Guyana Times - Saturday, June 6, 2026

Businessman injured in suspected driveby shooting at Unity

BRIDGE OPENING

JUNE

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday June 6 –07:45h–09:15h and Sunday June 7 – 08:35h–10:05h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers are expected during the day and at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East-North-Easterly to East-South-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 08:10h and 20:49h reaching maximum heights of 2.36 metres and 2.25 metres.

Low Tide: 14:17h reaching a minimum height of 0.86 metre.

Govt seeks $54.9B supplementary funding for GtE, housing, agri projects

The Guyana

Government has approached the National Assembly, seeking approval for some $54.9 billion in supplementary funding to support critical development projects and programmes such as its highly anticipated Gas-to-Energy (GtE) initiative.

Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, tabled Supplementary Financial Paper Number 1 of 2026, totalling $54,889,259,163, for the period ending December 31, 2026, in the National Assembly on Friday afternoon. The supplementary paper will be considered by the House at the next sitting.

Included in the Financial Paper is the sum of $19.1 billion that is being sought under the Office of the Prime Minister to cater to additional resources, including the Government’s flagship Gasto-Energy Project, which is expected to reduce electricity costs for citizens by half when it comes on stream. This will add to the $10.7 billion allocated in Budget 2026 to advance the project.

Located at Wales, West Bank Demerara, the GtE Project comprises a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant and a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility which will utilise the rich natural gas that will be piped from the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. The power plant is slated to start producing power by the end of this year.

The power generation component will utilise four SGT-800 gas turbines and two steam turbines. Earlier this year, it was reported that all four gas turbines were installed while works are currently ongoing for the installation of the steam turbines.

Currently, United Statesbased Lindsayca, which is developing the integrated gas processing facility, is accelerating works at the Wales site to meet the year-end timeline. Only recently, the contractor successfully installed all four heat-recovery steam generator (HRSG) bypass stacks.

“Activity continues across the site as progress advances on multiple fronts,” the company said last month, adding in another update on Friday that “…many efforts taking place simultaneously across the GTE project, from struc-

prove connectivity across all regions of the country.

Agricultural provisions

Housing

Meanwhile, the National Assembly is also being requested to consider a supplementary provision of $17.5 billion for the housing sector to cater for an accelerated work programme.

In the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) 2026 manifesto, the party outlined its plan for affordable homes and stronger communities through measures such as expanding its housing programme, constructing 40,000 new homes, working to ensure it eliminates the backlog of applications in all regions and fast-tracking all pending housing applications. Already, some $159.1 billion was earmarked in Budget 2026 this year for the housing sector.

Additionally, $8.5 billion is being sought under the Ministry of Public Works, including $6 billion that caters to miscellaneous roads and drainage and $2.5 billion for hinterland roads as the Government continues to im-

Moreover, this first financial paper for the year also includes supplementary provisions to the tune of $8.3 billion under the Ministry of Agriculture, including $807.5 million for the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), $3 billion for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) and $4.5 billion for the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to support the agriculture sector.

Under the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, a further $600 million is being requested for the provision of additional resources to facilitate maintenance of coastal airstrips and $496.3 million to support water interventions, including water filling stations.

The National Assembly is also being requested to consider a supplementary provision of $60 million for the Ministry of Home Affairs to facilitate its accelerated work programme for the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU).

According to the Finance Ministry, the Minister is seeking Parliamentary consideration and approval for development support as the Government’s projects and programmes continue countrywide during the PPP/C’s newly elected term in office. It noted that the Government has, over the last five years and continuing in its new term, ramped up investments to strengthen, expand, and rehabilitate the country’s drainage and irrigation (D&I) infrastructure; promote growth in agriculture; improve access to world-class healthcare; expand housing areas and road networks across the country; modernise and expand the education sector to ensure persons have free access to education from nursery to the tertiary level; modernise and diversify the electricity sector; digitise processes for access to goods and services across all sectors; and generally improve the quality of life being enjoyed by citizens.

“The sums requested in the financial paper support these intensified investments,” the Ministry stated.

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

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

Govt services closer to the people & hinterland communities

The announcement that Government Service Centres will soon be established in Bartica and Kamarang, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), is another important step in Guyana’s continuing effort to ensure that development reaches every corner of the country. More significantly, it echoes a transformation in national governance, one that recognises that access to public services, economic opportunities, and state support should not be determined by geography.

For decades, residents of hinterland communities faced considerable challenges in accessing essential Government services. Tasks that citizens along the coast could complete within hours often required costly travel, extended absences from home and work, and significant logistical arrangements for those living in remote regions. Such realities created barriers that affected economic participation, access to documentation, social services, and business development.

The establishment of decentralised Government service centres directly addresses those longstanding obstacles. By bringing agencies under one roof and closer to the communities they serve, the initiative has the potential to dramatically improve efficiency while reducing the financial and personal burdens associated with travel to distant administrative centres.

Importantly, this development should not be viewed as an isolated project, but rather, it is part of a national strategy aimed at ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared more equitably across the country. As Guyana continues to experience extraordinary economic expansion, questions of inclusion and accessibility become increasingly important. Development cannot be measured solely by investment figures or infrastructure spending. It must also be assessed by the extent to which ordinary citizens can access opportunities and public services regardless of where they live.

The President’s emphasis on Region Seven’s importance extends beyond its traditional role in mining, as the region’s vast potential in forestry, tourism, agriculture, and community enterprise requires a governance model that supports residents with practical services and economic tools. Modern development demands more than roads and buildings; it requires institutions that are present, responsive, and capable of empowering communities to participate fully in national progress.

The package of initiatives announced for the region reinforces this approach as investments aimed at strengthening food security, improving transportation connectivity, expanding storage capacity, and lowering the cost of essential commodities all point toward a development model focused on sustainability and selfreliance. These measures acknowledge the unique challenges faced by hinterland communities while creating conditions that allow residents to build stronger local economies.

Particularly noteworthy is the Government’s intention to expand access to financing through the forthcoming Guyana Development Bank. Access to capital has historically been one of the most significant barriers confronting small entrepreneurs and community-based enterprises in remote regions. Traditional lending institutions have often been inaccessible to many smallscale operators due to collateral requirements, distance, or other constraints.

By incorporating mentoring, coaching, and financial management support, the initiative recognises that sustainable economic growth requires both capital and capacity building. Such an approach has the potential to create stronger businesses, generate employment, and encourage local ownership of development initiatives.

Equally important is the message these initiatives send about national priorities. They demonstrate a recognition that hinterland communities are not peripheral to Guyana’s future but are central to it. The narrative that development must flow primarily to coastal regions is steadily being replaced by one that views every region as an integral contributor to national prosperity.

Gone are the days when residents of hinterland and Amerindian communities were expected to travel great distances simply to access basic Government services, secure official documentation, or explore opportunities for economic advancement. Increasingly, public policy is being shaped around the principle that services should reach citizens where they live, rather than citizens being forced to navigate significant hardships to reach services. Nevertheless, the creation of Government service centres, coupled with targeted economic investments and expanded access to financing, is an advancement in the effort to bridge historical disparities between coastal and hinterland regions.

The stranger in your veins

Joel Teelucksingh

There is a person living somewhere in Trinidad and Tobago who may one day save your life.

You do not know their name. You may never meet them. You will never invite them to your wedding. They will never attend your birthday celebration. They will never appear in family photographs. Yet one ordinary day, their blood may be flowing through your veins. Literally. World Blood Donor Day is observed in June annually. Most awareness campaigns focus on blood shortages, donor recruitment and statistics. Those things matter. Hospitals cannot function without blood. But numbers sometimes obscure the remarkable human story hiding underneath. Every unit of blood contains an act of generosity between two people who will almost certainly remain strangers forever.

That is extraordinary when you stop to think about it. We live in a world obsessed with recognition. Buildings carry names. Donors receive plaques. Sponsors appear on banners. Social media encourages us to document even the smallest good deed. Blood donation works differently. The donor receives little fanfare, and the recipient often never learns who made their survival possible. Yet, few acts have consequences as profound. Every doctor remembers moments when blood suddenly becomes the most important thing in the room. The blood pressure is falling. The monitors begin to alarm. Someone phones the laboratory. A nurse checks the intravenous line. A family waits anxiously outside. At that moment, a plastic bag hanging from a metal stand becomes more valuable than gold. Inside it

lies time.

Time for a surgeon to stop the bleeding, for a mother to survive childbirth, for a trauma victim to reach the operating theatre or for a family to avoid tragedy. Doctors often talk about miracle drugs, cutting-edge technology and breakthroughs in medicine. Blood remains refreshingly old-fashioned. It requires no batteries, no software updates and no artificial intelligence. It still depends on one human being deciding to help another. The history of blood itself is fascinating.

Civilisations have long viewed blood as something sacred. Shakespeare filled his plays with references to it. Religions speak of it as a symbol of sacrifice, covenant and life itself. Entire mythologies revolve around its power. Doctors tend to be slightly less poetic. We spend much of our careers trying to keep blood where it belongs. Even so, medicine understands something ancient cultures recognised instinctively. Blood matters because life depends on it. What often surprises people is how quickly blood supplies can become strained.

Road traffic accidents continue to occur. Surgical procedures continue daily. Cancer patients require transfusions. Individuals living with thalassaemia depend on regular donations throughout their lives. Mothers still experience complications during childbirth.

The need never takes a public holiday.

Hospitals cannot simply stockpile blood indefinitely and forget about it. Red blood cells have a limited lifespan. Platelets last only a few days. Every unit used today must eventually be replaced by another donor tomorrow. That reality creates

a continuous cycle of dependence on public generosity. Most of us move through life assuming blood will always be available if needed. Until suddenly it becomes personal. Then everything changes. For many readers, blood donation has probably already touched their lives without them realising it. Somewhere in your family history there may be a transfusion that made all the difference. A grandmother who survived a difficult operation.

A relative whose cancer treatment was possible because blood products were available. A friend who walked away from an accident because someone else had donated months earlier. Every one of those stories contains an unseen character. The donor. The stranger.

The headlines often focus on division. Politics divides us. Religion divides us. Race divides us. Geography divides us. Social media has transformed disagreement into a national pastime. Blood has no interest in any of it. The blood that saves a life does not care how someone voted. It does not care where they worship. It does not care about their surname, social status or bank account. Inside a blood bank, humanity becomes wonderfully simple. One person needs help. Another person provides it. Perhaps that is why blood donation remains one of the most hopeful things in medicine. Every donation is evidence that kindness still exists in abundance. Ordinary citizens quietly helping other ordinary citizens. Unfortunately, many people who are perfectly eligible to donate never do. Some fear needles. Others worry they will feel weak afterwards. Many intend to donate but never quite find the time. Life has a way of push-

ing good intentions away. Meanwhile, the demand continues.

World Blood Donor Day should remind us that healthcare is not built solely by doctors, nurses, hospitals and Governments.

It is also built by citizens. Every blood donor becomes part of an invisible healthcare team extending far beyond hospital walls. Without them, modern medicine simply does not function.

Patients thank surgeons after successful operations. Families thank doctors after recoveries. Nurses receive appreciation for compassionate care.

All of it is deserved. Yet somewhere in the background stands another contributor whose name is rarely mentioned. The stranger who unknowingly became part of another family’s survival story.

Perhaps that is the real lesson of World Blood Donor Day – the most important person in your future may be someone you never meet. If you are fortunate, you may never need their gift. If circumstances change, it may become the difference between grief and gratitude. There are many ways to improve the world. Some require wealth, power and influence.

Blood donation requires none of those things.

Just 30 minutes, a willing heart and the understanding that somewhere, someday, a stranger may be counting on you. And if that day comes, the greatest gift they receive will not arrive wrapped in paper. It will arrive quietly, hanging from a metal stand, carrying the kindness of someone whose name they will never know. (T&T Guardian)

Brilliant and strategic for Dr Irfaan Ali to visit Nimitz

Dear Editor,

In reference to your front-page article of June 5, where President Ali’s visit to Nimitz, the US aircraft carrier, is brilliant and strategic and in our national interest. It is a symbolic visit to show Guyana’s solidarity with America on combating drug trafficking and a message to other powers not to meddle in regional affairs. It is a direct message to Caracas not to mess with Guyana. It is noted that leaders of other countries in the region also visited the Nimitz.

The handful of left-wing

Guyanese politicians who are critical of the President’s presence on the deck of an American military ship don’t understand Washington’s geo-strategic politics and Guyana’s national interests. Guyana needs the US more now than ever before. This is not the 1950s through the 2010s when third-world leaders could be anti-American; anti-American Administrations knew the consequences then. The consequences are worse today. Guyana must ally with the US for security and economic interests. President

Ali is smartly allying with the US and pursuing an unprecedented close relationship with Washington that no other leader ever did or thought about.

Under President Ali, a strategic alliance with the United States is anchored in deep mutual interests, primarily centred on national security cooperation, energy, and economic stability. America is Guyana’s primary economic partner.

Since becoming President in August 2020, Ali has been strengthening Guyana’s security alliance and economic

cooperation with the United States, marked by high-level geopolitical collaboration and high-profile visits by leading American cabinet officials and military personnel. Ali has expanded our partnership with the US. The Nimitz visit further strengthens ties between our two countries. It comes on top of Ali recently meeting President Trump in Florida to solidify security and anti-narcotic cooperation.

The Nimitz visit highlights deep bilateral integration between US Naval

Expanding teachers’ training

Dear Editor, Where the United Nations is concerned, by 2030, countries must ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education (which of course) will lead to relevant and effective learning outcomes. In fact, this quest is not embraced by all nations, but where Guyana is concerned, we are truly “driving” hard at achieving this goal.

