Guyana Times - Saturday, August 23, 2025

on bail over $5.64M alleged land fraud scheme

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, August 23 –04:00h–05:30h and Sunday, August 24 04:45h–06:15h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, August 23 –16:50h–18:20h and Sunday, August 24 – 04:45h–6:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Sunny skies with midday showers are expected during the day, and cloudy skies followed by occasional showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.32 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 16:51h reaching a maximum height of 2.56 metres.

Low Tide: 10:27h and 20:41 reaching minimum heights of 0.60 metre and 0.62 metre.

US crackdown on Venezuelan cartels Guyana reaffirms support to dismantle criminal networks, safeguard regional security

The Guyana

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

In a statement on Friday, the Government expressed grave concern over the threat to peace and security in the Latin American and Caribbean regions by transnational organised crime and narco-terrorism, including criminal networks, such as the Cartel de los Soles from Venezuela, which has been designated as a terrorist organisation by some countries in the region.

These concerns by Guyanese authorities come on the heels of the United States (US) recently deploying three warships off the coast of Venezuela as part of its crackdown on drug cartels in the region.

Washington has stated that designated narco-terrorist organisations like the Cartel de los Soles are using the region’s air and sea corridors to funnel drugs into the US, thus posing a direct threat to American lives and security.

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

Citing previous commitments made by President Irfaan Ali, the Guyana Government reaffirms its commitment to and support for a collaborative and integrated approach to tackle transnational organised crime by working with bilateral partners to dismantle criminal networks, safeguarding the region’s shared security.

These sentiments were

reiterated by President Ali, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, during an engagement with reporters on Friday morning.

“As President, part of my duty is to ensure our sovereignty is maintained and that we continue to live in peace here… We’ve always said we support this region being a zone of peace, and we understand the importance of our sovereignty, and we’ll do everything to protect our sovereignty,” Ali declared.

US Secretary of State Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday shared the Guyana Government’s statement on the threats to regional security.

Only last week, Rubio had emphasised during a media briefing in the US that some of these designated narco-terrorist groups in the region are utilising international airspace and in-

ternational waters to “transit poison into the United States, and those groups will be confronted.”

Rubio further singled out Venezuela’s so-called Cartel of the Suns (Cartel de los Soles), which he describes as a criminal organisation masquerading as a Government.

The US official asserted that the Nicolás Maduro regime has effectively turned the Venezuelan state into a criminal enterprise, using its control of national territory to facilitate illicit trafficking and threaten regional stability.

“The Maduro regime is not a Government. We’ve never recognised them as such. They are a criminal enterprise that basically has taken control of the national territory of a country,” Rubio said. “By the way, they are also threatening US oil companies that are operating lawfully in Guyana.

So, the President [Donald Trump] has been very firm – anything that’s a threat to

the national security of the United States, he’s going to confront,” Rubio stated.

President Trump has made cracking down on drug cartels a central plank of his administration’s security strategy, tying it to broader efforts to limit illegal migration and strengthen border security.

Welcomed

In fact, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo last week pointed this out when he welcomed the US’ decision to deploy air and naval forces to the Southern Caribbean Sea to counter the activities of powerful Latin American drug cartels.

Speaking at his weekly press briefing on August 14, Jagdeo said the US position on combating drug trafficking is consistent with President Trump’s commitment during his campaign and in office that drug smuggling into the US would be met with “serious consequences”.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Progress, gaps & road ahead

The release of the 2025 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) results last week presents an important moment of reflection for Guyana’s education system. With 116 secondary schools participating and 12,685 candidates, the figures demonstrate both the scale of national engagement in education and the continued demand for academic advancement across the country. Subject entries totalled 80,556, highlighting the breadth of curriculum exposure among students preparing for higher learning or entry into the workforce.

The overall pass rate, recorded at 66.76 per cent for Grades One to Three at the General and Technical proficiencies, remained steady compared to the previous year. Stability in performance is notable, particularly in a system that continues to undergo reform and expansion. Yet, as the results reveal, national performance is far from uniform, pointing to areas where commendable progress has been made as well as schools where challenges persist.

Among the most encouraging outcomes is that 50 schools, representing 43 per cent of participants, improved their pass rates. Twelve schools maintained their previous levels, while 51, or 46 per cent, experienced declines. The figures highlight a dual reality: while almost half of the nation’s schools have managed to move the bar higher, an equally significant portion have slipped backward. This underscores the critical importance of sustained support and targeted interventions to ensure all students benefit from national investments in education.

The performance of first-time participants offers further grounds for optimism. Good Hope Secondary recorded a 75 per cent pass rate, while Yarrowkabra Secondary secured 64 per cent. These outcomes reflect strong foundational preparation and demonstrate that newly established institutions can quickly rise to national expectations with proper resources and community support. Similarly, New Central High School’s return to the examinations after a one-year hiatus was marked by an impressive 87 percent pass rate, a reminder that institutional recovery and resilience are possible with focused leadership and dedication.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand, in responding to the results, emphasised the role of expanded access to classrooms, trained teachers, and the universal distribution of resources such as textbooks, calculators, past papers, and practice tests. The continued provision of cash grants has further supported both students and teachers. These measures, the Minister observed, have contributed meaningfully to higher pass rates and matriculation, thereby widening post-secondary opportunities for Guyana’s young people. This acknowledgement points to the practical interventions that are producing tangible improvements.

Equally important, however, is the Ministry’s recognition of schools that have registered declines or stagnation. Addressing these shortcomings must be a priority. Teacher training, classroom infrastructure, and consistent monitoring remain vital areas requiring robust investment. Moreover, disparities between urban and rural institutions persist, and as such deliberate policy interventions are needed.

It is also worth noting the regional strengths that have emerged from this year’s results. Schools in Region Six, in particular, have recorded remarkable gains, reflecting the benefits of localised support and the strengthening of regional education management. This success should serve as a model for replication across other regions, ensuring that best practices are shared and adapted to diverse educational contexts.

The results further remind policymakers and the public alike that education is not only an individual achievement but a collective enterprise involving students, teachers, administrators, and families. Where this collaboration is strong, performance tends to follow. Where it is weak, the consequences are evident in declining outcomes.

Looking ahead, the challenge is not to celebrate steady or improved results but to build on them strategically. Stability in the national pass rate must be converted into upward momentum.

The Ministry of Education’s congratulatory message to students, teachers, and families is well deserved. Yet the broader lesson of the 2025 CSEC results lies in their dual narrative of success and struggle. Progress is visible. The future of Guyana’s education system rests on bridging gaps.

Education is the foundation upon which national development rests. The 2025 CSEC results provide both cause for celebration and a sober reminder of the work ahead.

The Government’s opening of new schools and hospitals is commendable

Dear Editor, In 2020, when the PPP Government took over, everything needed fixing, updating, refurbishing, and modernising. There was a need for enormous capital development. We knew that all that needed to be done could not get done in one term. It will take another term to improve schools, improve hospitals, provide universal housing, develop structures for income enhancement for the most vulnerable, and create that rising tide that lifts all boats. We knew that we would have to initially use a big chunk of the oil revenues to get all these things done now, so those of us alive now can live the good life before the great beyond. Once we get these initial things done, we must save money in the Sovereign Wealth Fund following the Norway model.

With the new oil economy, everything has to be redesigned, reimagined, and restructured to help us maximise our benefits as an oil country while maintaining

the sustainability of the traditional economy. People say silly things, such as we have oil money, and we can get tonnes of welfare, so we don’t have to work. It does not work like that. We have to invest heavily in fixing our infrastructure, and the Government has run as fast as it could to fix things and create the facilitating structures. Our Guyanese people have some bad mindsets (e.g., resistant to change) and nasty habits (e.g., trash everywhere) that keep us in the Third World category. There is a need for re-education, new education and what we call vertical and horizontal alignment of the various components of our education systems. Our Government has prioritised the building of new schools, additions to schools, and renovation of schools. Under President Ali and Minister Manickchand, they have built the most new schools of any Government in our history. Most of the new schools are in the Amerindian communities, where they have also

improved digital access to enable equity in educational opportunity. More will be done to increase the quality of access in those challenging remote areas. The new Good Hope and Parfait Harmonie high schools are modern high schools comparable with American schools. The new Tuschen High School is a nice facility. The Hosororo High School will be a magnificent facility, nicer than most coastal schools. We are on the right track with modernising facilities, and the new term will continue the focus on reforming curriculum, instruction, and assessment, which are at the heart of education reform.

Similarly, I was able to attend some openings of the new hospitals, and they are comparable with American standards. Schools, hospitals, roads, bridges, agriculture, house lots, and all infrastructure are all for the purpose of improving the quality of life for all Guyanese across the board without regard to race or party affiliation. Salary

Why the PPP has rising

Dear Editor,

It is evident that the PPP/C has a surge of support on the streets and in social media. Three things account for this.

First and foremost, the PPP/C is a people-orientated party, something most evident in the thousands of activists it has on the streets. These are mostly committed younger Guyanese, unlike the APNU, which is made up of “geriatrics”, or the WIN, which is made up of “flatu-

lent stragglers” in the likes of Fatta and Doggy.

Secondly, unlike the APNU, AFC, and WIN, the PPP/C has leadership of exceptional, world-class quality. Irfaan Ali, Mark Phillips, and Bharrat Jagdeo have more executive leadership than all the other parties combined. Norton has never held an executive office; Azruddin is mostly known for his OFAC sanctions for gold smuggling and other infractions; Nigel Hughes

is just one factor related to dealing with the cost of living. Subsidies, grants, allowances, free this and free that also contribute to a lower cost of living. It’s about creating an opportunity culture for all. People in the lower-income jobs can improve themselves through education and training. The Government has a dynamic TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programme across the country in our schools, BIT (Board of Industrial Training) through the Ministry of Labour, WIIN training through the Ministry of Human Services, etc. We must encourage and coach people locked in low-income jobs to take advantage of training opportunities to improve their income streams while increasing pay too. Guyana is now a land of opportunity, and a changing of our mindsets will help us to capitalise on all the blessings available in this blessed land.

Yours sincerely, Dr Jerry Jailall

momentum

is a low-energy candidate. Oh, and Amanza thinks she is still lawyering the 2020 elections. On leadership, the PPP/C is light-years ahead.

Finally, the PPP/C is known for keeping election promises. The evidence is clear in education, healthcare, job creation, social welfare, national security, and the macro-economic management fiscal and monetary policies. By contrast, the APNU broke every election promise it made in its last term in of-

fice. It had a helping hand in the sanctimonious AFC, which lay prostrate while the APNU ran amok. WIN has no record of any kind. The PPP/C is well ahead because of its people-orientated policies, the quality of its leadership, and the fact that it delivers on all election promises. These factors clearly explain the rising momentum of the PPP/C.

Yours sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud

Macroeconomic resilience wasn’t an accident

it was a choice under PPP/C’s stewardship

Dear Editor,

• Household disposable income surged sixfold under PPP/C (2021–2025), from ≈GY$41,600 to ≈GY$250,000/ month.

• Value Added Tax burden fell from ~30% of income under APNU+AFC to ~9% under PPP/C.

• Guyana’s net foreign assets reached ≈US$4.7B in 2024, with over 8 months of import cover.

• PPP/C maintained near 1:1 reserves-to-expenditure discipline; APNU+AFC fell to 0.2.

• Governance reset: Audit implementation rose from ~32% under APNU+AFC to ~85% under PPP/C.

back into people’s pockets. The impact was dramatic. By 2024, disposable household income had climbed sixfold to over GY$250,000 per month. People were no longer living pay cheque to pay cheque. They were saving more, paying down debt, and spending with confidence again. Non-performing loans fell. Households moved from survival to stability.

sharper.

Between 2015 and 2019, the APNU+AFC Administration pursued a fiscal strategy that made everyday life harder for ordinary people. VAT was extended to more than 200 previously exempt goods and services. In real terms, that meant almost one-third of the average household’s income vanished into taxes and fees.

