the year. IATA is a trade organisation that represents over 360 of the world’s airlines.
APNU calls for national flood mitigation work plan ahead of May/June rainy season
In light of the recent flooding across Georgetown and along the coastline, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) party is calling for a visible, structured, and aggressive national work programme to mitigate flooding during the upcoming May/June rainy season.
Over the last few weeks, the Government has activated a series of measures after persistent rainfall inundated Georgetown and other areas along the coast. During this period, Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall stated that state agencies must accept responsibility for the flooding, but APNU believes that the Government must be held accountable.
“The issue requires the Government to show concern by developing and implementing the required plans. While the regular cleaning of drains and canals is necessary
to support efficient drainage, it is only one component of an effective drainage system. From an engineering standpoint, the system must be capable of performing under high-intensity rainfall events, including hundred-year storm conditions,” APNU stated.
The party stated that efficient drains are essential to ensure that runoff reaches pump stations in a timely manner and that the required hydraulic head is available for ef-
fective pump operation.
“Where bottlenecks exist, engineered drains with the required hydraulic capacity must be constructed so that the system can be rapidly flushed of floodwaters. However, the more critical issue remains whether there is adequate discharge capacity at the outfalls, particularly during high tide when sluices are closed and reliance shifts to pumps.”
APNU reiterated that there is a need for a
comprehensive flood reduction and prevention framework, supported by proper preparation and execution. Such an approach must be grounded in sound engineering principles, including system performance under major rainfall events and the alignment between conveyance efficiency and discharge capacity.
Budget 2026 allocates GY$196.1 billion for roads and bridges, part of a GY$1.558 trillion national budget, with the
Government presenting this as proof that the country is moving in the right direction.
On this note, the APNU calls on the PPP/C regime to immediately present a clear and timebound solid waste management plan and a flood mitigation and drainage work programme with defined actions for the upcoming May-June rainy period.
The plan must identify targeted communities, specify works to be un-
dertaken, name responsible agencies, define timelines, assign equipment, and establish reporting mechanisms for public accountability.
“It is a matter of governance, competence, and priorities. Guyana does not lack money. What it lacks is coordination, execution, transparency in delivery, and a development agenda that places the lived conditions of ordinary citizens at the centre,” the party stated.
Queen’s College secures win in regional scientists’ competition
Queen’s College secured the first place in the secondary category of the 2025-2026 Young Environmental Scientists (YES) Competition, hosted by Macmillan Education Caribbean.
The competition highlighted the innovation, creativity, and problem-solving abilities of students from across the region and brought together primary and secondary school students from across the Caribbean, challenging them to identify pressing environmental issues within their communities and propose practical, science-based solutions.
The annual initiative continues to foster environmental awareness, teamwork, and critical thinking among young learners.
In the primary category, first place was awarded to the EcoHero Team of Tunapuna Presbyterian Primary School in Trinidad and Tobago.
Second place went to the SVG Wildlife Warriors of Calliaqua Anglican Primary School in St Vincent and the Grenadines, while third place was claimed by the Sea to Structure Solutionists of Grand Roy Government School in Grenada.
The Eco-Hero Team impressed judges with a practical initiative aimed at reducing single-use plastic waste within their school. Their project encouraged students to bring and reuse their own utensils instead of relying on disposable plastic spoons. It was supported by awareness campaigns, poster competitions and data tracking to measure behavioural change.
The initiative demonstrated how simple actions can drive meaningful environmental impact within school communities.
In the secondary category, Queen’s College in Guyana secured first
posal bins, a composting system for farmers and a public education campaign. A pilot study conducted by the team found that while awareness of the issue was low, there was a willingness among community members to adopt safer disposal practices.
al platform for showcasing Caribbean students’ innovation and environmental stewardship.”
place through its team, ResistRx. Five Rivers Secondary School in Trinidad and Tobago captured both second and third places with the GASH – Giant African Snail Hunters Association and the Wes4G 4-H Club, respectively. Queen’s College was recognised for its research into the improper disposal of antibiotics
and its environmental consequences. The team explored how antibiotic residues enter the environment and contribute to antimicrobial resistance in soil ecosystems, particularly through household waste and small-scale farming practices.