I am most pleased then that “The Ministry of Education has received 13 bids for the construction of a Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) Centre at Charity, Region Two.” According to Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, “… the initiative will ensure that professional development be accessible to teachers residing in hard-to-reach areas, ending an era where they were forced to leave their homes and families to gain certification.” This translates to huge benefits for the students, and this ties right into the UN’s Goal 4, which states that “… education financing must become a national investment

priority (to facilitate) measures such as making education free and compulsory, increasing the number of teachers, improving basic school infrastructure and embracing digital transformation.”

Where this project is concerned, $45 million was allocated in the 2026 national budget to kickstart the project, which is geared to serve educators in the Pomeroon River and other nearby remote communities. When all is done, this will mean that professional development will be accessible to teachers residing in hard-to-reach areas, thus ending an era where they were forced to leave their homes and families to gain certification.”

This kind of input from the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government means that the Administration is treating education with the requisite gravity it truly deserves. The fact is that teacher training is essential because it equips educators with critical skills like classroom management, student psychology, and effective lesson structuring. Without formal training, teachers struggle

to provide proper guidance, adapt to diverse learning needs, and integrate technology effectively.

So, to deliver on Goal 4, education financing must become a national investment priority. And this project is symptomatic of what I am saying. The Minister iterated that the project is about “quality education and quality delivery in the classroom”, noting that investing in professional growth ultimately translates into better outcomes for the nation’s children. As per the actual edifice, once completed, the new, modern facility will feature a dedicated classroom block, staff offices, a kitchen area and washroom facilities, all housed within an elevated, ridge-and-beam

structure.” And the big picture is that “This new facility will aid the Government’s mission to move the national percentage of trained teachers from over 90 per cent to a perfect 100 per cent.”

Guyana is getting there. It is one of the highest-ranked developing countries in the Education Index of the United Nations Human Development Report. With a score of 0.943 on the Education Index, its overall rank is 37, and it ranks third in the Caribbean after Cuba and Barbados and second in South America after Argentina.

We are getting there in big strides too.

Yours truly, Hargesh

B Singh

Forces Southern Command and Guyana’s maritime units. The USS Nimitz is a supercarrier deployed in the Southern Seas. The encounter on the carrier allowed our forces to align tactical operations for multi-national missions to combat drug trafficking and other threats to the region and to protect Guyana’s integrity.

The tight alliance between the Ali Administration and Washington faces criticism from left-wingers and pro-Russian and pro-Chinese advocates. They forget that America was responsible for the restoration of democracy in 1992 and again in 2020. It was under the Trump Administration that democracy was restored in 2020 after repeated attempts at rigging. Russia and China did not support the struggle for restoration of democracy in Guyana. A handful of us lobbied Washington to intervene in Guyana to restore democratic governance in 1992 and again in 2020. Washington pressured the dictatorship in Guyana to pursue political and economic reforms, allowing for the left-wing Cheddi Jagan and the PPP to win the elections and assume power. Rigging was abandoned in 2020 after threats from the Trump Administration.

The pro-Russia and pro-China advocates also forget that American companies have invested heavily in Guyana’s economy over the last decade. Also, American troops have

been protecting our border against Venezuelan threats and those huge American investments. Without Exxon’s investment in deep-water drilling, oil and gas would not have been found. Guyana would have remained a backwater place. Guyana’s economy would have been floundering. None of the development Guyana has been undergoing since 2020 would have been possible without American support. Exxon has been responsible for our growth and development, and its operations have been rapidly expanding, resulting in enormous financial benefits to continue to fund our infrastructure.

America’s objectives in Guyana coincide with ours. America’s top goals in Guyana are to promote inclusive growth, support human rights, combat drug trafficking, strengthen democracy, protect our border, and secure American interests in the region. Guyana benefits enormously: it gains access to US funding, equipment, and advanced training for our armed forces. American security investment in Guyana benefits us. Ali’s cooperation with the US serves our interests. He should ignore critics like Freddie and others from the lunatic left who oppose the strong American military presence in Guyana and our alliance with the US.

Yours truly, Dr Vishnu Bisram

SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 2026

Page Foundation

Multiples

Multiples are the result of multiplying a number by a whole number.

For example:

The first 5 multiples of 7 are 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35.

All numbers are a multiple of themselves, and can include negative numbers, fractions, and decimals.

Factors help make a number, while multiples are made from a number.

For example:

The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.

These numbers divide exactly into 12 and can multiply together in factor pairs to make 12:

1 x 12 = 12

2 x 6 = 12

3 x 4 = 12

Some multiples of 12 are: 12, 24, 36, 48, 60…

These numbers are found by multiplying 12 by whole numbers:

12 x 1 = 12

12 x 2 = 24

12 x 3 = 36

12 x 4 = 48

12 x 5 = 60

And so on.

You can find multiples of decimals, too.

For example:

To list the first 5 multiples of 1.2:

1.2 × 1 = 1.2

1.2 × 2 = 2.4.

1.2 × 3 = 3.6

1.2 × 5 = 6

The first 5 multiples of 1.2 are 1.2, 2.4, 3.6, 4.8, and 6.

This can also be done with negative numbers

For example:

To list the first 5 multiples of −4:

−4 × 1 = −4

−4 × 2 = −8

−4 × 3 = −12

−4 × 4 = −16

−4 × 5 = −20

The first 5 multiples of −4 are −4, −8, −12, −16, and −20.

Lowest Common Multiple

The Lowest Common Multiple (LCM) is the smallest whole number that is a multiple of two or more numbers.

For example: The LCM of 4 and 6...

Multiples of 4: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24…

Multiples of 6: 6, 12, 18, 24…

24 occurs in both lists, so it is a common multiple, but it is not the lowest common multiple. The smallest common multiple is 12. Materials

• Healthy plant with large leaves (indoor or outdoor)

• Clear plastic sandwich bag or Ziploc bag depending on leaf size

• String, tape, or twist tie

• Marker (optional for labelling)

• Notebook and pencil (for observations)

Instructions

1. Select a Leaf: Find a large, healthy leaf on your plant. If possible, choose a plant that’s well-watered and in sunlight.

2. Bag the Leaf: Gently place a plastic sandwich bag over the leaf and secure it around the plant’s stem with some tape, a twist tie, or string. Make sure it is snug but not too tight.

3. Wait and Observe: Over the next couple of hours (or up to a day), observe your plant to see what changes in the plastic bag.

4. Record Observations: Write down your observations, and if you can, try the experiment again to see if anything changes based on whether the plant is in sun or shade.

What is transpiration?

Transpiration is when water moves up from the plant’s roots to the leaves and exits as water vapour through small pores on the surface of the leaves called stomata that allow water vapour to escape into the air. This invisible process helps plants cool down and continue pulling water and nutrients up from the soil.

Although this water vapour is invisible, it becomes visible in this experiment when it is trapped inside the plastic bag and condenses into water droplets.

(Adapted from littlebinsforlittlehands.com)

By May SwenSon

Maybe there is a Me inside of me and, when I lie dying, he will crawl out. Through my toe. Green on the green rug, and then white on the wall, and then over the window sill, up the trunk of the apple tree, he will turn brown and rough and warty to match the bark. But you'll be able to see—(who will be able to see?) his little jelly belly pulsing with the heart inside his transparent hide. And, once on the top bough, tail clinging, as well as "hands," he'll turn the purest blue against the sky— (say it's a clear day, and I don't die at night.) Maybe from there he'll take wing—That's it!— an ARCHAEOPTERYX! Endless, the possibilities, my little Soul, once you exit from my toe. But, Oh, looking it up, I read: "Archaeopteryx, generally considered the first bird . . . (although) closely related to certain small dinosaurs . . . could not fly."

A pain . . . Oh, I feel a pain in my toe!

(Source: Poetry [July 1978])

Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.

WORD SEARCH

“You can’t want no

corruption but defend those

charged” – Teixeira

schools Opposition MP

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira on Friday took on the We Invest In Nationhood (WIN) Opposition, calling out their duplicity in pushing for modern anti-corruption systems while defending their leader, US-sanctioned and indicted businessman Azruddin Mohamed, who is currently facing extradition for gold smuggling and money-laundering charges.

During the National Assembly sitting on Friday afternoon, Opposition Chief Whip, WIN’s Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, posed a number of questions regarding the establishment of modern anti-corruption laws in Guyana. In response, Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira noted that Guyana currently has more than 15 pieces of legislation covering anti-corruption – all working as one mechanism, adding that the Government is continuously adding to and modernising its legislation.

“In our ongoing efforts to combat corruption, we will strengthen laws where needed, establish an anti-corruption unit, use technologies such as blockchain to add transparency, reduce bureaucracy and improve efficiency and fully enforce the information, access to information. So first of all, the impression is given that there is none [anti-corruption law]; there is, and it’s working. That’s what we’re charging people with corruption in the courts with. That’s why you have a number of cases in the courts, including one to do with a certain offender that is in the court right now to do with corruption. And I find it highly ironic that a Member of Parliament (MP) of that side that knows about the case and is sitting next to the person that’s involved in the case is raising an issue here about anti-corruption,” Teixeira contended.

Though she did not men-

tion his name, the Minister was taking a clear jab at Opposition leader and WIN’s founder Azruddin Mohamed, who, along with his father Nazar Mohamed, is facing extradition to the US, where they have been charged in the Southern District of Florida. An 11-count grand jury indictment accuses them of wire fraud, mail fraud and money laundering in connection with alleged financial crimes involving gold exports. The Mohameds are currently fighting the extradition proceedings, which are ongoing in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

According to Teixeira, “… we must be strong [against] those who are brought before the courts, those who are brought before the courts on those same laws. You defend those people who have been corrupt. You’re coming here with two sides of your mouth… You can’t say we don’t want corruption, but when they’re charged, you’re backing them and protesting for them. You can’t have two sides of the

law.” Teixeira defended the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s anti-corruption systems, saying, “We must be proud of what we’ve done in legislation in terms of fighting corruption.”

She noted that over the past year alone, there have been training programmes on digital transformation, institutional strengthening, enhancing collaboration between public and private sectors, public education, strengthening compliance and enforcement mechanisms, and international collaboration. Additionally, the Minister noted that they have also brought a number of digital platforms to improve transparency and accountability while engaging nearly 30 private sector bodies and various Government agencies to fight corruption and develop a culture of integrity.

Declarations of assets

In fact, on the issue of integrity, the Parliamentary Affairs and Governance

Minister used the opportunity to call out the Opposition’s side for failing to submit their asset declarations to the Integrity Commission of Guyana for the period June 2024 to June 2025. A list of outstanding declarations that was recently published by the Integrity Commission named several former senior MPs attached to the A Partnership for National (APNU), which has been demoted to the minority Parliamentary Opposition following the September 2025 elections.

Those named by the Commission include APNU Leader and former Opposition Leader in the last Parliament, Aubrey Norton; former MP, Shurwayne Holder; former MP, Deonarine Ramsaroop; former MP, Dineshwar Jaiprashad; former MP, Jermaine Figueira; and Beverley Alert of the Alliance For Change (AFC), which had since been ousted from the Parliament.

“We talking about culture of integrity and serving as public officers. Please, some of you answer why you didn’t make your declarations to the Integrity Commission. Are you above the law? Are some of you about the law?”

“I’ve been around for a while; I find this highly amusing… we are governed by law. All of us MPs are governed by law. We’re the lawmakers, and we’re the law upholders of this country. That’s what the people of Guyana expect us to be. And when we enter this house as MPs, we have to declare our public declarations of our assets. Why are some members of this house not declaring to the Integrity Commission and

coming here to ask about anti-corruption and corruption?” she asserted.

According to the Integrity Commission Act, all public officers in high office are required to file declarations of their assets as well as those held by their spouses and children. The law states that any public officer who fails to comply with the Commission is liable, upon summary conviction, to a fine of $25,000 and imprisonment for a period of not less than six months or more than one year.

International conventions

Guyana has signed onto and ratified international conventions, including the United Nations (UN) Convention Against Corruption and the InterAmerican Convention Against Corruption. Under these conventions, the country is legally bound to work towards incremental implementation of these treaties.

“There is no country in the world…that has been able to meet every benchmark of the UN Convention Against Corruption or the

Inter-American Convention Against Corruption. Those are treaties to which we have committed ourselves and are bound legally to respond to and to work towards. And so, we have shown progress in terms of the agencies that report on these – the Public Service Commission; the Integrity Commission; the Procurement Body, for example; the FIU (Financial Intelligence Agency); and the SOCU (Special Organised Crime Unit),” Teixeira stated. In fact, the Parliamentary Affairs Minister noted that Guyana has recently undergone its second review by the UN Convention Against Corruption during which the country did well – something that will be reflected when the report comes out soon. “We are recognised [for doing well]… You don’t read the [reports]; that’s the problem… If you don’t believe me, it’s fine. Go on the sites and read the documents that are put out by these agencies in relation to Guyana’s performance at these levels,” Teixeira told the Opposition Parliamentarians.

“I sorry I wasn’t here to protect me son” – father of 7-year-old found dead with throat slashed …as great-grandmother battles for life after home invasion

The throat of a seven-year-old child was slashed, and his great-grandmother was stabbed in the neck during an apparent home invasion on Friday at their Phase 3, Zeelugt New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) home. The lifeless body of seven-yearold Adriel Aftab Mohamed was found lying in a pool of blood, while his great-grandmother was found stabbed in the neck and lying on the ground at about 05:05h on Friday. According to reports received, a relative went to the home, where he discovered the 72-year-old woman injured and the child motionless inside the house. The injured woman was taken to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where she was admitted as a patient. Her condition is listed as stable. On the other hand, the child suffered a gaping wound to his neck. A knife, suspected to have been used during the incident, was recovered at the scene.

