Police destroy over $265M worth of ganja along Berbice River
First-ever AutoCAD lab commissioned at Abram Zuil Secondary
GEA pushes energy efficiency as Guyana accelerates national development
Police Inspector under close arrest following discovery of ammunition
Govt expands cage aquaculture programme to Nappi Village
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 9 –09:20h–10:50h and Sunday, May 10 – 10:35h–12:05h
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Early morning sunshine is expected to be interrupted by thundery showers, with sunny skies returning briefly in the evening, followed by clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East-North-Easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres.
High Tide: 09:30h and 22:25h reaching maximum heights of 2.16 metres and 2.09 metres.
Low Tide: 15:45h reaching a minimum height of 1.04 metres.
Guyana-Venezuela
Guyana urges ICJ to deliver clear, unambiguous ruling against
– says nation’s survival hinges on clear ruling
Guyana on Friday asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to deliver a clear ruling on the border controversy with Venezuela, as only a definitive one can safeguard its territorial integrity.
“If the Court accepts Guyana’s arguments, as we are confident it will, then it is essential that the Court’s judgement directly, explicitly, and unambiguously affirms the validity of the 1899 Award in its integrity and the boundary that it established,” Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall told the ICJ yesterday during the second round of arguments and as Guyana rebutted Venezuela’s pleadings on Wednesday. Nandlall, who was the penultimate speaker during the hearings at the United Nations’ (UN) highest court, maintained that only a definitive judgement can resolve the matter.
“Any ambiguity or qualification in the Court’s judgement will inevitably be seized upon by Venezuela as a basis for continuing to lay claim to vast swathes of Guyana’s sovereign territory.”
“The clarity and specificity of your judgement are vital to the effective resolution of this longstanding dispute. You will have heard, as we did, the suggestion that a judgement in favour of Guyana would not end the dispute. That suggestion underscores the need for a clear and complete judgement,” he added.
Nandlall emphasised that the dispute is not merely about lines on a map but about the very survival of Guyana as a nation. “The loss of the territory claimed by Venezuela would eviscerate Guyana. Indeed, the country as we know it would cease to exist,” he said.
Echoing with urgency what Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd had said on Monday about the case having “existential quality”, Nandlall stated that for the people of this country, the ICJ represented the final hope of securing peace and stability, while adding that international law remains unshaken.
In its oral arguments on Monday, Venezuela maintained that the Court did not have the right to rule on the merits, to which Nandlall reminded, “Since the start of these proceedings, Venezuela has strained every sinew to avoid the Court delivering a judgement on the merits of Guyana’s application,” he said as he accused Caracas of misinterpreting the Geneva Agreement of 1966, arguing that its claims “find no support in the text or the history of the Geneva Agreement and are contradicted by Venezuela’s previous state-
ments to the Court.”
According to Nandlall, Venezuela’s reluctance is rooted in the weakness of its case. “Venezuela knows that it has no good answer to Guyana’s case, and it knows that a judgement on the merits should bring to an end Venezuela’s claims to almost 160,000 sq km (square kilometres) of Guyana’s territory,” he said.
1899 Arbitral Award
When Guyana’s agent, Carl Greenidge, delivered the closing oral submissions, he firmly restated Guyana’s position that the 1899 Arbitral Award is valid, binding, and definitive in settling the boundary with Venezuela. Greenidge, speaking on behalf of President Dr Irfaan Ali and the Government of Guyana, urged the court to “adjudge and declare” that Venezuela must respect Guyana’s sovereignty and
territorial integrity.
“The 1899 Award is valid and binding upon Guyana and Venezuela, and the boundary established by that Award and the 1905 Agreement is the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela,” he said.
He reiterated that Guyana enjoys full sovereignty over the territory between the Essequibo River and the boundary established by the 1899 Award and the 1905 Agreement and that “Venezuela is under an obligation to fully respect Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Measures
Outlining measures, Guyana recommended that the court also instruct “Venezuela to refrain from asserting or purporting to exercise sovereignty over any part of Guyana’s territory; revoke all measures,
including laws, decrees and acts that purport to annex, administer, or control any part of Guyana’s territory; and dissolve entities such as the High Commission for the Defence of Guayana Esequiba and terminate military or administrative activities in Guyana’s territory.