Their proposed solutions included the introduction of community dis-
Winning teams in both categories will receive a half-day hands-on science workshop, a class set of science books, and a US$250 bookshop voucher, as well as trophies, medals and certificates. Second-place teams will receive a US$100 bookshop voucher along with trophies, medals and certificates. This is Queens College’s second consecutive win.
Organisers have issued a renewed call for wider Caribbean participation in the 2026-2027 edition.
Marketing Manager of Macmillan Education Dr Katy Anyasoro said, “The competition continues to grow as a region-
She added, “This year’s projects, which ranged from reducing plastic waste to addressing antimicrobial resistance, reflect the increasing awareness among young people of the need for sustainable solutions to real-world challenges.”
A highlight video showcasing entries from across the Caribbean is expected to be released soon, along with photographs from prize-giving ceremonies taking place in participating countries.
The Young Environmental Scientists Competition invites students aged seven to 18 to explore environmental issues and develop innovative, actionable solutions through research, experimentation and collaboration, helping to prepare the next generation of Caribbean scientists and environmental leaders.
Sections of Georgetown and along the coastline under water
Macmillan Education Caribbean Sales Manager Deborah Brearley (fourth from left) with Tunapuna Presbyterian School students: (from left) Matthew Cipriani, Andrew Ramasar, Antoinette Kissoon, and Anico Reyes, who took first place in the Primary School category (Anisto Alves photo)
Regional Police in Venezuela block protesters calling for higher wages, pensions
Union leaders, retirees and Public Sector workers in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas have marched towards the Presidential palace to demand higher wages and dignified pensions, only to be met by Police blockades.
The protests came the day after acting President Delcy Rodriguez went on national television to ask Public and Private Sector workers for patience as her Government works to improve the country’s economy.
Workers’ wages for years have not allowed them to afford basic necessities. Many Public Sector workers survive on roughly $160 per month, while the average Private Sector employee earned about $237 last year.
“Call for elections and leave. That’s what the Venezuelan worker wants today,” said
Patines, a marching union leader, outlining what he would like to see from the country’s interim Government.
“Because if, on May 1, they come with an increase of a few dollars, no, we don’t need it. We want a salary with purchasing power.”
National Police Officers were deployed across downtown Caracas to intercept the march.
Several times, dem-
onstrators successfully breached initial barriers. Reinforced blockades eventually halted the crowd, leaving the majority of protesters roughly two kilometres from the Miraflores Presidential palace.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or arrests during the scuffles between Police and protesters. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Cuban President tells NBC he won’t resign under US pressure as Russia backs old ally
The Cuban President, Miguel Diaz-Canel, said he would not resign under US pressure in his first television interview with an American broadcaster, while Russia insisted it would never abandon or betray its ally.
Diaz-Canel told NBC News on Thursday: “We have a free sovereign state, a free state. We have self-determination and independence, and we are not subjected to the designs of the United States. The US Government that has implemented that hostile policy against Cuba has no morals to demand anything from Cuba,” the
65-year-old said in remarks that were translated to English. “The concept of revolutionaries giving up and stepping down – it’s not part of our vocabulary.”
Washington has waged a pressure campaign on communist-ruled Cuba, imposing a virtual oil blockade on the island by threatening tariffs on any country that attempts to sell oil to the island.
An energy crisis has crippled Cuba since January, when its main supply from Venezuela was cut off after the US seized Nicolás Maduro.
Trump has openly floated the idea of “taking” Cuba, and his
Administration labels leaders in Havana a threat to US national security.
As the tensions simmer between Washington and Russia, deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov visited Cuba on Thursday, holding talks with DiazCanel.
Quoted by Russian news agencies, Ryabkov said Moscow had no intention of walking away from its interests in the Western Hemisphere no matter what the US might say.
Ryabkov said Moscow’s help for Cuba would go beyond the large shipload of oil it had sent to the island last month. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Human rights groups decry US plan for Guantánamo camp for Cuban migrants
Dozens of US and international human rights organisations are decrying the Trump Administration’s plans to establish a migrant “camp” for fleeing Cubans at the Guantánamo Bay military base if the island nation’s crisis worsens under pressure from the US, according to a letter to members of Congress on Friday.
The 85 groups plan to submit the joint letter, exclusively shared with the Guardian, to US senators and House representatives, expressing their “profound concern” with comments made last month by a top Department of Defence commander and describing any prospect of further migrant detention at the base as “deeply troubling and unacceptable”.