At the scene, Naseeb Mohamed, the child’s uncle, explained that he was at home when he received

a telephone call informing him that someone was in his mother’s home. He noted that when he arrived at the home, he pushed open the door, went inside, turned on

to my mind, you know, like, she’s dead because she was ill… but then when I looked again, I saw my great-nephew on the ground. I went over to him and I looked at

what occurred, he related that the two adults who normally were in the house with his mother and the child had travelled to Essequibo for work. Further, he stated that they were able to access some CCTV footage from nearby residents, and it showed the lone person scaling the gate. He said he was unable to determine a motive for the brutal attack, noting that his mother is not a wealthy woman. He also revealed that she has been living with the effects of a stroke for more than a year. Mohamed said the last time he saw his nephew and mother was on Thursday morning after taking the elderly woman to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to complete paperwork for survivor benefits following her husband’s death. He

the lights and first found his mother lying on the ground.

“Plenty of blood all over the place.”

“The first thought came

him. I see he had a cut to his neck. And the whole place was filled with blood, a lot of blood, plenty of blood all over the place.”

While he could not say

dropped them home around 09:30h and did not hear from them afterward. When he later rushed his injured mother to the hospital, her condition left her unable to speak.

“I sorry I wasn’t here.”

Meanwhile, the lad’s father, Altaf Mohamed, is living with the heartache that he was not there to protect his son. “Right now, like I numb, numb. I have no feelings on meh body… I sorry I wasn’t here to protect meh son… The reason why meh son stay home alone was because I had to go get money… I tek he away from he mother because meh aint want he grow up with he stepfather. I wuk and tek care of he.”

He added that he was supposed to collect his son on Thursday morning, but his father told him that he would have collected him instead. However, this all changed after he received a telephone call from his sister informing him that his son was murdered.

Empowering…

…the small man – and woman

To all those who’re clamouring for “a piece of the action” in our burgeoning oil-fuelled economy – they’ll soon have absolutely no excuse to kvetch or wring their hands about being locked out because – as the opposition is screaming – they’re not “friends and family”!! As had been promised in their manifesto last year – and repeated several times since by Pressie so as to enable ambitious go-getters to get ready – yesterday the bill for a “Guyana Development Bank” (GDB) was introduced in Parliament!!

As has been made clear, the GDB’s geared to assist aspiring entrepreneurs in small and medium-sized start-ups who faced – or think they would’ve faced – difficulties in securing funds through commercial banks or other lending institutions!! The way most of these banks operate, you’d think they want borrowers to put up their firstborns as collateral before they get even a penny!! And that’s after they get the honour of crawling up to the loan officer!!! The Government’s gonna be providing an initial capital of US$2 million – or GY$420 million – as a first tranche!! Loans of up to $3 million will be provided without collateral and at zero interest – and all the prospective borrower gotta do is provide a business plan for the venture they wanna launch!!

But you’ll say – how are the poor slobs – who probably haven’t finished school gonna be able to draft a “business plan”?? Well, the PPP Government thought of that –having been supported since its formation by so-called “illiterate” folks who established the rice industry that’s now surpassed the foundational sugar industry!! The GDB’s gonna also provide assistance in preparing loan applications and business plans – then continue with mentorship and technical support to borrowers!! After their business gets going, they may later access financing of up to $10 million through bridging arrangements with commercial banks!! What more can those who want to get ahead want??!!

Well, even though your Eyewitness’ question sounded rhetorical, the answer is a “risk-taking” attitude – commonly called “balls” or, euphemistically, “testicular fortitude”!! And that’s the sad truth about most of those who’re bitching about not getting contracts or becoming “contractors”, innit?? They just don’t have it in them to take the risk of failing – which is implicit with ANY venture one undertakes – including trying to get rich!! They want certainties – which of late means waiting for cash grants to be deposited in their accounts!!

So, the ball’s now in the peoples’ court!! After five years of being offered free GOAL scholarships, BIT and technical training, modern agriculture practices like shade farms and hydroponics, road building, etc, etc, these skills can now be put to use to start small businesses!!

And then grow them to fulfil their own ambitions – and our country’s!!

…the bigger man – and woman

Now earlier in the week, Pressie took pity on those lacking the gumption to borrow money and put it on the line in a new business!! He reiterated his earlier offer to locals with big money – by our standards! – to increase that money beyond the measly interest from banks – assuming they don’t keep it under their beds!! He bigged up local participation in the major projects being developed within the Wales Development Zone!!

Remember that?? The projects were gonna be structured to allow both Guyanese individuals and local businesses to invest and earn fixed returns!! He pointed specifically to the planned fertiliser plant – costing some US$340 million – and the gas bottling plant, US$40M!! For the former, well-heeled locals can plunk down up to US$5M, and for the latter, US$1M – to receive a GUARANTEED 10 per cent return!!

When these companies later issue IPOs and list on the stock market – those investments gonna mushroom! And allowing the small man to get a piece of the (shares) action!!

…the scroungers

With all of that being said, there are still gonna be some who wanna SHOW they’re living the good life – even though the funds aren’t there. For them the Hire Purchase Amendment Bill is being modified!!

World Environment Day

“The time to act is now”

– Pres Ali issues global

call

to urgency for climate action

As Guyana joins in observing World Environment Day 2026 on Friday, President

Dr Irfaan Ali has sounded a call for global stakeholders to come together in order to confront the existential

threats that climate change poses.

“There could never be a more urgent moment than now for nations to demonstrate ambition in confronting the global crisis. Climate change is here. We see it in rising sea levels. We witness it in the raging storms that lead to devastating floods and landslides. We experience it through prolonged seasons of drought and raging forest fires. Nature is sending a message to humanity. The question is whether humanity is listening enough,” President Ali declared in a video message on World Environment Day.

To this end, the Guyanese leader issued the call for collective global ac-

tion in combating climate change. He noted, “World Environment Day 2026 must become a call to urgency. The planet cannot wait. The time for hesitation has passed. The time to act is now. So, I call upon all in the global community to come together and act together as we confront this existential threat to our planet and humanity.”

Similar sentiments were also shared by United Nations (UN) Secretary General António Guterres, who noted that warning signals are everywhere with rising temperatures causing irreparable harm to not just the earth but human lives as well.

“The past eleven years have been the eleven hottest on record. And the damage goes far beyond rising temperatures – from polluted air to degraded land, collapsing ecosystems, and vanishing biodiversity. Harming health, destroying homes and deepening hunger,” the UN SG noted in his World Environmental Day message.

Moment to act

With the world heading for a temporary overshoot above 1.5 degrees, Secretary General António Guterres underscored the need to reduce this figure – something which he emphasised requires cutting global carbon emissions.

“Our task is to make that overshoot as small, as short, and as safe as possible – and rapidly bring temperatures back down. That means slashing emissions. Accelerating a just transition away from fossil fuels and towards renewables –the only sustainable path to lower costs and to real energy security. Cutting methane – one of the fastest, cheapest ways to limit near-term warming.”

“Protecting forests, land, and seas. Helping communities adapt to the devastating impacts already here. And it means fulfilling climate finance promises to developing countries – to save lives, protect livelihoods, and strengthen economies. This is the moment to act – for our environment and for our future,” the UN Secretary General stressed.

Already, Guyana has stepped up and taken on the responsibilities of fighting climate change through the protection of its vast forest. In addition to its rich biodiversity and ecosystem, Guyana’s total forest cover of some 18.4 million hectares stores more than 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon and removes some 154 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually.

Global leadership

Guyana is currently earning nearly US$1 billion from selling just over 30 per cent of its accredited forest carbon. This, according to President Ali, coupled with other initiatives, has positioned Guyana as a global environmental leader.

These include the Global Biodiversity Alliance that was launched in July 2025 and aims at strengthening international cooperation and protecting the world’s biodiversity, as well as its model Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS 2030).

“Guyana, a small state, is providing leadership, an example in the global fight to protect the world’s environment. Through its Low Carbon Development Strategy, Guyana has demonstrated that development and environment responsibility can go hand in hand. Through this strategy, Guyana proves that a nation can grow while protecting nature.

“As Guyana celebrates the 60th anniversary of its

independence, it proudly informs its sovereignty over its natural resources, but sovereignty also brings responsibility. Guyana is committed to deploying these resources in service of the greatest existential threat of our time, climate change. That responsibility cannot be postponed to another generation or deferred to another decade. The decision we make today will determine the future security, prosperity, and survival of our people,” the Guyanese Head of State declared.

Guyana’s leadership in conservation

Meanwhile, global advocate for environmental protection and sustainability, former Colombian President Iván Duque, has lauded Guyana’s and President Ali’s leadership in biodiversity conservation, promoting sustainable policies, and involving communities and citizens in its low carbon development strategy.

“Today, I have to highlight the leadership of President Ali from Guyana, not only because he has been the advocate of a Global Biodiversity Alliance that aims to have smart green finance that can rapidly mobilise capital so that we can effectively build market-driven, nature-based solutions,” he stated.

President Duque went on to recognise that Guyana is pushing forward an agenda where green jobs, sustainability, and the protection of biodiversity go hand in hand with the expansion of the economy, reducing the gaps in society, and effectively enhancing a new generation of entrepreneurs that will bring the country to a next level of development.

“The World Environment Day is an opportunity to celebrate this process,” he contended.

Guyana is seeking to further cement its environmental leadership status on the global stage by bidding to host COP35 in 2030.

Porter dies after canter crashes into bridge

Aporter reportedly lost his life on Thursday evening after the motor canter he was driving crashed into a bridge along

the Long Creek Public Road, Linden/Soesdyke Highway. Dead is Isaiah Malachi Williams, attached to the G Mining Company.

Based on reports received, the young man was on his way home when the canter in which he was travelling crashed into the concrete bridge. As a result of the collision, both he and the driver sustained injuries.

They were pulled from the wreckage and taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where Williams was pronounced dead. The driver was admitted in critical condition. An investigation is underway. Back in March, 31-year-old Keiran Warner of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden, was killed in a head-on collision along the Loo Creek Public Road, Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

“I sorry I wasn’t here to...

“When I get the news, I catch the first boat and come over… meh son mean everything to me; I does work hard to make sure he get everything he want… Now, I don’t know what I will do without he… It really hurt meh to know somebody would do this to a lil child… I want the Police do them work and get the person who do it,” the father stated with tears in his eyes.

Comfort and support

Meanwhile, follow-

ing the tragedy on Friday, Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud visited the child’s parents, grandparents and other relatives and offered words of comfort and support as they grapple with the unimaginable loss of a child whose life was cut short far too soon. In addition, the Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA) has been on the ground providing immediate assistance to the family. Persaud assured the family that they would not have

to face this difficult journey alone, as the Ministry will continue to provide psychosocial support, counselling, and any additional assistance needed to help them through this painful period. The Minister also met with residents of the community, many of whom expressed shock, grief, and concern following the incident.

Meanwhile, the Police have since obtained CCTV footage, which has been reviewed, and are now spearheading efforts to locate and arrest the suspect.

It was reported that Warner, who was heading to Linden at a fast rate, reportedly swerved into the path of the truck, which was travelling in the opposite direction, resulting in a head-on collision.

Due to the impact, Warner was reportedly pinned in the motor car, which ended up under the lorry. He was pulled from the wreckage in an unconscious state and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

Border controversy case

Guyana optimistic of favourable ruling – PM tells Parliament

Prime Minister (PM)

Ret’d Brigadier Mark Phillips on Friday echoed the Government’s posture on the border controversy case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that it was optimistic of a favourable ruling while pledging commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and the rulesbased order.

As the country awaits a final ruling due sometime late this year or early next year, the PM said that Guyana is confident the ruling will be in its favour.

“Guyana is confident; in fact, after the oral hearings last month, Guyana is more confident than ever that the Court will uphold the legal validity of the 1899 Arbitral

Award and the finality and permanence of the international boundary,” the PM said as he updated the National Assembly on the case.

He added that Guyana expects the Court to order Venezuela “not to offend, seize, annex or trespass on any Guyanese territory” and expressed hope for “full victory in this historic, and for Guyana, existential, case.”

As President Dr Irfaan Ali has said, the PM reiterated that Guyana is not a hostile country and will await the judgement in peace.

“Now that the oral hearings have been concluded, we will await the Court’s final judgement on the merits with patience, dignity and optimism, as His Excellency

the President of Guyana has said. And we will continue to address Venezuela in a spirit of peace, cooperation and friendship and as sovereign equals,” he said.

Last month and after the oral arguments, President Ali said that the ICJ’s ruling will give finality to the border controversy with Venezuela, and this country will wait with patience and dignity, as he also called on Caracas to change its defiant stance and choose peace.

Phillips underscored Guyana’s commitment to respecting Venezuela’s sovereignty while insisting that Venezuela must refrain from threatening Guyana’s own. “When the final judgement is issued, we will insist that it be respected and fully complied with, as international law requires. This is the only way forward for our two states: toward a secure, just and lasting peace; an enduring friendship; and a mutually prosperous future for both our peoples.”

The PM, who once headed this country’s army, reminded the Assembly that Venezuela first challenged the 1899 Award in 1962, after decades of acceptance. “The oral hearings established that Venezuela made this very belated protest precisely at the time Guyana was nearing its independence, British troops would be departing, and

Venezuela would have a significant military advantage,” he noted. He traced the path from the 1966 Geneva Agreement, which mandated peaceful settlement, to the UN Secretary-General’s 2018 decision referring the matter to the ICJ. Venezuela’s repeated attempts to derail the process, including objections in 2020 and 2023, were rejected by the Court.

