Guyana Times - Saturday, July 4, 2026

“Airstrips

are not luxuries; they are lifelines” – Pres Ali

Charity Market Wharf 30% complete as 2026 deadline approaches

Reg 6 records 17% decline in road fatalities for 2026 to date

8 months later… Report on probe into deaths of Berbice mother, newborn son still to be released 21 Essequibo families benefit from Govt’s

BRIDGE OPENING

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday July 4 –06:50h–08:20h and Sunday July 5 – 07:25h–08:55h

FERRY SCHEDULE

“Airstrips are not luxuries; they are lifelines” – Pres Ali

–

as $220M+ Anna Regina/Mainstay Airstrip commissioned

The newly upgraded $220 million Anna Regina/Mainstay Airstrip was commissioned on Friday to improve connectivity, strengthen tourism, expand agricultural opportunities, and drive economic growth across Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The project was undertaken by several contractors, including Builders Hardware General Supplies and Construction, and ICAN Engineering and Construction, and forms part

and development.”

However, the Head of State spoke of the unprecedented level of investment made in Region Two over the past five years, stating that it exceeds the combined investments made throughout the region’s previous history.

These investments, he noted, have transformed communities through improved education, healthcare, agriculture, and public infrastructure.

Reflecting on his visits to communities across the

Pomeroon earlier in the day, President Ali spoke of what he described as an “extraordinary story of human transformation”.

He noted that communities that once struggled to access basic services are now producing trained teachers, healthcare professionals, and entrepreneurs, while young people aspire to pursue university degrees and professional careers.

President Ali emphasised that improved infrastructure, including upgraded

of a strategic component of Guyana’s expanding aviation sector.

At the commissioning ceremony on Friday, President Dr Irfaan Ali, who delivered the feature address, said the commissioning of the airstrip represents far more than the opening of a new aviation facility.

“This ceremony goes beyond this airstrip. It extends further than the length and width of the runway. Building an airstrip is about connection, inclusion, and One Guyana in action,” the President declared.

He explained that infrastructure remains central to the Government’s vision of ensuring that no community is left behind, noting that roads, bridges, ports, broadband connectivity, and airstrips all play vital roles in creating equal opportunities and narrowing economic disparities.

“In a country like Guyana, airstrips are not luxuries; they are lifelines. They reduce travel time and improve access to healthcare, education, business, and emergency services while unlocking opportunities for investment

airstrips, now allows faster emergency medical evacuations and disaster responses, potentially saving lives.

However, Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar recalled visiting the community in 2025 when residents raised concerns about deteriorating roads, bridges, and the condition of the airstrip. He said the commissioning demonstrates that the Government listens to communities and acts on their concerns.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Making the most of the school break

Now that another school year has ended, our children will be proceeding on an extended holiday break for approximately two months. This is quite a lot of time they will have at their disposal, and it would benefit them if they are encouraged to utilise it in a constructive fashion. Certainly, parents have a critical role to play in ensuring this happens.

Some students who have not done well during the past year, or perhaps those who encounter difficulties in certain key areas in any subject, could use the time to do remedial academic work to catch up with the rest of their colleagues.

Also, some children usually go off on “summer” camps hosted by religious/youth groups or other organisations, including Government-sponsored programmes. This is another effective way in which our children could spend their time wisely, as they would be given an opportunity to interact with their peers and engage in extracurricular activities that would help them become better-rounded individuals.

The bottom line is that it is necessary for them to be meaningfully engaged, as it is well known that those who have achieved success in life or have gone on to do great things are the ones who have utilised their time wisely.

It is a known fact that many of our young people are falling prey to the use and trafficking of illicit drugs and engaging in criminal activities, completely destroying their lives and a great future they could have had if better choices were made and the necessary support systems were put in place to ensure their proper upbringing.

Every effort must, therefore, be made to ensure this segment of our population reforms itself and leads more productive and rewarding lives.

To begin with, institutions such as the family and religious groups need to take their roles more seriously, as they did before.

Historically, the older generation managed to transmit their beliefs, values, traditions, customs, and institutions to the younger members of their societies and contributed in some way to their disciplined upbringing.

This was achieved largely due to the impact of agencies of socialisation, such as the family, religious organisations, and schools to a large extent. Today, the impact of these institutions has been challenged and undermined by new forces, particularly television, the internet, and pop culture as a whole.

We believe that if our adolescents are to move from less mature and irresponsible ways of thinking and acting to making more mature and responsible judgements and engaging in activities that are the hallmark of a socially productive adulthood, certain support systems must be provided.

In addition to the various interventions the Government should make, numerous organisations, including the private sector, could rise to the occasion and contribute more towards saving our youth population. They need to come on board and sponsor programmes that would see our children and young people become well equipped with the necessary skills to develop themselves and society as a whole.

Coordinating and sponsoring such programmes during the “summer” break, when children are away from school for a long period, is a good way to start.

These programmes should include assessment and identification of ways to build competency and skills supportive of healthy behaviours to help individuals as they mature into adulthood. Such programmes need to be engaging and interesting in order to attract youths, and they should have elements of excitement and challenge to retain participants’ interest.

Successful programmes typically incorporate specific components, such as providing a sense of belonging, promoting supportive relationships with adults, and affording opportunities to enhance decision-making and leadership skills.

Furthermore, sports could also play a very important role in bringing the youth population back on track so that they could interact with their peers and elders in a more meaningful and dignified manner.

Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, Carolyn

to present her candidature for the position of Secretary

They had an engaging discussion on a range of issues impacting the UN, including the ongoing reforms, and exchanged perspectives on how to make the UN more effective and efficient to meet today’s challenges

Critique of the Wismar Massacre book

must be premised on reading it

Dear Editor, Aubrey Norton’s attempted to dissect a book by reading its cover, and a number of other individuals have come forward to provide their own “reviews” of Dr Baytoram Ramharack’s “The Wismar Massacre”.

Their general arguments are that the book’s title is inaccurate, as the event at Wismar cannot be termed a “massacre”; that the book should have touched on the broader historical context in which the incident was situated; and that there is quite a bit of whataboutism: “What about this, that, and the other?”

Surprisingly, many Guyanese continue to post biased comments on social media without even reading the book. Added to this is the multitude of individuals who promote a false equivalence between the Wismar massacre and the tragic explosion on the Sun Chapman. No conclusive evidence exists to suggest that the Sun Chapman explosion was caused by human sabotage, an issue addressed in detail by the author.

The fact is that all those who vented on the basis of a mythical cognition of the term “massacre” seek to connote numbers in the hundreds and beyond. But five

people were killed in the Boston Massacre of 1770, five in the Greensboro Massacre of 1989, and seven in the St Valentine’s Day Massacre of 1929, among other incidents documented as massacres.

How would these critics describe the Lusignan Massacre by the Fineman Gang from Buxton, which shot nine innocent victims in the early hours of January 26, 2008, including five sleeping children? Such events certainly comprise violence, injuries, terror, murders, rapes, arson, displacement, asymmetrical power, defenceless victims, intentionality & cruelty, and the indiscriminate targeting of Indo-Guyanese. Remember also that Forbes Burnham, speaking in the Legislative Assembly on June 3, 1964, referred to the ethnically motivated violence against Indo-Guyanese in the Wismar-Christianburg area, explicitly describing it as a “massacre”.

In effect, the issue of terminology is not only a Don Quixotic wail, but one engendered by ethnic reaction and nothing else. Besides, contrary to numerous assumptions made, Dr Ramharack’s book definitely does not negate any desire to label any other incident of that peri-

od if such incidents meet the valid and objective criteria that characterise the Wismar Massacre – the tragic event.

The references to and suggestions about the larger historical context are not only invalid but also serve as a deflection in relation to Dr Ramharack’s book. His book has a specific focus for which the author conducted extensive, painstaking research over two decades, including interviews with numerous people who had direct or anecdotal experiences to share. And the book was peer-reviewed by a committee of experts. The fact is that anyone who desires a book on the broader historical context can make that their specific goal. That was what Dr Ramharack did – he set a goal that was desired, and he achieved it with brilliance.

Whataboutism is used to shift focus, undermine whatever is under discussion (in this case, the book), and create false equivalences. It serves to reduce the brilliance and profundity of Dr Ramharack’s efforts and the resulting output – his book, “The Wismar Massacre”. And, of course, it reflects the relative ignorance about and inability to discuss, argue, or critique the book, its contents, and

the incident itself. More critically, it seeks to deny IndoCaribbeans the right to accurately document, present, and share their own narrative while claiming historical ownership of it. It is also interesting to reflect on the fact that Austin’s Bookshop in Guyana refused to carry Dr Ramharack’s book. This response was the result of an ethnic reaction to the book. The History Department at the University of Guyana did not follow through with a request for an on-campus discussion with students on the subject, and a discussion planned with Dr Baytoram by a group in England was subsequently cancelled after an initial agreement. These efforts are tied to an ongoing silence of the voices of the Wismar refugees and a denial of their experiences, which have been documented by an official Commission of Inquiry report and the eyewitness accounts of the series of events associated with the Wismar Massacre. The book is best critiqued by a reading of it.

Yours sincerely, Victor Punt Dr Vishnu Bisram

Doolcharran Hanomansingh

Vassan Ramracha

CARPHA opens Regional Emergency Operations Centre to strengthen Caribbean health security

The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) on Friday officially inaugurated the CARPHA Regional Emergency Operations Centre (CREOC), marking a major milestone in strengthening the Caribbean’s capacity to prepare for, coordinate, and respond to public health emergencies and disasters.

The facility was inaugurated by Trinidad and Tobago’s Health Minister, Dr Lackram Bodoe; Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Cécile Tassin; and Executive Director of CARPHA, at CARPHA Headquarters in Port of Spain, Dr Lisa Indar.

Constructed and furnished with the financial resources of the European Union through the 11th EDF Programme of Support for Health Security Strengthening for Prevention and Control of Outbreaks of Communicable Diseases in the Caribbean, CREOC will serve as the Caribbean’s central hub for coordinating regional public health emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and resilience-building activities across CARPHA’s 26 Member States.

Dr Bodoe noted that “Health security is a shared responsibility. No single

country, regardless of its resources, can address modern public health threats in isolation. Our strength lies in partnership.”

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr Indar said, “As a region of small island developing states, our interconnected economies, borders and communities mean that public health threats can spread rapidly across the Caribbean. This Emergency Operations Centre will strengthen our ability to detect threats early, coordinate regional action and protect the health security of our people.”

Ambassador Tassin reaffirmed, “This centre represents something much larger: the Caribbean’s determination to work together, to strengthen regional health security, and to protect its people through solidarity, preparedness and shared expertise.”

Designed in accordance with the World Health Organization’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) framework, the CREOC has been established as a Type C Emergency Operations Centre, the highest level of operational capability within the WHO classification system. It is uniquely positioned to coordinate complex, multi-country public health emergencies while supporting national emer-

gency operations centres throughout the Caribbean.