In addition to arguing that Venezuela has failed to prove any historical occupation of Guyana and dispel the notion that the 1899 Award was given through a unanimous ruling, the submissions yesterday from Guyana also asked the Court to recognise Venezuela’s failure to comply with provisional measures ordered on December 1, 2023, and May 1, 2025, and to require Venezuela to withdraw from Guyanese territory, including Ankoko Island, which was attributed to Guyana under the 1899 arbitral award.
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Subsequent to the Arbitral Award of 1899 that fixed the border between Venezuela and Guyana, between 1900 and 1904 a joint survey team physically demarcated that border, which was accepted by all parties concerned, as attested by a map signed on January 7, 1905, by two commissioners each from the British and Venezuelan sides.
At the confluence of the Wenamu and Cuyuni Rivers, the island of Ankoko had been divided into two, with the eastern half belonging to Guyana and the western to Venezuela. The physical markers were made of bulletwood posts driven into the ground and buttressed by stones from the river. This border was respected until October 12, 1966, a mere five months after we became independent, after Venezuelan troops moved across the border, occupied our half of the island, and constructed an airstrip.
While there were protests made by the Guyanese Government to Venezuela, ignoring demands by the opposition PPP, the Government followed advice by the US and did not raise the Venezuelan invasion and annexation of its territory to the UN Security Council. Since then, there have been a series of further violations against the Geneva Agreement, which had been negotiated between Britain (along with its colony Guyana) and Venezuela just before independence, on February 17, 1966. According to Art. 5 (2) of the agreement, “No new claim or enlargement of an existing claim to territorial sovereignty in those territories shall be asserted while this Agreement is in force, nor shall any claim whatsoever be asserted otherwise than in the Mixed Commission while that Commission is in being.” The “Mixed Commission” referred to had been established pursuant to the same agreement.
Annexation, in international law, “is the forcible acquisition and assertion of legal title over one state’s territory by another state, usually following the military occupation of the territory”, and this is what Venezuela has done to our half of Ankoko since 1966. In current international law, annexation is held to be an illegal act. Key developments towards this position in the 20th century include the 1907 Porter Convention, the 1920 Covenant of the League of Nations, and the 1928 Kellogg-Briand Pact, culminating in UN Charter Article 2:4 – “All Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations.” It does not matter that Venezuela has never formally announced its annexation; its actions since 1966 have conclusively demonstrated the de facto nature of the annexation. Under international law and the provisions of international humanitarian law, Ankoko should be referred to as “occupied and illegally annexed”.
Back in 1970, when the Guyana Government was negotiating the Treaty of Port of Spain with Venezuela, which would place a moratorium on the controversy, historian Odeen Ishmael has written: At the time, according to Guyanese Minister of State Shridath Ramphal, the Venezuelans contended that their claim to the eastern half of the island was based not so much on their contention of the nullity of the Arbitral Award of 1899 but on their occupation and use over the years.
As he stated in a letter of June 6, 1970, to Guyana’s ambassador in Washington, Rahman Gajraj, “They make it clear to us that politically they cannot withdraw from the eastern half of the island at this stage, and the result is a ‘live and let live’ arrangement. We have made it clear that we shall continue to demand their withdrawal and that the Protocol in no way inhibits us from doing so. They understand this.”
Against the background of Delcy Rodríguez’s present bellicosity, we must once again make this demand to the UN Security Council. We have to seize the initiative – away from our defensive reactions to Rodríguez manoeuvres. What we suggest is we mount an international campaign to have Venezuela return the half of Ankoko it seized in 1966.
By RoBeRt Reich
We are witnessing what happens to a person who is consumed with the need to dominate but cannot.
Iran is unlikely to give in. It can withstand the economic pressure of a blockade better than Donald Trump can withstand the political pressure that comes with rising gas prices (now nearly US$4.50 a gallon, on average), soon followed by rising food prices.