Phillips highlighted Venezuela’s controversial referendum in December 2023, which sought to annex Guyana’s Essequibo Region as “Guiana Esequiba”. Guyana petitioned the ICJ for provisional measures, and the court unanimously ordered Venezuela to refrain from altering the status quo. On its website the ICJ has said of the case that “The Guyana–Venezuela case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) centres on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between Guyana (then British Guiana) and Venezuela. Guyana argues the award is final and binding, while Venezuela claims it was fraudulent and invalid. The ICJ has confirmed its jurisdiction, and hearings concluded in May 2026, with a final judgement expected later this year.”

Linden man charged with murder of 23-year-old labourer

Thirty-eight-year-old

Johnathan De Souza, also called “Johnny”, of Lovers Lane, South Amelia’s Ward, Linden, was charged with the murder of Wayne Tevin Wilson, which occurred over the weekend.

De Souza, who was arrested on Sunday, appeared before Magistrate Rushell Liverpool at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, where the indictable charge was read to him.

He was not required to plead and was remanded to prison until July 10, 2026. Wilson was reportedly stabbed to death during a confrontation with the suspect.

It was reported that on the day in question, at about 18:10h, the suspect was seen defecating in the deceased’s yard. Wilson reportedly armed himself with a piece of wood and dealt the suspect several lashes about his body. In return the injured suspect, reportedly armed with a knife, stabbed Wilson several times. He was rushed to the Linden Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The suspect was later arrested and charged. A knife, suspected to be the murder weapon, was found in the suspect’s pants pocket.

“Dream Realised” initiative

Govt launches push to clear Region 5 housing backlog with 1000 new house lots

The Government has begun implementing plans to clear the housing backlog in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), with up to 1000 house lots being made available under the latest Dream Realised housing

commitment to clear all pending housing applications in the region during its current term in office.

“Our manifesto commitment says, for regions like yours, that we will intend to clear all of the pending ap-

exercise and new expansion plans announced for the eastern end of the region. Housing Minister Collin Croal made the announcement on Friday during the Ministry's “Dream Realised” housing initiative at Rosignol on Friday, where applicants gathered to be considered for allocations in two new housing areas. According to the Minister, the exercise represents the start of Government's effort to fulfil a

plicants,” Croal told residents. Today [Friday] is the day that we will start the process to implement our 2025 five-year mandate of ensuring we fulfil that commitment here in Region Five."

The Minister explained that while the Central Housing and Planning Authority's (CH&PA) database reflects more than 4000 applications in Region Five, officials recognise that some applicants

Businessman injured in suspected driveby shooting at Unity

A64-year-old businessman from Helena, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was reported injured on Thursday following the discharge of a loaded firearm along the Unity Old Road, ECD.

Based on reports received, the victim stopped and exited his motor vehicle on the northern parapet along the Unity Old Road.

Then, he reportedly observed a white motor vehicle

approaching him and soon after heard a loud explosion and fell to the ground.

The victim called for assistance and was subsequently taken to a private medical facility, where he was admitted as a patient.

He reportedly sustained injuries to his abdomen, right elbow, and left arm. His condition is listed as stable. No arrests were made as investigations continue.

may have relocated, migrated or secured housing elsewhere.

He said the Ministry has been working with the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission to secure additional lands to meet the demand. Croal noted that applicants who attended the previous allocation exercise in October 2024 but were unable to receive lots because of limited availability were given priority consideration during Friday's activity. Those allocations are being made in new housing developments at Experiment and another area identified as Track A-O. He said the Ministry now has sufficient land to cater to all applicants attending the current exercise and indicated that additional allocations could be made if necessary.

Infrastructure works

Beyond allocations, Croal stressed that Government's housing programme is focused on ensuring that new

developments are supported by the necessary infrastructure. He disclosed that designs for the new housing areas have already been completed and that tenders for infrastructure works are expected to be advertised within weeks.

“We have already com-

pleted the design, and within a month you will see the advertisement out for the infrastructure work for this area,” the Minister said. The works are intended to ensure that roads, drainage, utilities and other services are in place as allottees prepare to construct homes.

Guyana received $159B in oil revenues in 1st quarter of 2026

…as NRF balance stood at US$4.1B at end of April

In the first three months of 2026, Guyana earned approximately GY$159 billion (US$761.7 million) in oil revenues. According to the Fund’s first quarter report produced by the Bank of Guyana, the monies received between January and March 2026 were paid into the Natural Resources Fund (NRF), which is being held at the New York Federal Reserve Bank in the United States (US). During the quarter, the Fund accounted for total inflows to the tune of

GY$159,090,651,096.43 (US$761.7 million), comprising profit oil – GY$135.9 billion (US$650.8 million) – and royalties – GY$23.2 billion (US$110.89 million). These revenues earned between January and March were from four Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels – Liza Destiny (Liza Phase One Project), Liza Unity (Liza Phase Two), Prosperity (Payara Project), and One Guyana (Yellowtail Project) – being operated by US oil ma -

jor ExxonMobil and its co-venturers in the prolific Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

However, Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, on Friday reported that “at the end of April 2026, the balance in the NRF stood at US$4.1 billion.” Dr Singh had presented to the National Assembly earlier on Friday the notification of receipts to the National Assembly of all petroleum revenues paid into the NRF during

the period December 30, 2025, to March 31, 2026, pursuant to Section 33 (2) of the NRF Act 2021.

This notification was published in the Official Gazette on April 2, 2026, and demonstrates the Government’s continued commitment to the principles of transparency and accountability in the management of Guyana’s oil wealth. Moreover, pursuant to the NRF Act 2021, as amended by the Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) Act 2024, Parliamentary approval has been granted for some GY$495 billion (US$2.374 billion) to be withdrawn from the NRF in 2026. Already, during the first quarter, GY$83,400 million (US$400 million) was transferred from the fund to the consolidated fund account, representing 16.85 per cent of the estimated amount budgeted to be withdrawn in this year.

Transparent management

According to the Finance Ministry, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government remains committed to managing Guyana’s oil wealth transparently and responsibly, ensuring it serves both present and future generations.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s transparent and accountable management of its oil resources has been lauded by major global institutions. In its Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) commended the Government of Guyana on the progress made to strengthen the management of oil wealth and its fiscal transparency.

“The authorities have advanced in enhancing governance of the NRF and modernising public sector operations. The 2023 NRF and Public Accountability and Oversight Committee Annual Reports have been presented to the National Assembly; regular notifications of receipts of petroleum revenues, as mandated by law, are published in the Official Gazette and presented to the National Assembly; and the Bank of Guyana publishes monthly and quarterly reports of the NRF’s financial performance,” the IMF had stated.

At the beginning of 2026, the NRF had a balance of US$3.25 billion, the Finance Minister had reported in January during the presentation of the 2026 national budget. He had noted that the fund recorded inflows last year of more than US$2.4 billion, driven largely by the increased production of crude oil offshore in the Stabroek Block along with other petroleum-related payments, including royalty payments for two new oil contracts signed late in 2025.

But though Guyana inked two new oil contracts, one of the operators, Ghanabased Cybele Energy, is yet to pay its US$17 million signing bonus for oil block S7 that was awarded to it during the 2022 auction.

Only on Tuesday, Natural Resources Minister told reporters that the company has now racked up nearly US$4 million in default interest, adding that a warning has been issued to Cybele to pay up or forfeit its licence. In response, the company has promised to pay 30 per cent into

the NRF by the end of this week.

NRF Investments

Nevertheless, with more than US$4.1 billion in the NRF in April – a figure that has likely gone up and is expected to further grow – the Guyana Government is looking to invest some of the revenues earned from its burgeoning oil and gas sector in other economies. This was revealed by President Dr Irfaan Ali last month while addressing the Maple Leaf Gala hosted by the GuyanaCanada Business Chamber in Toronto.

According to the Guyanese leader, for the first time in its history, Guyana is moving closer to opportunities that would allow the country to invest in other economies.

“In our sovereign fund, our National Resource Fund, we now have to find investment opportunities. And as the fund grows, we will be looking at opportunities that are safe, give you a decent rate of return, and importantly, invest in countries and economies that share the same values, where rule of law and predictability are important factors in the way to do business,” President Ali had stated.

Currently, the four FPSO vessels are producing more than 900,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) in the Stabroek Block, and production is expected to further ramp up when Exxon’s fifth offshore development, Uaru, starts up later this year using the Errea Wittu FPSO to pump 250,000 barrels of oil per day.

Govt tables bill to reinstate benefits for ex-Presidents

…repeal APNU/AFC restrictions

The Government on Friday began the legislative process which seeks to formalise the benefits and services available to former Heads of State for the remainder of their lifetime and repeal the amendments made by A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) in 2019 to the 2009 law, as the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill 2026 was tabled in the National Assembly.

Tabled by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, and read for the first time yesterday, the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill 2026 outlines a comprehensive package of entitlements for individuals who have held this nation’s highest office by restoring the 2009 legislative framework.

“Every person who has held the Office of

President and ceased to hold that office by virtue of the provisions of Article 92 of the Constitution or otherwise shall, during the remainder of his or her lifetime, be entitled to the following – (a) the provision of water, electricity and telephone services at his or her place of residence in Guyana; (b) services of personal household staff, including an attendant and a gardener; (c) services of clerical and technical staff, if requested,” the Bill states. Further, Section two continues “…(d) free medical attendance and medical treatment or reimbursement of medical expenses incurred by him or her for his or her medical attendance or treatment and that of any dependant members of his or her family; (e) full-time personal security and services of the Presidential Guard Service at his or her place of residence; (f) the provision of motor vehicles owned and maintained by the State; (g) toll-free road transporta -

tion in Guyana.”

Following the reading of the bill in the House, the Ministry of Finance said that the legislation seeks to repeal the 2015 amendments introduced by the APNU/AFC Coalition and restore the framework first established in 2009, thus restoring a standard of dignity to former Presidents.

The Ministry said that the bill will “restore a single, predictable standard governing the benefits afforded to those who have held the nation’s highest office”, even as it emphasised that the presidency is not a role that ends with demission but one that carries lifelong obligations and representational duties.

“These benefits exist to reflect the continuing obligations of the presidency itself, including the representational duties and security considerations that follow a head of state long after the term has ended,” the Ministry’s statement said. The 2009 legislation provided for -

mer Presidents with coverage of all utility expenses at their residence, household staff, transportation and security, and free medical attention for themselves and their dependants.

However, the 2015 amendments capped medical coverage at $200,000 annually and introduced restrictions that could strip benefits if a former President engaged in private business or employ -

ment, measures that the Ministry believes are “flawed” and politically motivated. Underscoring that the presidency, as an institution, requires continuity of respect and support, the repealing now of the 2015 law also seeks fairness and consistency. “A stable framework, applied equally to every President who has served, serves the country far better than rules drafted to suit the politics

of a passing moment,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry also highlighted that the move to repeal the 2015 amendments with the current proposals was done with “responsible stewardship of public resources”. “The Government reaffirms its commitment to a benefits regime that is clear, consistent and worthy of the office it serves,” the Ministry said.

Guyana Development Bank bill officially laid in Parliament

The anticipated legislation to establish a Guyana Development Bank (GDB) was officially laid in the National Assembly on Friday, with Minister with responsibility for Finance Dr Ashni Singh, presenting the Bill for its first reading. The proposed law sets out a comprehensive framework for the creation of the state-owned development finance institution aimed primarily at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and advancing broader national economic development objectives.

The legislation sets the authorised capital of the bank at $40 billion while also granting the Minister authority, “by order subject to negative resolution of the National Assembly”, to amend the capital amount. It further provides that “The bank shall be exempt from the payment of tax on the profits and income of the bank.” In terms of lending, the Bill imposes a ceiling stating that “the bank shall not provide loans exceeding three million dollars to any person or enterprise”, although this limit may also be adjusted through ministerial order subject to Parliamentary

scrutiny. According to the Bill’s explanatory memorandum, “This Bill seeks to establish the Guyana Development Bank as a statutory body corporate to provide financing and support for small and medium-sized enterprises in Guyana and to promote national economic development.”

The memorandum outlines that the bank will

be established as a body corporate with “perpetual succession and the capacity to sue and be sued” and will be mandated to promote and facilitate SME growth through financing and technical support. It also states that the institution will be restricted from engaging in activities such as deposit-taking from the general public and speculative trading. Under the

proposed legislation, the bank will be governed by a board of directors of “not less than five and nor more than nine” directors, all of whom will be appointed by the finance Minister. The Minister will also be exclusively responsible for appointing the chairperson and deputy chairperson of the board. Directors will serve terms “not exceeding three years and may be reappointed” and will receive remuneration and allowances as determined by the minister.

“Development Bank Board of Directors to be based on qualifications, experience in finance, economics, banking and law,” the Bill noted. The Bill outlines that the Bank’s financial year will align with the Government’s fiscal calendar and that it must maintain proper accounts and records. These accounts are to be audited annually by the auditor general in accordance with existing audit legislation.

It also specifies that the institution “shall not be subject to the Financial Institutions Act”, instead being governed by its own enabling law and associated regulations.

Stronger enforcement provisions are included under the bill, with pen -

alties for breaches. The legislation introduces offences relating to false information, obstruction, destruction of records, misuse of funds, and improper disclosure of confidential information. “Any person who commits an offence… is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than five million dollars and not more than 10 million dollars,” the Bill notes. It further went on to address corporations and representatives of corporations that are liable for offences.

“Where an offence under the Act is committed by a body corporate, the body corporate is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than $5 million and not more than $10 million,” it said.