The Centre enhances CARPHA’s ability to monitor emerging public health threats, coordinate regional preparedness and response activities, facilitate timely information sharing, produce regional risk assessments, mobilise technical expertise, and support evidence-based decision-making during emergencies.

Powered by CARPHA’s Caribbean-tailored Regional Integrated Early Warning Surveillance and Response System

(RIEWSS), the new Emergency Operations Centre provides the infrastructure to detect emerging threats earlier, strengthen situational awareness and coordinate faster, evidence-based emergency responses across the Caribbean. Together with timeliness metrics and multisectoral response mechanisms, it will enable CARPHA to better serve its member states by improving coordination and accelerating action when every minute counts.

Operating as the re-

The Mohameds need to stop blaming the Government & accept responsibility

Dear Editor,

After having my usual morning prayers, seeking the Lord’s protection from being confronted by stupidity in any form, I came across a video by the sanctioned opposition leader Mr Azruddin Mohamed claiming victory in the duty-free vehicle matter and once again attempting to place the blame on President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government.

That unorthodox and laughable video, in my view, lacks substance and seeks to mislead the public.

Mr Mohamed claimed that President Ali knew about the importation of the vehicles before they were shipped and even referred to a so-called “conversation” as evidence. However, what was presented failed to substantiate such a serious allegation. Making accusations without credible evidence does little to strengthen one’s case.

What is particular-

ly disturbing is the continued effort to portray the Government as the cause of circumstances that, according to public reports and official statements, allegedly arose from Mr Mohamed’s own actions.

It was not President Ali or the PPP/C Government that imposed international sanctions. It was not the Government that allegedly failed to pay billions of dollars in taxes or became the subject of allegations relating to gold smuggling and money laundering. Those matters have been publicly associated with Mr Mohamed and are being addressed through the relevant legal and regulatory processes.

In any democratic society governed by the rule of law, public officials have a constitutional obligation to uphold the laws of the country regardless of personal relationships. It would have been inappropriate for any president to place friend-

ship above the responsibilities of public office.

Political disagreements are part of democracy, but accountability should not be dismissed by shifting blame onto others. If there are genuine legal grievances, the courts remain the proper place to address them.

If Mr Mohamed is innocent, as he’s claiming, then he should jump on a plane and head straight to Miami

to answer his cases because public opinion should not be influenced by emotional narratives unsupported by evidence.

It is time for the politics of blame to end and for all citizens, regardless of status or influence, to respect the institutions that safeguard the rule of law.

Yours faithfully, Quincy Anderson

gion’s central coordination hub, the CREOC will strengthen collaboration among Ministries of Health, disaster management agencies, regional institutions, and international partners. It will also support the deployment of specialised technical teams, coordinate emergency logistics, facilitate risk communication, and maintain a common regional operating picture during public health events.

The establishment of the centre builds on lessons learned from recent region-

al emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic, dengue outbreaks, hurricanes Melissa and Beryl and other climate-related disasters that underscored the importance of coordinated regional action.

The Regional EOC will operate using a scalable activation model ranging from routine surveillance and monitoring through to full regional emergency activation, allowing CARPHA to rapidly expand its coordination functions as situations evolve. It will support responses to infectious disease outbreaks, severe weather events with public health consequences, environmental and chemical incidents, mass gatherings, and other events with regional or international public health implications.

The Centre also strengthens implementation of the International Health Regulations (2005) by enhancing regional surveillance, information management, emergency coordination, and operational readiness.

The inauguration forms part of CARPHA’s continued commitment to advancing regional health security and ensuring that Caribbean countries remain better prepared for current and emerging public health threats.

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07:00 Evening News (RB)

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Page Foundation

Units of measurement are used to measure different quantities.

There are two main systems:

. Metric System (SI – International System of Units)

. Imperial System (US Customary)

The Metric System

The metric system of units of measurement is based on powers of 10.

Prefixes are used to indicate which power of 10 is involved.

The prefix “centi” means th.

For example, A centimetre is th of a metre.

A centimetre is th of a litre.

The prefix “milli” means th.

For example,

A millimetre is th of a metre.

A millilitre is th of a litre.

The prefix “kilo” means 10001000 times larger.

For example,

A kilometre is 1000 times larger than a metre.

Measurements

The metric unit of measurement for length is the metre (m),

The metric unit of measurement for mass is the gram (g),

The metric unit of measurement for capacity is the litre (l).

For smaller quantities or larger quantities we can adapt these units of measurement using prefixes which are used in front of the base unit.

TUnits of Measurement Water Cycle

he water, or hydrologic, cycle describes the continuous circulation of Earth’s water in the air, on land, and in the ground. The amount of water on the planet and in Earth’s atmosphere remains essentially the same, but it moves around constantly as a gas, liquid, or solid.

One of the main processes in the water cycle is evaporation. By evaporation, water in the liquid state on the surface of the Earth is transferred to a gaseous, or vapour, state. This process occurs when water molecules are heated, such as when the sun heats a puddle. The principal source of water vapour is the oceans, but evaporation also occurs in soils, snow, and ice. Even the leaves of plants have minute pores that allow for evaporation in a process called transpiration.

Another main process in the water cycle is

Length

For distances between towns we can use kilometres (km).

For the height of a tree we can use a metre (m)

For the width of a book we can use centimetres (cm).

For small items such as a paperclip we can use the smaller unit of measurement, millimetres (mm).

Mass

To weigh people we use kilograms (kg).

To weigh single pieces of fruit or vegetables we would use grams (g).

For the weight of a car we could use a less common unit of mass which is the tonne (t).

1 tonne is 1000 kg.

Capacity/Volume

For the capacity of a bath, or a pond or a bucket we would use litres (l).

For smaller items such as a cup we would use the smaller unit millilitres (ml).

Sometimes bottles and cans of drink use a less common unit of capacity.

condensation. Condensation is the transition of water from the gas state to the liquid state. Water vapour is the primary form of moisture in the atmosphere and helps form dew, frost, fog, clouds, and precipitation. When water vapour cools, or the air can no longer hold the amount of water vapour it contains, the water returns to a liquid state and falls as precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, and so on).

Precipitation that falls to the Earth is then reused, completing the last part of the water cycle. Some precipitation is returned to the atmosphere by evaporation. Other precipitation sinks into the soil and may eventually reach streams as groundwater runoff, while the rest flows directly as surface runoff into the sea.

Solid water in the form of ice and snow plays a role in the water cycle. Ice and snow on

the Earth’s surface occur in various forms such as frost, sea ice, and glacier ice. When the ice melts, liquid water flows into rivers and returns to the sea or evaporates. In addition, snow and ice can be converted directly from a solid to a vapour in a process known as sublimation.

By JOyCE CAROL OATES

In these ancient snapshots Sunday is always ablaze. If it is Christmas, your father is hurrying to hide the fir tree beneath the cellar stairs. Grandfather’s whiskers brush near, a steely wool. Uncle is eating with his mouth mostly open, the teeth too big. And there are whispers you can’t hear. Prayers for the dead not to be recorded. (When we were children, you say. If we were children.) In these documents it is your strategy to remember nothing. Those slow-munching jaws, the balloon puce.

“Life phenomena.”

(The snapshots show you all curls and dimples and shy shadowed eyes. It is always noon and a tide of light. You are always smiling, blind.) Look—there are creatures swimming as if idly out of the room’s dark corners. Rising from the mud. There are avuncular whiskers, gruff jutting underlips, pewter eyes that seem to wink, although they do not.

A Swedish biochemist says it is his life’s wish to know life. As in “life phenomena.”

In these ancient snapshots there are no explanations, no captions. There is no speech. Surprised in silence, and usually smiling, the beloved dead. When we were children.

(Source: Poetry [August 1983])

If you could redesign the school curriculum, what subjects or activities would you add or change? How would these changes improve students’ learning experiences?

Guyana calls for democratic change, economic freedom in Cuba

– urges diplomatic dialogue to unlock opportunities for Cuban people

The Guyanese Government stands in solidarity with the people of Cuba, stating that it welcomes a sustainable solution to the economic and humanitarian challenges that the country faces.

This was the message conveyed in a statement from the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry on Friday.

According to the letter, a resolution to the current situation must be based on the will of the Cuban people and founded on universal values, the rule of law, humanitarian law, transparency, and good governance. “We encourage diplomatic dialogue that would promote stability and lead to the prosperity of the Cuban people and the creation of opportunities that optimise the full potential of the Cuban people in an economic environment that guarantees their freedom,” the doc-

ument detailed.

This statement comes on the heels of a recent report by the New York Times on the migration of Cuban nationals to Guyana in search of betterment, fleeing economic and social hardships in their home country. It also follows heightened

“Airstrips are not luxuries...

According to Indar, the administration continues to prioritise community-driven development, ensuring that requests made by residents are assessed and translated into tangible projects.

In addition, the Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka Village, Marsha Williams, expressed gratitude to the Government for investing in infrastructure that will directly benefit residents.

She said the upgraded airstrip will strengthen tourism by making the community more accessible to visitors seeking its renowned Blackwater Lake, beaches, nature trails, cabins, and cultural attractions.

Additionally, Williams noted that improved transportation will support farm-

ers by creating greater opportunities for trade, investment, and the movement of agricultural produce while generating employment for local businesses, accommodation providers, craft producers, and entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, the Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Mandalall Ramraj, described the project as another example of the Government’s commitment to ensuring that development reaches every community.

He highlighted billions of dollars invested across Region Two in agriculture, drainage and irrigation, healthcare, education, and public services, saying residents are already experi-

encing the benefits through increased agricultural production, improved hospitals, upgraded schools, and expanded Government services.

The Anna Regina/ Mainstay Airstrip forms part of the Government’s wider national infrastructure programme aimed at improving transportation, strengthening regional connectivity, and creating new economic opportunities throughout Guyana.

The massive investment is expected to enhance tourism, support agriculture, improve emergency response capabilities, and contribute to the long-term development of Mainstay, Region Two, and surrounding communities.

pressure on Cuba’s communist regime by the United States. In a move described as a response to fears of a possible US invasion, Cuba has rolled out plans for widespread economic reforms, targeting opportunities for private enterprises and attracting foreign investments.

However, Guyana’s statement was also welcomed by the Latin America Guyana Chamber of Commerce (LAGCC), which sounded calls for a peaceful, sustainable, and people-centred resolution to the economic and humanitarian challenges facing Cuba.

The Chamber, which promotes trade, investment, and commercial cooperation in Latin America and the Caribbean, believes that long-term prosperity is based on economic openness, regional integration, entrepreneurship, and an environment that fosters private enterprise.

According to the private sector body, economic liberalisation, when coupled with the rule of law, transparency, good governance, and strong institutions, has invariably shown its ability to attract investment, spur innovation, expand productive sectors, create jobs, and improve the quality of life of citizens.

It further added that increased economic openness has allowed Latin American countries to enhance their competitiveness and diversify their economies, deepening their integration into regional and world markets.

“The Chamber believes that the Cuban people have great talent, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Expanding economic opportunity through market-orientated reforms, increased commercial engagement,

and greater participation in international trade can unlock that potential and foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” the Chamber stated in Friday’s missive.