His looming failure in Iran is not just a serious geopolitical defeat for the US; it’s a personal crisis for Trump.
Those rising prices coupled with an increasingly unpopular war have increased the likelihood that Democrats will take back control of the House and even possibly the Senate in the upcoming midterms.
Here again, it’s not just a political defeat for the Republican party but a personal crisis for Trump.
His ego cannot accept a humiliating loss, as we saw after the 2020 election. His need to bully, dominate and gain submission is so hardwired inside his insecure head that the defeats he’s now facing – to Iran and to Democrats – are already setting off explosions.
He’s posting more wildly than ever – attacking, insulting, ridiculing, threatening.
On Sunday, Trump posted that Democrats had “RIGGED” the 2020 Presidential Election.
“GET TOUGH REPUBLICANS – THEY’RE COMING, AND THEY’RE COMING FAST! They’re no good for our country; they almost destroyed it, and we
don’t want to let that happen again!” He demanded that Republicans “approve all of the necessary safeguards we need for elections to protect the American public during the upcoming midterms”.
More of his posts are bizarre AI-generated paeans to himself, his godlike powers, his wished-for physique and his self-image of omnipotence. On Friday night, he posted an AIgenerated image of himself, JD Vance, Marco Rubio and Doug Burgum, all shirtless and with young physiques, standing in the reflecting pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial, along with an unidentifiable woman in a bikini.
Minutes later he posted an image of the House minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, holding a baseball bat, with a caption calling Jeffries “low IQ”, “a THUG” and “a danger to our country”. On Tuesday, he posted AI-generated images of Joe Biden on one knee with the caption “COWARDS KNEEL”, Barack Obama with the caption “TRAITORS BOW” and himself with his fist raised and the caption “LEADERS LEAD”.
His mouth – never in control – is now in diarrhoeic mode. He’s even back to attacking the Pope, accusing him of “endangering a lot of Catholics and a lot of people”, adding, “But I guess if it’s up to the Pope, he thinks it’s just fine for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”
His thin-skinned vindictiveness is beyond anything we’ve seen before, which is saying a lot. Last week, after the German chancellor, Friedrich Merz, said the US was “being humiliated by the Iranian leadership”, Trump repeatedly attacked
and ridiculed Merz. The defence department then said it was pulling 5000 troops out of Germany, and Trump said he was increasing tariffs on European cars and trucks to 25 per cent (from 15 per cent).
He’s becoming ever more obsessed with monuments to himself – his ballroom, his arch, his so-called “Garden of Heroes”, his Trumpembossed passports, his image on 24k gold commemorative coins, and his name plastered or etched all over Washington. His plans for self-monuments are becoming larger by the day, more grotesque, more grandiose and more expensive. Senate Republicans just proposed US$1bn more for Trump’s ballroom, which, recall, was supposed to “cost taxpayers nothing”.
He has even directed the treasury to announce that his own signature – yes, the same one that appears in a book of birthday greetings for Jeffrey Epstein – will replace the treasurer’s on all new US paper currency. This will be the first time in US history that a sitting President’s name will appear on circulating cash money.
His thirst for vengeance is exploding, too. Last week the Department of Justice launched another criminal case against former FBI director James Comey (whose earlier indictment was quashed by the courts) for posting a picture of seashells spelling out “8647” on Instagram a year ago. Trump is also insisting that the justice department restart its criminal investigation of Jerome Powell and double-down against the former joint chiefs of staff chair Mark Milley and others he
considers “enemies”.
Facing the two monumental failures of Iran and control over Congress, Trump is fanatically seeking other ways to assert dominance. On Tuesday, his education department announced a civil rights investigation into Smith College over enrolling transgender students.
On Thursday, Trump demanded that Hakeem Jeffries be charged with “INCITING VIOLENCE”, linking the attempted shooting at the White House correspondents’ dinner with Jeffries’s call for a “maximum warfare” redistricting campaign in response to Republican efforts to gerrymander their states.
Regardless of what happens in Iran, he’ll claim victory. That will be difficult to do convincingly when gas prices remain more than $4 a gallon, but he’ll undoubtedly try.