Average disposable income for families hovered at just over GY$41,000 per month. At the same time, thousands of jobs were lost. 7000+ sugar workers were sent home. Nearly 2000 community service officers were cut. School grants and joint services bonuses were withdrawn. It

When people talk about Guyana’s economy today, the word ‘oil’ almost always comes first. Oil is the easy headline. It’s what grabs international attention and makes the world look at us differently. But here at home, the truth feels different. Oil is not the reason families suddenly have more disposable income. Oil is not why we finally have financial cushions that protect us from shocks. Those things didn’t happen by accident, and they didn’t happen just because Exxon started drilling. They happened because of choices – fiscal, political, and governance choices that changed the trajectory of our households and our nation.

was a period when households were forced to stretch every dollar just to make ends meet. Families had less to save, less to spend, and often had to turn to borrowing just to get by. Household non-performing loans surged to almost 9% by 2020, up from 1.6% under the PPP/C in the pre-2015 period. Confidence in the economy collapsed. Contrast that with what happened after 2020 when the PPP/C returned to office. Instead of focusing on how to redistribute a shrinking pie, policy shifted to growing the pie itself. VAT was rolled back, wages and tax thresholds were lifted, and vital social programmes were restored. Subsidies on electricity, water, and fuel – along with targeted transfers and pensions – put money directly

Some argue that Guyana’s turnaround is about oil. But the numbers tell a different story. Fiscal discipline, not petroleum, is what underpins resilience.

Take our reserves-to-expenditure ratio, a measure of how much the country saves compared to what it spends. Under APNU+AFC in 2019, that ratio was just 0.2 – 25 cents saved for every dollar spent. By 2024 under PPP/C, it was nearly 1:1, meaning every dollar spent was matched by nearly one dollar in reserves. That’s resilience. And importantly, PPP/C had achieved ratios above parity as far back as 2011 – long before the first barrel of oil. Economics is not just about numbers. It’s about trust. And here, too, the difference between the two Administrations could not be

Under APNU+AFC, repeated breaches of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act and Procurement Act were recorded. More than GY$300 million in overpayments went unrecovered in 2019–2020. Audit reports stacked up, but fewer than one in three recommendations were ever acted upon. That’s not just inefficiency –that’s neglect.

Since 2020, the PPP/C Government has charted a different course. Overpayments were fully recovered for the first time in recent history. Breaches have been reduced. Audit recommendations have dropped in number, and, more importantly, they are now implemented at a rate of nearly 85%. This is what stewardship looks like – not rhetoric, but measurable action that re-

stores confidence in public institutions.

As Guyana heads into the 2025 election, the stakes could not be clearer. One path continues to compound resilience: fiscal discipline, stronger households, and credible governance. The other path risks a return to fragility: depleted buffers, weakened oversight, and households once again squeezed by reckless policy. We didn’t get here by chance. The progress we see today was the result of deliberate choices – policies that put people first, built cushions against shocks, and invested in long-term stability. The truth is simple: resilience wasn’t an accident. It was a choice. And in 2025, that choice is ours again.

Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin

Clarifying Misconceptions About Enterprise & PPP/C Government’s Efforts

Dear Editor, I wish to respond to a letter by one Sultan Mohamed dated August 16th, 2025. The individual sought to suggest that only at election time do leaders of the PPP/C visit Enterprise and further that the community has been neglected for the thirty-three (33) years the PPP/C was in power. The claims made by Mr Sultan are nothing further from the truth, and it appears that the person is just trying to stir up political mischief at election time.

Firstly, Mr Mohamed’s claim that the PPP/C has only now promised roads, drainage and streetlights in Enterprise is incorrect. In all PPP/C Administrations from 1992 to now there has been a steady rollout of nationwide infrastructural upgrades. Enterprise and surrounding communities have not been left out and have significantly benefited from those upgrades. Directly focusing on the past five (5) years, there have been several streetlight projects, road resurfacing, complete road rehabilitation, and drainage enhancements that were initiated and completed within Enterprise and surrounding communities, with more still on the agenda. These have been carried out based on community needs and engineering assessments and not mere political whims.

It is mischievous and evidently misleading for someone to even suggest the PPP/C has neglected Enterprise for 33 years, especially with the village’s recent expansion, which is largely due to

the PPP/C’s own housing initiatives. This is what has created the very infrastructural demand now being addressed, and we simply cannot blame the Government for now responding to a situation that did not exist a decade ago.

In response to the question on security, “Why didn’t the Government implement these ideas long before?” This question completely ignores the evolving nature of crime trends and community needs. Security infrastructure is always adaptive to current situations; police outposts and patrols are deployed in response to current realities and not just static assumptions. The President’s announcement, therefore, is not reactionary but strategic and evidence-based and forms part of a broader national policy to enhance public safety nationwide.

Mr Mohamed went on to mention the $200 million livestock feed mill on the East Coast but dismissed it as irrelevant. Contrary to Mr Mohamed’s claim, that mill forms part of a massive agro-processing and agribusiness development strategy which includes value chain creation, training and ancillary job opportunities, all of which the residents of Enterprise can and will benefit from. The idea suggested that job creation must happen within Enterprise’s borders specifically to be meaningful is baseless and clearly ignores regional economic integration.

The only thing which Mr Mohamed correctly stated is

the closure of the sugar estates under the APNU+AFC coalition between 2015 and 2019. However, he failed to mention that it was the PPP/C’s Government that reopened and transformed some of those very closed estates. Enmore in particular has been transformed into a mechanical oil and gas fabrication hub, thereby re-employing many of the laid-off sugar workers with opportunities in modern industries. If persons within Enterprise have not fully tapped into it, then it is no fault of the Government.

Mr Mohamed also highlighted and criticised the construction of the regional hospital in Enmore, suggesting that Enterprise was overlooked. This hospital, like the many others around the country, serves not only the individual community but the region. Enmore’s proximity is a more logical choice as opposed to Enterprise, but nevertheless Enterprise will benefit significantly from it. Added to that, many staff of the hospital do come from Enterprise, including nurses, cleaners, security personnel, etc., as employment data will clearly show.

The statements by Mr Mohamed are quite unfair to suggest that the PPP/C are biased in their investments in the various communities. Tipperary Hall in Buxton was rebuilt because it serves as a heritage and community landmark. However, the Government has also rebuilt community centres across all communities irrespective of their political biases.

The Enterprise Community Centre has also benefited from extensive rehabilitation works over the years under the PPP/C Governments. Despite this, plans are already in place to assess the feasibility of a new concrete structure for the community centre under the new PPP/C Government come September 1st. However, this is a process that involves budget, careful planning, community consultation, designing and not simple photo ops.

In relation to the Enterprise Primary School, Mr Mohamed failed to mention the numerous times the Ministry of Education has refurbished the building, from repairs, repainting, installation of new windows, new tarmac, and constant maintenance of all facilities within the school. As it relates to the overcrowding, this is not a new issue, nor is the ministry unaware of it. There are already plans to build new schools in neighbouring communities to help with this. Already a new nursery school has been built and opened in neighbouring Block 12 NonPariel. The building of new schools is not just about spending money and taking photos, but it is critically assessed based on population growth and zoning needs. It is worth remembering that it is the PPP/C Government that has distributed the house lots around Enterprise that has created this growth, so clearly the development is NOT being ignored.

Finally, the idea that PPP/C leaders only visit

Enterprise during election time is a trope that ignores the numerous outreaches, house lot allocations, and community meetings held on a regular basis. If there is any party that has treated Enterprise fairly, it is the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic. Where is Mr Mohamed suddenly surfacing from, and at election time with such outlandish claims? Why did he not raise them earlier?

The PPP/C is an inclusive party, and as such, it takes care of all communities and not just its strongholds. Therefore, Mr Mohamed’s suggested idea of PPP/C not taking care of their own communities is untrue and must

be clearly debunked. The PPP/C does not govern based on threats or optics. Instead, it does so by current needs, careful planning and fairness. Enterprise is not being neglected; it is growing, and the Government is responding appropriately. No amount of political posturing will erase that.

As such, the PPP/C deserves another term to continue delivering to the Guyanese people as they have done in the past. And it is Mr Mohamed who would be in for a surprise come September 1st, 2025.

Yours sincerely, Shivesh Persaud

Statistics & Data

What is statistics?

Statistics is about collecting, organising, and understanding data (information).

Data can be numbers, categories, or measurements.

Key Vocabulary:

• Mean: The average (add all numbers, divide by how many numbers).

• Median: The middle value when numbers are in order.

• Mode: The value that shows up most often.

• Range: The difference between the largest and smallest number.

Mean & Median

Mean (Average):

1. Add up all the numbers.

2. Divide by how many numbers there are.

Median (Middle Value):

1. Put the numbers in order from smallest to largest.

2. If there’s an odd number of values, the middle one is the median.

3. If there’s an even number of values, the median is the average of the two middle numbers.

Numbers: 4, 8, 6, 10

Example 1:

• Mean = (4 + 8 + 6 + 10) ÷ 4 = 28 ÷ 4

Answer = 7

• In order: 4, 6, 8, 10

Materials:

•

•

•

•

•

Example 2:

Numbers: 3, 5, 7

Median = (6 + 8) ÷ 2 = 14 ÷ 2

• Mean = (3 + 5 + 7) ÷ 3 = 15 ÷ 3 Answer = 5

• In order: 3, 5, 7 Middle = 5 Answer = 5

Example 3:

Numbers: 2, 9, 4, 1, 7

• Mean = (2 + 9 + 4 + 1 + 7) ÷ 5 = 23 ÷ 5

Answer = 4.6

• In order: 1, 2, 4, 7, 9 Middle = 4 Answer = 4

Practice Questions – Mean & Median

1. Find the mean and median of: 10, 5, 8

2. Find the mean and median of: 12, 15, 10, 18

3. Find the mean and median of: 7, 2, 5, 9, 6

4. Find the mean and median of: 4, 6, 10, 8

5. Find the mean and median of: 3, 9, 7

6. Find the mean and median of: 15, 12, 18, 10, 20

7. Find the mean and median of: 2, 5, 8, 11, 14, 17

8. Find the mean and median of: 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 12, 15

9. Find the mean and median of: 100, 95, 105, 110, 120

10. Find the mean and median of: 2, 5, 2, 8, 9, 11

Instructions:

E, F in a circle, then lay the popsicles for edges A, C, and E flat on the paper and lay the popsicle for edges B, D, and F on top so that the points overlap.

• Stack popsicle sticks, gluing the corners as you go.

• Continue to stack the popsicle sticks until you reach the desired depth of the shelf. Then hang them on the wall.

By Allison swenson

CONTINUED

they’re what you’d end up with if you cut yourself in half then cut one of your halves in half then one of those halves in half and so on and so on until you couldn’t cut yourself into any smaller pieces. Nobody has ever seen one before. It’s impossible, but one day, when we grow up, we will find a way. Turns out, we are not so different from the grass or rocks or laces in our shoes, all composed of inconceivable numbers of atoms. In each of us alone, there are billions of billions of billions of them, more than there have been seconds in all of history.

If you could start any type of business, what kind of business would you start? What types of products or services would you provide?

WORD SEARCH

Top cop led GPF officers in smooth early voting

Anotable rise in the number of Guyana Police Force (GPF) officers casting their ballots was observed this year. This was according to the Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken during an interview at the GPF Officers’ Mess Hall, at Yonge Street, Georgetown, where part of the Disciplined Services early voting ahead of the September 1 General and Regional Elections occurred.

According to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), a total of 6909 police officers were scheduled to vote. Scores of officers were already lined up before 05:00h, eager to ensure their votes were cast.

Commissioner Hicken was the first to cast his ballot and underscored the importance of members of the Force exercising their democratic right. He also stated that he would be visiting polling stations across the country to ensure the voting process was conducted smoothly.

“The process in terms of GECOM, I think, based on what I’ve observed they’re on time and everything is going smoothly,” Commissioner Hicken said. Regarding the management of the polling stations, he added that the respective Commanders will be on the ground to oversee operations.

Highlighting the in-

crease in police turnout this year, the Commissioner noted that the Force is prepared to handle the larger number of voters and does not anticipate any disruptions. President Irfaan Ali also visited the polling station to observe the process. “I’ve seen it’s a very smooth process, a very efficient process. You can also see the notices, telling voters about the secrecy of the ballot. So, what I’ve seen this morning [Friday] is a very smooth and efficient process,” the President said. He also addressed reports that some party agents were not permitted to enter the polling stations. “Some parties did not give the

certificate to their agents, their qualifications. What I heard from the Deputy Chief Election Officer (CEO) is that their name was on a mass list. The party did not fulfill the responsibility of giving them that appointment. It is not that the PPP is a tested and oiled machinery,” he explained. The early voting exercise allows police officers, along with other members of the disciplined services, to carry out their duties on Election Day while still participating in the democratic process. This year’s increased turnout among police officers underscores a stronger commitment to civic participation and the electoral process.