It further shared the Guyanese Government’s emphasis on dialogue, universal values, and the hopes of the Cuban people, adding that constructive engagement and peaceful cooperation are the best ways to achieve sustainable economic development and regional stability.

To this end, the Chamber declared its support for ongoing efforts that promote economic liberalisation and private sector development; the creation of new businesses, entrepreneurship, and innovation; trade, investment, and commercial integration in the region; transparent, predictable, and rule-based economic institutions; and a growing economy that delivers opportunities and prosperity for all in a sustainable way.

“The Chamber is committed to strengthening commercial ties across the Americas and believes that increased economic cooperation, open markets, and deeper regional integration will continue to be power-

ful drivers of prosperity, resilience, and shared development throughout the hemisphere,” the missive detailed.

Only recently, President Dr Irfaan Ali urged the Guyanese private sector to prepare themselves to tap into possible opportunities with the opening of markets in Cuba.

Back in March, on the side-lines of the Shield of the Americas Summit in Miami, Florida, the Guyanese leader stated that the time has come for the status quo in Cuba to change in order to improve the lives of the people there and ensure they enjoy prosperity and democracy in the Caribbean island nation.

“We agree that there must be an attempt to change the status quo, and we all are aware that it will take time. It has to be incremental... There must be dialogue, but those changes must lead to the improvement of the people of Cuba, must lead to better conditions for the people of Cuba, and must lead to a society in which the rule of law, democracy, and freedom are celebrated.” President Ali told Fox News’ Aishah Hasnie on the side-lines of the summit.

“Spooney” acquitted in 2023 Eccles robbery-murder

After several hours of deliberations, a 12-member jury on Friday returned a unanimous not guilty verdict in the trial of Bevon Griffith, called “Spooney”, who was accused of murdering 36-year-old vendor Trion Parks during the course of a robbery in 2023. Following Justice Sandil Kissoon’s lengthy summing up, the jury retired to consider its verdict before returning with a unanimous verdict of not guilty.

Griffith was represented throughout the trial by Attorney Tonza Sarrabo, while the prosecution’s case was led by Attorneys Christopher Belfield, Rbina Christmas and Rodley Mathoo. The state had alleged that on November

18, 2023, Griffith murdered Parks while carrying out a robbery at the man’s home in Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Griffith had denied the allegation when he was arraigned before the High Court in Demerara, pleading not guilty to the charge of murder in furtherance of a robbery.

According to the prosecution, Parks died after he was shot several times during the robbery, in which his gold chains were stolen. Following the jury’s verdict, Griffith was formally acquitted of the charge, bringing the High Court proceedings to an end.

Observing…

…US at 250

Well, there it was… Pressie turned up with his entire Cabinet at the US 250th Independence Anniversary bash at the new Four Points Sheraton off the Heroes Highway!! That’s near where Rubio had complained he’d gotten “concussions” from its Chinese shoddy workmanship!! From what your Eyewitness saw in the pics of the celebration, there wasn’t any (visible!) evidence of any guest being concussed to get there – so he figured the bumps must’ve since been straightened out!! But from the glasses of vino consumed in the customary clinking of glasses at these affairs, he wouldn’t swear the guests mightn’t have ended the night confabulated – if not concussed!!

Your Eyewitness - having just joined in our 60th anniversary bash – had to marvel at the 90-year head start the Yanks have on us in running their affairs!! Compared to them, we’re just a babe in swaddling clothes!! Hopefully that might excuse any missteps committed. In their 250 years the Yanks haven’t done too badly after kicking out Britain’s mad King George III, have they?!! Expanded domestically to span the entire lower half of the North American continent – and internationally, replaced Britain as the dominant power across the globe!!

It wasn’t too long after they’d declared independence from the Brits – 36 years as a matter of fact – that they declared war against them in 1812!! By 1823 they were confident enough to announce their “Monroe Doctrine” – warning Britain and all the other European nations with their “empires” to keep their grubby (and bloody) paws off the Western hemisphere!! By the end of the century, Venezuela invoked that doctrine to ask the US to bring Britain to the table to settle our western borders. The result was the 1899 Arbitral Award that gave us the “full and final” award that Venezuela’s now challenging!!

Well, Pressie took the opportunity to remind the Yanks that we’re a strategic ally of theirs and cited our role as a founding member of the “Shield of the Americas” as part of our commitment. His concluding statement invoked our wish to follow their development rise: “Our vision for the future is one in which the United States acts as a reliable partner who respects the distinct path that each sovereign nation must walk, and we have found that reliability, we have found that trust, and we have found that partnership.” Pressie understands, of course, that the US has its own strategic interests – and will always act to further those interests. As such, he’s pragmatically accepting those interests while encouraging them to allow us a measure of flexibility to further OUR interests that might necessitate some necessary divergence!

Your Eyewitness joins with the rest of his compatriots in wishing the US a happy 250th anniversary!!

…Climate Change

They say, “who don’t hear gonna have to feel” before they learn some lessons!! For decades, the scientific community’s been warning – like Jeremiahs – about global warming being nigh upon us because we’re spewing all that carbon dioxide into the air that then causes temperatures to rise: global warming!! But there arose a movement in the US that dubbed such folks as so many wacko Chicken Littles simply creating unnecessary hysteria!!

As such, the advice to reduce carbon emissions –especially from fossil fuels like coal and heavy oils – was summarily rejected!! Well, in addition to Europe having a heatwave that’s caused mass rioting over getting air conditioners, the US is now enjoying theirs. At Thursday midnight, the temp in NYC was 94+ and electricity was turned off in several neighbourhoods because the demand was too high!!

Their Washington National Mall Saturday’s “Salute to America 250 Celebration & Fireworks” event might have to be cancelled since temperatures gonna reach 107 degrees!! So, is climate change now gonna be accepted?

…National Mausoleum

Your Eyewitness saw a complaint about rabid stray dogs attacking persons at Burnham’s mausoleum. Well, once asked to make a call against violence, Burnham replied, “Only those who own the dog can call off the dog!”

US companies not just after profits but create opportunities – Amb Theriot

–Says over US$42B invested in Guyana

Hailing the contributions companies from the United States (US) make to the Guyanese economy, US Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot says that these businesses are not just here for profits but are also creating opportunities for Guyanese. She made these remarks at a reception to celebrate 250 years of American Independence Day hosted by the US Embassy in Georgetown on Thursday evening.

“US business, at its best, does not just create profit. It creates opportunity,” Ambassador Theriot stated while speaking about enterprise relations with Guyana. In fact, she pointed to oil major ExxonMobil, which has hired more than 5000 Guyanese workers and, together with its affiliates, approved investments of more than US$42 billion in Guyana – roughly five times the size of the Guyanese economy.

“US companies are not here to extract and leave like some other countries. They are here for the long haul – training Guyanese workers and investing in a Guyana that will be even stronger a generation from now than it is today,” the US diplomat stated. ExxonMobil, as the operator, along with its co-venturers Hess and CNOOC, is producing oil in the prolific Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where some 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent have been discovered.

Over the years, ExxonMobil and its partners have invested more than US$200 million in human resource development and education in Guyana,

including the US$100 million 10-year STEM (Science,

other thriving and expanding sectors across the country.

Healthcare

In addition to enterprise, US companies have also been integrally involved in Guyana’s efforts to enhance and modernise healthcare delivery. Currently, the New York-based Mount Sinai Health System is working with the Guyanese government on a national healthcare initiative to deliver world-class services to every Guyanese citizen by 2030, with a heavy focus on digital health, cancer care, and

Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) initiative that was launched this year to train teachers, update school curriculums and build longterm local talent, as well as the US$100 million Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) focused on workforce and capacity building and improving local health and education.

A key feature of Exxon’s investments in local capacity building is the establishment of the Guyana Technical Training College (GTTCI) at Port Mourant, Berbice. The GTTCI is an advanced facility that trains and certifies Guyanese workers in mechanical, electrical and process operations. Moreover, Guyana’s oiland-gas employees benefitted from receiving over 370,000 hours of leadership, technical and professional, health, safety and security training. Apart from Exxon, there are a number of US companies that are operating in Guyana, both within the local burgeoning oil and gas industry as well as

CANU finds shotgun during lodge operation

The firearm that was found during the operation

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU), acting on information received, conducted an operation at a premises in the Lodge area, Georgetown, comprising three separate houses. During the search, officers discovered a shotgun concealed between two concrete structures. The recovered weapon was confiscated and handed over to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for further ballistic testing and forensic analysis. This comes the day after the discovery of over 98 pounds (lbs) of foreign ganja and five firearms with ammunition at Princes Street,

Georgetown.

It was reported that a search at a premises unearthed approximately 86 parcels containing foreign cannabis weighing 98.3lbs, valued at around $80 million. In addition, four pistols and one rifle were also discovered at the location.

Also on Tuesday, two men were arrested after a .38 Special Smith & Wesson revolver, along with one live round of matching ammunition and one black 9mm Baikal Makarov pistol, was found during an operation at Castello Housing Scheme, West La Penitence, Georgetown.

women’s and children’s health.

Meanwhile, 19Labs is bringing telemedicine, smart diagnostic tools, and drone delivery of medication and supplies to more than 80 remote communities. Additionally, institutions like Bechtel, Northwell Health, Lindsayca and the University of Miami are helping build the infrastructure that will define Guyana’s future.

According to the US Ambassador, “US companies come to Guyana because they see what we see: a country with extraordinary potential and a government committed to smart, strategic, sustainable development and, most importantly, to its people.”

In fact, President Dr Irfaan Ali, during his featured remarks at the reception on Thursday evening, noted that the partnership between Guyana and the US is at its strongest ever – something that is demonstrated in a number of areas of cooperation, such as healthcare.

“Our healthcare system has been revolutionised in profound ways, not only in equipment and buildings but also in technology, standards, regulations, and training. Powered by Mount Sinai and Northwell, our entire emergency medical system is being reorganised and rebuilt by Northwell, not for today’s standards, not to catch up with anyone, but to be built for what will be required by tomorrow’s standards. That is what we are building,” the Guyanese leader noted of the collaborations with these US companies. On the other hand, health engagement between the two countries also extends beyond enterprise.

In March of this year, US Southern Command’s Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) completed its third mission to Guyana. During this exercise, some 76 US military medical professionals worked alongside Guyanese counterparts in six regional hospitals, treating nearly 3000 patients. “Our doctors shared advanced surgical techniques with Guyanese surgeons – procedures performed here for the very first time, literally helping blind people see. Those skills stay here. That knowledge belongs to Guyana now,” Ambassador Theriot stated.

GPL, UAE's GSU ink strategic MoU to modernise Guyana's electricity sector

In a move to strengthen and transform Guyana's electricity sector, the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) and Global South Utilities Power Enterprises Investment LLC (GSU) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Friday inked a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The GSU engaged in talks with stakeholders from the private and public sectors before signing the MoU with GPL.

The agreement was signed by Head of GPL's Executive Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GSU, Ali Abdulla Ali Mohammed Alshimmari, establishing a framework for cooperation in three priority areas: power generation, renewable energy and smart electricity infrastructure.