The commander told
Congress last month that in the event of what one Republican senator described as “any humanitarian crisis” in Cuba, the Pentagon would “set up a camp” at the Guantánamo Bay US base to “deal with” migrants.
“Guantánamo should be a relic of the past,” the organisations' letter to the lawmakers reads. “We call on you to act without de-
lay to ensure not another dollar goes towards the detention facilities at Guantánamo, ensure the base is never again used for unlawful mass detention of any group of people, and end the coercive and punitive policy of sanctions and the embargo driving the humanitarian crisis.” (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Colombia raises Ecuador tariffs to 100% as trade tensions escalate
Colombia will raise tariffs on neighbouring Ecuador to 100 per cent from 30 per cent, Colombia's ?trade Ministry said on Friday, matching Ecuador's measure from a ?day earlier amid an escalating trade and diplomatic spat between the two South American nations.
Ecuador has in recent months hiked tariffs against its larger neighbour, citing ?a trade deficit and accusing Colombia of not doing enough to ?fight drug trafficking at the shared border – allegations Colombia has ?denied, citing joint military operations.
Ecuador's Government has also clashed diplomatically with ?Colombian President Gustavo Petro over his comments that Ecuador's former vice President, ?jailed for corruption, is being held as a political prisoner and should be freed.
Colombian trade
Colombia's Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism, Diana Marcela Morales, speaks during a press conference about tariffs imposed by the Ecuadorian Government
Minister Diana Morales said in a statement that Ecuador's latest tariff hike, from 50 per cent ?to 100 per cent, forced Colombia to align its policy.
The process to implement the ?new measure would begin immediately, she said.
"We have exhausted all diplomatic efforts and kept ?channels ?of dialogue open with the Government
of Ecuador, seeking a solution that benefits both countries, businesses, and above all, the communities on both sides of the border," she said.
"However, we have not received a positive response."
Tensions ?further escalated last ?month when 14 ?people were killed in explosions in Colombia as Ecuador conducted a security operation nearby. Ecuador denied violating the ?border and said it was looking into how its ?explosives came ?into Colombian territory.
Colombia has already halted energy sales to Ecuador, which are critical during droughts when hydroelectric dams dry up. Ecuador also imports significant quantities ?of ?medicines and pesticides from the neighbouring country.
In ?2025, Colombia reported a $1.02 billion trade surplus with Ecuador.
(Reuters)
Jose
Critics calling for higher wages in Caracas, Venezuela, clash with Police during a demonstration
Tents erected to house migrants at Guantánamo Bay
US likely to extend Russian oil waiver to temper Iran war shock, sources say
US President Donald Trump's Administration is likely to extend as soon as Friday a waiver allowing ?countries to buy some sanctioned Russian oil and petroleum products, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.
The US Treasury Department has allowed purchases of Russian oil and products at sea since mid-March with a 30-day waiver that expires on April 11, part of efforts to control global energy prices during ?the US-Israeli war with Iran.
Russia's Presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev had said the original waiver would free 100 million barrels of ?Russian crude, equal to almost a day's worth of global output.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met ?with Trump in the White House on Thursday to talk about extending the waiver, and they agreed it was a good ?idea, one of the sources said, asking not to be named.
Officials at the White House and Treasury Department did not immediately ?comment on the matter.
Oil prices have spiked since the start of the war due to the partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world's oil and gas had been shipped daily before the conflict. The war is creating the biggest oil supply disruption ?in history, the 32-nation International Energy Agency has said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Prince Harry sued by charity he co-founded in honour of Princess Diana
Acharity that Prince Harry co-founded in Africa to honour his late mother, Princess Diana, is suing him for defamation after he stepped down as a patron last year.
Sentebale, which Harry co-founded with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006 and helps youths with HIV in southern Africa, filed suit last month in London's High Court, according to court records reviewed Friday.
Online filings show Harry and his friend, Mark Dyer, a trustee at the charity, are being sued for either libel or slander. No documents were available.
"The charity seeks the court's intervention, protection, and restitution following a coordinated adverse media campaign conducted since 25 March 2025 that has caused operational disruption and reputational harm to the charity, its leadership, and its strategic partners," Sentebale said Friday in a statement on its website.