Officers cast early ballots as seamless prison operations continued during voting process – Director …commends GECOM staff for professionalism

Prison officers across the country have casted their ballots on Friday ahead of the General and Regional Elections, with Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliott emphasising that several prison districts, including Mazaruni, Georgetown and Timehri were under control amidst the Joint Services early voting. He made this statement whilst speaking to media operatives during the elections

on Friday morning.

“Today we have all the staff on duty. For Mazaruni, we have a special structure where staff will be staggered. So, it will not affect the operations of the prisons. Everybody will be given the opportunity to cast their vote at Mazaruni, Lusignan, Georgetown, Timehri and all the other locations,” Elliott said.

He added that the voting process does not affect pris-

on operations.

“As we speak, prison operations are ongoing because we can’t stop prison activities, and that is important to us. The process allows ranks to fulfill their constitutional duty without disrupting prison operations,” he told reporters.

Elliott also announced that he would personally inspect other prison services to ensure the voting process runs smoothly.

Guyana reaffirms support...

According to the Guyanese Vice President, “So, I don’t see anything unusual in them deploying assets in the region to prevent drug traffickers from getting into the United States of America. In fact, we welcome it because we work in collaboration with them to stop this.”

According to Reuters and AFP news agencies earlier this week, an amphibious squadron consisting of three US Aegis-class guided mis-

sile destroyers is heading to the waters off Venezuela and could arrive as early as Sunday.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, two sources with knowledge of the deployment told Reuters that the USS San Antonio, USS Iwo Jima and USS Fort Lauderdale are moving towards the Venezuelan coast and are carrying 4500 US service members, including 2200 Marines.

Only recently, the Trump

FROM PAGE 3

Administration had offered a $50 million reward for the arrest of Maduro, accusing him of being one of the world’s largest narco-traffickers and working with cartels to flood the US with fentanyl-laced cocaine.

Meanwhile, Venezuela’s Maduro has said on state television that he would deploy 4.5 million militia members “that are prepared, activated and armed” in response to “outlandish threats” by the US.

Meanwhile, Elliott, who led his officers in voting, emphasised the importance of exercising one’s constitutional duty.

“I am very honoured and pleased to have fulfilled my constitutional responsibility as the head of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS). My colleagues, the prison officers, are joining me in this regard. We expect all prison officers to cast their votes within two hours,” he stated. He added, “Whatever choice an officer makes, I respect it. Of course, it is free and voluntary and it is their constitutional right to exercise that choice. Just show us your finger for a quick photo.”

Elliott also commended Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) officials for the efficiency of the process and their high level of professionalism.

“The voting process was very simple. I want to commend the staff of GECOM; they were extremely professional in explaining the process to me. In fact, I left my ID card in the office and didn’t want to return to get

it, but notwithstanding that, the entire process was very simple,” he joked.

He also praised GECOM staff for their swiftness.

“I want to commend the GECOM staff for their level of professionalism thus far.

Now, for prison officers who have not yet made up their minds, I encourage them to vote,” he said.

On Friday, some 466 prison officers from across the country were slated to cast their ballots. Up to press time, the electoral process was reported as seamless, without any hiccups.

Man charged for assaulting partner granted $50,000 bail

A20-year-old man was arraigned on Friday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for allegedly assaulting his partner and causing her bodily harm.

Jessie Jones appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh and denied the allegation. The charge states that on August 19, at Bank DIH, Georgetown, Jones assaulted Nickacy Weeks, leaving her with visible injuries.

In court, Attorney Adrian Thompson representing Jones, said his client had decided to move out of the home he once shared with the Virtual Complainant and would now live with his sister at Cummings Park. Thompson suggested the matter might be better resolved through counselling, given the couple’s relationship.

Weeks appeared visibly shaken during the proceed-

ings, at times unresponsive and frequently glancing in Jones’ direction. Magistrate

Singh initially said a probation officer would be assigned to speak with her

to determine whether she wanted to move forward with the case. After a short recess, Weeks returned and told the court she wished to proceed, further requesting that Jones stay away from her.

The prosecutor opposed bail, arguing that Jones and Weeks had lived at the same residence. He also informed the court that a medical examination confirmed Weeks had swelling to her eyes and face.

Magistrate Singh granted Jones bail in the sum of $50,000 but imposed strict condition. Among the conditions for bail, Jones has to relocate immediately, remain at least 50 feet away from Weeks, and have no contact with her. Singh further directed that a probation officer engaged directly with the complainant.

The matter was adjourned until September 19.

Early…

…(Disp Forces) voting

Well, as far as Elections 2025 are concerned, “boat gone a watah” with 10,481 members of the Disciplined Forces – Army, Police, Fire Service and Prison Service – voting yesterday. It’s our tradition that these Guardians of Guyana perform their civic duty of choosing their next government – and not so incidentally, their Commander-in-Chief – and vote earlier than us civvies because it’s their duty to deal with any contingencies that may arise out of the exercise.

Of course, back in 1973 – when the army was in its infancy – Burnham had them collect all the ballot boxes, take them to Camp Ayanganna and replace the ballots with new ones – all marked for the Palm Tree!! But, like the cigarette ad says, “We’ve come a long way, baby!!” and the Disciplined Forces have remained commendably neutral. About which democratic virtue they were reminded of by their Commander in Chief and their Chief of Staff the day before –in case anyone got ideas! In the first couple of elections after 1992, the Disciplined Forces’ votes were reported separately – and invariably were in the 90%+ for the PNC! The practice’s been discontinued, and their votes are now disaggregated and returned to polling stations based on their place of residence.

The voting exercise for the Disciplined Forces was identical to us civvies come Sept 1st. They’d been informed of their polling places, and upon showing up had to present appropriate identification that was checked off against the GECOM record – which even had their pic!! The parties’ reps were there to scrutinise the bona fides of the prospective voter, and only then would he/she/they (your Eyewitness wants to virtue signal that he’s quite woke, thank you!!) be given their ballot paper.

They were told to leave their phone behind – so they couldn’t show anybody else who they voted for by taking pics!! Those parties who’ve been “buying votes” will have to depend on an honour system – akin to trusting the cat to say it didn’t lap up the milk that disappeared!! Finally, the now vetted Force Member would’ve then taken the ballot paper to the voting booth where their privacy was assured!!

Following this – like everyone else, they’d have folded and dropped their ballot through the slot into the box, dipped their index finger into the pot of ink and marched smartly –well, they’re DISCIPLINED, aren’t they? – out of the room!! The overall discipline of the Disciplined Forces personnel in exercising their franchise should be a shining example for the rest of us plebs to follow, come Sept 1st.

So, we follow Granger and his coalition, who – after voting was completed on March 3, 2020 – swore how well our voting system works!!

…and continued betrayal

After President Trump deployed a powerful flotilla of warships and Marines off Venezuela’s waters – to show he’s serious about stopping the deadly river of drugs from that country into the US – under Maduro’s aegis, Guyana quickly reacted. Especially since Secretary of State Rubio also indicated that Maduro was threatening our oil production.

Said VP Jagdeo: “The US has made it clear that anyone involved in drug trafficking or as a threat – that they see drug trafficking as a threat to the United States of America – that anyone involved in it would face serious consequences. And they made it clear, President Trump, on his campaign trail, that he’s going to do all that it takes to stop drugs flowing into the United States of America. In fact, we welcome it because we work in collaboration with them to stop this.”

The usual suspects Iran and China's condemnation was expected. But ALBA’s – including Ralph Gonzalves and the OECS – was a betrayal we cannot keep overlooking!!

…intervention

During a strike against Chiquita banana operations in Panama, the company decided to fire 6000 striking workers. Already faced with 57,000 unemployed after a Canadian gold mining company pulled out after labour demands, Panama’s president condemned the banana union.

Pragmatism??

“Absolutely not true” – Pres Ali on Carter Center's claim of state resource use in PPP’s campaign

Days after the Carter Center, in its preliminary elections report, raised concerns about the use of state resources by the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in campaigning for the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections, President Irfaan Ali has clarified that the party is relying solely on its own resources.

In its pre-election statement issued earlier this week, the Carter Center highlighted issues including what it termed the “misuse of state resources”, which it says gives the ruling PPP/C an unfair advantage.

However, Ali, who is returning on the PPP/C ticket as the Presidential candidate for a second term, told reporters on Friday that it’s “absolutely not true.”

According to him, these accusations have always been levelled against incumbent regimes during every election cycle in the country. He went on to remind us that the PPP/C had hosted several successful fundraising activities over the past few months to secure funding for its campaign.

“Our party, as you know, might have been the only party that would have had so many fundraisers. You would have seen it all across the country. So, we’ve been able to raise enough resources with the love and support of the people, with the love and support of our supporters and members,” Ali stated.

On June 20, approximately 10,000 people attended the PPP/C fundraising dinner at the National Track and Field Facility in Leonora, West Coast Demerara. The event, which drew widespread participation, was also one of the largest seated dinner gatherings ever hosted in Guyana.

It was only topped by a fundraising dinner hosted by

the party on June 27 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, where more than 12,000 persons attended.

The PPP/C had also held another successful fundraising dinner and gala at the Princess Ramada Hotel, Providence, on the East Bank of Demerara on July 12. Tickets for these dinner events were priced at $10,000 per person.

Additionally, the party also hosted a fundraising BBQ & Family Funday at the Everest Cricket Ground in Georgetown on June 21, which the PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo had hailed as a massive success.

“We have been able to raise enough resources to efficiently carry out our campaign and our work for these elections. So, there’s no need for state resources, and state resources have not been deployed to support our campaign,” Ali declared on Friday.

He was speaking with reporters after visiting the Guyana Defence Force’s Base Camp Ayanganna headquarters in Georgetown to observe voting activities as members of the Disciplined Services cast their ballots ahead of the September 1 General and Regional Elections.

In its pre-election statement, the Carter Center had specifically cited the announcement of the promotion of over 2800 Guyana Police Force (GPF) officers and making bridge crossings free from August 1 as measures that afforded the ruling party an unfair advantage.

But while these measures were implemented after July 30, they were in fact announced earlier in the year, even before the election date was set in May. Nevertheless, Jagdeo on Thursday said

these pre-election findings by the United Statesbased Elections Observation Mission were strange “but

no big deal”.

The PPP General Secretary pointed out that the party will continue to campaign based on its record and promises. “We make no apology for that. We campaign on keeping our promises,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, another issue that the Carter Center had raised in its statement was the overcompliance by local banks with the recent US sanctions against Guyanese businessman Azruddin Mohamed, who has founded the We Invest In Nationhood (WIN) party and is running as its Presidential candidate.

Asked about this during his engagement with the media on Friday, Ali underscored the importance of corresponding banking relations.

“Banks don’t operate in isolation of a global financial system. Our financial institutions are part of a global financial system. This is what people don’t understand. This is not a government-given instruction. These are banks operating within a global stan-

dard and within a global financial system that can penalise them… I warned as President, knowing the international system, that there are consequences,” he noted.

Tax evasion case

“Irfaan Ali never granted me any favour” –US-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed admits

United States (US)sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed admitted on Friday that he has never received any favours from President Dr Irfaan Ali.

Speaking to reporters while observing polling day activities on Friday, Mohamed explained that his family once had a close relationship with Ali “as a Muslim brother to a Muslim brother”.

“That’s all…Irfaan Ali never granted me no favour,” the businessman said as he backpedals on claims that he had previously made saying that the President had helped him to pay lower taxes by undervaluing a Lamborghini.

Mohamed, who is the Presidential Candidate of the We Invest in Nationhood

(WIN), had in June sought to implicate the President in his tax evasion matter which is currently before the court. Mohamed has been charged for allegedly undervaluing a Lamborghini and submitting falsified documentation to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The US-sanctioned man was placed on $500,000 bail for tax evasion and fraudulent declaration charges in relation to the purchase of the Lamborghini Roadster SVJ.

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

the true purchase price of US$695,000.

The second charge accuses Mohamed of, on the same

date, fraudulently declaring to the Revenue Authority US$75,300 as the purchase price for the luxury vehicle

thus resulting in the sum of $383,383,345 in taxes being evaded.

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

It was previously reported that these charges were filed by the GRA after it obtained evidence from the US Department of Justice (DoJ). GRA Commissioner, Godfrey Statia, had written the US authorities for information on the purchase of the luxury vehicle. The DoJ, under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT), provided the Guyanese Tax collection body with an original invoice for the Lamborghini, which was billed to Azruddin Mohamed himself, to the tune of US$695,000. This was also corroborated by documents obtained by GRA from a local bank that showed wire transfers from Mohamed’s account to the US seller.