What if Democrats win control of one or both chambers of Congress in the midterms and he claims they lost or cheated? The nation barely survived the last time Trump’s fragile ego faced a major loss.
We’ll also have to cope with Trump as a lame-duck President who can no longer dominate and gain submission as he did before. Will he try to remain President beyond his second term to avoid this?
The man is unwell. Seriously unwell. Lameduck Presidents fade away, but injured dictators can be dangerous.
(Robert Reich, a former US secretary of labour, is a professor of public policy emeritus at the University of California, Berkeley. He is a Guardian US columnist.)
As Guyana continues to undergo massive development across all sectors, officials are urging consumers to be more conscious of energy efficiency, especially in the buildout of commercial and industrial properties, as well as residences and the furnishing of homes. This was the message delivered during the opening of the National Seminar on Energy Efficiency and Conservation, hosted by the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, on Friday.
The event brought together Government, the private sector, academia and development partners to advance discussions on energy efficiency in Guyana – something that is a key feature of the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS 2030). According to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GEA, Mahender Sharma, the transition to a more sustainable energy future is not only about generating clean energy but also about using energy wisely and more efficiently. As such, he noted that energy efficiency and conservation are no longer an option. “It is one of the most practical, cost-effective and immediate tools available to strengthen energy security. Energy efficiency is therefore an integral part of our national development agenda and our low carbon development, and it supports reduced electricity consumption, operating costs, improved reliability of power systems, reduced pressure on fuel imports, enhanced fiscal sustainability, and greater climate resilience,” Sharma stated.
The GEA head went on to note that Friday’s seminar will delve into several areas, encouraging participants to think about how they can adopt the learnings
discussed and implement them into their own environments.
“In those presentations, you will see a number of ideas emerging that will show how you can value experiences like...the scale of energy efficiency in various sectors, increasing awareness...and identifying practical next steps for this conversation, this national conversation. How do we advance building codes? How do we ensure buildings are constructed in a manner that promotes energy efficiency and good air conditioning principles so that you can avoid energy wastage, strengthen standards for appliances, ensure minimum energy performance for appliances, and expand public sector efficiency and interventions?” Sharma outlined. Similarly, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh pointed out that as Guyana builds out major sectors, the
population needs to be sensitised about energy efficiency.
“When this new Guyana is being built out, when more Guyanese people are acquiring vehicles and electric appliances, this is the time, I believe, to have that conversation about the more efficient use of energy,” Dr Singh stated.
According to Dr Singh, that sensitisation conversation has to happen at every level, including the national and macro levels as well as within the private sector and in the household. “It’s a conversation that the private sector needs to be better sensitised to have, especially given that they are now building out – the people who are constructing the factories, the people who are building out the hotels, they are building all sorts of things... and energy efficiency is at the core of the considerations that they should have at the time of the design of the buildout... And it’s a conversation that has to be had at the household level so that Guyanese households are better informed in making the choices that they make,” he stated. For instance, he underscored the importance of paying attention to the energy efficiency of household appliances and even vehicles when purchasing. He noted that though the Government is investing heavily in setting up the infrastructure, such as charging stations to encourage the use of electric vehicles, the uptake is still modest. “ We need a better-sensitised and better-informed population so that better choices can be made,” Minister Singh contended.
Meanwhile, Friday’s seminar was hosted with support from the World Bank Group, and according to the country representative in Guyana, Diletta Doretti, the institution is ready to work with local stakeholders in energy efficiency.
“We are very happy to be able to support [Guyana through] our technical expertise in this. We recognise that energy efficiency is key to the transition that Guyana will undergo and increases fiscal resources that can be used for other national priorities, like health, education and infrastructure. The World Bank is not just
here to speak about energy efficiency; we’re also here to partner with the GEA and deliver results on the ground. I see this [seminar] as the beginning of a conversation, and I see us at the World Bank as a good way to support [through] technical expertise, not just with financing,” Doretti stated.
Against this backdrop, acting President, Mark Phillips called on financial institutions to develop products that bolster energy efficiency efforts.