“Where an offence committed by a body corporate under this Act is proved to have been committed with the consent or connivance of, or to be attributable to neglect on the part of, a director, manager, secretary, or other similar officer of the body corporate, that person also commits the defence and is liable to the penalty prescribed…”

The explanatory memorandum emphasises that the bank is intended to function as a development

finance institution focused on SMEs, outlining that its core purpose is to “provide financing and support for small and medium-sized enterprises in Guyana and to promote national economic development”. It further details functions that include lending, collaboration with financial institutions and development partners and the provision of technical, managerial and advisory services to enterprises. The Bill will now proceed through the Parliamentary process, where it is expected to undergo further debate and scrutiny before being passed into law.

David Rose school abuse case

Disciplinary action hearing by TSC to conclude within 10 days – Education Minister

The disciplinary process involving two teachers accused of mistreating a student at the David Rose Special Education Needs School is expected to be concluded within the next 10 days, according to Education Minister Sonia Parag, who provided an update on the matter via social media on Friday, revealing that the Education Ministry has already submitted its investigation file to the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) for consideration and action.

Last week, two teachers from the David Rose Special Education Needs School were seen abusing students on camera, sparking widespread public concern. Parag stated in her update on the matter that information provided by the commission indicates that the matter will be addressed in a timely manner. The Minister stated in her update on the matter that information provided by the commission indicates that the matter will be addressed in a timely manner.

“The teaching service commission has advised that the disciplinary hearing process should be concluded within the next ten days.

The Ministry will continue to cooperate fully with the commission and provide any addi-

tional information required to facilitate the timely completion of the proceedings.” The Minister also made it clear that the wider public must understand the important role played by the TSC when it comes to exercising disciplinary control over teachers.

“It is important for the public to understand that while the Ministry of Education is responsible for the management and oversight of the education system, the authority to appoint, exercise disciplinary control over and remove teachers employed in non-board schools rests with the Teaching Service Commission.”

“Article 209(1) of the constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana provides that, subject to the constitution, ‘the power to appoint persons as teachers in the public service, and to remove and exercise disciplinary control over persons holding or acting in such offices, shall vest in the Teaching Service Commission.’ As such, the commission is the constitutional body empowered to determine the disciplinary proceedings arising from this matter.”

According to the Minister, steps have also been taken to strengthen oversight and governance at the institution. A Board of Governors has now

been established for the David Rose Special Education Needs School, with representation that includes parents, to enhance accountability, supervision and engagement between the school and the families it serves.

The Minister also reaffirmed that her office is working closely with the family to ensure that the affected student receives the support necessary for his well-being, recovery and continued learning in a safe environment. Providing further updates, the Minister noted that during her first visit to the school on May 29, she personally met with affected parents, guardians and the head teacher.

“The purpose of that visit was to listen directly to the concerns of families, offer reassurance that the matter would be treated with the utmost seriousness and ensure that immediate support mechanisms were put in place for the student affected.” Since then, the Education Ministry has also met with members of staff at the school, the executive of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), and the wider PTA body as part of efforts to gather information, strengthen communication and ensure that all stakeholders remain fully engaged in the process.

Govt launches push to

Titles and ownership

Croal also announced that more than 550 certificates of title were available for distribution during Friday’s exercise. Of that figure, more than 330 titles relate to lands at Experiment, while another 189 are linked to the Blairmont-Shieldstown area. An additional 20 titles are expected to benefit persons occupying lands in regularised areas within Blairmont.

The Minister said Region Five has recorded significant progress in title processing, with more than 1000 titles processed during the last period. He explained that while title processing involves agencies outside of the Housing Ministry, including the Land Registry and Deeds Registry, measures introduced by Government have significantly reduced waiting times.

“When we came in as a Government, your titles were taking longer than six months,” Croal said. “We have engaged a registrar; we have a methodology; we have added staff from our end; they have added staff from their end; and the time period we are now working with for processing of titles is three months.” For many of the beneficiaries, receiving their land titles marked the end of years of waiting and uncertainty.

“I feel happy and grateful.”

Among them was 44-yearold Antras Pasar of Experiment, who said he first applied in 2012. Having already started construction on his home, Pasar said receiving the title now provides security for his family and future generations.

“I feel happy and grateful,” he said, noting that the document gives him something tangible that can one day be passed on to his three children. Savika Dayal, who applied in 2019, described the occasion as both exciting and relieving.

“I was getting out of patience because I really needed a lot,” she admitted. Dayal said she has already begun building and believes obtaining the title is an important personal achievement.

“It means a lot. At least I have something to be accomplished,” she said. Retna Sempo, who said she has been waiting since around 2014, was equally pleased to finally receive the document.

“I’m feeling so good that I got my title right now,” she said, explaining that it will allow her to begin building a home for her family. Sempo is the mother of seven children. Another beneficiary, Devotee Singh of Experiment, who applied in 2015, said the title represents a major milestone for her young family.

“I feel so happy because for me personally, I am happy to achieve something. This is a big stepping stone for me and my family,” Singh said. The mother of a four-year-old son explained that home ownership would provide stability and free her family from having to move from place to place.

“So that now I can own my own home and I don’t have to move places and stuff like that,” she added.

Support for home construc-

COVID-19 cases reported at GuySuCo Training School

…residential facility temporarily closed

Several students attached to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Training School at Port Mourant, Corentyne, have tested positive for COVID-19, prompting the temporary closure of the residential facility and the dispersal of students.

Information reaching this publication on Friday indicated that students who tested positive for COVID-19 have been placed in quarantine, while the remaining students, who reside at the institution, were sent home on Friday as a precautionary measure.

Students were reportedly advised to return on Wednesday but were instructed to contact the institution beforehand to ensure that conditions are safe and that normal operations can resume.

The exact number of positive cases could not be independently confirmed. However, sources familiar with the situation described it as a “significant” number.

The GuySuCo Training School serves students from various parts of the country who reside on campus while pursuing technical and vocational training.

Efforts to contact Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) Regional Health Officer Dr Vineshri Khirodhar for a comment on the situation proved unsuccessful. Calls and messages seeking clarification on the number of cases, any contact-tracing measures, and the involvement of public health officials went unanswered up to press time.

The development comes just days after Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said Guyana had not detected the NB.1.8.1 COVID-19 variant, which has attracted global attention, but noted that health authorities remain vigilant and continue to monitor developments closely. The Minister had urged continued awareness of the disease, even though COVID-19 no longer commands the same level of public attention seen during the height of the pandemic.

GuyOil marks 50 years with “We have fuel always” assurance

…launches customer appreciation promotion

GFROM PAGE 13

tion

The Minister also highlighted Government’s steel and cement voucher initiative, which provides assistance to persons constructing homes on newly acquired lands.

According to Croal, more than 90 Region Five residents were expected to benefit from the programme during Friday’s exercise, representing approximately $21 million in direct support. He said more than $73 million had already been distributed under the initiative in Region Five. The programme was introduced to assist homeowners with foundation works and help accelerate home construction.

Expansion

Meanwhile, Croal used the opportunity to announce plans for further housing expansion in the eastern section of Region Five. While noting that house lots remain available in the Borma area, he disclosed that Government is actively seeking additional lands for the development of a housing scheme within the Mahaicony area. “We are currently working to identify or to acquire some lands to develop a housing scheme within the Mahaicony precinct,” the Minister announced.

“For those who are listening in Region Five and asking what happened to them at that end, we haven’t forgotten you.” The announcement is expected to bring relief to residents of eastern Region Five, many of whom have been calling for housing developments closer to their communities.

uyOil’s General Manager on Friday said that the company remains fully prepared to serve customers, stressing that “we have fuel always” as it continues to deliver reliable service at the pump.

Speaking on operations at GuyOil, she said the organisation’s success is built on trust, consistency, and a people-centred approach, with both customers and staff at the heart of its service delivery.

The Guyana Oil Company Limited (GuyOil) is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Established on June 16, 1976, GUYOIL is the largest state-owned oil company in Guyana’s downstream petroleum sector, operating a network of over 56 service stations across the country.

The celebratory event kicked off earlier today at the company’s Regent Street branch, bringing together employees and stakeholders in observance of the milestone.

The General Manager of GuyOil, Molly Hassan, expressed pride in the company’s journey over the years, noting that the achievement is not only about longevity but also reflects the brand’s stability and the trust it has built with customers.

“We, our company, we have fuel. We always have fuel, because we are GuyOil, and the leadership comes through what happens at the pump. That is the proof of the pudding – the delivery of services at the pump. Our success has been built on trust, reliability, and the people. We are a people-centred company, and it’s always the people. We put people first at GuyOil – our customers and our peo-

ple. We have happy people at GuyOil.”

She further expressed appreciation for the support shown by customers throughout the six to seven weeks of continuous engagement surrounding the company’s 50th anniversary promotion, describing it as a way of giving back to loyal customers.

“We have people, our valued employees, who work hard tirelessly every day serving customers at the pumps. Our gratitude also goes to those customers we serve, as well as our non-service employees. It’s already 50 years – it’s truly remarkable. It’s not just about longevity at GuyOil; it also signifies stability, expertise, and trust earned from our loyal customers, all the lovely people who show up at our service stations every day, and our staff who serve every single day. Rain or shine, we are here to serve. Regent Street is a 24hour gas station. We operate three shifts here, starting from 6am.”

“Drive Into 50” promotion

Meanwhile, a GuyOil staff member speaking at the

event highlighted the company’s “Drive Into 50” promotion, through which customers have the chance to win a Toyota Rush.

Customers purchasing from GuyOil are being encouraged to fill out coupons for a chance to win a range of prizes in the company’s ongoing promotion.

According to company representatives, entries placed in the promotional box will qualify customers for a grand prize of a Toyota Rush, a weekend trip for two to Panama, and a getaway for two to the Arorad Forest Lodge for nature lovers. The promotion also features 50 consolation prizes, including laptops, air fryers, microwaves, grocery vouchers, spa packages, dinner for two, food processors, local tours, and gift bundles aimed at enhancing everyday living.

Officials said the initiative reflects GuyOil’s continued commitment to giving back to customers, noting that leadership support has helped expand the range of rewards available under the promotion.

“Terrorist” label for Brazilian gangs risks higher business costs

Canada to provide funding to Caribbean through GAIA climate loan fund

The US designation of Brazil’s biggest criminal groups as Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTOs) starting Friday is likely to increase the risks and costs of doing business in a country where gangs have had years to penetrate the formal economy.

The two biggest Brazilian crime syndicates, the Comando Vermelho (CV) and Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), began as prison gangs in the late 1970s and early 1990s, respectively. They have since grown to dominate the drug trade across South America, with money laundering operations sprawling into far corners of Brazil’s mainstream economy.

Investigators recently found both groups burrowing deep into sectors such as fuel distribution, real estate and finance, spawning fraud as they launder billions in drug profits.

The terrorist designation for the gangs, announced in Washington last week and rejected by Brazil’s Government, opens the door for heavy US sanctions, criminal probes and civil liability even for firms that deal indirectly with the groups.

Asset freezes, banking restrictions and greater regulatory scrutiny are also on the table, Brazilian law firm Pinheiro Neto Advogados said in a note.

The US policy “inter-

nationalises a risk that the Brazilian financial sector was already obligated to manage”, said Rodrigo Caldas de Carvalho Borges, a partner at law firm CBA Advogados. “The most immediate impact will be a deepening of due diligence processes and higher demands from international partners.”

The risks – and costs of compliance – extend far beyond financial services. From logistics and infrastructure to mining, agribusiness, gambling and cash-heavy consumer franchises, few sectors of the Brazilian economy have escaped the gangs’ money laundering schemes. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US imposes new sanctions on Cuban President, Castro family members

The United States has announced fresh economic sanctions on Cuba’s President and some of his immediate family, alongside members of the Castro family, in Washington’s latest ramping up of pressure on its communist-led neighbour.

Among those targeted were the son and a grandson of former President Raúl Castro, who no longer holds an official position but remains a key figure on decisions about the future of the island.

President Miguel DíazCanel, his wife and stepson were also hit by the latest Treasury Department sanctions issued on Thursday, as were the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and several other entities.

The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, said on X that the US was “targeting the network that enables and funds Cuba’s subversive and radical operations” because the US would “no longer tolerate radical Marxist regimes” exporting their “poisonous and evil ‘revolution’” to the US and elsewhere.

Rubio said sanctions now applied to the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba, the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples, Amistur Cuba, and the committees for the defence of the revolution.

The Treasury’s latest actions also follow a move in 2025 when Washington restricted visas for the Cuban President and other high-ranking Government officials.

Trump has repeatedly signalled that the Cuban Government could be next after Venezuela to fall to US pressure. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

St Lucia: Eastern Caribbean labs link up for faster outbreak response

Efforts to strengthen disease surveillance, outbreak detection, and response in the Eastern Caribbean have begun following a recent meeting on tier-based laboratory networks organised by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

The meeting at the Harbour Club Hotel in Saint Lucia brought together healthcare and laboratory professionals from the Eastern Caribbean, as well as representatives from sub-regional reference labs and international partners.

The consultation aimed to help stakeholders under-

stand what is required to develop a tier-based laboratory network that complies with the International Health Regulations (IHR) and the Universal Health (UH) standards.

A tier-based laboratory system is a network of labs, ranging from community clinics to national and regional reference centres. This system is designed to enable faster, fairer and more reliable disease detection and response.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Glensford Joseph said the consultation came at a good time for Saint Lucia, as it allowed engagement with other Organisation of Eastern

Caribbean States (OECS) member states to strengthen laboratory services.

He also said the Ministry of Health values this consultation because it helps refine policies and action plans to improve laboratory systems. This will support Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and better outbreak preparedness.