Amid the charges, Mohamed sought to implicate the President, releasing text messages between the two. But President Ali had already rejected the

businessman’s attempts as deceitful.

President Ali had clarified that in the conversation, at no point did the businessman present to him nor the GRA with the actual invoice reflecting the vehicle’s true value, which is now confirmed to be US$695,000.

The President had said Mohamed never disclosed the vehicle’s actual cost to him nor to the relevant tax authorities and continues to maintain the inaccurate figure, despite mounting evidence. In 2024, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) had announced that it sanctioned Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, as well as several of their companies.

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

“Absolutely not...

The Head of State went on to explain that politically exposed persons (PEP) have an even higher threshold when it comes to banking and financial transactions.

The personal accounts of around 40 WIN candidates, party members and associates were closed by several local commercial banks given their association with Mohamed, who is sanctioned by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) for smuggling 10,000 kilograms (kg) of gold and avoiding the payment of more than US$50 million in duty taxes.

However, while the US Treasury Department has not clarified the extent of the banks’ liability when dealing with associates of sanctioned individuals, nor

has it addressed whether such transactions pose a risk to the banks’ licences, the Guyana Association of Bankers Inc (GABI) has indicated that commercial banks are guided by strict regulatory obligations, including Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) requirements, as well as global risk management practices.

According to GABI, “These standards are critical to preserving financial system integrity, protecting depositors, and ensuring continued access to international financial markets. GABI remains committed to supporting a strong, inclusive, and compliant banking sector that serves the best interests of the Guyanese people and economy.”

$6.6B state-of-the-art Lima Regional Hospital commissioned

President Irfaan Ali on Friday commissioned the $6.6 billion Lima Regional Hospital in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), the first state-of-the-art health facility for the region, which, he said, will deliver modern healthcare services to residents and mark a major step in transforming the public health system.

The modern facility is outfitted with three modern surgical theatres, a specialised birthing suite, a High Dependency Unit (HDU), and an additional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

It also houses a dedicated dialysis section, a blood bank facility, and a modern laboratory capable of conducting more than 150 tests.

Patients will benefit from a 24-hour pharmacy and a fully equipped Accident and Emergency Department; 75 inpatient beds arranged in rooms of five, each with its own bathroom, air-conditioning, and nurse-call systems; while advanced imaging ser-

pital as “another instalment in our health revolution”, one that will transform not only the delivery of services in Region Two but also the entire health ecosystem in Guyana.

“This afternoon, we are making a statement about the future of healthcare in Essequibo. We are declaring that we have chosen transformation,” President Ali said, while congratulating Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, the medical staff, and the people of Region Two for what he called an “amazing addition to your health infrastructure.”

The Head of State explained that the decision to build a new hospital rather than upgrade existing ones was a deliberate choice to ensure a “quantum leap in healthcare”. He underscored that modern services cannot be fitted into outdated structures.

“Just as you cannot fit modern engines into donkey carts, you cannot fit 21st-century medicine into 20th-cen-

country will expand the range of services, reducing referrals to Georgetown Public Hospital.

President Ali also committed to introducing robotic surgery in Guyana within the next few years, noting that doctors will soon operate in an environment “second to none”.

While the hospital represents advanced tertiary care, the Head of State reminded us that primary healthcare remains the frontline.

He announced major investments in community-level testing at the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) level to allow residents to check sugar levels, blood pressure, and other indicators, helping to prevent serious illnesses before they reach hospitals.

Human resources

Ultimately, President Ali reminded us that while the Lima Hospital is outfitted with cutting-edge equipment, it is people who make a hospital come alive.

“A hospital is not the physical structure. It is not scanners and machines. A hospital is about the people...doctors, nurses, technicians, support staff... the men and women who turn machines into miracles and walls into sanctuaries of healing,” he said, adding that their work will always be recognised and honoured.

He also thanked the family of the late Rupan Ramathar for facilitating the land transfer to the Government that made the project possible, as well as the Chinese Government and contractors

vices, including CT scans and ultrasounds, are now available for the first time on the Essequibo Coast.

In addition, the hospital offers dedicated dental, ophthalmology, and audiology departments, ensuring comprehensive healthcare under one roof. For the first time on the Essequibo Coast, the hospital also has its own oxygen plant, ensuring a reliable supply to the facility. Other amenities include a canteen, laundry, sterilisation unit, and mortuary.

Future of Healthcare

Speaking at the historic commissioning, President Irfaan Ali described the hos-

tury buildings,” he explained.

President Ali also outlined the three dimensions of the Government’s healthcare transformation: digitisation of medical records, expansion of telemedicine, and decentralisation of specialist services.

“No more fumbling through cabinets of index cards,” he said, pointing to plans for digital patient records.

He explained that with telemedicine, test results from Essequibo could be read by doctors in Georgetown or even internationally, eliminating geography as a barrier to quality care.

Further, he stressed that Lima Regional Hospital and others being built across the

ing of a new building.”

“It embodies a promise that has been fulfilled. It is a symbol of equity and a concrete step in the journey towards a world-class healthcare system made accessible to all Guyanese,” he declared.

He credited the leadership of President Irfaan Ali, noting that the Head of State has been unwavering in his belief that quality healthcare must be a right for every citizen and not a privilege for a select few.

The Minister reminded them that for decades, residents of Region Two relied primarily on the Suddie Hospital, which was plagued by challenges such as open wards, outdated facilities,

and the absence of critical diagnostic equipment. Patients in need of advanced services often had to travel to Georgetown.

Since assuming office, Dr Anthony said the PPP/C Government began modernising healthcare delivery in the region.

This included introducing a Siemens digital X-ray machine, a mammography unit (the first on the Essequibo Coast), dialysis services in collaboration with NGOs, and a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Suddie.

Charity Hospital was also upgraded with plans for a new X-ray system.

“These were import-

ant firsts for the coast, but President Ali wanted to ensure that the people of Essequibo had a brand-new hospital, purpose-built to deliver world-class care. That is what we are here to open today,” Minister Anthony noted.

Dr Anthony emphasised that beyond its facilities, the hospital is staffed with trained specialists across departments, supported by nurses, patient-care assistants, and laboratory technicians.

“This hospital has created jobs during its construction and will continue to provide employment for hundreds of people in the region. Most importantly, it gives families the comfort of knowing that when the worst happens, they are very close to care,” he said.

“Today, as we cut this ribbon, we are bringing equity, opportunity, and dignity in healthcare for all the people of the Essequibo Coast,” Dr Anthony asserted.

Also attending the commissioning ceremony were Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva, Regional Health Officer Ranjeev Singh, Regional Executive Officer Susana Saywack, a representative from the Ministry of Health, a representative from the Chinese ambassador, and other special guests and regional officials.

for their support in delivering the project on schedule.

President Ali declared that the Lima Regional Hospital is not just a building but a symbol of Guyana’s choice to transform its healthcare system.

“Let our children look back and say, ‘Here was the moment Guyana chose transformation. Here was the moment we stopped patching and started building’,” he said.

Promise fulfilled

Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony said that the hospital’s commissioning represents “more than an unveil-

Scenes from Disciplined

Disciplined Services lead smooth early voting ahead of Sept 1 polls

…reaffirms army’s

neutrality, slams WIN candidate’s “dishonourable”, “misleading” spin

Over 3000 officers of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks were listed to vote on Friday as more than 10,000 members of the Disciplined Forces exercised their franchise across the country.

Over at the GDF’s Base Camp Ayanganna headquarters in Georgetown, Chiefof-Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, was the first to cast a ballot in what he described as an “organised and smooth” process.

Speaking with reporters earlier in the day, the Chief of Defence Staff had assured that soldiers are allowed to freely exercise their democratic right to vote for any political party of their choice.

“Throughout the day, sol-

diers will decide without coercion [and] vote as their right is so deemed… There is no particular agenda. Every day, every officer gets up…

and [is] ready to serve the people of Guyana. Every soldier has a right to exercise their vote as they see fit. There is no coercion, there is no influence, and all the soldiers here are doing just that and across the force,” Brigadier Khan stressed.

Khan told this publication on Friday evening that the process remained smooth and organised, adding that there was a “healthy” turnout.

"We had a smooth conduct of voting. As a matter of fact, I believe we had a healthy turnout. I haven't gotten the statistics as yet, but it was a healthy turnout at all the locations."

There were a total of 24 polling places at various GDF locations across the country, with three located at Base Camp Ayanganna. The Army Chief confirmed that the hinterland locations opened polls on time and the voting process was smooth there as well.

“I want to thank all those who were responsible for ensuring that this was done successfully… GECOM and their staff would have done the necessary transportation, and the necessary material and equipment would’ve been prepositioned less for the ballots, which were escorted by the Guyana Police Force along with members from GECOM,” he explained.

Officers who did not get a chance to vote on Friday, including those who are in some remote locations and overseas who are set to return in the coming days, will be allowed to cast their ballots with the general public on the September 1, 2025, election day.

Members of the Disciplined Services – the GDF, along with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) – are required to vote 10 days prior to election day so that they are available for taking up posts at the various polling stations and other strategic locations as required by law without disenfranchising them.

Smooth process

Meanwhile, Public Relations Officer at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Yolanda Warde, also told the Guyana Times on Friday

evening that the D-Day activities were “generally a smooth process.”

Earlier in the day, Warde had explained that on D-Day, officers are given the opportunity to vote in the districts where they are stationed, but using ballots from the districts where they are registered on the Official List of Electors (OLE).

“Upon the close of poll [on Friday], when those ballots are returned, those ballots will be sorted by the respective district, and they will be placed in secured custody according to districts. We have gazetted the list of polling stations where those ballots will be intermixed on election day… So, those ballots will be counted in the respective districts where the officers are registered to vote,” Warde noted.

According to the GECOM PRO, some Joint Services officers had raised concerns about their ballots not being stamped. However, she clarified that ballots are stamped with the six-digit number of their respective polling stations on election day before being placed in the ballot boxes and intermixed for counting at the close of polls.

“That is what the legal process is allowed for, and that is exactly what we will be doing,” the GECOM official stated.

Another minor issue that came up on Friday’s D-Day was the failure of some political parties that are contesting the elections to issue accreditation letters to their agents to enter the polling stations to observe the process. Although these agents’ names were submitted prior to GECOM and are on a “master list”, they were still required to show the accreditation letters from their parties in order to gain access into the polling stations.

Nevertheless, GECOM’s Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO), Aneal Giddings, assured that this matter was dealt with immediately. According to the DCEO, the Elections Commission will be engaging the six political parties that are contesting the upcoming polls to avoid a reoccurrence

of this on election day and ensure a smooth process.

“We would have to have a meeting with all of the election agents – as you know, there are six – to ensure that they do what they’re required to do and we do the same,” Giddings pointed out. Meanwhile, several representatives of the various political parties, including Presidential Candidate of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Dr Irfaan Ali, also visited Camp Ayanganna on Friday morning. Ali told reporters, “So far, we have observed a process that is smooth, very efficient… From all the reports we’re having across the country, there is nothing to create any uneasiness at the moment.”

WIN candidate “misleading”, “dishonourable”

On Friday afternoon, Brigadier Khan clarified that a handshake with candidate of the WIN party, United States (US)-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed, during the Joint Services voting process at Base Camp Ayanganna was a simple act of courtesy and not a show of political support.

Brigadier Khan explained that the greeting was initiated by Mohamed but stressed that neither he nor the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) endorses or supports any political party or candidate.

“It has since come to my attention that this moment is being twisted and used for political gain on social media by the WIN Presidential candidate,” Khan said in a statement. “Let it be clear, neither I nor the Guyana Defence Force as an institution supports or endorses any political party or candidate. The Force stands firm, neutral, patriotic, and loyal to the constitution and the people of Guyana.”

He further described the attempt to politicise the interaction as “misleading” and “dishonourable”, stressing that it goes against the values of honesty and respect that Guyana’s democracy deserves.

Police, local authorities, judiciary must deliver greater accountability – Jagdeo

Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo has asserted that various arms of Government such as the judiciary and local authorities will have to be more accountable for their performances in the years ago.

Speaking about his party’s vision for the next five years, the General Secretary (GS) of the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) has contended that “the justice system and Government, and police, and everyone, they all have to be more accountable.” Jagdeo made the assertion during his weekly press conference on Thursday. On the Guyana Police Force (GPF), he con -

tended that “they need also in many areas to be more accountable to people”.