“With fuel costs this volatile, the savings from efficiency measures are more valuable than ever before. We look to you to develop the
financial products, the green loans, revolving credit facilities, guarantee instruments, and performance-based contracts that will unlock energy efficiency investment at scale,” he stated.
Phillips further stated that “the roadmap produced by today’s seminar should chart a clear course that reaches every sector – public, commercial, industrial and residential. The technical expertise in this room is formidable. The policy authority is present. We need the will and coordination to bring it all together into action. I’m confident this seminar can produce that.”
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1. A sequence of figures is made up of equilateral triangles, called unit triangles with unit sides. The first three figures in the sequence are shown below.
a. Draw Figure 4 of the sequence. Study the patterns of numbers in each row of the table below. Each row relates to one of the figures in the sequence of figures. Some rows have not been included in the table.
b. Complete the rows numbered (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv).
2. A teacher marks an examination out of a maximum of 120 marks. The marks are then converted to percentages.
a. Calculate the percentage for a student who scores:
i. 60 marks
ii. 120 marks
b. On graph paper, plot a graph to show the information in (a).
c. A candidate is awarded 95 marks on the examination. Use the graph drawn at (b) to determine the candidate’s percentage.
Draw lines on your graph to show how the percentage was obtained.
d. A candidate is awarded a Grade A if her percentage is 85% or more. Use the graph drawn at (b) to determine the minimum mark the candidate needs to be awarded a Grade A. Draw lines on your graph to show how the percentage was obtained.
3. The functions f(x) and g(x) are defined as f(x) = 3x +2
a. Evaluate g(5)
b. Write an expression in terms of x for f-¹(x).
c. Write an expression for gf(x), in the form (x + a) (x + b), where a and b ∈ R.
4. The diagram below, not drawn to scale, shows a vertical tower, BT, with a flagpole, TP, mounted on it. A point R is on the same horizontal ground as B, such that RB = 60 m, and the angles of elevation of T and P from R are 35° and 42°, respectively.
a. Label the diagram to show: i. the distance 60m. ii. the angles of 35° and 42°. iii. any right angle(s).
b. Calculate the length of the flagpole, giving your answer to the nearest metre.
5. The diagram below, not drawn to scale, shows the relative positions of three fishing boats, K, L and M. L is on a bearing of 040° from K and M is due south of Z. LM = 120 km and KL = 80km.
a. On the diagram show the bearing of 040°.
b. Calculate the measure of <KLM.
c. Calculate the length, to the nearest kilometre, of KM.
d. Calculate the measure of <LKM to the nearest degree.
e. Calculate the bearing of M from K.
6.
a. Calculate the matrix product AB.
b. Show that the matrix product of A and B is NOT commutative, that is, AB ≠ BA.
c. Find A-¹, the inverse of A. Given that M =
d. Calculate the value(s) of x for which |M| = 0.
7. The position vectors of the points R, S and T, relative to an origin, O, are , respectively.
By Mervyn Morris
Your mouth contorting in brief spite and hurt, your laughter metamorphosed into howls, your frame so recently relaxed now tight with three year old frustration, your bright eyes swimming tears, splashing your bare feet, you stand there angling for a moment’s hint of guilt or sorrow for the quick slap struck.
The ogre towers above you, that grim giant, empty of feeling, a colossal cruel, soon victim of the tale’s conclusion, dead at last. You hate him, you imagine chopping clean the tree he’s scrambling down or plotting deeper pits to trap him in.
You cannot understand, not yet, the hurt your easy tears can scald him with, nor guess the wavering hidden behind that mask. This fierce man longs to lift you, curb your sadness with piggy-back or bull fight, anything, but dare not ruin the lessons you should learn.
You must not make a plaything of the rain.
Questions
1. What is this poem about?
2. Identify three themes of the poem.
3. Choose two themes and highlight the lines that emphasise them.
Write a commercial for shoes that let you walk on the ceiling.
With fuel prices being driven up due to instability caused by ongoing international conflicts and heightened tensions in major oil-producing regions such as the Middle East, Guyana has seen a dramatic increase of more than 74 per cent in fuel importation costs since the start of this year.