The partnership aligns with GPL's ambitious de-

velopment plan, which aims to modernise Guyana's electricity network, improve service reliability and resilience, increase generation capacity and integrate innovative technologies to meet the country's rapidly growing energy demand. Speaking following the signing, Nandlall described the agreement as an important milestone in GPL's continued transformation.

"This Memorandum of Understanding represents another significant step in GPL's journey to build a modern, resilient and sustainable electricity sector for Guyana. This partnership with Global South Utilities creates opportunities to leverage international expertise, innovative technologies and strategic investments that will help accelerate the delivery of our development plan and ultimately provide a more reliable and efficient elec-

tricity service for the people of Guyana," Nandlall said.

In addition, CEO of GSU, Ali Abdulla Ali Mohammed Alshimmari, welcomed the partnership, noting that the company is eager to contribute its international expertise to Guyana's expanding energy sector. Under the MoU, GPL and GSU will collaborate on identifying, evaluating and developing projects within the power and energy sector. The agreement also provides for joint feasibility studies and the exploration of financing, technical cooperation and implementation strategies for future projects, with individual initiatives to be governed by separate definitive agreements.

GSU brings extensive international experience in the development, financing and operation of power and energy infrastructure projects, particularly in emerging markets. Through this

collaboration, GPL expects to benefit from global best practices and advanced technologies that will support the modernisation of Guyana's electricity network.

The partnership is expected to play a key role in advancing renewable energy integration, strengthening generation capacity and introducing smart electricity infrastructure that enhances operational efficiency, improves system reliability and better serves customers across Guyana. As GPL continues to execute its development plan, the company remains committed to forging strategic partnerships that will accelerate infrastructure development and ensure the delivery of a reliable, resilient and sustainable electricity supply to support Guyana's continued economic growth.

Kairuni woman slapped with attempted murder charge

Twenty-eight-yearold Shenell Ghanie, a domestic worker of Kairuni, Linden Highway, was on Friday remanded to prison on an attempted murder charge.

While the Police did not provide any information relating to the charge, a release to the press stated that the incident was committed on a male last Monday at Kairuni Village, Linden/ Soesdyke Highway.

Ghanie appeared at the Friendship Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Tameika Clarke and was not required to plead to the indictable charge. She was remanded to prison until August 4, 2026.

Senior citizens to start receiving $20K travel allowance on July 8

Senior citizens across Guyana will start receiving the promised $20,000 travel allowance from Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud announced on Friday. Over 90,000 senior citizens across Guyana are expected to benefit from this first-time annual transportation grant, representing an additional $1.9 billion in direct support for persons aged 65 and over. The travel allowance forms part of the

Government’s continued commitment to improving the quality of life for senior citizens. Combined with the Old Age Pension, which was increased to $46,000 per month in January 2026, the Government will provide more than $54 billion annually in financial support to pensioners nationwide. Senior citizens who receive their old age pension through banks or MMG will have the $20,000 travel allowance deposited directly into their accounts before the end of July 2026, eliminating the need to visit a

distribution centre.

Meanwhile, pensioners who collect their benefits using the Old Age Pension Book are required to take their 2026 booklet to the nearest Ministry of Human Services and Social Security Probation and Social Services Office to have a $20,000 value stamp affixed to the first of the two additional pages located at the back of the book, which is marked “for official use”. The stamped voucher can then be cashed at any post office or other alternate payment venue, such as SurePay, MoneyGram, Bill Express or Western Union.

Minister Persaud stated, “This annual transportation grant is provided for the first time to pensioners. This $20,000 is here to ensure that you can travel with peace of mind. It is here to erase the worry of the journey and to keep you connected to the people and places you love and need to visit.” She further added, “We see you, and we will always smooth the path before you. Thank you for your lifetime of service. You will always be at the very heart of everything we do. Your Government continues to deliver on our commitment to you to continuously improve your quality of life.” Pensioners can access the travel allowance start-

ing July 8 until the end of October 2026. The senior citizens’ travel allowance was among the measures announced by the

PPP/C Government during the presentation of Budget 2026 by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to strengthening social protection and providing meaningful financial assistance to Guyana’s senior citizens.

21 Essequibo families benefit from Govt’s cement & steel initiative

bringing Government closer to the people.

Meanwhile, at McNabb Village, Minister Croal provided residents with updates on the rapid transformation taking place within the housing sector, highlighting ongoing housing developments across the country, the allocation of house lots, infrastructure expansion, the distribution of certificates of title and agreements of sale, and the Government’s continued investment in making homeownership more accessible for Guyanese.

Residents also raised a number of housing-related matters, with the Ministry reaffirming its commitment to working closely with each

Some 21 families from various villages along the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-

ation, noting that “it is always encouraging when the Government of the day renders this type of assistance

individual to resolve issues. The outreach demonstrates the Government’s

Supenaam), on Friday received cement and steel vouchers at the Regional Housing Office during an outreach exercise in the region. The vouchers were presented to the recipients by Housing Minister Collin Croal as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting families on their journey to homeownership. One beneficiary, Mahindra Kublall, expressed heartfelt appreci-

to its citizens.”

In addition, Minister Croal, along with Member of Parliament (MP) Seepaul Narine and Advisor to the Labour and Manpower Planning Ministry, Joseph Hamilton, engaged residents at a community meeting at Lima Sands.

During that meeting, residents raised concerns, shared ideas, and received direct updates on housing and other Government services as the administration continues its commitment to

people-centred approach, bringing decision-makers directly into communities, keeping citizens informed of national development, and ensuring their voices are heard while delivering practical solutions.

Permanent Secretary Bishram Kuppen, Community Development Director of the Central Housing and Planning Authority Gladwin Charles and other supporting staff are also on the ground to offer support.

8 months later…

Report on probe into deaths of Berbice mother, newborn son still to be released

- Councillor presses RCD for answers as report remains under wraps

Eight months after the deaths of Latoya Griffith and her newborn son at the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital, a report on the findings of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths is yet to be made public.

The matter has once again surfaced at the Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) Regional Democratic Council (RDC) on Thursday when APNU+AFC Councillor Mehalai McAlmont renewed her calls for answers, arguing that despite assurances the investigation was nearing completion, neither the council nor the public has been informed of its findings or whether any action was taken.

In a written submission to the council, McAlmont recalled that Griffith's death in November 2025 had previously been discussed by the RDC, during which members were informed that the doctor involved

had been removed from the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital.

Despite repeatedly seeking clarification on where the doctor had been reassigned, no information was provided, and according to McAlmont, her own enquiries later revealed that the doctor had been transferred to the No. 75 Regional Hospital.

The Councillor further alleged that on April 21 of this year, the same doctor became the subject of another incident after reportedly being captured on video verbally abusing nurses and midwives who had questioned her handling of a patient's delivery.

"Thankfully, the midwives and other professionals intervened, or we might have had another maternal incident," McAlmont stated in her submission.

She asked whether a thorough investigation had been conducted into that incident and requested that the Regional Health Officer

(RHO) provide the council with a report.

Responding to the concerns, Regional Executive Officer (REO) Ronald Harsawack said he had not received any formal complaint related to the matter since assuming office on May 18.

"I assumed office here on the 18th of May. From then to now, I have not seen a complaint on the issue, nor were any previous complaints sent to me. In order for us to start an investigation, we need to trigger a complaint."

However, he acknowledged that the allegations raised before the council warranted attention.

"In this case, because there are some allegations here, we can also start the investigation. I can ask the Regional Health Officer to provide a statement on it before we get into any investigation. But officially, before now, nothing was sent to my desk on the matter," he said.

"I did ask in November

or December what had happened to that doctor. I remember asking repeatedly. I did my own research and realised where she was, and then I understood what the issues were because there's video evidence," McAlmont maintained.

The Councillor said she had deliberately refrained from releasing the alleged video publicly. "If we wanted to play politics, these are things I could release to the media, and I chose not to because I believe people's lives and livelihoods should not be played with in politics."

As such, she urged the regional administration to ensure the allegations are thoroughly investigated.

"I believe that this doctor needs to be disciplined, addressed, and investigated in order for something not to reoccur. We had a death before. We nearly had one except for the intervention... something needs to be looked into and done about this particular thing," McAlmont stated.

Harsawack subsequently committed to requesting a report from the RHO before determining what further action, if any, should be taken.

The issue stemmed from the deaths of 32-year-old Latoya Griffith of Gibraltar Village and her newborn son at the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital in November 2025. Griffith died on November 20, while her baby died the following day.

The deaths prompted allegations of negligence from relatives, who called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

At the time, Griffith's mother, Virginia Jones, said her daughter had attended a routine clinic before being admitted to the maternity ward. She recalled that Griffith later complained that her "water bag" had burst before relatives were informed that the situation

had become a "50/50" case. The matter was subsequently raised at the Regional Democratic Council, where Regional Health Officer Dr Vineshri Khirodhar said the investigation was in its advanced stages and awaiting review by Chief Medical Officer Dr Narine Singh. She explained that maternal and neonatal deaths are subject to strict national review protocols, with the hospital first conducting an internal investigation before its findings are examined by the Chief Medical Officer. Dr Khirodhar had assured Councillors that once the investigation was completed, all relevant parties seeking answers would receive them.

Despite assurances that the investigation was nearing completion, no public statement has since been issued on its findings, recommendations, or whether any action was taken.

Woman, 93, perishes as fire destroys Castillo Housing Scheme home

The charred remains of 93-year-old Rosa Singh were discovered among the debris of her gutted Castillo Housing Scheme, Georgetown home, on Friday. Reports are that the nonagenarian was at home alone when a fire of unknown origin broke out in the building.

As the fire was detected, residents contacted the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), and within minutes, firefighters arrived at the scene where they observed the two-storey wooden building fully engulfed in flames.

As such, ranks from the Central Fire Station immediately went into action, and they were able to contain and extinguish the blaze. However, it was during the

operation that they were made aware that the elderly woman was unaccounted for.

Following the successful suppression of the fire, firefighters conducted a thorough search of the premises and discovered the woman’s charred remains.

At the scene, family members were too distraught to speak as they broke down in tears. The now-deceased woman was occupying the home with her son, who was also not home at the time of the blaze.

The upper flat of the house was completely destroyed while the lower flat was flooded due to the firefighting operation. News of the woman’s death quickly spread through the community, leaving relatives and residents in a state of shock.

Rosa Singh was just weeks away from celebrating her 94th birthday – a

Massy Guyana donates essential supplies to support Venezuela’s humanitarian efforts

As donations continue to pour in to support Venezuelan families affected by the recent earthquakes, Massy Guyana donated a container filled with essential food and household supplies.

The donation was officially handed over to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) by Vice President and CFO/COO David Dharamraj and HR Manager Sarah Deokaran-Mustapha.

The items were received by the deputy Director General of the CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Mark Thomas, who welcomed the donation.

The contribution forms part of wider relief efforts to provide immediate assistance to vulnerable families as they recover from the impact of the disaster. The container includes essential food and household items intended to help meet urgent needs during this difficult period.