PAHO hopes that, through stakeholder consultation, countries in the Eastern Caribbean, such as Saint Lucia, Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines, will make progress in developing a tiered laboratory system to better serve their people.

(Excerpt from St Lucia Times)

Canada says it will deploy an estimated US$97 million through the GAIA Climate Loan Fund, which is designed to provide long-term loans for climate adaptation and mitigation projects across emerging markets and developing economies.

It specifically targets regions highly vulnerable to climate change, including Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

A Government statement issued Thursday following talks between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley said Canada viewed the GAIA Climate Loan Fund, the landmark blended finance platform co-created by FinDev Canada and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), with support from the Green Climate Fund, as a platform to reduce the burden of public dollars by adding private and philanthropic financing to fund development projects.

The statement said

that two leaders welcomed the announcement earlier this week that the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank Board of Directors had the firstloss portfolio credit guarantee with the Government of Canada.

Carney had announced the initiative at the last G7 Leaders’ Summit in June last year, and the CDB said that the US$200 million guarantee will significantly strengthen the bank’s ability to deliver development financing across the Caribbean.

“Working alongside the Government of Canada, this will expand financing for Caribbean development, as announced at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis,” the statement said, adding that Canada has contributed CA$170 million (one CAD = US$0.72) to the Clean Energy and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Resilience Facility. The facility, managed by the World Bank, supports projects to reduce emissions, support clean energy, and better prepare for natural disasters. (Excerpt from Nation News)

A&B: Police probe EC$100,000 electronic banking fraud

Police are investigating an alleged electronic banking fraud after a Paradise View resident reported that EC$100,000 was removed from two of his bank accounts.

The man told the Criminal Investigations Department that EC$50,000 was trans-

ferred from his account at Antigua Commercial Bank and another EC$50,000 from an account at Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank.

Police said the unauthorised transactions occurred on June 2.

Detectives have interviewed the complainant and are tracing the transactions as part of an ongoing investigation. Senior officers have been briefed on the matter while enquiries continue into how the funds were withdrawn. The case is believed to be one of the largest reported electronic banking fraud incidents investigated by Police in recent months. (Antigua Newsroom)

Coast Guard seizes dinghy in Bahamas Lynette Hooker allegedly “bounced off”

The eight-foot dinghy that Brian Hooker says he and his wife, Lynette Hooker, were aboard when she disappeared in the Bahamas in early April was seized by US Coast Guard investigators on Thursday.

CBS News captured the moment the dinghy was taken by a tender boat back to a US Coast Guard cutter.

An investigator with the Coast Guard Investigative Service was seen aboard the dinghy, surveying it and holding up a life jacket. A cadaver dog was also seen with investigators.

The dinghy could provide insight into what happened the night 55-yearold Lynette Hooker of Michigan disappeared.

Brian Hooker, who reported her missing on April 5, initially told investigators his wife “bounced off” the dinghy during rough waters.

He said the couple had

gone for a night time ride aboard the dinghy from Elbow Cay in the Bahamas when she fell overboard and was swept away in the current with the keys to the boat, forcing him to paddle back to shore.

GPS data from an electronic device seized by authorities appears to differ from his account of what happened that night, which has sparked this new search in the Bahamas.

The sailboat the couple was using in their travels around the Bahamas was seized by the Coast Guard last month. (CBS News)

Brian Hooker was initially detained by Bahamian authorities but released after five days of questioning. He has since returned to the US. He has not been charged with a crime and denies any wrongdoing. However, Lynette Hooker has not yet been found.

Around the World Putin says “no point” meeting Zelenskyy over ending Ukraine war

Global oil inventories depleted; next price spike could roil economies, markets

Global oil inventories are running dangerously low as a deal to reopen tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has proved elusive, and industry executives and analysts warn there could be another oil price shock in the coming weeks, severe enough to upset broader financial markets.

Some fear the next move higher for oil prices would pose a risk to economic growth, bond yields and the bull market for stocks.

“We’re approaching unheard-of inventory levels. I mean, really, really low levels. You can debate whether that’s going to hit those really low levels in two weeks or three weeks. But once you get to that point, you’ll see prices shoot up,” Neil Chapman, ExxonMobil senior vice President, said at the Bernstein conference in New York on May 28.

Chapman said that if inventory levels get much lower, dated Brent, which is used to price more than 60 per cent of globally traded crude, could rise to US$150 or US$160 a barrel.

Crude inventories and strategic reserve releases have kept oil prices somewhat under control in the four months that the war with Iran has kept supplies from reaching much of the world. Crude futures have been trading below US$100 a barrel despite the strait remaining effectively closed.

For days, US President Donald Trump has said a deal to reopen the strait is imminent. But so far it has been elusive, and warnings from the oil industry have gotten sharper. (Excerpt from Reuters)

“Family values” African charter condemned by rights groups as regressive, dangerous

An African treaty that rejects longstanding international human rights obligations moved a step closer to becoming policy this week as Governments across the continent met in Ghana.

The draft African charter on family, sovereignty, and values asserts that African values and culture are under attack from “foreign ideologies” and urges states to withdraw from any agreements that do not align with the principles of the charter, including the 2003 Maputo protocol, which promotes gender equality and protects the reproductive and health rights of women and girls.

The charter is the first attempt to impose a continent-wide legal framework rooted in a moralistic rather than rights-based viewpoint. It claims that sexual and reproductive health and rights are an existential threat to the African family

and falsely states that policies based on these rights promote abortion on demand.

African legal experts and reproductive rights groups’ advocates have condemned the charter as regressive and dangerous.

In an extensive analysis of the draft, the Initiative for Strategic Litigation in Africa (ISLA), argues that prioritising the family over the individual “risks legitimising the subordination of women, children and adolescents to collective family interests and insulating private family relations from state accountability, especially in situations involving violence, coercion, or discrimination”.

Lakshita Kanhiya, a legal officer at ISLA, said, “Women will no longer be safe; children will not be safe.” (Excerpt from The Guardian)

ussian President

RVladimir Putin has said he does not see any point in meeting Volodymyr Zelenskyy after the Ukrainian leader requested face-to-face talks over ending the war between the two nations.

Zelenskyy sent an open letter on Thursday calling for direct negotiations with Putin, writing that it was “wrong to simply wait” for the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, to become the focus of US attention once more.

The Ukrainian President also requested a ceasefire.

Putin called the note “rude” and refused the request for a meeting, reiterating

his position that peace talks should precede any ceasefire. “I don’t see any point for

now,” he said when asked whether he would take up Zelenskyy’s offer.

After hearing Putin’s response, Zelenskyy said Russia “was choosing war again”.

“He just doesn’t want to end the war. I think that many in the world were disappointed by this answer,” he wrote on Telegram.

During his remarks addressing Zelenskyy’s letter, Putin restated his position that a ceasefire would only allow Ukraine to regroup, while concessions Moscow is seeking from Kyiv remain unmet. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Iran declares support for Hezbollah with wider peace deal in doubt

Iran has reaffirmed support for its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and demanded that Israel withdraw from southern Lebanon, underscoring complications facing an interim deal to end the broader conflict between the US and Iran.

Tehran has made a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah a condition for any peace deal with Washington to resolve the regional war, now in its fourth month, and restart shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The latest round of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel erupted at the start of

March, two days after the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran. Hezbollah said its actions were in support of Tehran. “This war will end only when it ends in Lebanon as well,” Iranian Foreign

Minister Abbas Araqchi told Lebanese TV station Al Mayadeen late on Thursday.

“The end of the war on Lebanon must be accompanied by the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territories they have occupied,” he said.

The comments came after Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected a USbrokered pact between Israel and the Lebanese Government to halt the fighting in Lebanon. The deal did not provide for an Israeli withdrawal, and Hezbollah had not been a party to the negotiations. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Judge strikes down Trump bar on asylum, visa processing for 39 countries

Afederal Judge has struck sweeping restrictions imposed by the Administration of US President Donald Trump on immigration processing for 39 countries.

The ruling on Friday by District Judge John McConnell condemned the restrictions imposed in November 2025, following the Washington, DC, shooting of two National Guard members.

McConnell said the policy ef-

fectively barred citizens from 39 countries from receiving final decisions on asylum cases, green cards, work approval and citizenship applications.

The change “threw the lives of countless immigrants living in the US into indeterminate legal limbo”, he wrote in the ruling.

McConnell particularly took issue with the Trump Administration’s claims that the restrictions were needed to address national security concerns.

He said US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) used “pretextual concerns of ‘national security’ that mask anti-immigrant sentiments”.

“USCIS’s hold on adjudications cannot be attributed to anything that these individuals did wrong; rather, it arises solely by the happenstance of their birth,” the Judge said.

“Over six months later, many of those individuals remain without work, without legal sta-

tus, and without any meaningful ability to plan for their futures,” McConnell said.

The 39 countries in question are located predominantly in Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

Trump had campaigned on pledges to oversee a mass deportation campaign to expel undocumented individuals living in the US but has increasingly targeted legal immigration pathways. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Thieves who stole 2500-year-old gold relics from museum get sentenced

Three men were each sentenced to 47 months in prison for the theft of an ornate Romanian gold helmet and bracelets in a raid on a Dutch museum.

The Northern Netherlands District Court said the three men, whose identities were not released in line with privacy rules, warranted a custodial sentence “because of the nature and gravity” of their crime.

The robbers used explosives to force open a door

during the overnight heist in January last year, the Drents Museum previously said. Security video distributed by Police after the raid showed three people opening a door with a large crowbar, followed by an explosion.

The Cotofenesti helmet and three golden bracelets –some of Romania’s most revered national treasures from the Dacia civilisation – were stolen while they were on loan for an exhibition.

Cornel Constantin Ilie,

the interim Director of Bucharest’s National History Museum, described the items as “relics of our historical memory, as the legacy of a civilisation that continues to define us”.

The helmet and two of the bracelets were found after prosecutors agreed a deal with two of the thieves in return for a lower sentencing demand by prosecutors. The third bracelet is still missing.

The bracelets were returned in “perfect condition”,

according to museum officials, while the helmet had a tiny bit of damage that was “very difficult even to see”. The court said the treasures were insured for about $6.6 million but added, “That is just a number, whereas the importance and value of objects like these cannot be expressed in money. “They are, in a literal sense, priceless.” The recovered artefacts have been returned to Romania. (Excerpt from CBS News)

Take a moment to digest what’s unfolding around you. Question, assess and say no to anything that causes doubt. Be passionate about what you do and say, and you’ll be the one to captivate your audience. Truth matters, and so does taking care of business. Be the adult at the table and the one to shun overindulgence.

Deep breaths in and out will help you ward off anxiety that comes with uncertainty. When something isn’t clear, ask for more details. Align yourself with people who are on the same page as you and who are eager to implement the changes necessary to make life easier. Love and romance are favored.

Put pressure on yourself to do better. How you present your beliefs and the changes you want to bring about will make a difference to the outcome. Do your research; there is no room for error. Keep your plans reasonable and your word reliable. Question credibility and those trying to rewrite history. Be the solution, not the problem.

Don’t waffle; the sooner you take care of your responsibilities, the easier it will be to deal with criticism or someone trying to make you look bad. Carefully choose the information you share. An exaggerated point of view could end up costing you emotionally, financially or physically. Concentrate on how you look and feel, and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Live and learn. Experience is the best teacher. Your generous attitude and helping hand will put you in the spotlight, impressing someone you’ll enjoy getting to know better. Reach out, assist and be sure to do what you say. Having the discipline and integrity to match your words will make the difference in how much you achieve.

Timing is everything, and by picking the right moment, you can sway how others feel and what they choose to do. A kind gesture, remark or offer will set the stage for what’s to come. Learn to put your energy where it commands the most attention and highest return. You can be low-key and still push your agenda.

Bypass anyone who stands in your way. Make unexpected changes that will separate you from the crowd. Social settings will give you a chance to pick up on what others are up to. Knowing how to please others to get what you want will pay off. Anger offers negative results and setbacks, while positive actions help build respect.

Explore your options, and put your energy into something you love doing. Whether it’s physical, mental or expanding your options through networking, educational pursuits or travel, pursue what makes you happy. Fact-check information to avoid taking the wrong path. Physical improvements will fetch compliments, and love and romance are on the rise.

Invite change into your life. You need to shake things up if you want to get what you desire in your life. Focus on eliminating what brings you down and holds you back, and turn your attention to lowering your overhead and choosing a lifestyle or professional change that boosts your earning potential.

Fix up your surroundings to make your life easier. The difference a functional space makes will encourage you to entertain more and ensure those you live with appreciate your thoughtfulness. Opportunities will unfold as more people recognize what you can offer. Let your charm lead the way. Getting closer to someone you love looks promising.

Money management will pay off. What you budget for will help bring about changes at home that make your life less cumbersome. Whether it’s steering the dynamics of the personalities around you or decluttering to give yourself space to follow your dreams, the outcome favors you. Take one step at a time; get your facts straight.

You may feel like celebrating, but before you do, consider the cost involved and the labor-intensive recovery you are likely to face. Choose your battles wisely and only change what’s necessary. A social event will broaden your circle of friends and encourage a positive lifestyle change. Romance doesn’t have to be costly; let affection lead the way.

Republic Bank’s Five for Fun lands in Barbados

The exciting Cricket West Indies (CWI) and Republic Bank Limited Five for Fun cricket programme was officially launched in Barbados, bringing smiles and excitement to hundreds of primary school pupils and key stakeholders.

After successful editions in St Lucia, Guyana, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Kitts and Nevis, the programme has now arrived in Barbados for its historic first season. A total of 60 primary schools from across the island are targeted to take part.

Designed for children between the ages of seven and 12, the Five for Fun format focuses on enjoyment, inclusion, teamwork, and the development of basic cricket skills in a fun outdoor environment.