On the judiciary, he highlighted that the PPP/C Administration has

2 on bail over $5.64M alleged land fraud scheme

Two individuals were on Friday arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on three counts of obtaining money under false pretence, amounting to more than $5.6 million. The defendants, Sophia Singh, 29 and Feroz Mohamed, 40, appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh and pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The first charge alleged that on August 13, at Robb Street, Georgetown, the pair obtained $240,000 from Chet Singh by falsely claiming they could secure house lots and land on his behalf. The second charge states that on June 13, they defrauded the same complainant of $2.4 million after pretending they were in a position to provide him

with a house lot. The third charge alleges that on June 19, also at Robb Street, Georgetown the duo fraudulently received $3 million from Chet Singh under the pretence of acquiring house lots and land for him.

In her submissions, Sophia Singh’s attorney noted that his client, who resides at New Scheme Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD) has a clean record. He urged that reasonable bail be granted, stressing that Singh poses no threat to the complainant.

Mohamed’s Attorney Latchmie Rahamat, argued that her client, a taxi driver, had no connection to Sophia Singh beyond being hired to pick up a package. She said Mohamed had no financial dealings with the com-

plainant, maintains an unblemished record and is not a flight risk. She likewise requested that reasonable bail be granted. The prosecutor opposed bail, pointing to the seriousness of the offences, the penalties involved and the possibility of additional charges against Sophia Singh. He requested that reporting conditions be imposed should bail be considered. After listening to submissions, Magistrate Singh granted $300,000 bail to each defendant. The two were ordered to report to the Brickdam Police Station on the last Friday of every month until the completion of the case and to surrender their passports. The matter was adjourned to September 19.

“increased the complement of Judges” in the last five years and therefore “we expect to see also cases are heard faster, too many people are waiting for a long time to have their cases heard and their lives are on hold”.

Regarding the functioning of local Government bodies such as the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and city councils, Jagdeo said many citizens across the country are dissatisfied with their performances.

“We’ve had a lot of complaints, right across the country,” he noted.

Jagdeo reminded that

these bodies have recently benefited from higher subventions and can look forward to more resources in the years to come, and therefore, they must perform better.

“They have to do a better job at doing the things they are equipped to do and are mandated to do,” Jagdeo contended. He referred to the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), noting that it fails to maintain basic city infrastructure and services such as road repairs, drainage and irrigation, and even garbage collection.

In this regard, Jagdeo

assured that the next PPP/C Administration will be holding these bodies more accountable.

“Holding local Government bodies more accountable for doing basic things in serving the communities would be an important part of the next five years,” he said.

Earlier this year, every NDC received $30 million as their new annual subvention while every municipality received $50 million as their new annual subvention.

Previously, NDCs got subventions of about $5 million, while municipalities got about $18 million.

Disciplined Services voting

Uninformed Opposition

GECOM Commissioner complains of police recruits’ red tie uniform

…uniform in place since 1956

Opposition-nominated Commissioner at GECOM, Desmond Trotman, expressed concerns about the attire of the Guyana Police Force’s trainee recruits – a move which some believe was an attempt to stir unnecessary mischief.

“I saw a whole contingent of persons I believe to be recruits… assembled there with red ties around their necks.” Trotman vented to reporters while observing polling day activities.

Asked whether the red tie forms part of the recruits’ uniform, Trotman said, “I’m not sure it is; I’ve never seen it before.”

However, Head of the Criminal Investigations

Department (CID) Wendell Blanhum has since confirmed to reporters that the red tie is part of the recruits’ uniform.

This was also highlighted by Government-aligned

Commissioner at GECOM, Sase Gunraj, who dismissed Trotman’s concerns. Gunraj pointed out that since 1956, when the police training school was opened, recruits have been wearing the same uniform.

“Commissioner Trotman just awoke to complain about that as Discipline Services vote,” Gunraj stated in a social media post on Friday.

Man arrested after ganja found during Mabaruma roadblock

Police have arrested a 38-year-old man for possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking after ranks from the Mabaruma Police Station conducted a roadblock exercise in the Mabaruma compound, North West District, on Thursday. During the operation, officers discovered 120 grams of cannabis concealed in his crotch.

Police stoped a black Toyota Fielder Wagon, driven by a 25-year-old taxi driver from Hosororo Hill, carrying two passengers: a 24-year-old man and 38-yearold Alexton Saul. The Police informed the occupants that a search for illegal items would be conducted, and after observing suspicious behaviour, an officer directed the men to exit the vehicle.

Police requested to search the driver and occupants, during which they discovered a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis concealed in Saul’s crotch.

He was informed of the offence of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, cautioned, and ar-

Motorcyclist slapped with 7 charges after accident involving Police Inspector

Twenty-six-year-old Cort Murphy, a motorcyclist from Lot 42 Victoria Village, ECD, was arrested Tuesday and charged Friday, after a "serious accident" on the public road at Cove and John, East Coast Demerara.

According to Police, the accident occurred on Tuesday, August 19, at approximately 08:10h, involving John Walcott, a Police Inspector, and motorcycle #CP 6682 ridden by Murphy.

On Friday, Murphy appeared at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court before

His Worship Magistrate Sunil Scarce, where seven charges were read to him.

He was charged with failing to stop when required by Police in uniform, riding an uninsured motor

vehicle and for failing to stop at the scene of an accident. Murphy pleaded not guilty to the three charges.

However, he pleaded guilty to the other four charges of being an unlicensed driver, and was fined $40,000; riding an uncertified motor vehicle, for which he was fined $25,000; riding an unlicensed motor vehicle, for which he was fined $20,000, and for driving without a safety helmet, which carried a $10,000 fine.

Murphy was placed on $100,000 bail, and the matters were adjourned to September, 24, 2025.

Both he and the narcotics were taken to the Mabaruma

Station, where the substance was weighed and documented.

Saul was placed into custody as investigations continue.

Essequibo man remanded for stealing 16 packs of chicken

Remanded: Vishan Bharrat

Vishan Bharrat, a 29-year-old labourer of Reliance, Essequibo Coast, was arrested on Tuesday, August 19, and charged on Thursday with the offence of simple larceny of 16 packs of chicken valued at $80,000.

The accused appeared at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court on Thursday before His Worship Mohabir, where the charge was read to him.

He was not required to plead, and the Administration of Justice Act was applied, where the defendant pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison. The case was adjourned to Tuesday, September 16, for statements.

2025 CSEC results reflect both progress, ongoing challenges – Education Minister

Education Minister Priya Manickchand praised the resilience of students, teachers and parents, noting that the 2025 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) results reflect both progress and ongoing challenges.

She attributed improvements to greater access to classrooms, trained teachers, and the provision of essential resources such as textbooks, scientific calculators, past papers, practice tests and cash grants.

These measures, she said, have contributed to higher pass and matriculation rates, providing students with more meaningful post-secondary opportunities.

The Minister emphasised that while the results mark important achievements, particularly in Region Six and among new and returning schools, the Government remains committed to supporting institutions that recorded declines or stagnation.

The Education Ministry announced the outcomes of the 2025 CSEC examinations, highlighting both significant achievements and

1000

CSEC and CAPE graduates

areas for continued improvement. This year, a total of 116 secondary schools participated, reflecting the country’s strong commitment to education and academic success.

A total of 12,685 candidates were registered for the examinations, compared to 11,612 in 2024, with subject entries reaching 80,556. The preliminary analysis of results showed that the over-

officers

all national pass rate at the General and Technical proficiencies for Grades One to Three remained steady at 66.76 per cent.

In reviewing the performances, 50 schools – 43 per cent – recorded improvements in their pass rates, while 12 schools maintained their previous results. However, 51 schools, representing 46 per cent, registered declines.

Among the new entrants, Good Hope Secondary and Yarrowkabra Secondary sat the exams for the first time, achieving commendable pass rates of 75 per cent and 64 per cent respectively. Meanwhile, New Central High School, returning after a one-year hiatus, recorded an impressive 87 per cent pass rate, one of the strongest performances nationwide.

School gains

Several schools registered exceptional gains in their pass rates this year.

Winifred Gaskin Secondary improved by 33 per cent, Novar Secondary by 27 per cent, and Golden Grove Secondary by 23 per cent. Bush Lot Secondary and Black Bush Secondary both recorded increases of 22 per cent, while Tutorial Academy advanced by 20 per cent.

Other strong performers included Bygeval Secondary, Canje Secondary, Central Corentyne Secondary and Corentyne Comprehensive.

Across the country, improvements were noted among schools in multiple categories. Campbellville Secondary, Cummings Lodge Secondary, St John’s College, Tutorial High, North-West Secondary, Leguan Secondary, Leonora Secondary, Patentia Secondary, Stewartville Secondary, Covent Garden Secondary and several others all reported increases in their pass rates. Hinterland schools such as Paramakatoi Secondary, Aishalton Secondary and

Nappi Secondary also recorded progress, reinforcing the Ministry’s focus on bridging educational gaps across regions. Region Six (East Berbice–Corentyne) emerged as the best-performing region, with nearly every school improving its results. Notable achievements came from Winifred Gaskin Secondary, Black Bush Secondary, Central Corentyne Secondary and Port Mourant Secondary. In Region Four, Golden Grove Secondary stood out with a 23 per cent improvement. In Georgetown, New Campbellville Secondary and Cummings Lodge Secondary also recorded notable increases of 14 per cent and 11 per cent respectively. The Ministry of Education extended congratulations to all students who participated in the 2025 CSEC examinations, and commended the dedication of teachers, administrators, and families.

The Ministry concluded that while challenges remain, the results underscore a steady improvement in Guyana’s education system.

cast ballots in Berbice on D-Day

…as over 85 per cent cast ballots on D-Day in Region 6 …91 per cent in Region 5

About 1000 members of the Joint Services would have cast a ballot on D-Day in the two Berbice regions: Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

Withrite, said both polling stations in his region were opened on time and the process went smoothly.

“Our ranks were already assembled to cast the vote, and they have been doing so seamlessly up until now… No problem, we have a system that would allow persons to come and vote and get back to work, so that other persons could come and cast their ballots as well,” the Commander said.

Some 661 police officers, 71 prisoners, and 40 ranks from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were listed to cast ballots in Region Six, while in Region Five there were 324 listed, with 74 at Mahaicony Police Station and 250 at Fort Wellington Police Station.

In Region Six, voting took place at Central Police Station, where members of the GDF and police would have voted; Whim Police Station, which was a station only for police officers; Skeldon Police Station, where the GDF also joined the police; New Amsterdam Prisons, and at Camp Jaguar. Police Commander of Region Five, Senior Superintendent Lonsdale

Meanwhile, in Region Six, Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus said that the process here also was of a similar nature; incident-free.

“This morning we would have started the process of Joint Services voting at 04:30 hours, and this process was being done in collaboration with the GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission) officials and security from the Guyana Police Force (GPF). This

is all the process in terms of having these Joint Services ballots to the various locations. At Central Police Station we have two stations, and at the Prison, we have one, Whim Police Station one, and Springlands Police Station one. While on the outskirts, in the hinterland location, we have Camp Jaguar. This process was incident-free. It was very smooth. All went well. Everyone was on time, and we didn’t have a hiccup

with it,” the Commander said in a midday report.

Meanwhile, several observer teams visited the polling stations to get a first-hand look at the process. Assistant Scrutineer for the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Kirk Fraser, said they had been monitoring the day’s proceedings. He noted that it was taking an average of three minutes for each voter to complete the process.

“We have been out here

since early this morning, where we observed the entire process, and so far things are going smoothly. I think that the Disciplined Services speak for themselves based on the organisation in which they represent.

While police ranks in Region Six had the opportunity to vote on Friday, the Commander did not.

“For some reason or the other, there was a difficulty on the list, and I will be able

to cast my ballot on E-Day,” he explained to this publication.

Meanwhile, the Region Five Commander said his region is fully prepared for E-Day activities.

“We have been training and running simulation exercises and so on, so we are ready and prepared to deal with that period.”

Just over 750,000 persons are expected to cast their ballots on E-Day, September 1. The ballots

of those who would have done so on D-Day would be placed with those ballots and then counted. The 2025 elections will see six parties contending for the presidency. These include the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C); the APNU; the Alliance For Change (AFC); the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN); the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP); and the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM).

Regional

T&T set to be worstaffected Caricom country by US tariffs, says CPSO

The Caricom Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) is warning that the decision by the United States to increase Trinidad and Tobago’s reciprocal tariff rate from 10 to 15 could result in the most severe, absolute impact upon any of the 15 member Caribbean Community (Caricom) member states.

“Trinidad and Tobago was already the most exposed Caricom economy under the reciprocal tariff regime,” said CPSO chief executive officer and technical director, Patrick Antoine.