Disagreements surfaced in 2023 over a new fundraising strategy. Harry and Seeiso stepped down as patrons of the charity in March 2025.
At the time, they said the relationship between the board and its chair, Sophie Chandauka, was beyond repair and that they were stepping down in solidarity with
New tensions emerge before US-Iran war ceasefire talks in Pakistan
The United States delegation has already departed for Saturday’s planned ceasefire negotiations on the US-Israel war with Iran in Islamabad, Pakistan, where the government confirmed Iran’s delegation had arrived.
But on Friday, new tensions emerged between top US and Iranian officials, throwing the upcoming talks – already shrouded in deep distrust – into doubt.
At issue are the conditions in a 10-point Iranian proposal that was the basis for Tuesday’s agreement to pause the fighting and move ahead with diplomacy.
Both sides have offered dif-
fering accounts of those conditions after agreeing to them. One critical point of discord has been whether the ceasefire applies to Israel’s invasion and ongoing offensive in Lebanon.
On Friday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the disconnect could derail negotiations before they begin.
“Two of the measures mutually agreed upon between the parties have yet to be implemented: a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of Iran’s blocked assets prior to the commencement of negotiations,” Ghalibaf said in a post on the social media platform X.
“These two matters must be
fulfilled before negotiations begin.”
Ghalibaf is one of the Iranian officials expected to attend the Pakistan talks, alongside Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Hours after his post on Friday, Iranian state media reported that the delegation had arrived in Pakistan, adding that negotiations would begin only if Washington ?accepted Tehran’s “preconditions”.
The Iranian military’s joint command, meanwhile, warned it has its “fingers on the trigger” due to repeated “breaches of trust” by the US and Israel.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Splashdown of Artemis II astronauts concludes 10-day moon mission
Tfive trustees who resigned over an internal dispute that had broken into public view.
Chandauka later accused Harry of orchestrating a campaign of bullying and harassment to try to force her out.
She told Sky News in March that Harry's resignation had blindsided her and was "an example of harassment and bullying at scale". She said he also had interfered with a whistleblower complaint she filed against the charity.
The Charity Commission for England and Wales investigated and criticised both sides for allowing the issue to be played out in public and damaging the organisation's reputation but found no evidence of widespread bullying or misogyny at Sentebale. (Excerpt from CBS News)
he Artemis II capsule and its four-member crew streaked through Earth's atmosphere and safely splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on Friday after nearly 10 days in space, capping the first voyage by humans to the vicinity of the moon in over half a century.
NASA's gumdrop-shaped Orion capsule, dubbed Integrity, parachuted gently into the sea off the Southern California coast shortly after 17:00h PT, concluding a mission that took the astronauts deeper into space than anyone had flown before.
The Artemis II flight, travelling a total of 1,117,515 kilometres across two Earth orbits and a climactic lunar flyby some 252,000 miles away, was the debut crewed test flight in a series of Artemis missions that aim to start landing astronauts on the lunar surface starting in 2028.
The splashdown, about two hours before sunset, was carried by a live video feed in a NASA webcast.
Recovery teams were standing by to secure the floating capsule and retrieve the crew – US astronauts Reid Wiseman, 50; Victor Glover, 49; and Christina Koch, 47; along with Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, 50.
The crew's homecoming cleared a critical final hurdle for the Lockheed Martin-built (LMT.N), opens new tab, Orion spacecraft, proving it would
withstand the extreme forces of re-entry from a lunar-return trajectory.
It followed a white-knuckle, 13-minute fiery plunge through Earth's atmosphere, generating frictional heat that sent temperatures on the capsule's exterior soaring to some 5000 degrees Fahrenheit (2760 degrees Celsius).
At the peak of re-entry stress, as expected, intense heat and air compression formed a red-hot sheath of ionised gas, or plasma, that engulfed the capsule, cutting off radio communi-
cations with the crew for several minutes.
The tension broke as contact was re-established and two sets of parachutes were seen billowing from the nose of the free-falling capsule, slowing its descent to about 25 kph before Orion gently hit the water.