The symbolic launch ceremony was held on Wednesday, May 27, at the Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium. Present at the event were representatives of the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA), former West Indies cricketers Vasbert Drakes and Kurt Wilkinson, current Barbados and West Indies player Chemar Holder, and pupils from Bayley’s Primary, Blackman and Gollop Primary, Good Shepherd Primary, West Terrace Primary, and Luther Thorne Memorial Primary.

Also attending on behalf of Republic Bank Barbados were Carlene Seudat, Managing Director & CEO, and other members of the Senior Management Team, Steven Jordan, Sharon Zephirin, Joy Inniss, and

Sasha Shillingford.

Cricket Operations and Development Manager of the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA), Wendell Coppin, welcomed the initiative and said the programme is designed to inspire the next generation of Barbadian and West Indian cricketers.

“This year marks an exciting milestone as Republic Bank Five for Fun makes its debut in Barbados.

The Barbados Cricket Association is proud to partner with Republic Bank and Cricket West Indies in delivering this all-important primary school initiative.

We are thrilled to have close to 60 schools participating in this inaugural year, with scheduled training sessions being conducted by coaches from the National Sports Council alongside Barbados Cricket Association coaches. Students will also have the unique opportunity to interact with and be inspired by visits from national senior team cricketers throughout the programme.

We believe this initiative will play an important role in strengthening grassroots cricket development in Barbados, and we are eagerly anticipating Zonal Playoff matches and the National Festival Finals carded for

October, where the students will have the opportunity to showcase their progress and celebrate the spirit of the game.”

Chief Executive Officer of the BCA, Paul Skinner, also praised Republic Bank Limited for introducing the programme in Barbados at

TTucber Park Cricket Club congratulates Under-19 quartet on National call-up

Micah Amsterdam, Thierry Henry, Jayhayden Rohlehr and Gilbert Griffith Jr on their selection to the Guyana Under-19 Squad. Gilbert Griffith Jr finished the just-concluded Under-19 Inter-county as the leading wicket-taker, while wicketkeeper Thierry Henry bagged the most dismissals. Both Rohlehr and Amsterdam bowled with good pace and were highly touted among the tournament’s best fast bowlers.

ucber Park Cricket Club (TPCC) will have four young cricketers that will play for Guyana at the

West Indies Rising Stars Regional Under-19 tournament.

The executives and members of the TPCC extend congratulations to

The 23-man squad will be engaged in a pre-tournament encampment before the final fourteen-member team departs for Antigua on July 7. Tucber Park continues to produce national and international players.

Zeynul Ramsammy, who made his first-class debut, was the most recent senior production from the club. West Indies duo Romario Shepherd and Shamar Joseph, along with Nial Smith, who is at the West Indies High Performance clinic for fast bowlers, continue to fly the Tucber Park flag high. The selected players are Justin Dowlin, Jonathan Mentore, Shamar Apple, Joshua Budram, Darwin Joseph, Dhanesh Persaud, Micah Amsterdam, Parmeshwar Ram, Romario Ramdeholl, Adrian Hetmyer, Razam Koober, Yannick Newton, Gilbert Griffith, Feaz Baksh, Richard Ramdeholl, Dave Mohabir, Thierry Henry, Khush Seegobin, Gibran Yacoob, Emmanuel Lewis, Jayhayden Rohler, Darrius Pearson, and Shazim Mohamed.

an important time for youth cricket development.

“This programme is not a standalone initiative but a key component of the national cricket development strategy. Through the collaborative efforts of the Barbados Cricket Association and Cricket West Indies, alongside the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Sport, cricket clubs, and other sporting and cricketing organisations, we are committed to ensuring that the talented boys and girls emerging from this programme are provided with the training opportunities and competitive pathways necessary for both individual and collective growth. It remains essential that national stakeholders continue to work together to ensure that cricket development pathways across the region are properly resourced, strengthened, and sustained for future generations.

To Republic Bank, we extend our sincere gratitude, as this initiative would not be possible without your unwavering commitment and shared belief in youth development. Your investment in the young people of Barbados and the wider Caribbean through the sport of cricket will not only be reflected in future appearances on some of the world’s biggest cricketing stages but also in the cultivation of responsible, innovative, and progressive citizens who will make meaningful contributions to the advancement of our society.”

A major highlight from the launch came when it was announced that every participating pupil would receive a RightStart account from Republic Bank Barbados with BB$50 already deposited, news that was met with loud applause from the students in attendance.

Additionally, members

of the inaugural national championship team will each receive BB$200 added to their RightStart accounts, while runners-up will receive BB$150 each.

Managing Director and CEO of Republic Bank Barbados, Carlene Seudat, also spoke proudly about the growing partnership between Republic Bank and Cricket West Indies and the positive impact the programme continues to have on young people across the region.

“At Republic Bank, we believe that building strong communities starts with investing in our youth. Today’s launch is not just about cricket. It is about opportunity, development, and shaping the future of our region, one child at a time. Here in Barbados and the West Indies, cricket is more than a sport. It is part of our identity. It is woven into our culture, our history, and our pride as a people.

We have produced worldclass players who have carried the West Indies flag with distinction. Players like Shai Hope, Carlos Brathwaite, Jason Holder, and Hayley Matthews, who began their journeys just like the children gathered here today, with a bat, a ball, and a dream.” The tournament bowls off with schools’ training and coaching sessions in June and July, while the zonal playoffs are scheduled for September 2026 and the National Festival Finals carded for October 2026. The launch ceremony was hosted by Joel Manning, who is a Republic Bank Barbados ambassador.

Barbados becomes the fifth and final territory to launch the Republic Bank Five for Fun Programme in 2026, following launches in Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Lucia.

Top-of-the-table clash headlines U-13 League action

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/ East Coast Demerara Football Association (ECDFA) Youth Ensemble

Under-13 League continues this Saturday at the Buxton Ground with five intriguing fixtures set to shape the early standings in the competition’s second round.

After two rounds of matches, Melanie Football Club (FC) sit comfortably at the top of the table with a perfect six points from two games, scoring eight goals while conceding just twice. However, with several teams hot on their heels, this weekend’s fixtures could significantly alter the standings.

The headline fixture

at 11:00h. sees leaders Melanie FC take on Buxton Stars, who are currently second with four points. Buxton remain unbeaten after recording one win and one draw and boast one of the league’s strongest defensive records, conceding only once so far.

Melanie’s free-scoring attack has been the standout feature of the season to date, but Buxton Stars will believe they have the organisation and discipline to halt the leaders’ momentum. A victory for Buxton would see them leapfrog Melanie and throw the title race wide open.

The action gets underway at 10:00h. when Ann’s Grove United face

Mahaica Determinators.

Ann’s Grove have endured a difficult start, losing both of their opening matches and sitting ninth in the standings. Mahaica Determinators have collected one point from two games and will view this encounter as an opportunity to climb away from the lower end of the table. With both teams desperate for a positive result, an evenly contested battle is expected.

At noon, Mahaicony Western Lions meet Victoria Kings FC. Victoria Kings are among a group of teams on four points and remain firmly in contention near the summit. They will enter the contest as favourites against a Mahaicony Western Lions side still searching for their first points after two defeats. A win for Victoria Kings could potentially move them into first place, depending on results elsewhere.

The 13:00h fixture pits Golden Stars FC against Haslington Stars FC. Both sides have made encouraging starts to the campaign. Golden Stars sit fourth with four points, while Haslington Stars are fifth with three points following one win and one loss. With only a single point separating the teams, this match could prove crucial in determining which club remains in touch with the league leaders.

Bryan Joseph confirmed as GFF Technical Director

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has officially confirmed Bryan Joseph as its Technical Director after he served in the position on an acting basis since 2023.

The confirmation was approved by the GFF Council and comes after Joseph spent the past three years overseeing the federation’s technical programmes following the departure of the former Technical Director, Ian Greenwood. During that period, he managed several football development initiatives and programmes aimed at strengthening the sport at all levels across Guyana.

Speaking on his appointment, Joseph expressed gratitude for the council’s confidence in him and said the confirmation has provided additional motivation to continue advancing the game.

“I am happy that the council has confirmed my appointment. I have given my all to this role, and it has now added motivation to push further. I remain committed to advancing football

development in Guyana and working with all stakeholders to achieve our long-term objectives,” Joseph said.

GFF President Wayne Forde welcomed the decision, describing Joseph as a key figure in the federation’s football development efforts.

“We are extremely proud of Bryan’s professional growth and his dedication to the role. He is the driver of our football development programmes and initiatives, and we look forward to supporting him in this important work,” Forde stated.

The final match of the day at 14:00h features Plaisance FC against BV/ Triumph United. Plaisance occupy the sixth position on three points after an inconsistent opening to the season, while BV/Triumph United are unbeaten despite drawing both of their matches. A victory for either side would strengthen their push toward the top half of the table and keep them within striking distance of the leaders.

The federation congratulated Joseph on his appointment and said it looks forward to his continued contri-

Vanguard, CBB, GDF secure key victories in DVA Men’s League

The Demerara Volleyball Association (DVA) Men’s League continued to deliver exciting action throughout the week at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Homestretch Avenue, with Vanguard Volleyball Club, Classic Ball Blasters (CBB), and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) all recording impressive victories.

The week’s competition opened on Tuesday with Vanguard Volleyball Club overcoming Castrol Strikers in a hard-fought four-set encounter. Vanguard secured the match 3-1, displaying resilience and consistency to claim the victory.

Leading the charge for Vanguard was standout player Terrence Groenhart, who amassed 12 points through seven spikes, three ace serves, and two blocks. Despite the defeat, Castrol Strikers received a commendable performance from

Christopher Nelson, who contributed seven points, including five spikes and two ace serves.

Action continued on Wednesday evening as CBB produced a disciplined performance to defeat Vanguard 3-1.

CBB’s success was fuelled by Micah Chichester, who recorded eight points from six spikes, one ace serve, and one block. His all-round contribution helped CBB maintain momentum throughout the contest and secure the valuable win.

Vanguard fought hard but were unable to contain CBB’s offensive pressure. Once again, Terrence Groenhart led the scoring for his team, tallying 12 points with nine spikes, two blocks, and one ace serve in another impressive individual effort.

The week concluded on Thursday night with a domi-

nant display from GDF, who swept aside Castrol Strikers in straight sets, winning 3-0.

GDF showcased superiority on both offence and defence, controlling the match from start to finish. Omari Joseph spearheaded the attack with a match-high 12 points, including 11 powerful spikes and one ace serve.

For Castrol Strikers, Gostavo was the team’s leading scorer with six points, all coming from well-executed spikes, but his efforts were not enough to prevent GDF from cruising to victory.

With several teams displaying strong form and individual players producing standout performances, the DVA Men’s League continues to provide competitive volleyball and entertaining matchups for fans at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Slingerz to face SWA Sharks in CFU Club Shield opener

Guyana’s Slingerz FC will open its 2026 Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Shield campaign against Turks and Caicos Islands champions SWA Sharks FC following Friday’s official draw conducted by the CFU.

The tournament, which runs from July 23 to August 2 in Trinidad and Tobago, will feature 22 clubs from across the Caribbean competing for the title and two

qualification spots in the Concacaf Caribbean Cup.

Slingerz secured Guyana’s place in the competition after completing the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League season unbeaten. The club’s dominant domestic campaign earned it a return to regional football and an opportunity to challenge for a place among the Caribbean’s top clubs.

The Guyanese side,

Four elite boxers head to Trinidad for high-performance training camp

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) has intensified its preparations for two of the biggest multi-sport events on the international calendar, dispatching four elite boxers and a coach to Trinidad and Tobago for a 10-day high-performance training camp.

The camp, scheduled for June 10–21 in the Twin Island Republic, forms a key component of Guyana’s preparation programme ahead of the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games and the Commonwealth Games in July.

According to GBA President Steve Ninvalle, the training exercise is a crucial step in positioning Guyana’s boxers for medal contention as they prepare to compete against some of the region’s best fighters.

“This camp is an important part of our preparation process. It provides our boxers with the opportunity to train alongside and spar with quality boxers from across the Caribbean who are also preparing for major continental and international championships. We believe this exposure will significantly aid our boxers in their quest for medals,” Ninvalle stated.

The Guyanese contingent will be led by National

coached by veteran tactician Jamaal Shabazz, will face SWA Sharks FC in the opening round of the knockout competition. A victory would see Slingerz advance to the Round of 16, where Trinidad and Tobago’s Prisons Service FC awaits.

Under the tournament format, the 12 lowest-ranked clubs were drawn into the first round, while the five representa -

Middleweight Champion Desmond Amsterdam, a member of Guyana’s team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Joining Amsterdam is fellow Birmingham Games representative Collin Lewis, Caribbean champion Terron Wintz, and the squad’s lone female boxer, Akeelah Vancooten.

Accompanying the boxers will be former national champion and coach of the New Amsterdam Boxing Academy, Jeff Roberts, who has been tasked with overseeing the team’s development during the camp.

Ninvalle described the initiative as a very important phase of the association’s overall preparation strategy, noting that the GBA remains committed to providing its athletes with every possible opportunity to succeed on the interna-

tional stage.

While the association has not yet officially named its boxing teams for either the CAC Games or the Commonwealth Games, Ninvalle pointed out that all efforts are being made to ensure the country’s best athletes are adequately prepared to challenge for podium finishes. Ninvalle thanked the Guyana Olympic Association for assisting in making the Trinidad encampment possible.