“This adjustment not only increases the scale of potential losses, but it does so in sectors that are vital to our industrial capacity and to United States (US) manufacturers who rely on our exports for input,” Antoine said, link-

ing also the development to a broader erosion of Caricom’s historic trade position with the US.

“In our recent submission to the US review of the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), we highlighted that these new tariffs erode the preferential access that has underpinned our economic partnership with the US for decades. That erosion is now accelerating,” he said.

It said the increased tariff rate of 15 per cent, which took effect from August 7, comes just months after Trinidad and Tobago had been assigned the 10 per cent baseline rate, which was introduced in April 2025 as part of the America First trade policy.

CPSO said that over twothirds of the estimated losses expected to be suffered by Trinidad and Tobago are

concentrated in two sectors, namely base metals and articles (US$199.3 million) and chemicals (US$74.8 million).

The base metals category is largely composed of various forms of iron and steel products which are widely used in the US across construction, automotive and manufacturing industries.

The chemicals category includes products such as anhydrous ammonia, methanol and urea, which are critical inputs for fertiliser production, plastics and other industrial processes. The CPSO said that together, these exports from Trinidad and Tobago anchor the country’s industrial capacity and also feed into US supply chains that rely on competitively priced raw materials. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Columbia Police helicopter targeting cocaine crops downed by drone

AColombian drug gang used a drone to shoot down a helicopter transporting police officers targeting cocaine crops, killing 12 officers on board, the nation’s President said.

The attack in the northern region of Antioquia on Thursday came just hours before a truck loaded with explosives detonated near a military aviation school in the south-western city of Cali, killing at least six people and injuring more than 60.

Authorities said the helicopter was transporting police officers as part of an operation to destroy coca leaf crops, the

raw material for cocaine.

Mr Petro said an alleged member of the dissident group was arrested in the area of the explosion.

Andres Julian, the gov-

ernor of

said a drone attacked the helicopter as it flew over coca leaf crops. The attack is thought to have caused a fire onboard. (Excerpt from The Telegraph)

Argentina's Milei dealt Congressional blow as Senate approves spending increases

Argentine President Javier Milei's Government suffered a legislative setback late Thursday after the Senate rejected a series of Presidential decrees and approved budget increases for public universities.

Milei, a libertarian, has aimed to tame runaway inflation with strict austerity and by blocking any laws that the opposition-controlled Congress could pass that would affect the country's finances.

Senators approved funding for national universities, including an increase in their employees' salaries. They also debated an increase in the health budget through the declaration of a paediatric emergency for two years.

"Argentina's public university is part of our national identity, and defending it

is a decision for the future," said Senator Alejandra Vigo, of the opposition Peronist alliance.

Milei said he will veto laws that involve an increase in budget allocations.

The upper house also rejected five Presidential decrees that sought to reduce the state structure, a setback to Milei's flagship fiscal adjustment that he has pushed since taking office in

December 2023. The President's libertarian Government, which has a minority in both the Senate and the lower house Chamber of Deputies, hit another legislative stumbling block on Wednesday when opposition representatives secured the necessary votes to overrule a veto Milei put on an increase in subsidies for the disabled.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Man arrested after threatening murder if PNP loses Jamaica election

The St Elizabeth police have moved swiftly to arrest and charge a man who went on TikTok threatening bloodshed if his preferred political candidate loses in the upcoming September 3 General Election.

The accused has been identified as Giovannie "Mother Love" Skeen, a clothes vendor of the Marlborough district in Balaclava.

Skeen's video, which

has been making the rounds on social media, shows him declaring that if the People's National Party (PNP) candidate in his constituency does not win, he is going to cause violence.

The video caught the attention of law enforcement, and on Wednesday, officers launched a targeted operation in Balaclava. Skeen was tracked down and taken into custody without incident.

He has since been charged with using audio-visual communication to promote violence, a serious offence under Jamaican law.

Head of the St Elizabeth police, Superintendent Coleridge Minto, confirmed the arrest and warned that the security forces will act decisively against anyone seeking to incite violence during the election season. (Excerpt from Jamaica Star)

110 Cuban teachers to return to Bahamian classrooms under new hiring framework

About 110 Cuban teachers are expected to return to Bahamian classrooms next week under a revised hiring system the Government adopted after US warnings about its previous recruitment arrangements with Havana.

Education Director Dominique McCartneyRussell confirmed Wednesday that the teachers, whose contracts remain active, will resume their posts, while others will not return because their agreements have expired.

She described the

Cuban educators as critical in addressing shortages across several subject areas.

The Government restructured its Cuban recruitment model earlier this year after US officials raised concerns that the previous system – which operated through staterun agencies in Havana –amounted to forced labour.

Leaked documents showed that the Cuban Government retained most of the salaries paid by the Bahamas, while workers received only a fraction. Washington warned that participation

in such schemes could lead to visa sanctions against Bahamian officials and their families.

In June, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville announced that future Cuban professionals would be hired directly by the Government rather than through intermediaries.

Recruitment trips to Cuba have since been cancelled, with officials also turning to the US, Canada, and retired Bahamian teachers to help close staffing gaps. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Weekly)

Suriname: 12 security officers convicted of excessive force against detainees

Suriname press magistrate Alida Johanns on Tuesday said that a judge has found that the 15 members of the Suriname Police Force (KPS), the Suriname Security and Assistance Service (BBS), and the Penitentiary Officers Corps (KPA), involved in the assault on 17 detainees at the Geyersvlijt cell house, used excessive force, despite the detainees' lack of resistance.

Based on statements, camera footage, medical reports, and photos of injuries, the court concluded that the suspects' actions were unjustified.

Johanns emphasised the impact of the violence on the detainees. Medical reports show that several victims suffered serious injuries, including bruising, swelling, bleeding around the eyes and ears, pain in the rib cage, and even blood in the urine.

One of the detainees had to be rushed to the emergency room.

In addition, personal belongings, such as food and medicine, were rendered unusable during the cell checks.

The subdistrict court

sentenced 12 civil servants to twelve months' imprisonment, eleven months of which were suspended, with a probationary period of two years. They also received a fine of SRD 5000, to be paid within three months.

Inspector T, then head of the Cell House Supervision Service, received a higher fine of SRD 7500. Failure to pay will result in a substitute prison sentence, but this does not waive the payment obligation.

Two suspects were acquitted due to lack of evidence.

Because the convicts had already spent several weeks in pretrial detention and the majority of their sentenc-

es were suspended, they remain free.

The defence had argued that the violence arose because detainees allegedly resisted when officers searched for a weapon and other prohibited items.

However, investigation, including camera footage, shows that this was not the case.

Johanns emphasised that the judge made it clear in her ruling that officers are authorised to use force, but only within the limits prescribed by the police charter and the Penitentiary Decree. In this case, the court found that this limit was significantly exceeded.

(Suriname Herald)

Around the World

ONEWS

Oil prices rise, making weekly gains as Ukraine peace process stalls

il prices steadied on Friday amid uncertainty surrounding a potential peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, with prices gaining on the week for the first time in three weeks.

Brent crude futures settled up 6 cents, or 0.09 per cent, to $67.73. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures settled up 14 cents, or 0.22 per cent, to $63.66.

Both contracts gained more than 1 per cent in the previous session. Brent gained 2.9 per cent this week, while WTI rose 1.4 per cent.

"Everyone is waiting for President Trump's next step," said UBS commodity analyst Giovanni Staunovo. "Over the coming days, it seems nothing will happen," he added.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday he will see if Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will work together in ending Russia's war in Ukraine.

"There is still uncertainty around the potential ceasefire; the negotiations are not going as quick as the market would have hoped," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group.

The 3 1/2-year war continued unabated this week as Russia launched an air attack on Thursday near Ukraine's border with the European Union, and Ukraine said it hit a Russian oil refinery and the Unecha oil pumping station, a critical part of Russia's Europe-bound Druzhba oil pipeline.

Russian oil supplies to Hungary and Slovakia could be suspended for at least five days.

Trump is seeking to arrange a summit between Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart, Zelenskyy, as part of efforts to broker a peace deal for Ukraine. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Hungary, Slovakia fear oil cuts after Ukrainian attack on Russian pipeline

Hungary and Slovakia have raised the alarm over possible fuel shortages after a Ukrainian strike on Russia’s Druzhba pipeline, saying deliveries could be suspended for several days.

On Friday, officials from both countries warned that the attack on the Unecha oil pumping station, a key hub in western Russia, risked halting supplies for at least five days. The Soviet-era pipeline, which runs through Belarus and Ukraine, is a crucial route for Russian oil to reach Central Europe.

Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto and Slovakia’s Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar wrote a joint letter to the European Commission urging Brussels to step in and guarantee se-

Famine in Gaza City is "failure of humanity", UN chief says

The United Nations chief has described the famine confirmed in Gaza City and its surrounding areas as a "failure of humanity".

Antonio Guterres said the situation was a "manmade disaster" after a UNbacked body, which identifies hunger levels around the world, raised its food insecurity status in parts of the territory to Phase 5 – the highest and most severe.

The IPC says that an "immediate, at-scale response" is needed or there will be an "unacceptable escalation" in famine-related deaths.

It predicts that between mid-August and the end of September, famine will expand across the strip to Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis.

cure energy flows. “The physical and geographical reality is that without this pipeline, the safe supply of our countries is simply not possible,” they wrote.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban also made the strike a political issue, releasing a letter he had sent to US President Donald Trump.

In it, Orban said Ukraine had attacked Druzhba just days before Trump’s August 15 meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, calling the move a “very unfortunate” escalation.

A copy of the letter posted on Facebook appeared to include Trump’s handwritten response: “Viktor, I do not like hearing this; I am very angry about it.” The White House has not commented.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) says more than half a million people across Gaza are facing "catastrophic" conditions characterised by "starvation, destitution and death".

The report was labelled an "outright lie" by Israel, which has denied there is starvation in the territory.

The UN says Israel is continuing to restrict the amount of aid entering Gaza, which Israel also denies.

Its denials are in direct contradiction to what more than 100 humanitarian groups, witnesses on the ground, multiple UN bodies, and several of Israel's allies, including the UK, have said.

During this period, almost a third of the population – nearly 641,000 people – are expected to face "catastrophic conditions" in IPC Phase 5, while the number of people to face "emergency" conditions in IPC Phase 4 will likely increase to 1.14 million – or 58 per cent of the population. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Eswatini Government faces court

challenge over men deported by US

Agroup of NGOs is challenging Eswatini’s acceptance of five people deported by the US, arguing the deal was unconstitutional and violated the imprisoned men’s human rights.

The men from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Yemen and Cuba, who the US said were dangerous criminals, were flown to the small southern African country in July, as the Trump Administration attempts to deport millions of migrants and asylum seekers.

The men’s imprisonment at the maximum security Matsapha correctional centre caused outrage in Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, whose king, Africa’s last absolute monarch, appoints the Prime

Protesters hold placards as lead applicant and lawyer Mzwandile Masuku addresses them outside the court, after a hearing was postponed, in Mbabane, Eswatini [Reuters]

wMinister and cabinet.

A US Boeing C-17 used for deportation flights is pictured at an airfield in Texas.

The US deports migrants to Eswatini, an African country with a troubling human rights record.

Read more.

A group of NGOs and activists filed a legal challenge against the Government last week, arguing that the deal, whose terms have been kept private by the Government , violated due

process and that the prison where the men were being held was 190 per cent over capacity.

The Southern African Litigation Centre (SALC), whose programme manager is one of the plaintiffs, said at the time, “This litigation signals to the continent and the world that African nations cannot serve as dumping grounds for unresolved issues.”

Eswatini’s attorney general, Sifiso Khumalo, told Reuters the case had no basis, adding, “It’s a frivolous legal application.”

The high court case was postponed to 25 September and may be referred to the constitutional court by the high court Judges, the Salc said. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

With no Ukraine peace deal, Trump again threatens Russia sanctions

US President Donald Trump renewed a threat to impose sanctions on Russia on Friday if there is no progress toward a peaceful settlement in Ukraine in two weeks, showing frustration at Moscow a week after his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

"I'm going to make a decision as to what we do, and it's going to be, it's going to be a very important decision, and that's whether or not it's massive sanctions or massive tariffs or both, or we do nothing and say it's your fight," Trump said.

He was unhappy about Russia's deadly strike on a factory in Ukraine this

week, he said. "I'm not happy about it, and I'm not happy about anything having to do with that war," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy,

meanwhile, said on Friday that Russia was doing everything it could to prevent a meeting between him and Putin, while Russia's foreign Minister said the agenda for such a meeting was not ready. Zelenskyy has repeat -

edly called for Putin to meet him, saying it is the only way to negotiate an end to the war.