It was expected to take NASA and US Navy teams about an hour to secure the floating capsule and assist the four astronauts out of the vehicle and fly them to a nearby recovery ship to undergo an initial medical check-up. (Reuters)
Prince Harry co-founded Sentebale, which works with children and young people in southern Africa
DAILY HOROSCOPES
Fire up the engine and make your way forward. Put your energy where it counts and make the most of your time and effort. You have plenty to gain if you are steadfast and courageous with your intentions and actions. A change in how you earn or use your money will encourage you to make a move.
20-May 20)
21-June 20)
Control your emotions and keep your thoughts to yourself. Mull over situations and look for alternatives and solutions that do not disrupt your reputation, your home, or your professional goals. Work diligently behind the scenes to ensure you achieve the most with the least amount of interference. Fix up your living space to accommodate your lifestyle.
Change matters. Sitting idle will leave you in a state of stress. Do whatever it takes to make your life manageable and to find peace of mind. Change is ideal, and research, talking to experts, and exploring possibilities will guide you forward. Call in favors if it will help you resolve issues and improve your lifestyle.
23-Sept. 22)
Look at the big picture but don t take on too much. Monitor your finances and focus on living a healthy lifestyle, and opportunities to explore new possibilities, partnerships, and pastimes will lead to personal happiness. Refuse to let what others do interfere with your plans. Follow your heart and explore the possibilities. Live life your way.
23-Oct. 23)
Filter through information before making a change. You have plenty to gain if you are observant, thorough, and you don t overspend or overdo. Partnerships can offset the cost of your plans if you can agree on a price and an agreeable plan. Be careful not to buy into beauty scams that promise the world and offer few returns. Do your best to show up, do your thing, and to have a positive impact on others. Let intelligence lead the way, and others will follow. Participation is the best way to bring about change. Emotions will surface if conversations spin out of control. Stay calm, and you ll be able to outmaneuver anyone who tries to oppose you.
Distance yourself from anyone who doesn t coincide with your plans. Put in the time and effort necessary to turn your ideas into something constructive. Refuse to let anyone talk you into overloading your schedule or spending more than you can afford. Rely on yourself, and your intelligence and experience to get you where you want to go.
Take advantage of any opportunity to mix business with pleasure. Getting along with someone who shares a similar professional background will lead to opportunities that go far beyond your expectations. Travel and communication are on the rise and will give you plenty to consider moving forward. A change will lead to romance, adventure, or a new beginning. Act instinctively. Put your heart and soul into whatever you pursue and pioneer your way forward. Home improvements and using your skills differently will offer insight into how you can raise your income or lower your overhead. Managing your finances and implementing a healthy, less stressful lifestyle is within reach. Negotiate on your own behalf.
Take the high road, keep your thoughts to yourself, and avoid discord, interference, and temptation. Pay attention to how you look and feel, and make changes at home that make your life easier and less stressful financially. Declutter and sell off what you no longer need. Pay attention and nurture relationships dear to your heart. Romance is favored.
Review your financial position and consider how to make it better. Read the fine print, and put a thrifty plan and discipline in place that helps you cut your costs and alleviate stress. A lifestyle change or a residential move will motivate you to address situations that are holding you back and get on with your life.
Knowing when to start and stop is essential if you want to avoid waste, debt, or unnecessary interference. Use your intelligence, connections, and experience to help you navigate your way to a better deal or outcome. Say no to excessive behavior and recognize when someone offers an inflated point of view. Choose affordable pastimes and entertainment.
PEANUTS
CALVIN AND HOBBES
PICKLES ARCHIE
Berbice names squad for GCB Under-19 inter-county tournament
- Ramdeholl appointed Captain
The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has named its squad for the upcoming Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Under-19 Inter-County competition, with the team set to depart for Georgetown on Saturday ahead of the tournament’s start on Sunday.
appointed vice-Captain as Berbice prepares to compete for top honours in the youth tournament.
Romario Ramdeholl will lead the side, while Adrian Hetymer has been
The 15-member squad includes Antonio DePaul, Vishal Williams, Shoaib
GFF secures Superbet sponsorship deal for 2026–2027 season
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has secured a new sponsorship agreement with Guiana Holding Inc, under the Superbet brand, marking a fresh commercial partnership for the 2026–2027 period.
The agreement, which represents Superbet Guyana’s first annual partnership with the Federation, will see the brand prominently featured across key GFF competitions and matchday environments. The deal is expected to enhance the visibility and presentation of local football while providing additional support for the federation's programmes.