“We empathise with the people of Venezuela at this challenging time. At Massy, we believe that responsible business means standing with communities in moments of crisis,” David Dharamraj stated.

He added, “The earthquake has placed tremendous strain on families in Venezuela, and we are pleased to support the Civil Defence Commission’s efforts to ensure that essential supplies reach those who need them most. This donation reflects our deep commitment to care, community, and regional solidarity.”

The donation also underscores the importance of collaboration between the private sector and national disaster response agencies in mobilising timely humanitarian support for affected communities.

Charity Market Wharf 30% complete as 2026 deadline approaches

With completion targeted for the last quarter of 2026, the new $880 million Charity Market Multipurpose Wharf, which is being constructed by S Jagmohan Construction and General Supplies Inc, is about 30 per cent complete.

According to the Public Works Ministry on Friday, substantial progress has been made on the core infrastructure, with the reinforced concrete jetty section of the wharf now largely completed.

The Ministry added that the contractor is presently preparing to cast the remaining four-inch concrete top-up slab to finalise the jetty deck. Simultaneously, work has progressed on the next critical phase, with the driving of precast concrete piles for the jetty head section of the wharf structure currently underway.

The construction team has successfully driven 53 precast concrete piles to date.

In an effort to maintain momentum and clear the footprint for subsequent structural developments, the contractor is scheduled to begin demolishing a private wharf previously constructed within the designated work site.

The Charity Market

Wharf project entails the construction of a modern, climate-resilient marine facility designed to serve the largest community on the Essequibo Coast. Works include the installation of 160 stressed concrete foundation piles, each approximately 130 feet long, along with

Additionally, two separate sections of river defence 500 feet upstream and 500 feet downstream of the wharf will be upgraded under a parallel contract, further strengthening flood protection along the Charity waterfront.

Upon completion, the

a reinforced concrete wharf deck and superstructure.

The design also incorporates a floating dock to accommodate vessels of varying sizes, provision for a future jib crane to assist with offloading and cargo handling, a covered passenger deck and waiting area, administrative facilities, parking spaces, and upgraded river defence works to protect the wharf frontage from flooding.

new wharf will provide safer, more efficient access to markets for farmers, traders and riverine communities, while also laying the foundation for increased economic activity and tourism development along the Essequibo Coast.

The project aligns with the Government’s commitment to climate-resilient development, particularly in flood-prone coastal and riverine areas.

1 arrested following armed robbery at Herstelling

One of the two suspected bandits who allegedly robbed a 30-year-old self-employed woman in Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was arrested in Georgetown on Thursday. Based on reports received, it was revealed that the victim had exited a supermarket in Herstelling and was walking along a street when two males in a white motor car approached her. One of the suspects, who was reportedly armed with a knife, exited the vehicle, held her at knife point and robbed her of one yellow metal chain and one yellow metal ring.

During the incident, the

and based on information received, officers intercepted the motor car in Georgetown. The driver, a 33-year-old male from South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was arrested while attempts to locate the second suspect are underway. The knife suspected to have

A coat worn by one of the men

victim sustained injuries to one of her fingers. The matter was subsequently reported to the Police,

been used in the robbery was confiscated as investigations continue.

Duo remanded for robbing auto body technician

Eighteen-year-old Jaden Jackson of Tucville, Georgetown, and Mark Major, 25, of Waterloo Street, Georgetown, who were arrested following the robbery of an auto body technician in Covent Garden New Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD) on Monday, were charged and remanded to prison.

It was reported that the victim was walking in the Covent Garden New Scheme with his cellular phone in hand when the two men approached him from behind on a motorcycle. One of the suspects, armed with a handgun, dismounted the motorcycle, held the victim at gunpoint and relieved him of his cell phone before escaping with his accomplice.

The matter was sub-

sequently reported to the Police, and the cell phone was later recovered along with the arrest of the two suspects. Meanwhile, Jackson and Major were charged and appeared before Magistrate

them. They both pleaded not guilty and were remanded to prison until July 17, 2026.

Market vendor busted with 4 lbs of ganja granted $250K bail

Days after being intercepted with four pounds (lbs) of ganja along the Ruimveldt Public Road, in the vicinity of Massy Supermarket, 27-year-old Tyrone De Groot was charged

and granted bail.

De Groot was arrested on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, and appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where a charge of trafficking in narcotics was read to him.

He, however, pleaded not guilty and was granted $250,000 bail with the condition that he report to the Police every first and third Friday until the determination of the matter. He is expected to make his next court appearance on July 24, 2026.

It was reported that ranks, acting on information received, conducted an intelligence-led operation in the Ruimveldt area, where De Groot, a vendor from River View, Ruimveldt, was contacted.

The ganja that was found in De Groot’s possession

A search of his belongings led to the discovery of a black plastic bag containing suspected cannabis. He was escorted to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, where the narcotic was weighed and found to amount to four lbs.

Reg 6 records 17% decline in road fatalities for 2026 to date – 9 deaths, 48

accidents recorded

The Guyana Police Force’s (GPF)

Regional Division

Six has recorded a decline in road fatalities and fatal accidents so far this year, with preliminary police statistics showing fewer deadly crashes and traffic-related deaths compared to the same period last year. This was revealed during the Road Safety Programme featuring Inspector Haslin George, Sergeant Tellston Roberts and Sergeant Kemurvi Pillu, aired on Thursday evening.

“Now for the period from the 1st of January to date, last year compared to this year, we have seen a decrease in fatal accidents. We had nine last year compared to seven this year. We had 14 deaths last year compared to nine this year, and we’re seeing an overall decrease in accidents, which was 58 last year to 48 this year, giving us a 17 per cent decrease thus far,” Inspector George said. In addition, Officer-in-Charge of the Traffic Department at the Springlands Police Station, Sergeant Kemurvi Pillu, reported that while some progress has been made, a few issues still persist, particularly involving motorcyclists.

“There’s a decrease in fatalities, however there is still the motorcyclist situation. I can safely say that not only in the Springlands Station District, but also, I rather suspect, throughout the region and, I may say, countrywide, as it relates to motorcyclists not adhering to the rules. That is to say, not driving with safety helmets, not carrying pillion riders with safety helmets, and the list goes on. One of the bigger issues is motorcyclists now driving without silencers on their motorcycles. We at the Springlands Station District are trying our utmost to curb that, but it also starts with the individual.”

On a lighter note, Sergeant Roberts noted an increase in young people taking the initiative to sit their written examinations.

“Well, my area of responsibility is basically to issue fitness certificates and test persons who come in to do the practical examination to obtain a driver’s licence.

We have noticed that more young people are getting themselves together in the sense that they are coming in, doing their theoretical examination and then coming to do their practical examination, which we advise them to do because we at the Certifying Office have to test you to see if you’re competent to be on the roadway. So, we’re seeing more young people, and that is commendable, and I applaud that.”

Sergeant Roberts urged parents to encourage young motorcyclists to become properly licensed and comply with road safety regulations. He stressed that many young riders continue to operate motorcycles without a driver’s licence or a safety helmet, noting that parents have an important role to play in instilling responsible behaviour. Roberts encouraged parents to ensure their children complete both the theoretical and practical driving examinations before using the nation’s roadways. The GPF stresses that wearing helmets is not just about avoiding fines; it is a matter of life and death. The increased enforcement is meant to encourage compliance and prevent serious injuries or fatalities resulting from road accidents.

Only days ago, it was revealed that a higher num-

ber of road deaths have been recorded across the entirety of Guyana during the first 170 days of 2026 when compared to the same period last year. Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Home Affairs Andre Ally disclosed this during the Guyana National Road Safety Stakeholders’ Consultation on Friday.

“Between 2020 and 2025, Guyana experienced significant fluctuations in road fatalities. Deaths reached a peak of 175 in 2023. While fatalities declined to 132 in both 2024 and 2025, we must not mistake that decline for victory. One preventable death is one too many. For the first 170 days of this year, 2026, when compared to the same period in 2025, fatal accidents increased from 54 to 56, and the number of deaths increased from 58 to 62,” he said.

He cautioned that Guyana’s road safety challenge must also be understood within a global context. Citing statistics to support his statements, he noted that the United Nations (UN) has recognised road safety as a major development priority. Through the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030), the UN has set a target of reducing road deaths and injuries by at least 50 per cent by 2030.

South Ruimveldt man gets bail on armed robbery charge

Thirty-three-yearold John Sampson of Congress Drive, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, who was accused of robbing a housewife at Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Thursday, was slapped with an armed robbery charge.

Sampson appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him. As such, he was granted $100,000 bail, and the matter was adjourned to July 30, 2026.

Charged: John

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Oil prices little changed as US-Iran peace efforts hold

Oil prices were little changed for the week as traders held on to hopes for a successful outcome from attempts to secure peace between the US and Iran.

Brent futures were up 14 cents, or 0.19 per cent, at US$71.94 a barrel by 14:31h ET, ending the week just five cents lower than last Friday’s close. West Texas Intermediate was up nine cents, or 0.13 per cent, at US$68.78 a barrel.

Trading was light as US markets were closed ahead of the US Independence Day holiday on Saturday. On Thursday, the two oil benchmarks had hit their lowest levels since before the US-Israeli war with ⁠Iran began in late February.

Investor hopes for a full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz are being buoyed by peace talks between the US and Iran, Commerzbank analysts said.

“The US-Iran dealmaking process remains fragile but continues for now, as the question of Strait of Hormuz tolls and administration remains contentious,” Citi analysts wrote.

“We expect the MoU to hold, not because trust has suddenly emerged, but because the incentives to break are poor for both sides,” Citi analysts said.

Some shipping has resumed through the Strait of Hormuz, as called for under the initial US-Iranian deal, but uncertainty is high after the two countries exchanged strikes last weekend following an Iranian attack on a cargo ship. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brutal heat forces temporary closure of the Great American State Fair

Extreme heat has forced the temporary closure of the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, among a series of events marking the July Fourth holiday in Washington, DC.

More than 165 million persons were sweltering on Friday under record temperatures along the US East Coast and Midwest, according to the US National Weather Service.

The heatwave is disrupting the holiday weekend as President Donald Trump hosts a celebration marking America’s 250th birthday and multiple World Cup matches take place outdoors.

The State Fair will reopen at 17:00h local time when heat conditions improve, the organiser, Freedom 250, said.

The DC Fire and EMS

Death toll of Venezuela earthquakes rises to 2645; Rodriguez defends Govt response

The death toll in Venezuela’s twin earthquakes last week ⁠has risen to 2645, the nation’s Information Ministry said on Friday.

More than 12,000 were wounded and some ⁠15,000 left homeless by the disaster.

Meanwhile, interim President Delcy Rodríguez rejected allegations that her Government reacted too slowly after days of widespread criticism of the official response.

Civilians of all stripes –including survivors, family members, volunteer paramedics and foreign rescue teams – have descended on disaster areas, especially the hardest-hit northern state of La Guaira, since the 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude quakes struck on June 24.