Trump had said he had begun the arrangements for a Putin-Zelenskyy meeting after a call with the Russian leader on Monday that followed their Alaska meeting on August 15.

Zelenskyy accused Russia of stalling.

"The meeting is one of the components of how to end the war," he said on Friday at a press conference in Kyiv with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. "And since they don't want to end it, they will look for space to (avoid it)."

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Intelligence is your ticket forward. Joint ventures, expenses, or space require patience, common sense, and compromise. Look for adaptable options that can handle sensitive situations. Overreacting will not help you resolve matters. Do whatever is possible to maintain peace and dignity and show strength and courage to sort through differences. Lead the way.

Do what you must do and keep moving. Making excuses will prolong the agony of doing something you find taxing. Establish how your day unfolds, and be sure to compensate for any negativity you encounter with something that puts a smile on your face. Balance is the key to thriving and having the gumption to excel.

Inconsistency will hold you back. Take a leap of faith, let your instincts lead the way, and participate and connect with people who have information that can help you narrow down your options. Learn all you can. Be open to suggestions, but only implement what’s necessary. A simple path forward will stifle procrastination.

A civil conversation will far outweigh a shout fest. Take the time to sort out your thoughts and lay out alternatives and compromises that will minimise arguments. Avoid double booking yourself or taking on physical activities that steal your energy and leave you at a disadvantage when dealing with intellectual affairs. Prioritise your energy.

Use your swagger and your intelligence to win favours. Offer facts, demonstrations, and proof that your word is good. It’s how you execute your plans that’ll determine how much you’ll receive in return. Innovation coupled with discipline will be the path to new beginnings. Leave nothing to chance or unfinished.

Unexpected changes are heading your way. Before you shun what’s coming, consider how you can parlay it into something useful. It’s how you deal with change that counts. Use it for self-improvement and to make connections or network with like-minded people. Aim high, and you will steal the show. Refuse to let emotions cost you.

You’ll teeter between what you should do and what you want to do. Stop procrastinating; choose what offers gratitude and satisfaction. Engaging in something that you find enlightening will recharge your battery, giving you ample time to catch up when the time is right. Let your imagination help you gain insight into self-improvement.

Pick up knowledge, skills, and qualifications that will help you raise your earning potential. Network and discover what’s cutting-edge and can help transform your current work status into a next-level position. Mix business with pleasure, and you’ll charm those who can help you advance. Day trips, reunions, and people-watching are among the favourites.

Look at your environment, set a budget, and reconstruct your surroundings to suit your needs. Pay attention to detail and make your space more convenient as well as efficient in hopes of lowering your overhead and easing financial stress. Revisit your eating and exercise habits to ensure better health. Selfimprovement will encourage personal growth.

Keep confusion at bay by doing research and getting your facts straight, and you’ll spare yourself from disappointment. When in doubt, step back, weigh the pros and cons, and don’t be afraid to take a pass. Trust yourself over someone putting on a dog and pony show to convince you to become a follower.

Less spending and more investing in your future will ease your mind and encourage you to expose yourself to people and possibilities that can help you advance. Be brave and challenge yourself to try something you’ve never done before and see what happens. A positive change at home or to your lifestyle is apparent.

Observation is your friend. Sit back, relax, and watch what’s unfolding around you. Consider the effects of interfering before deciding to participate. Choose the path that encourages positive input and spending time with people who accept you for who you are and love you unconditionally. Personal growth and romance are on the rise.

Ngidi’s 5-wicket haul seals ODI series win for South Africa

–Breetzke, Stubbs shine with bat

South Africa completed a fifth successive bilateral ODI series win over Australia, dating back to 2016; this one with a game to spare. Their 84-run victory in the second match followed a similar pattern to their triumph on Tuesday, which was set up by a strong batting effort that was well defended under lights.

Half-centuries from Matthew Breetzke and Tristan Stubbs, who also shared in an 89-run fourth-wicket stand, took South Africa to a competitive total of 277, with Breetzke becoming the first player in men’s ODI history to pass 50 in his first four ODI matches. Nandre Burger and Lungi Ngidi then led the way in defence. Ngidi was Player of the Match with 5 for 42, his second five-for in ODIs and second against Australia.

Australia have now lost their last three bilateral ODI series and will be concerned about a lack of contributions from their lineup. As was the case in match one, there was only one individual score of note, this time Josh Inglis’ 87.

South Africa’s performance, while trophy-winning, was far from flawless. After a good start, they faded away with the bat and lost 5 for 44 in the last 10 overs and dropped three catches, to add to a growing tour tally. Stubbs, who scored his first fifty in 16 international innings across all formats, put down two and grassed six across the five matches in Australia so far.

Still, South Africa will be pleased with their performance in the field, which came with regular captain Temba Bavuma being rested for workload management and senior seamer Kagiso Rabada out of the series with

an ankle injury. In Rabada’s absence, Burger and particularly Ngidi stepped up.

Burger bowled with good pace to start proceedings and had early success. In the third over of the chase, Travis Head tried to loft him over mid-on and was caught by a backpedalling Aiden Markram. Seven balls later, Ngidi offered Marnus Labuschagne some width; Labuschagne drove hard and edged to Ryan Rickelton. Australia were 7 for 2 in the fourth over, and things could have got a lot worse.

Cameron Green edged Ngidi’s next ball to Stubbs at second slip, but he could not keep his hands on the ball. Three overs after that, Mitchell Marsh, on 13, drove Burger to Stubbs in the covers, and he dropped another. Luckily for Stubbs, only the first would prove somewhat costly. Marsh add-

he danced down the track to lift Markram over cover for six. Markram took himself off and brought Mulder back, and the move should have paid off when Inglis, on 42, chipped Mulder to cover where Tony de Zorzi spilt the chance.

There was some relief for South Africa when Green was caught by Senuran Muthusamy in his follow-through to end

ed five more runs before he pulled Wiaan Mulder to Corbin Bosch at mid-on and left Australia 39 for 3 after the first 10 overs.

Markram brought himself on in the 18th over, and Inglis took a liking to him. He reverse-swept the second ball over backward point and then played one of the shots of the match when

Australia’s best partnership on 67, but Inglis continued to pose a threat. He top-edged Mulder short of deep third and then pulled and cut him for back-to-back fours, and his fifty came off 46 balls. What Inglis lacked was someone to stay with him.

Alex Carey flayed Burger to backward point, where Dewald Brevis took a good catch. Inglis responded by taking 19 runs off Keshav Maharaj’s next two overs to enter the 18s. But it was all Ngidi from there.

He deceived Aaron Hardie into popping a slower ball back to him and then took a low return catch. He also accounted for Inglis, who made room for himself on the drive but bottom-edged to Rickelton, and then had Xavier Bartlett caught at mid-on. Ngidi’s

which time Breetzke brought up a 46-ball fifty, and it allowed Stubbs to settle. His confidence grew when he flicked a Zampa googly over midwicket for six as South Africa targeted spin.

fifth came in the 38th over when Adam Zampa skied him to mid-on, and Australia were bowled out with more than 12 overs remaining in their innings.

That made South Africa’s batting effort, which Breetzke initially thought was 20 runs short, appear far above par against a well-resourced Australian attack.

Australia made use of seven bowlers, including three spinners. Between them, Zampa, Head and Labuschagne bowled 17 overs for 94 runs and took five wickets. Nathan Ellis was the standout seamer, with 2 for 46, and Xavier Bartlett did a good job upfront in the absence of Ben Dwarshuis, who was rested.

Playing in his third ODI, Bartlett opened the bowling and enjoyed early success. Markram chipped him to midwicket for a fourth-ball duck before Rickelton was caught behind in his third over.

Breetzke announced himself when he took on Hardie, with a four down the ground and two sixes flicked over fine leg in a signature show of his strength on the leg side. At the other end, de Zorzi also showed off his stroke-play with clean straight hits and a couple of cracking square drives.

Breetzke and de Zorzi demonstrated some excellent, proactive run-scoring but also rode their luck. Breetzke charged Bartlett and top-edged a bouncer over Inglis, while de Zorzi pulled a half-volley just short of midwicket. Their partnership had grown to 67 when de Zorzi gifted Zampa a simple return catch off a leading edge.

Breetzke and Stubbs went five overs without scoring a boundary, during

Breetzke swept and pulled Zampa for successive fours, and Stubbs reverse-swept Head. Marsh brought Ellis back at the halfway stage, and it worked. Breetzke, who had pulled well throughout the innings, could not control one off Ellis that found Carey at deep square leg. Breetzke remains ODI cricket’s best-performing batting newcomer, scoring more runs than any other player in history across four matches from debut.

Stubbs brought up his fifty with a single off Labuschagne and found a good finishing partner in Mulder, albeit he could have been out for 3. Mulder pulled Labuschagne to Marsh at midwicket, but the captain put it down. In the

South Africa (50 overs maximum)

Ryan Rickelton † c †Inglis

b Bartlett 8

Aiden Markram (c) c Head

b Bartlett 0 Tony de Zorzi c & b Zampa 38

Matthew Breetzke c Carey

b Ellis 88

Tristan Stubbs c Green

b Zampa 74

Dewald Brevis c Green

b Ellis 1

Wiaan Mulder c Green

b Labuschagne 26

Senuran Muthusamy c Hardie

b Labuschagne 4

Keshav Maharaj not out 22

Nandre Burger c Green

b Zampa 8

Lungi Ngidi b Hazlewood 1

Extras (nb 1, w 6) 7

Total 49.1 Ov (RR: 5.63) 277

Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Aiden Markram, 1.4 ov), 2-23 (Ryan Rickelton, 5.4 ov), 3-90 (Tony de Zorzi, 15.6 ov), 4-179 (Matthew Breetzke, 30.6 ov), 5-185 (Dewald Brevis, 32.6 ov), 6-233 (Wiaan Mulder, 40.1 ov), 7-243 (Senuran Muthusamy, 42.1 ov), 8-245 (Tristan Stubbs, 43.1 ov), 9-264 (Nandre Burger, 45.5 ov), 10-277 (Lungi Ngidi, 49.1 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Josh Hazlewood 9.1-0-57-1

Xavier Bartlett 9-1-45-2 Aaron Hardie 4-0-35-0 Nathan Ellis 10-0-46-2 Adam Zampa 10-0-63-3 Travis Head 2-0-12-0 Marnus Labuschagne 5-0-19-2

next over, Labuschagne dropped Mulder on 5. Stubbs and Mulder put on 48 together and took South Africa to 233 for 5 with 10 overs to go, but neither finished the job. Mulder was the first to go when he slog swept Labuschagne to Green at long-on. Muthusamy sent a full toss to Hardie at deep midwicket. Stubbs skied Zampa to midwicket, and Burger holed out to long-off, where Green completed his fourth catch of the innings, equalling the most outfield catches for Australia in ODIs. But that won’t be the statistic that grabs the headlines. For the first time since 2009, Australia had lost four consecutive ODIs at home, having been bowled out in four consecutive home ODIs for just the second time in history and for the first time without passing 200 in any of them. They have also lost seven of their last eight ODIs in total. (ESPNcricinfo)

Australia (T: 278 runs from 50

BCB 1st Division Two-Day: Second round matches set for this weekend

After an enthralling opening round of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) two-day first division tournament last weekend, the second-round matches are slated for August 23 and 24, across Berbice.

Albion and Rose Hall Town are the two teams that recorded authoritative wins against Port Mourant and Police respectively. For this second round, Rose Hall Town drew bye. Skeldon and Albion will lock horns at Skeldon Community Centre Ground while Port Mourant will play Police at Port Mourant.

A double century from national player Junior Sinclair

and centuries from Jonathan Foo and Damion Cecil were batting highlights from the opening round. Left-arm spinner Keith Simpson, a former Berbice youth player, had standout bowling figures of 5-13. The likes of Leon Cecil, and Kelvin Umroa were also among the wickets for Albion.

Port Mourant will be aiming to rebound in the second round after a poor batting display against Albion. The lads from Port Mourant were folded for 68 and 107 all out.

National player Rampertab Ramnauth and his younger brother Rampersaud Ramnauth will be eyeing big scores to aid Port Mourant’s rebound mission.

Young Berbice cricketers take advantage of cricket academy

The Berbice Cricket Academy commenced a series of coaching sessions across the ancient county. Under the coaching leadership of Winston Smith and other coaches from Berbice, the training sessions hit the Skeldon Community Centre Ground earlier this week, following the Cotton Tree cricket club.