The partnership was formalised with the signing conducted by General Manager Shrikant Kisoensingh on behalf of the company and GFF President Wayne Forde.
Superbet Marketing Representative Clay Roberts welcomed the collaboration, noting the company’s commitment to support-
ing football development and creating opportunities for young people across Guyana.
Forde also expressed optimism about the agreement’s long-term impact, highlighting its alignment with the Federation’s focus on youth development.
“We are delighted to welcome Superbet to our family of partners. As we look ahead, I am confident that this collaboration will deliver tremendous benefits across our expansive range of activities and programmes. In particular, partnerships like this create more opportunities for our young players to express themselves on the pitch while offering our passionate fans the excitement and entertainment of the beautiful game,” Forde said.
The partnership is expected to strengthen the commercial framework of football in Guyana while reinforcing shared priorities centred on youth empowerment and national development.
Gaffoor, Ramdeholl, Nathaniel Ramsammy, Hetymer, Richard Ramdeholl, Thierry Henry, Feaz Baksh, Gilbert Griffith, Asif Marimutoo, Arif Khan, Rafeal McKenzie, Razam Koobeer, and Micah Amsterdam.
The team will be coached by Aeon Hooper,
with Niel Rudder serving as manager. According to the BCB, all players are required to report to the board’s office on Saturday at 13:00h for departure to Georgetown, where the competition bowls off the following day.
Nitro Kart Klash expands classes to boost inclusivity ahead of April 19 event
The upcoming Nitro Kart Klash is set to feature a wide range of racing categories aimed at increasing participation and inclusivity when the event is staged on April 19 at the National Stadium tarmac in Providence.
Organised by Jumbo Jet Events, the competition will include several established classes alongside new divisions designed to attract a broader cross-section of competitors and fans.
Among the core categories is the 200cc fourstroke Honda class, which remains a popular option for intermediate and experienced drivers due to its reliability.
The Briggs 206 divisions will also form a key part of the programme, with Heavy and Light classes structured to ensure competitive balance based on driver weight, while Junior and Cadet categories will provide opportunities for younger racers to develop.
For more advanced competitors, the 125cc IAME class is expected to be one of the fastest and most demanding on the day, requiring a high
level of skill and precision. The Supermoto Senior class will add variety by combining asphalt and dirt racing elements, while the Time Attack Open class will focus on individual lap times rather than direct competition.
In an effort to expand access to the sport, organisers have introduced several new classes. These include the Briggs Rookie Over-35 category, which is intended to attract older, non-professional drivers, and a dedicated Briggs Female class aimed at increasing female participation.
Younger riders will also benefit from the addition of the Supermoto Juniors category, while
the introduction of an electric scooter class represents a move towards more accessible and sustainable racing options.
Beyond the racing, organisers have indicated that the event will cater to families, with activities such as a kids’ zone, bouncy castle, trampoline and other attractions planned to create a family-friendly environment.
The event has attracted support from several corporate sponsors, including Banks DIH, AJM Enterprise, KP Jagdeo General Contractors, J’s Supermarket, Sawh’s Construction Inc., Precision Service Center, and Ramchand’s Autobody.
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has secured a new sponsorship agreement with Guiana Holding Inc, under the Superbet brand, marking a fresh commercial partnership for the 2026–2027 period
The upcoming Nitro Kart Klash is set to feature a wide range of racing categories aimed at increasing participation and inclusivity when the event is staged on April 19
Berbice Captain Romario Ramdeholl
Round 3 fixtures set as Massy U18 football continues this weekend
The Massy Boys Under-18
Football tournament will continue this weekend with a full slate of third-round matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the Queen’s College Ground.
Saturday’s action will see eight matches contested across four time slots. At 10:30h, Anna Regina Secondary will face Patentia Secondary, while Yarakabra Secondary takes on Hope Secondary. At 12:15h, East Ruimveldt Secondary are set to meet President’s College, with Lodge Secondary oppos-
ing Vryman’s Erven Secondary.
The 14:00h fixtures will feature Brickdam Secondary against Saint Stanislaus College and Dolphin Secondary facing New Campbellville Secondary. The day’s play will conclude at 15:45h with Good Hope Secondary matching up against Charlestown Secondary, while Zeeburg Secondary comes up against West Ruimveldt Secondary. Action will resume on Sunday with another eight fixtures. Charity Secondary will oppose New Central High, and Three Mile Secondary will battle Annandale Secondary from 10:30h.