The CAC Games are scheduled to be held in the Dominican Republic from July 24 to August 8, while the Commonwealth Games will take place in Scotland from July 23 to August 2, providing Guyana’s fighters with an opportunity to test themselves against some of the world’s top amateur boxers.

tives from the Caribbean’s professional leagues and the three highest-ranked amateur clubs received automatic byes to the round of 16.

The CFU Club Shield serves as a pathway to higher levels of regional competition. Both finalists will qualify for the 10-team Concacaf Caribbean Cup, with further success offering a route to the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Slingerz President Javed Ali said the club was satisfied with the draw

and is focused on preparing thoroughly for the challenge ahead.

He disclosed that plans are in place for an overseas pre-tournament training camp as the club seeks to ensure its players are fully prepared for the demands of regional competition.

Ali said the club’s objective is not only to participate but also to advance deep into the tournament and contend for a place in the Concacaf Caribbean Cup. He noted that Guyanese clubs have pre -

viously enjoyed success on the regional stage and said Slingerz hopes to follow in the footsteps of teams such as Alpha United.

Established in 2018, the CFU Club Shield was created to support the development of professional football across the Caribbean. The competition is contested by champion amateur and semi-professional clubs from member associations, with the finalists earning promotion to the Concacaf Caribbean Cup.

ENet secures exclusive rights to broadcast FIFA World Cup 2026 in Guyana

ENet has secured the exclusive broadcast rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026, giving customers across Guyana access to every match of football’s premier global tournament.

The telecommunications provider announced that all 104 matches of the expanded tournament will be available live through the ENet TV mobile app and across its television platforms, including wireless, satellite and fibre services. The arrangement will allow customers to follow the competition from home or while on the move.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, is set to be the largest edition in the tournament’s history. The competition will feature 48 teams, 104 matches and 1248 players, representing a significant expansion from previous editions and bringing more nations into the global showpiece.

Among the players expected to feature are some of the sport’s biggest names, including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa, adding further excitement ahead of the month-long event.

The tournament is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, culminating with the FIFA World Cup final. ENet customers

will have exclusive access to the full slate of matches throughout the competition.

ENet also noted that bars, hotels and restaurants subscribed to its services will be able to broadcast the matches, creating opportunities for fans to gather and experience the tournament together.

The company said the acquisition of the exclusive broadcast rights reinforces its commitment to delivering premium entertainment, connectivity and digital ser-

National Championships set for June 2628; Archibald ruled out through injury

Guyana’s leading track and field athletes will converge on the Lenora Track and Field Centre from June 26 to 28 when the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) stages its National Seniors, Youth and Juniors Championships, the country’s premier athletics competition for 2026.

The championships are expected to attract the nation’s top performers, including a number of overseas-based athletes who are understood to be returning home to compete. The event will also serve as an important qualifying platform for athletes targeting international assignments later this year, including the World

Under-20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon, and the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

One notable absentee, however, will be reigning men’s 100-metre champion Emmanuel Archibald, who is currently side-lined with injury and will therefore be unable to defend his national title.

According to the AAG, the championships bring together the country’s elite athletes and are regarded as the association’s most important annual event. Athletes will be looking to produce strong performances as they seek to secure qualification standards and impress selectors ahead of upcoming international competitions.

WI Women triumph in

The West Indies (WI)

Women were crowned winners of the 2026 Evara International TriSeries involving Ireland and Pakistan on the back of dominant wins in their first two matches to finish atop the standings and lift the trophy in Dublin on Thursday.

Storming to victory by eight wickets against hosts Ireland in their first encounter on May 28, the Maroon Warriors then defeated Pakistan the following day by 25 runs to put themselves firmly in control of the tri-series.

This proved to be critical as the last three matches of the series were heavily impacted by rain, with the West Indies’ fourth and final match against Pakistan ending in a no result and the final match of the series between Ireland and Pakistan being abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Despite narrowly losing their third encounter to Ireland by one run under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Method, the West Indies finished with a higher net run rate than the hosts to secure the series victory.

Captain Hayley Matthews expressed her pleasure with the win and spoke about the confidence it gives the squad heading

into the T20 World Cup.

“We’re pleased to have secured the series win, which was our primary goal coming to Ireland. Despite the narrow loss in one match, it doesn’t define our performance. We used the tour to finalise our batting lineups and make the adjustments we needed. Posting our third-highest total ever has given us real confidence heading into what promises to be a big World Cup.”

The triumph represents a significant milestone for the team as they continue to build and establish themselves leading into the global tournament in England and Wales. Head Coach Shane Deitz praised the performance of the team and in particular the readiness of all 15 players to contribute significantly to the team’s overall success.

“Over the four games, I thought we played some great cricket. We tried some new options and combinations, and most worked well. All 15 players got valuable time in the middle, and for the first time in my tenure as coach, all 15 looked in solid form. We are in a good place going into the World Cup warm-up matches against India and Australia.

The Maroon Warriors performed well with the ball,

with several players contributing in multiple matches, including Zaida James, Chinelle Henry, Jahzara Claxton, Qiana Joseph and Shawnisha. In match one they managed to restrict their opponents to 103 in 17 overs, a score they were able to comfortably chase.

Against Pakistan in the second fixture, the diverse bowling attack kept taking timely wickets to contain Pakistan’s batting line-up, holding them to 174 for eight in 20 overs in an unsuccessful chase of the Women’s third highest total in T20 Internationals of 199 for six.

With the bat, valuable contributions came throughout the series from Hayley Matthews (82 and 40), Jannillea Glasgow (42 and 36), Stafanie Taylor (39), and Chinelle Henry (33), showcasing improved depth in the batting line-up, which was an area of focus for the coaching staff in the lead-up to the tri-series.

The West Indies returned to Wales to continue their preparation for the World Cup with two warmup matches against India on June 8 and Australia on June 10 before their first group stage encounter against New Zealand on June 13. (CWI)

To ensure the smooth running of the championships, the AAG has established a local organising committee which has been working to put all the necessary systems in place ahead of the three-day meet.

The association has also received support from several sponsors, including Guyana Beverages Inc., the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the National Sports Commission and

the Guyana Olympic Association. The competition will begin at 17:00h on Friday, June 26, before continuing from 10:00h on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28. The AAG has encouraged members of the public to attend and support the country’s athletes as they compete for national honours and opportunities on the international stage.

16 schools set for East Berbice/ Corentyne showdown in Beharry Schools T20

East Berbice/ Corentyne schools are gearing up for the start of the Beharry Schools Cricket Tournament, with 16 secondary schools set to battle for regional supremacy when the competition bowls off on June 13 across several venues in Region Six.

The tournament’s Zone Seven (East Berbice/ Corentyne) teams recently gathered for an official briefing where organisers, teachers, students and cricket officials discussed preparations ahead of the opening round. The meeting focused on competition guidelines, sportsmanship and opportunities for young players to showcase their talents.

Region Six Coordinator Ameer Rahaman welcomed the participants and encouraged all teams to compete with discipline and pride while representing their schools. He also thanked the teachers and students for attending the briefing session.

Berbice Cricket Board

(BCB) Secretary Ryan Algu highlighted the importance of the tournament to youth cricket development and expressed appreciation to the Beharry Group for supporting the initiative. He noted that competitions of this nature provide an important platform for identifying and nurturing emerging talent across the region.

Adding further significance to the tournament, BCB Chief Junior Selector Balram Samaroo informed attendees that he will be present at matches throughout the competition as part of efforts to identify players for future representative opportunities.

School representatives also used the briefing to raise questions, offer suggestions and discuss concerns relating to the competition. Participants thanked the organisers and sponsors for creating an avenue for student-athletes to compete in a structured environment.

The opening round of

matches will be played on Saturday, June 13. At the Skeldon Ground, Tagore Memorial will face Line Path from 10:00h. The Canje Ground will host Vrymans Erven against New Amsterdam from 09:30h, followed by Berbice High versus Canje at 13:30h. At the Port Mourant Ground, Black Bush will take on Manchester from 09:30h, while Corentyne Comprehensive meets Port Mourant at 13:30h. Albion Ground will stage the clash between Lower Corentyne and JC Chandisingh from 10:00h. The first-round action concludes on Sunday, June 14, when Tutorial faces BEI at the Canje Ground from 10:00h.

With selectors expected to monitor performances closely and championship honours on the line, organisers anticipate an exciting tournament that will highlight some of the brightest young cricketing talent in East Berbice and Corentyne.

BYD announced as official car partner of CPL 2026

BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles, is proud to announce its partnership as the Official Car Sponsor of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2026. This milestone marks a significant step in strengthening BYD’s presence across the Caribbean, aligning the brand with one of the region’s most celebrated sporting events.

The CPL tournament will take place across eight countries in 2026, including key BYD markets of Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, and Saint Lucia. Through this partnership, BYD aims to integrate innovation, sustainability, and cultural relevance into a unified regional campaign.

Leveraging the passion and energy of cricket, BYD will roll out a series of high-impact activations, including stadium displays, interactive fan experiences, vehicle showcases, and digital campaigns. These initiatives are designed to not only enhance brand visibility but also drive meaningful engagement and lead generation across all participating markets.

A key highlight of the campaign will be the “Wrap the Future: BYD x CPL Design Challenge”, inviting creatives across the Caribbean to design custom vehicle wraps inspired by cricket, Caribbean culture, and the future of mobility. Winning designs will be brought to life on BYD vehicles and showcased during CPL matches, road activations, and digital campaigns.

The partnership will also feature dealer-

ship-based activations, including CPL viewing parties, test drive campaigns, and exclusive fan experiences. These initiatives will create multiple touchpoints for customers to engage with BYD’s innovative vehicle lineup while connecting with the excitement of the CPL tournament.

Through this collaboration, BYD continues to reinforce its commitment to sustainable mobility while embedding itself within the cultural fabric of the Caribbean. The CPL platform provides a unique opportunity to connect with communities, inspire creativity, and drive both brand awareness and commercial growth.

ATL Automotive and its regional teams will work closely with BYD to execute this campaign, ensuring consistency, scale, and

impactful delivery across all markets.

ATL Automotive

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Caribbean Premier League for a second consecutive year. Cricket remains one of the Caribbean’s greatest passions, and for BYD, this partnership creates a unique opportunity to connect with audiences through a platform that blends innovation, entertainment, energy, and community spirit.

As a global leader in electric mobility, BYD is proud to align with one of the region’s most dynamic sporting properties, reinforcing our commitment to smarter and more sustainable transportation while engaging fans across the Caribbean in mean-

ingful ways.

This partnership is a natural fit for BYD as a brand built on innovation and forward-thinking mobility, and we are excited about the opportunities this season will bring both on and off the field.” – Stephen Hector, Group Strategic Marketing and Digital Growth Director, ATL Automotive

Republic Bank CPL

“We are delighted to welcome BYD back as the Official Car Partner of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League for the 2026 season. BYD’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and community engagement aligns perfectly with the values of the CPL and our vision for the continued growth of the tournament across the Caribbean.

“The partnership goes beyond traditional sponsorship, creating exciting opportunities for fans to engage with the brand through unique activations, experiences and initiatives such as the ‘Wrap the Future’ design challenge. We look forward to working closely with BYD and ATL Automotive to deliver a memorable campaign that celebrates both Caribbean cricket and the future of mobility.” – Dr Tara Wilkinson-McLean, Head of Partnerships, Caribbean Premier League BYD is a global leader in new energy vehicles, committed to advancing sustainable transportation through innovation in electrification and intelligent mobility. With a presence in over 100 countries and regions, BYD continues to shape the future of the automotive industry.

Green Machine seeking crucial victory against Barbados today in RAN Tier 2 clash

Guyana’s national men’s rugby team, the Green Machine, has intensified preparations ahead of a pivotal Rugby Americas North (RAN) Tier Two Fifteens encounter against Barbados this evening at the Garrison Savannah in Bridgetown.

The Guyanese side arrived in Barbados on Wednesday and has since been focused on fine-tuning key aspects of its game as it looks to revive its regional campaign following a narrow 9-5 defeat to Bermuda in its opening match on April 25 at the National Park in Georgetown.

With the Cayman Islands emerging as the frontrunners in the competition, Guyana faces increasing pressure to secure a positive result. A victory over Barbados is considered vital if the Green Machine is to keep alive its hopes of maintaining its Tier Two status while remaining in contention for promotion.

Captain Rondel McArthur will lead the challenge alongside Makaya Smith, Osbert Robinson, Christian Klass, James Osborne, Shawn David, Lionel Holder, Phibian Joseph, Vallon Adams, Jamal Junor, Godfrey Broomes, Tyresse Prescod, Owen Adonis, Godfrey Pollydore, Rickford Cummings, Gavin McPherson, Michael Edwards, Akino James, Odida Douglas, Sebastian Manifie, Renaldo Niles, Kevin Braithwaite, and Julius Jardim.

The touring squad features five changes as the coaching staff seeks to inject additional energy and tactical flexibility into the team. Among the additions are United States-based players Kevin Braithwaite and Tyresse Prescod, along with European-based Julius Jardim, all of whom are expected to bolster the squad with their overseas experience.

Local players Jamal Junor and Osbert Robinson have also earned places in the travelling party after impressing

during the team’s domestic preparation programme.

Training sessions in Barbados have concentrated heavily on conversion kicks, penalty execution and defensive structures. Those areas are expected to play a key role as Guyana attempts to avenge the heavy defeat it suffered against the Barbadians in their last meeting one year ago.

The team has already received a strong vote of confidence from Guyana Rugby Football Union President Ryan Gonsalves, who recently expressed belief in the squad’s ability to compete successfully despite the challenges faced during preparation.

Today’s contest is scheduled to kick off at 19:00h under the lights at the Garrison Savannah, with both teams eager to strengthen their position in what has become an increasingly competitive Tier Two championship.