Many of those digging through the rubble, along with international aid organisations, say the Government’s response was

slow and ineffectual, with aid like food and medical supplies delayed and an ongoing lack of heavy machinery to move debris amid on-

going search operations.

“It was a natural tragedy on a scale we never imagined, even though we knew that a seismic event could occur in our country,” Rodriguez said in her first press conference since taking power. “We did not wait one, two or three days. We acted immediately.”

Four thousand officials were deployed immediately, she said, rising to 14,000 the day after and then again to a current figure of 19,000. She also issued an emergency decree to activate emergency protocols, she told journalists.

Still, the response to the disaster has been led by civilians, many of them volunteers, according to Reuters witnesses. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Mexican authorities identify remains of kidnapped journalist, arrest 4 Police Officers

Mexican authorities said on Friday that remains found at a site in the eastern state of Veracruz belonged to journalist Roxana Guzmán, whose killing has again shined a harsh light on press freedom in Mexico, one of the world’s deadliest countries for journalists.

Guzman, director of crime news outlet Pulso Informativo del Sureste, was abducted from her home on June 2 after armed, masked men broke down the front door, with video of the incident widely shared on social media.

Local media reported that after killing Guzman, the attackers tried to dissolve her body in fuel-filled drums.

Authorities later recovered skeletal remains at the property.

“Forensic tests concluded

the identification process and scientifically confirmed that the remains recovered during the investigation belonged to the journalist,” the Veracruz state prosecutor’s office said in a statement. Authorities said eight persons had been arrested over Guzman’s kidnapping and killing, including four municipal Police Officers from Ixhuatlan del Sureste, a small town about 300 kilometres south of Veracruz City. Prosecutors said the officers allegedly provided resources, food and logistical support to the criminal group involved. (Reuters)

T&T: CoP fires 17 officers from TTPS amid recruitment drive, warns rogue officers

CDepartment treated several people for “heat-related illnesses” at the fair on Friday, a spokesperson for the department told BBC News. He said these were caused by “record-breaking temperatures” at the event.

On Friday, the department transported 11 persons by ambulance from the state fair, seven of which required a higher degree of medical care, the spokesperson said.

The extreme heat was expected to continue through the weekend as the hottest spell of the year so far sends the mercury soaring to levels not seen, in some areas, in decades.

It follows an unprecedented spell of early summer heat across Europe, with record highs across the continent. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ommissioner of Police (CoP) Allister Guevarro is cleaning house, starting with the firing of 17 Police Officers.

The announcement by Guevarro that the appointments of 17 Officers had been revoked reportedly left the law enforcement community reeling yesterday.

Acknowledging the surprise the firings would have

generated among the workforce and the public, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of administration, Junior Benjamin, said they are part of the thrust to provide an improved Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS).

He said, “This forms part of the zero-tolerance approach by the TTPS in dealing with matters of indisci-

pline and corruption. It is one of the things we are doing to ensure the standard of the TTPS remains above what is expected so that the public can see a more improved Police service.”

He reminded all officers, “You are not above the law.

“You took an oath to operate at all times with fairness and impartiality. That is what the public expects from us.”

The shocking and unprecedented move, which was confirmed via a release posted to the TTPS’s Facebook page, did not reveal the reasons behind the revocations, officers’ ranks or which divisions and/or units they were attached to.

(Excerpt from Trinidad and Tobago Guardian)

Trump gifted lavishly encrusted ring from Belgian diamond group

Dozens of diamonds spell out a giant letter “T” next to the Stars and Stripes and “1776” and “2026”. Dozens more frame the numbers 45 and 47 in the shape of Superman’s logo. A diamond-winged eagle carries a ruby shield and clutches an olive branch of emeralds, below a radiant “250” and atop the phrase “250 YEARS USA” etched in 18-karat gold.

All told, 321 diamonds, 56

sapphires, 13 emeralds, and six rubies encrust the watchsized gold ring presented this week to Bill White, the US Ambassador to Belgium, to give to President Trump.

“A very special thank you to my friends from Antwerp for the magnificent Freedom 250 ring,” Mr Trump said in a pre-recorded video message during an event marking America’s 250th birthday in Brussels.

“May this ring serve as

a lasting reminder that true partnership, like the finest natural diamonds, is formed under pressure, endures the test of time, and shines brightest when built on trust,” Isidore Mörsel, President of the Antwerp World Diamond Center (AWDC), said. The ring’s interior is engraved with the phrase “Crafted in Antwerp for Donald John Trump”.

The gift comes months after Belgium’s diamond in-

dustry won the removal of US tariffs on diamond imports. In September, AWDC said it had “succeeded in securing a zero per cent import tariff” on Antwerp’s annual export of more than $2 billion of polished diamonds to the US.

On Thursday, a White House official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter, said that the ring has not been presented to Trump yet.

Put your best foot forward and let your charm lead the way. Calculating your path to resolving issues and taking care of your responsibilities will give you leverage when dealing with institutions, agencies, associates and authority figures. Mixing business with pleasure will help you gain the trust and respect of others.

Keep your private life and thoughts to yourself. Avoid overindulgence, overspending and letting your emotions surface, putting you in a vulnerable position. Sit back, be a spectator and learn from what you witness. You have ample time to consider what you want to do next. Gather information, stick close to home and concentrate on making your accommodations functional.

Your desire for something new and exciting will impact your life if you are questioning your relationships, job prospects or health. Don’t act in haste when observation will offer insight into the pros and cons of a situation that tempts you. Taking a break or spending time doing something you enjoy will help you make better decisions.

Choose the path that offers something unique or brings you face-to-face with choices that can point you in a different direction. Exploring pastimes and places that you feel passionate about will lead to learning something and expanding your circle of friends. Traveling, communicating and focusing on the connections you make will encourage personal growth and romance.

Keep your money and possessions in a safe place. Don’t spend on gimmicks that promise the impossible. Include discipline and practicality in the decisions you make, and invest more in yourself and your future. Picking up skills that will enable you to work in a field that interests you will pay off. Let your gestures display your feelings.

It’s how you treat others and what you do for them that will make a difference. Look for an outlet for items you no longer need or use. Paying it forward to those in dire straits will be uplifting and have a positive impact on how others view and treat you. Avoid risks that can cause injury or illness.

Say yes to the invites you receive. Participation will lead to conversations that can bring about positive change and reinforcement. Reaching out to help those in need or those trying to reach the same goals as you will give you hope for a brighter future. Don’t deny yourself something that brings you joy. Social events will lead to a partnership.

Embrace educational or travel opportunities. Engage in talks that reveal unique ways to use your connections, experience and skills to excel. Home improvements will require a strict budget to avoid debt. Refuse to let someone you love take advantage of you financially. You can’t buy love or respect; it must be earned through actions.

Money and emotions will collide. Refuse to let anyone take advantage of your generosity or kindness. Say no to those asking you to pay for their mistakes. Put your time, energy and cash into self-care or a new look that will boost your confidence and encourage you to focus on home, family and saving for something special.

Refuse to let anger set in when discipline and understanding are what’s necessary to bring about positive change. Elaborate on how you feel, and be willing to compromise to ensure equality and a show of good faith. A joint venture that’s handled fairly will bring the highest returns. Don’t lose sight of your goals or what others can contribute.

Choose a home-improvement project that will put your mind at ease and encourage your safety, comfort and convenience. Getting together with someone from your past will be eye-opening. A physical improvement you make will boost your morale and prompt you to revisit your thoughts and feelings regarding love, romance and family dynamics. A unique lifestyle will intrigue you.

Walk away from situations that create chaos or people who expect you to put your life on hold for them. Do your own thing. Plan a fun-filled day that satisfies your soul and encourages you to engage in actions that give back to your community. Don’t let what others choose to do limit you from finding your happy place.

Lahiru Udara’s 188 carries the fight for Sri Lanka

Apair of wickets in the final half hour of play brought the West Indies back into the game, but prior to that it was Lahiru Udara who had led Sri Lanka’s redemption arc as the opener fell 12 runs short of a maiden Test double-ton as day one of this second Test wound to a close at North Sound.

At 32 years of age, Udara has had to bide his time to make his way into the Test side, and it was just his luck that Sri Lanka’s Test schedule shrunk considerably just as he made his debut last June. Then in the Caribbean, he might not have got a look in, but an injury to Pathum Nissanka opened the door, and like Amir Jangoo in the first Test, he took his chance with both hands.

Udara’s epic 188 off 248 all but ensured that the visitors ended the day in precisely the sort of commanding position they would have envisioned when they opted to bat – only partially sullied by those late strikes.

His innings came primarily across two major stands. The first was of the record-breaking variety, as Udara and Kamindu Mendis (84 off 120) struck 215 off just 255 deliveries. It was Sri Lanka’s highest-ever partnership in the Caribbean and very nearly their highest ever against the West Indies in Tests. It also came after their side had stumbled to 25 for two.

The second was less brisk but equally as important, as Dhananjaya de Silva joined Udara in the middle to stitch together a stand of 93 off 179. This one had come just as the West Indies had begun to put together a much more disciplined display with the ball in the final session – efforts that had for large parts seemed destined to go without reward.

But the perseverance from the hosts belatedly paid off, first as a tiring Udara –he had received treatment earlier in the session on his

lower back – top-edged to deep fine leg, before the other set batter, Dhananjaya, edged through to the slips after a gritty 33 off 90.

The latter wicket also brought about another cause for celebration for the West Indies, as it meant that Jayden Seales reached 100 Test wickets, becoming the second-fastest West Indian bowler to do so in terms of deliveries bowled – Ian Bishop heads the list.

Seales’s and his teammates’ jubilant celebrations were representative of catharsis but also revealed the frustration that had been building up until that point, as Sri Lanka rode their luck but also pressed home the advantage for much of the game. They will, however, now feel they have restored some parity on a day that was largely dominated by the visitors.

The end of the day echoed its start, as Shamar Joseph dismissed Nishan Madushka and Dinesh Chandimal inside the first hour of play. Both were soft dismissals, as Madushka cut one straight to the point before Chandimal flicked right into the hands of square leg.

The decision to bat first on a track that had a fair covering of grass and green tinge to it – and one Roston Chase was delighted to be bowling first on – was certainly a surprise, and such a start was far from what Sri Lanka would have been hoping for.

But even in the face of those dismissals, Udara had been quietly going about his work – a methodology that would rarely change across his near day-long stay in the middle. His compact technique and patience helped navigate the early movement on offer, but it was his ability to punish the poor deliveries that helped Sri Lanka grow into the game.

Once he got his eye in, he was able to manoeuvre the ball comfortably while also punishing any errors in line

and length. There were a handful of loose swings out side, but for the most part, he profited whenever he sought to take on the wide ball.

Interspersed with watch ful leaves were some in creasingly impressive boundaries, square and backward of square, on the off side. As the game wore on, he became more expan sive – ending the innings with four sixes, the best of those maximums coming off a quite sumptuous pull off Alzarri Joseph over backward square leg, though his

90 as he reached his century attested to this.

lofted drive over point also deserves a mention.