The Massy Boys Under-18 Football tournament will continue this weekend with a full slate of three-round matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the Queen’s College Ground
At 12:15h, St John will meet New Amsterdam Secondary, while Belladrum Secondary take on Ann’s Grove Secondary.
In the 14:00h time slot, Mackenzie High School will face Carmel
Secondary, and The Bishop’s High School will play Westminster Secondary. The final match of the round is set for 15:45h, featuring St Joseph High School against Chase’s Academic Foundation.
The tournament continues to provide consistent competition among the participating schools as teams look to strengthen their positions heading into the next phase of the tournament.
Essequibo leg of Jagan Memorial
Cycling set for April 26
Cycling action will return to the Cinderella County of Guyana on Sunday, April 26. The Jagan Memorial Cycle Race is organised by the Flying Ace Cycle Club. This exciting event will commence at Supenaam, proceeding to Anna Regina before turning at Freedom House and returning to Supenaam for the grand finish. Cyclists will be bringing their A-game to the fans of Essequibo.
Initially, the race was set for Sunday, April 19, but this change allows cyclists competing regionally and internationally to return home and be in the action. Promising young cyclists Ajani Cutting and Sidwell Sandy recently joined their fellow countryman, Alexander Leung, at the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) Continental
Development Satellite in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. The young trio is expected to return and be in the action later this month in
Essequibo.
The training programme in which the young trio is involved is specifically designed to refine their techni-
cal skills, enhance their competitive edge, and provide a clear pathway toward becoming high-performance track cycling athletes. Their selection marks a significant milestone not only in their individual careers but also in Guyana's continued commitment to developing elite cycling talent. Leung, in particular, has shown dominance during his stint in Trinidad and Tobago.
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Port Mourant feature race distance changed to 1750 metres
The organisers of the Port Mourant Turf Club Easter Cup horse race made a unanimous decision to adjust the programme, with the feature race now set at 1750 metres. Initially, the feature race for the April 26 card was scheduled for one mile.
A total of 11 races, including the jockey dash, are expected to take place. This race day will be the second nomination day for the Guyana Cup, which is
slated for August 23 at a venue to be announced.
The feature race will have a total purse of $4 million, and the winner will be rewarded $2 million in the Premium Asphalt-sponsored Easter Cup feature.
Other races on the provisional programme include the Easter Sprint, open to all horses four years and older; the Three-Year-Old Imported; and the F Class and Lower, open to four- and five-yearold imported horses that
have not raced within the last six months, as well as six-year-olds and older that have not raced for over a year. Additionally, other races in the programme include the Three-YearOld and Over West Indian Bred; the Open
Three-Year-Old Native Bred; K/L Maiden; the H Class and Lower for West Indian-bred horses that have not won in Guyana in 2025; the Three-Year-Old and Over I/J/K Class; the Open L Class; and the Jockey Dash.
The feature race for April 26
Racing will be conducted under the new Guyana Rules of Racing.
The race was initially set for Easter Sunday, but due to inclement weather, the race date was shifted to Sunday, April 26.
Essequibo will have cycling action on April 26
Guyana set to make history with debut in 3×3 basketball at Commonwealth Games
The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) have officially announced Guyana’s qualification for the 3×3 basketball competition at the upcoming Commonwealth Games, marking a historic first for the nation’s basketball programme.
At a press conference hosted by the two bodies on Friday at the Olympic House, Liliendaal, officials underscored the significance of the achievement and outlined the team’s preparation plans as they gear up for their debut on one of the world’s biggest multi-sport stages.
The Vice President of the Guyana Basketball Federation, Rawle Toney, who also serves as technical delegate for 3×3 basketball at the Commonwealth Games, described the qualification as a landmark moment for the sport locally.
Reflecting on his experience at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where 3×3 basketball was introduced to the programme, Toney noted that witnessing the high level of competition firsthand reinforced the need for a professional and structured approach to preparation.
“Because I saw the level at which they competed in Birmingham, automatically I knew –and our federation knew – that we would have to take things along a professional route in terms of preparing the players,” he explained.