This was revealed by Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips in his capacity as acting Head of State at the National Seminar on Energy Efficiency and Conservation held on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).
“Guyana has experienced an average increase of 74.8 per cent in fuel import costs since the start of this year alone. Gasoline acquisition costs rose by 62.4 per cent, diesel by 7.3 per cent, and jet fuel by an extraordinary 102.6 per cent. These numbers translate directly into higher costs for utilities, for businesses, and for every household in our country,” said Phillips, whose office has responsibility for the
country’s energy sector.
Based on international reports, prices for oil have been hovering around US$100 per barrel due to the ongoing war in the Middle East. The aviation industry has been heavily impacted, with jet fuel costs more than doubling in some regions to over US$200 per barrel in April.
Roughly 25 per cent of global jet fuel exports and a significant portion of the world’s LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) transit through the Persian Gulf.
This led to the local airlines that operate flights to hinterland regions across Guyana increasing airfares last month. In an April 15 statement, the Aviation Operators’ Association of Guyana (AOAG) explained that the prices for Avjet and Avgas, the fuels used by aircraft for passenger and freight services by all domestic aircraft operators, have increased substantially.
According to the association, this “...will result in the increase of airfares for customers.”
In fact, public relations consultant for the AOAG, Kit Nascimento, had previously told Guyana Times that domestic airfares could get even higher if the Middle East war continues and fuel prices spike on the global market. This week, the cost for aviation fuel was just over US$180 per barrel.
These increases in domestic airfares will not only impact the movement of people in and out of interior locations but will trigger price hikes for commodities such as food and fuel heading into those areas. It will also affect the local tourism industry, with some tour operators having already announced increases for their packages.
Subsidising fuel costs
Despite these increases in global fuel prices, however, the Guyanese Government has been footing the costs to avoid them being passed on to Guyanese consumers. In fact, the stateowned Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL) already assured last month that prices for gasoline, diesel, kerosene,
or ultra-low-sulphur diesel (ULSD) at any of its service stations across the country would not go up.
On Friday, PM Phillips reminded that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has been subsidising fuel import costs since the post-COVID era to shield Guyanese consumers from the global price increases.
“Our Government is taking steps to shield our citizens. The excise tax on fuel has been held at zero percent since March 2022. And we continue to monitor markets and engage with local oil companies on mitigation measures. We are expanding fuel storage capacity and investing in infrastructure to reduce the risk of supply disruptions.”
But according to the PM, these are just defensive measures. He posited that the strategic answer is to reduce the country’s dependence on imported energy through the twin pillars of renewable energy supply and energy efficiency.
Since August 2020, the Government has added over 186 megawatts (MW) of new generating capacity to the national grid through the construction of solar farms, the completion of two mini-hydropower plants, the installation of 46 solar radiators, and the distribution of some 37,240 solar home energy systems, adding over 37MW of renewable energy. These efforts will be further bolstered by the Gasto-Energy (GtE) Project at Wales, West Bank Demerara, which will add a total of 600MW of power, with the first and second phases set to come on stream by 2030. Additionally, the next five years will see another 136MW of solar being installed along with the advancement of the 165-megawatt Amaila Falls Hydropower Project.
“...Venezuela must withdraw from any part of Guyana’s territory as defined under the Award, including the part of Ankoko Island that the Award attributed to Guyana,” he said.
Reaffirming Guyana’s sovereignty, Greenidge further requested that Venezuela cease teaching its population that the Award was fraudulent and withdraw maps depicting Guyana’s territory as Venezuelan. Throughout the second round of oral hearings, Guyana’s counsel hammered at what they believe Venezuela’s rhetoric is and their failure to provide facts, and dismantled the arguments Caracas brought to the court.
Passionate Rhetoric
International lawyer Paul Reichler, who opened the day’s proceedings, dismantled the arguments proffered, which he termed “passionate rhetoric.” He said that Venezuela misconstrued both the 1897 Treaty and the 1966 Agreement and belatedly and groundlessly rejected the 1899 Award, ignoring that it was a historical reality; the aggressor had obstructed and delayed Guyana’s independence and had been threatening the country since then.