It was ironic that Udara’s least in-control shot – a topedged six over fine leg –brought up his maiden test ton. And then two deliveries later he followed it up by offering up that leading edge

The West Indies, for their part, struggled to build any sort of concerted pressure with their lines and lengths, and you could argue they missed the calming metronome of Kemar Roach, who missed the game through injury.

gled in par ticular to execute his plans, going for 52 across his 10 overs – the most expensive of the West Indian options. The others, meanwhile, were at times guilty of lacking patience, trying to often play the glory ball – and in turn offering the Lankan batters frequent opportunities to release any pressure being built.

This was particularly prevalent in a 10-over period on either side of the lunch break, when at one point Sri Lanka were going at 7.5 an over. Their overall run rate, meanwhile, was touching five, and it was only in the final session that the hosts were able to reel in proceedings.

The zenith of Sri Lanka’s day occurred across a wicketless second session, one which ended with Sri Lanka on 224 for two. At that point you would not have blamed West Indies for fearing the worst, with morale dipping after several missed opportunities.

The first fell in the final over before lunch when Seales got one to rear from the back of a length as Udara fended it off the shoulder of his blade. But what should have been a regulation tackle, taken by either the first or second slip, saw both men –John Campbell and Justin Greaves – second guess who should go for it, as the ball slipped between both and ran away for four. Seales was audibly irate. Udara

was on 55 at the time. The second came after the lunch break when Kamindu slashed at a wide, full delivery outside off. Play moved on quickly afterwards with not even a hint of an appeal, but replays shortly after showed that there had been a spike in Ultra Edge as the ball passed the bat. Kamindu was on 41; Sri Lanka, 143 for two.

But to the West Indies’ credit, they kept their energy levels high in the face of an ever-growing stand. The breakthrough too came as a result of some proactive enterprise. Having spotted that Kamindu was increasingly coming out of his crease, Shai Hope came up to the wicket. Greaves bowled one down leg that saw him overbalance and briefly fall over – it was only a split second that he raised his back foot before springing his front foot back over the crease, but Hope was lightning with his glove work as he whipped off the bails and broke the partnership.

From that point on the West Indies – with Chase operating from one end to help boost their flagging over rate – did what they ought to have done all day: kept things tight. Dhananjaya and Udara too showed patience in this period but will be disappointed in themselves that they weren’t able to last till the end of play.

CWI explores partnership with China to advance high -performance campus vision

Cricket West Indies (CWI) recently met with Jiang Wei, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Antigua and Barbuda, to explore opportunities for collaboration in support of the organisation’s long-term infrastructure and high-performance ambitions.

Central to the discussions was CWI’s plan to develop a world-class high-performance centre at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), which will serve as the organisation’s administrative headquarters and premier high-performance training centre, providing a modern, integrated environment for player development, coaching, sports science, education and cricket operations.

Among the areas discussed were opportunities for Chinese enterprises’ participation in the design and construction of the facility, including the engagement of Chinese contractors and equipment suppliers, the procurement of construction materials, and the potential use of the campus by Chinese cricket stakeholders to support the continued growth and development of the sport in China.

The meeting reflects CWI’s commitment to building strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening cricket across the Caribbean while fostering greater global collaboration and investment in the game.

CWI Chief Executive

Officer Chris Dehring said the discussions represented an important step in advancing one of the organisation’s most transformative initiatives.

Egypt sink Australia on penalties to secure their first World Cup knockout win

Egypt held their nerve to beat Australia 4-2 on penalties and secure their first World Cup knockout victory, following a 1-1 draw after extra time in a cagey last-32 match at the Dallas Stadium on Friday.

Hossam Abdelmaguid rolled in the winning spotkick after Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington missed from 12 yards for the Australians to send Egypt into a last-16 clash with Argentina or Cape Verde.

Emam Ashour had given Egypt the lead with a 13th-minute header before an own goal by Mohamed Hany 10 minutes into the second half levelled the scores.

“It’s history,” said Egypt Captain Mohamed Salah, who was a surprise inclusion in Egypt’s starting lineup after recovering from a hamstring strain.

“I told the boys before the game: ‘Guys, this is the biggest stage you could play on in your life, so just enjoy it. Don’t let the pressure get to you and not enjoy the moment. I’m glad that we managed to win the game. Bad luck for them; they lost on penalties, but I’m happy that we wrote history today.”

Cristian Volpato gave the

African side an early scare with a dipping strike from distance that clipped the top of Mostafa Shoubir’s crossbar, but Hossam Hassan’s side were soon in front.

Jackson Irvine needlessly gave away a free kick to the left of the penalty area when he upended Mostafa Zico, and, with the defence only half clearing Ashour’s initial centre, the winger popped up to head Karim Hafez’s cross beyond Patrick Beach.

Marmoush Threatens

Omar Marmoush threatened briefly, and Australia’s Aziz Behich forced Shoubir to drop to his right to gather before Volpato, the Socceroos’ most creative outlet in the opening half, curled a stoppage-time strike wide.

The Australians were fortunate not to go further behind within 10 seconds of the restart when Marmoush slid his shot across goal with Beach beaten, and they were soon level.

Aiden O’Neill picked himself up after being fouled on the left to deliver an inswinging free kick into the six-yard box, prompting Hany to flick a header into his own goal.

Beach pulled off a reflex save deep into stoppage

time, the Melbourne City goalkeeper pawing Ramy Rabia’s header over the bar while Haissem Hassan’s effort was deflected to safety by Souttar’s outstretched knee.

An unmarked Salah, who had been muted throughout regulation time, thumped Marmoush’s layoff over the bar three minutes into the extra period to grant Tony Popovic’s side a reprieve with Egypt increasingly dominant.

Beach made way for Mat Ryan between the posts as Australia coach Tony Popovic attempted to make use of the 34-year-old’s experience, but Souttar fired the first spot-kick over the bar to hand Egypt an early advantage.

Mahmoud Sabre, Ramy Rabia and Salah were all on target for Egypt, with Jackson Irvine and Awer Mabil converting for Australia before Herrington rattled the crossbar and Abdelmaguid stepped up to send Egypt into the last 16.

“It’s tough,” said Popovic. “We showed the world that Australian football is strong; they’re a wonderful group, and I’m devastated for them. Unfortunately we go home and the World Cup ends for us.” (Reuters)

“The development of our High-Performance Center and other facets of the Cricket West Indies campus represents one of the most significant strategic investments in the future of West Indies cricket. We are committed to creating a worldclass environment where our players, coaches and administrators can excel while positioning the West Indies as a hemispheric centre for cricket excellence.

“Our discussions with Her Excellency Ambassador Jiang Wei demonstrate the value of international partnerships in helping us realise this vision. We look forward to exploring opportunities that can benefit both West Indies cricket and the continued global growth of the game,” Dehring said.

Ambassador Jiang Wei welcomed the opportunity for dialogue and expressed that the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium built with Chinese assistance has played a positive role in advancing the development of sports in Antigua and Barbuda and enriching the lives of locals.

“We are pleased to see that Chinese enterprises and Chinese equipment have opportunities to participate in the construction of the CCG high-performance centre, and we look forward to expanding cooperation with the CWI,” she said.

The proposed HighPerformance Campus is a flagship initiative under CWI’s 2024–2027 Strategic Plan, “The Long Run”, supporting the organisation’s commitment to developing a

fully integrated, world-class high-performance system while modernising the infrastructure needed to sustain long-term cricket excellence throughout the Caribbean.

The CWI delegation included Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehring, Chief Operating Officer Lynford Inverary, and General Manager of Coolidge Cricket Ground Nelecia Yeates.

As planning for the campus continues, CWI will continue engaging Governments, development partners and private-sector stakeholders to help deliver a facility that strengthens the future of West Indies cricket while creating new opportunities for international cooperation and the expansion of cricket worldwide.

St Joseph’s High receives sporting equipment donation

St Joseph’s High School has received a significant donation of sporting equipment aimed at strengthening its sports programme and creating greater opportunities for student-athletes.

The presentation was made by Shaquawn Gill on behalf of the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs, fulfilling a commitment the minister made during a recent visit to the school.

The donation included basketballs, footballs, cricket gear, and a range of other sporting equipment designed to support physical education and extracurric-

ular sports. School officials believe the new resources will help students participate more actively in sports while developing their athletic skills and teamwork.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport said the donation reflects its continued commitment to ensuring that schools, clubs, and community organisations across Guyana have access to the resources needed to promote sports development and nurture young talent.

For Gill, the occasion held special significance.

A proud alumnus of St Joseph’s High School, he described the handover as

a meaningful opportunity to give back to the institution that played an important role in his life.

“It was a privilege to hand over the sporting equipment and contribute to the continued growth of the school’s sports programme,” Gill said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to support future generations of students.

The donation is expected to enhance the school’s sporting activities and encourage greater student participation in athletics, reinforcing the shared goal of developing well-rounded young people through sport.

More than GY$65 million in cash and prizes will be on offer when the 18th annual Guyana Cup horse race is held on Sunday, August 23, at the Rising Sun Turf Club.

The 2026 edition is expected to be the most lucrative and organised staging of the event to date, with 14 races carded and the country’s horse racing legislation

Record prize money, top horses set for Guyana Cup 2026

Kiritpal, Zahir Khan, Poonai Bhigroog and Councillor Mohamed Naeem Kamal.

The launch was also attended by President of the Barbados Turf Club, Kevin Burke; Sonya Forrester of main sponsor Banks DIH Limited; and Operations Manager of the Guyana Cup, Andre Rochford, who all delivered remarks.

each carry a total purse of GY$7,500,000.

Excavating Sir Balaji Derby, also over one mile, will car ry GY$5,625,000, while the J’s Imported Juvenile Fillies Sprint, over five and a half furlongs, will of fer GY$3,750,000.

The feature event, the Banks Guyana Cup, will be contested over one mile and will carry a total purse of GY$22.5 million. One lucky patron will also drive away with a brand new Sinotruk pick-up on race day.

Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive Officer of Jumbo Jet Events, Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr, highlighted the continued growth of the marquee horse

Cup over the years, noting that the event continues to contribute to economic activity in Berbice and across Guyana.

Ramson also officially announced the members who will lead the country’s first horse racing authority board. Dr Steven Cheefoon will serve as Chairman, while the other members are Adrian Anamayah, Dr Nardeo Bassoodeo, Amernath

The 2026 Guyana Cup race programme will be headlined by the Banks Guyana Cup over one mile, with a total purse of GY$22,500,000. The Peter Lewis Guyana Cup Sprint over five and a half furlongs and the Forrester’s Imported Derby over one mile will

The BM Soat Locally Bred Dash, P Jagdeo E-Class and Avinash Local Maidens races will each carry a total purse of GY$2,812,500.

The Jagmohan F-Class, ARONCO H-Class, CI H3 NW3, Big G’s J-Class, Garen Pro K-Class and Sawh L Class Sprint will each be run for GY$1,875,000. With record prize money, regional interest and a strengthened administrative structure now in place, organisers are expecting the 18th Guyana Cup to be one of the biggest race days in the history of the sport in Guyana.