The team has already begun an intensive preparation schedule, starting with a weeklong training camp that will culminate in a local tournament. From there, two Guyanese teams will travel to Suriname to compete in the Lite Quest tournament, with the aim of advancing to
“This will be our debut in basketball at the Commonwealth Games, and from a 3×3 perspective, it represents quite a lot,” Toney said.
a Challenger event in Brazil. Additional participation in Lite Quest and Quest tournaments is also planned as part of capacity-building efforts ahead of the Games.
President of the Guyana Olympic Association, Godfrey Munroe, emphasised the magnitude of the Commonwealth Games within the global sporting calendar.
CAC Table Tennis Championships
“The Commonwealth Games is the second-largest multi-sport event and forms part of the Olympic cycle,” Munroe stated. “When we were nominating possible teams with qualification potential, 3x3 basketball stood out as one of the sports that could make it.”
Munroe noted that Guyana’s qualification places the country
among an elite group of just 12 teams selected from across 74 Commonwealth nations – a feat he described as a testament to the team’s quality and hard work.
“It is a key opportunity for us as a country, as a basketball fraternity, and as the Olympic family to showcase Guyana’s skills on the international stage,” he added.
Vice-President of the
GOA, Cristy Campbell, also lauded the GBF for its structured and systematic preparation, describing the qualification as a “remarkable achievement".
“This is historic – the first qualification for a basketball discipline at the Commonwealth Games – and that is quite significant,” Campbell said.
She encouraged players to remain committed to training, highlighting the busy calendar of upcoming regional and international multi-sport events later this year. With some competitions scheduled to run simultaneously – including the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games – opportunities will abound for athletes to represent Guyana.
“Whether you make a squad or not, continue training,” Campbell urged. “There are many opportunities that can be derived from consistent preparation and participation.”
Guyana men exit at group stage, shift focus to consolation round
Guyana’s men’s table tennis team failed to progress beyond the group stage of the ITTF Americas Central American and Caribbean Championships, finishing at the bottom of Group Three on Friday in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Drawn alongside Mexico and El Salvador, the Guyanese were beaten 0–3 by Mexico before producing a more competitive showing against El Salvador at the Parque del Este, though it was not enough to secure advancement.
Against Mexico, Shemar Britton showed resilience despite a 1–3 loss to Dario Arce. Britton dropped the first two games 5–11 and 10–12, rallied to take the third 11–6, but Arce sealed the contest with an 11–4 win in the fourth. Elishaba Johnson started strongly against Marcos Madrid, claiming the opening game 11-8, but was overrun in the next three, 2–11, 4–11 and 4–11, to lose 1–3. Niran Bissu was also defeated in straight sets, going down to Jorge Buenrostro 5–11, 2–11 and 7–11. Guyana showed improved form
against El Salvador, with Britton leading the charge in a series of closely contested matches. He opened with a hard-fought 3–2 win over Jaime Galeano, recovering after a 13–11 first-game loss to take the next two 11–6 and 12–10. Galeano levelled with an 11–8 fourth-game win, but Britton secured the decider 11–5.
Jonathan Van Lange then faced Edgardo Sanchez but lost in straight sets 10–12, 3–11 and 5–11, while Johnson also went down 0–3 to Fernando Alfaro, losing 6–11, 11–13 and 1–11.
Britton returned to produce another strong performance, defeating Sanchez 3–2 in a tightly contested encounter. He won the first two games, 11–9 and 11–5; dropped the next two, 6–11 and 9–11; before closing out the match, 11–6, in the decider.
However, El Salvador secured the overall win when Galeano defeated Van Lange 3–1, taking the final match 7–11, 12–10, 11–9 and 11–9.
With their group-stage campaign concluded, Guyana will now compete in the consolation segment, where
they are set to face St Vincent as they aim for a placement between ninth and 13th. A victory would see them meeting Barbados for a chance at ninth place, with the winner of that encounter advancing to face either Jamaica or
Trinidad and Tobago. Attention will also turn to the individual events, with the men’s singles competition set to begin on Sunday. Guyana will be represented by Van Lange, Britton, Bissue and Johnson.
The Guyana Men’s table tennis team (L-R) – Shemar Britton, Niran Bissu, Elishaba Johnson, and Jonathan Van Lange
Members of the Guyana Olympic Association along with basketball players