According to the BCB, aspiring young cricketers will have the opportunity to enhance their skills through focused coaching sessions which run from 09:00h to 15:00h daily.

The sessions will cover the basic principles and fundamentals of cricket, ensuring that participants receive a solid foundation in the sport.

Lectures and practical training will be provided to help young players develop their understanding of the game, improve their techniques, and foster a love for cricket.

This collaborative effort aims to strengthen the cricketing community in Berbice and inspire the next generation of cricketers. All young players are encouraged to attend, regardless

of their experience level, as the coaching team is committed to providing tailored guidance to suit every participant.

The Skeldon Community Centre opening day reported a strong turnout, attracting 35 students ages 10 to 19, with coaching staff drawn from Upper Corentyne. Day one featured a combined lecture and practical session led by Head Coach Smith.

Attendees left the opening day of the academy with a clear understanding of the week’s schedule and expectations.

Leeward Island triumph Guyana; Barbados crowned champs

Another set of disappointing batting performances by Guyana’s Windward Islands caused them to suffer their first defeat of the Cricket West Indies Rising (CWI) Stars Men’s Under-17 2-Day Championship against the Leeward Islands at the Inshan Ali Park.

Batting first, Guyana was restricted to 124 in 35.4 overs despite efforts from Dave Mohabir (32) and Shamar Apple (23).

The Leewards’ bowlers made early inroads, with Jathan Edward leading the way with 4-35, supported by Tayari Tonge (2-8) and Kunal Tilokani (2-30).

The Leewards, in reply,

secured a valuable first-innings lead when they closed on 154. Lawshorn Bergan’s unbeaten 38 anchored the innings, while Guyana’s seam attack kept the contest alive through disciplined spells from Parmeshwar Ram (3-23), Feaaz Baksh (3-47), and Navendra Sankar (2-26).

Trailing by 30 runs,

Guyana faced another stern test in their second innings. Fast bowler Kasim Challenger struck three quick blows to leave the young Guyanese reeling at 33-3, a lead of just three runs with seven wickets in hand at the end of day one. Shamar Apple and Adrian Hetmyer resumed day 2 at the crease for

Guyana, but their resistance didn’t last long as Kunal Tilokani claimed both wickets. The young Guyanese batters continued to struggle and lost wickets at regular intervals; they were bowled out for 129 in 56.2 overs. Jathan Edward and Kasim Challenger both picked up 3 wickets each.

Needing 100 runs for

victory, Tanez Francis played a captain’s innings, scoring 64 from 81 balls. Kunal Tilokani scored 22 to guide the Leeward Islands to an eight-wicket victory, reaching 103 for 2.

Barbados completely outplayed the Windward Islands to be crowned champions. Batting first, the Windward Islands was

dismantled for 91 all out. Justin Parris picked up 5 wickets. In reply, Barbados posted a total of 195 for 9d. Jordan Graham and Rapheal Lovell both topscored with 46. Aravinda Bishop bowled well for the Windward, picking up 6 wickets. Parris again was brilliant as Windward were bowled out for 131 in their second innings. With 28 runs to win, Barbados easily walked to a 10-wicket victory, claiming their championship.

Guyanese badminton trio advance to semis at CAREBACO Championships 2025

Three members of the Guyana badminton team have advanced to the semi-finals at the Caribbean Regional Badminton Confederation (CAREBACO) Junior Individual Championships 2025.

Joel Rambiriche continues his strong run, reaching the Under-11

Boys Singles semi-finals while Mishka Beharry is through to the Under-19 Mixed Doubles semi-finals.

In addition, Liam Brummell and Joel Rambiriche also teamed up to make the Under-11 Boys Doubles semi-finals.

The Guyana Junior Badminton Team is proud -

ly representing Guyana at the CAREBACO Juniors Championships 2025, currently taking place in Bridgetown, Barbados, from August 19 to 23.

Despite the rest of the team fighting hard, they did not make into the semis, as they bowed out in the quarter-finals.

Rutherford aiming for solid CPL performance with new franchise

Guyanese Sherfane Rutherford is rocking the Barbados Royals armoury in the 2025 edition of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

The left-hander, who has been the best West Indies One Day International batsman in the last year, is trusting his preparation process to reap him success at the biggest party in sport.

Having played for the Guyana Amazon Warriors and St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in previous seasons, Rutherford said he is hoping to give the Royals franchise good memories.

“I never thought or dreamt of playing for Barbados. It’s a new opportunity for me, so I hope to give the franchise something to remember.”

Rutherford, who averages 57 in ODI cricket, has his eyes set on scoring a maiden CPL century. At 27 years

Afive-match series was organised by Precision Sports as the Women’s T20 Cricket series between Combined Forces (Guyana) and Hibiscus Women’s Cricket Club from Trinidad and Tobago was badly affected by inclement weather.

In the opening game of the series at the Malteenoes Sports Club Ground in Georgetown, the Combined Forces won by 6 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the series.

The Trinidadian side would go on to tie the series at 1-1, also winning by 6 wickets. However, torrential rainfall in the city resulted in the other three scheduled matches being washed out as the rain played spoilsport.

Organisers Nidia Andrews and Jamella Chesney expressed their gratitude to everyone who made their tournament possible via a social media post on Instagram.

“After nine months of thoughtful planning, we were officially able to carry out the Precision Sport Women’s Cricket Tournament. With a lot of unexpected twists and turns, we still persevered. Out of the five expected games between Combined Forces and Hibiscus, we were only able to complete two, as the series ended 1-1 due to the rainy weather.”

The media post continued by saying, “We would

like to thank everyone who made this tournament possible because despite the few numbers of games that were able to be played, we saw that there was a lot of talent and untapped potential in each player and look forward to providing more cricket for the ladies.”

Sherica Campbell was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and was given a complete “Moon Walker” cricket kit, which included batting pads, arm guards, chest guards, and

a helmet. Varuni Pitamber, who took the most wickets, and Naomi Barkoye, who scored the most runs, were also given trophies. The two teams split the $200,000 prize money.

Andrews also states that “We hope to receive more support going into next year when we take Combined Forces on tour to be a part of The Precision Sports Women’s Cricket Tournament, which will be held in Trinidad and Tobago.”

old, Rutherford is showing maturity with 45 white ball matches for the West Indies.

“It is one of my desires to score a CPL century, so this year I am working towards one. I am trying to focus on the positives. I want to enjoy my game as much as possi ble.”

Rutherford added, “Performance is some thing we always want. The most important thing is my preparation. It’s important for me to stick to what’s been working. I don’t want to add pressure on myself.”

The Rutherford method is simple; cricket is about bat and ball and not overcomplicating the game.

“Cricket is bat and ball. It’s about playing the situation, being instinctive and keeping it simple,” Rutherford said.

The Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) on Thursday evening announced the commencement of its highly anticipated Under-13 Cricket Tournament, with action set to get underway on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Queen’s College Ground.

The tournament will conclude on Wednesday, August 27, and will feature four talented teams composed of Demerara’s brightest emerging players: the DCB Falcons, DCB Crows, DCB Hawks, and DCB Eagles.

The tournament provides a crucial platform for young players to showcase their skills in a competitive

The middle-order batsman, who grew up on spin-friendly conditions in Guyana, said his main weapon for countering spinners is intent.

Rutherford has been a regular member of both white-ball West Indies teams of late. He was also named vice-captain of the T20 team back in June 2025.

Rutherford spoke highly of his Royals captain, Rovman Powell. “I see him as a role model; as a captain, he was exceptional for the West Indies. I feel this year can be a good one for Rovman and the team,” Rutherford said.

Demerara Cricket Board U-13 tournament bowls off today

environment.

The DCB’s initiative aims to foster the next generation of Guyanese cricketing talent and ensure a strong developmental pipeline for the future.

The Squads: DCB Falcons: Mohamed Bahsk, Jayden David, Makai Dowlin (C), Michael Pereira, Laksman Jaigopaul, Aslam Ali, Chidannand Mahabal, Makhaya Jones, Justin Simeon, Sanjay Suman, Tyler Nedd, Michael Moore, Amir Gainda, Monesh Latif, Omari John, Jonathan Kandasammy.

DCB Crows: Kailash Dindial, Jason Moonsammy, Isaac Hussain, Hezekiah Hohenkirk (C), Ajay Kissoon, Nathaniel Harper, Afraz Khan, Safiullah Ali, Nathan Puran, Aiyan Persaud, Vijay Chaindat, Jadin Simeon, Vickash Khemraj, Ashton Collins, Jadgesh Latif, Shaquown Bookie.

DCB Hawks: Karran

Khemraj, Mario Singh (C), Nathaniel Ramkhelwan, Caleb Bastian, Satyannand Mahabal, Xavier Dodson, Zahid Talkudar, Elijah Mohamed, Nathaniel Bishop, Joshua Yipsam, Ravi Singh, Jayden Emanuel, Shivcham Ali, Mark Simeon, Jadon Birch, Hemesh Latif.

DCB Eagles: Irfaan Nasoordin, Samuel Herall, Paul Wintz, Dashawn Ramauth (C), Jayden Kissoon, Jamal Samuels, Rakeeb Latif, Andrew Narine, Ethan Roopnarine, Tafari Softleigh, Daniel Baird, Quacy Cummings, Darius Haynes, Mikkel Langhorne, Jeremiah Johnson, Brandon Kandasammy.

Guyana Amazon Warriors made it two wins from as many matches in the 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League.

Led by Imran Tahir’s best CPL bowling figures of 5-21, and explosive knocks from Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer, Warriors demolished Antigua and Barbdua Falcons in their backyard by 83 runs.

Playing at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, Warriors posted 211-3 from 20 overs with Hope slamming 82 and Hetmyer blistering his way to 65 not out. In response, Falcons were clipped to 128 all out from 15.2 overs.

In the tall chase of 212, Falcons showed ear-

with Imran Tahir leading from the front.

The in-form Karima Gore made a promising 31 and was dismissed by Romario Shepherd. After ten overs, Falcons were reeling at 95-6. Falcons never got going in the chase as Tahir’s bowling group was clinical.

Earlier, the unchanged

ly intent with Rahkeem Cornwall (10) targeting Dwaine Pretorious. Gudakesh Motie pulled off a stunner to end Cornwall’s cameo and Falcons were 13-1.

Falcons also lost Jewel Andrew early with the score on 41-2 from 2.2 overs. The introduction of spin kept the Falcons at bay. Wickets fells at regular intervals

Guyana Amazon Warriors won the toss and opted to bat first. Falcons’ front-line bowlers stuck to the plan and kept the Warriors quiet in the power play. Ben McDermott (08) fell to Obed McCoy at 9-1.

Jayden Seales tested Kevlon Anderson with some out swingers, but Shai Hope came with calmness to the crease. Warriors

were rebuilding, but at 36-1 after 5.5 overs, the rain began to fall in Antigua.

Hope looked comfortable with 23 from 18 balls while Anderson was hanging around with four from nine balls.

Play resumed at 20:20h

post the rain with no over lost at that point. Warriors reached 36-1 at the power play. Runs scoring was difficult for the Warriors and at the halfway stage, they managed 63-1. Hope was standing tall on 31 while Anderson was scratching on 22.

Anderson demise then came when he tried to slog sweep Imad Wasim but he was caught on for a 25-ball 22. At 64-2, Hetmyer joined Hope and the duo added impetus to the Warriors’ innings.

The duo treated the excited Guyanese fans from Antigua to a ray of shots. In the 14th over, Warriors breached the 100-run

sive total of 211-3 from 20 overs.

Hetmyer was unbeaten on 65 from 26 balls, an innings laced with five sixes and five fours. Shepherd added the icing on the cake with an unbeaten 25 from eight balls. Warriors posted 145-1 from the last nine overs. The CPL will continue today, Saturday August 23 with TKR playing St

will play St

Tuesday August 26.

Bevon Jacobs c Hetmyer b Shepherd 26 Shakib Al Hasan st †Hope b Imran Tahir 8 Imad Wasim (c) c Anderson b Imran Tahir 0 Shamar Springer lbw b Imran Tahir 3 Fabian

Shakib Al Hasan 2-0-16-0

Usama Mir 2-0-31-0

Antigua and Barbuda Falcons (T: 212 runs from 20 ovs)

Jewel Andrew † b Pretorius 13 Rahkeem Cornwall c Motie b Pretorius 10

Karima Gore c Iftikhar Ahmed b Shepherd 31