EEnerMech Guyana Sponsors National Junior Chess Championships

gy, giving competitors ample time to calculate deep lines of attack. The seven-round tournament will follow the Swiss system, with two rounds played daily at 09:00h and

For the first time, this year’s tournament will be divided into two categories, designed to give both seasoned competitors and rising new talents a chance to shine. The Group A division will feature experienced players battling over the board for the top nine positions and the right to challenge the reigning National Junior Chess Champion. Open to all players under 20, this seasoned group is expected to be fiercely contested by Guyana’s finest young talent, some of whom are currently preparing for the upcoming Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan and the XXXIV Pan American Youth Festival in Colombia.

nerMech Guyana Inc has officially thrown its support behind the 2026 National Junior Chess Championships. The oil and gas service provider is sponsoring the National Junior Chess Championship Qualifiers Tournament, which is set to run from Sunday, July 5, to July 8, 2026.

The seven-round tournament will take place at Olympic House in Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, courtesy of the Guyana Olympic Association. The top nine players from the qualifiers will advance to the Championship finals, scheduled for July 13 to July 18 at the same venue. There, they will challenge reigning National Junior Chess Champion Kyle Couchman for the 2026 title.

Hosted by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF), the four-day event is an annual competition that brings together junior players aged seven to twenty, all eager to showcase their skills over the board. While the GCF hosted shorter rapid-format tournaments for age-category championships earlier this year, the National Junior Qualifiers transition to the prestigious classical format. Players will compete under a 90-minute time control, with a 30-second increment added from move one. This longer format offers a true test of endurance and strate-

Meanwhile, Group B will see emerging players competing for the title of Group Champion. The GCF has extended its reach to numerous schools and outreach programmes over the past year, which is expected to yield a larger turnout at this year’s tournament. Prizes for Group A qualification for the top nine finishers to the 2026 National Junior Chess Championship, along with trophies for the Best Female player, Best U14, and Best U12, while Group B will feature a Champion’s trophy, Second through Fifth place trophies, and awards for the Best U10 and Best U8 Male and Female players. Additionally, First to Third place trophies will be awarded to players from priority area schools. The tournament will be supervised by FIDE Arbiter, Mr John Lee and his team of arbiters.

The top twelve boards will be broadcast live on Lichess.org, while pairings and standings will be published on Chessresults.com. EnerMech Guyana, investing in Guyanese talent for the future in Guyana, for Guyana, is a proud sponsor of the National Chess Championships. The GCF would like to thank EnerMech for their support of chess and for investing in Guyanese talent. A special thank you is also extended to the Guyana Olympic Association for generously providing the venue for this event.

Master Z, Slingerz, Js Racing Stables in feature race at CARICOM Cup

Among the 100 horses entered for the CARICOM Cup tomorrow, Sunday, July 5, at Bush Lot United, West Coast Berbice, all eyes will be on the fantastic five: Champion horse Dataman, former champion Olympic Kremlin, Stat, Mapa Do Brasil and Rei Da Brincadeira.

These horses will be battling in the feature race of the day, the CARICOM Gold Cup, running at 1700 metres. The total purse for the feature race is GY$5 million.

The track looks fast, and the race meet should be one of greatness.

The first of 12 races of the day will be the K & L Maidens running at 1100 metres. Easy Star, Top Ranking, Damage Control, Citation, Twilight, World Boss, Miss Simron, Simple Simron, G Money 36, Bullet Train, Deep Impact, and Secret Jet.

Race two will be the L-class winners running at 1350 metres. Yellowstone, Country Rock, Secret Traveller, Perfect Trip, Sarkar and Doctor J are the six horses entered.

The third race of the day will be CARICOM Juvenile Fillies Futurity Stakes. Some of the horses entered are Princess Alisha, Secret Line, Lady Cash, Brilliant Bride, Boss Lady, Natural

Flow, Diamond Time, High Beam and Fire Time.

Race four will be the CARICOM Juvenile Futurity Stakes. The horses entered are All the Time, Scars of Glory, Sweet Man Rock, Ocean Star and Moneybird.

In the G & H Class non-winner, and I Class, Bourbon Blitz, Tsunami, American Emperor, Daring Move, Supreme Leader and Ruff Time will be battling it out. The three-year-old and over West Indian-bred winners will see Mulan, She WBO on Time, Sex Appeal and Head of the Class.

GT Boss headlines the three-year-old and over J&K Class race. The other horses battling are Three D Movie, Bin Laden, Spank Me, Storm Again, Republican, and Top Gun.

Adios Baby, the newly imported Wonder Woman, Protonic Doll, Pharoah’s Empress, Moonlight Dancer, and Royale Rocks are the horses for the CARICOM Imported Stakes.

The CARICOM Derby three-year-old Guyana-bred will see the likes of Lost in Rome, Miracle Boy, Monica Time, Granite Storm, Torpedo Jet, Risen Star, Summer Time and Country Gold.

Anthem King will be running in the CARICOM Sprint Stakes that are open

to four-year-olds and over. So Te Peco Amor, Regal Man, Companheiro Leal, Order and Progress, and Frantic will be sprinting for glory.

The E Class and Lower race will feature Barbra, Ritorna Vincentori, Novo Sol, Spankhurst, and Full Liberty.

More than GY$15 million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs; all roads lead to Bush Lot United, West Coast Berbice.

Annai begin title defence in GFF Blue Water Girls U15 quarter-finals

Defending champions

Annai Secondary will begin the knockout stage of their title defence today when the Guyana Football Federation’s Blue Water Shipping Girls U15 National Championship 2026 moves into the quarter-finals at the National Training Centre, Providence.

Annai, one of eight schools still in contention for the national crown, will face Mahdia Secondary from 13:00h in one of the opening quarter-final matches.

The Rupununi school will be aiming to keep its title hopes alive as the competition enters its Final Eight stage.

The quarter-finals are scheduled for today, July 4, with four matches on the card. Marian Academy will meet Wauna Primary at 13:00h, while Annai Secondary will take on Mahdia Secondary at the same time.

The second set of matches will kick off at 14:00h, with Waramuri Secondary facing The New Central

High and President’s College coming up against Abram Zuil Secondary.

The eight schools advanced to the national quarter-finals after weeks of regional qualifying matches across the country. The tournament has brought together regional champions and other top-performing schools, giving young female players a chance to compete at the national level.

The semi-finals and final are scheduled for Sunday, July 5, from 13:00h at the same venue.

Singh urges Guyana Under-19 squad to stay focused ahead of regional championship

Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) President Bissoondyal Singh has urged the Guyana Under-19 squad to remain focused and disciplined as they prepare for the upcoming Cricket West Indies (CWI) Rising Stars Under-19 Championship. Singh met with the squad on Sunday during their encampment, where he encouraged the players ahead of the regional tournament. The team is scheduled to depart Guyana on July 9.

During the visit, Singh interacted with the players and members of the man -

agement team. He commended the commitment shown by the squad during the preparation period and reminded the young cricketers of the honour and responsibility that comes with representing Guyana.

“It is always a proud moment to see young cricketers earning the opportunity to represent Guyana. You have worked hard to reach this stage, and I encourage each of you to remain committed to the process, play for one another and give your very best every time you step onto the field,” Singh said. The GCB President also told the players to em -

brace the experience, noting that the championship provides an important platform for them to showcase their ability while continuing their development in the sport.

“Represent your country with pride, respect the game and enjoy the experience. The Guyana Cricket Board has every confidence in this team, and we wish you every success at the championship,” Singh added.

Singh closed by wishing the squad a safe journey and a successful campaign as they prepare to compete for regional honours.

Argentina holds off spectacular Cape Verde 3-2

Reigning champions Argentina needed an extra-time own goal to overcome a Cape Verde side with incredible levels of resilience 3-2 in a thrilling contest on Friday and secure their spot of the last 16 in the World Cup.

Cape Verde, playing in their first World Cup, had twice come from a goal down to silence the vast majority of the crowd of 64,478 packed into a hot and humid Miami Stadium.

Six minutes into the second period of extra time, Lionel Messi swung a corner into the box, and Cristian Romero rose to head home off the arm of Cape Verde centre back Diney Borges, and finally set up a date with Egypt in Atlanta next Tuesday.

Messi had, almost inevitably, given Argentina the lead in the 29th minute with his seventh goal of the tournament, but Deroy Duarte equalised just before the hour mark.

The Blue Sharks held on to send the match into an additional half hour before Lisandro Martinez lashed a sumptuous shot into the roof of the net in the second minute of the first period of extra time to put Argentina ahead again.

Cape Verde were not done yet, however, and left back Sidny Lopes Cabral curled a beautiful shot into the top corner of the net in the 103rd minute of the contest to put the scores back on level terms at 2-2.

Lopes Cabral could have equalised again after Romero’s goal, but his finely struck free kick was saved by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who had to be at his best to deny Cape Verde in the dying minutes.

Cape Verde was beaten but far from outclassed by the three-time world champions as they put in a fourth magnificent display of teamwork and grit at their first World Cup.

The only one of the four World Cup debutants to make it to the last 32 and ranked 67th in the world coming into the tournament, Cape Verde had hoped to frustrate Argentina as they did Spain, Uruguay and

Saudi Arabia in group-stage draws.

They succeeded, while showing no shortage of quality of their own, for much of the game with a never-say-die desperation and a neat pass-and-move game.

Obdurate Defence

Messi aside, Argentina were largely bereft of ideas against an obdurate defence, and Cape Verde libero Kevin Pina was the most impressive player on the park for long periods of the contest.

It was Argentina who made the breakthrough in the 29th minute, however, when Lisandro Martinez lofted a long ball over the

top of the defence to the feet of Messi.

The 39-year-old maestro took a touch with the outside of his left boot and buried it in the roof of Vozinha’s net for his 20th goal over six editions of soccer’s global showpiece.

Cape Verde knew they would need to score to keep their World Cup campaign alive, and Duarte fired a shot at goal soon after halftime that drew a diving save out of Martinez.

Just before the hour mark, Captain Ryan Mendes was freed down the right, and his pass into the box found the Dutch-born midfielder, who controlled the ball with his left foot before drilling it past Martinez with his

right.

Messi had a chance to put Argentina back in front four minutes later when he was played through on goal, but Vozinha stood up well to keep his shot out of the net.

One of Messi’s trademark free kicks was tipped away by Vozinha in the 72nd minute, and Cape Verde defender Pico Lopes had to intervene to prevent Enzo Fernandez from scoring 10 minutes later.

Cape Verde held on to force the dramatic period of extra time, and they will now return home heroes, having put their tiny island nation firmly on the footballing map. (Reuters)

witness

of Anna Regina Stadium

Thousands flocked to the Anna Regina National Stadium on Friday to partake in the commissioning of the international-standard venue. The commissioning was preluded by an entertaining T10 clash between Essequibo’s best cricketers and a combined Demerara and Berbice XI. Later on, as President Dr Irfaan Ali officially declared the venue open, showers rained down on the venue in a metaphorical blessing