Guyana emphasised that Venezuela has failed to produce contemporaneous evidence of Spanish or Venezuelan occupation east of the Essequibo River. Instead, maps and records presented by Guyana
showed Dutch and later British settlements across the disputed territory. One striking piece of evidence was the 1897 United States (US)-Venezuela Boundary Commission map, which depicted European settlements as of 1814.
The map confirmed that Spanish presence never extended east of the boundary later upheld in the 1899 Award. The counsel argued that “There is no evidence in the record of this case that Venezuela (or Spain before it) ever occupied any part of it. Venezuela has presented none in this case.”
Venezuela’s claim that the Treaty was imposed upon it by Britain and the US was dismissed as Guyana presented 27 documents showing Venezuela actively sought arbitration, appealed to Washington for support and had expressed gratitude when the US compelled Britain to agree.
Then President of Venezuela Joaquín Crespo had declared the lawyer noted that the settlement plan was presented to Venezuela for its consideration, with no coercive intent and in full respect of the sovereignty and independence of the Republic. Guyana argued that Venezuela freely signed the Treaty, contradicting its current claim of coercion.
Geneva Agreement
Turning to the Geneva Agreement, Guyana rejected Venezuela’s recent argument that the accord “set aside” the 1899 Award. The
counsel described this interpretation as a “novelty”, noting it was raised only in Venezuela’s 2025 Rejoinder. Guyana pointed to Article V of the Agreement, which explicitly preserved prior claims and rights under the 1899 Award.
“It is undeniable from the text that this preserves all assertions of rights and obligations under the 1899 Arbitral Award,” counsel stated. Guyana’s team accused Venezuela of cynically cloaking its territorial ambitions in the language of decolonisation. They argued that Venezuela’s recent legislation to annex over 70 per cent of Guyana’s territory demonstrates aggression, not victimhood.
“All the myths unravel when confronted by the evidence, the contemporaneous documentary evidence which Venezuela so conspicuously and conveniently ignored,” the counsel told the court.
On Venezuela’s claim that the 1899 arbitral tribunal failed to explain the reasoning behind its decision, Law Professor Alain Pelet countered that, at the time, issuing such a justification was not a legal requirement, even if it might have been considered desirable. He added that the arbitrators could have reached agreement through private deliberations rather than formal written explanations.
He cited part of the tribunal’s text, noting that the panel “investigated and ascertained the extent
of the territories belonging to or that might lawfully be claimed by the United Netherlands or by the Kingdom of Spain, respectively, at the time of the acquisition by Great Britain of the colony of British Guiana.”
Professor Philip Sands cautioned that if the ICJ were to side with Venezuela and declare the 1899 Arbitral Award, and by extension the 1905 treaty, invalid, “you would rekindle the embers of dead empires.” He warned that such a ruling would “plunge Guyana into a new form of domination and oppression in relations with its much larger neighbour”.
Sands stressed that the Court would be setting a perilous precedent, one that could “open the gates” to challenges against virtually every colonial-era arbitration award or boundary settlement. He underscored that this would send a global message that even six decades of acceptance is no barrier to overturning an arbitral award or treaty.
“You would rekindle an age of instability and uncertainty, one that would run directly contrary to the wisdom of Africa, one that would threaten to open the gates of challenge to any and every colonial-era arbitration award or boundary settlement,” he said.
Guyana’s application
On March 29, 2018, Guyana filed an application instituting proceedings
against Venezuela concerning the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Arbitral Award regarding the boundary between the then-colony of British Guiana and the United States of Venezuela.
Guyana brought the case to the ICJ to confirm the validity of the internationally recognised boundary, which was determined by the Award and by a 1905 boundary agreement with Venezuela that adhered strictly to the unanimous decision rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal. The ICJ has already affirmed its jurisdiction to hear this case twice, in judgements issued on December 18, 2020, and
April 6, 2023.
The Court has also had to issue two orders, both indicating provisional measures which Guyana had requested, to prevent Venezuela from interfering with Guyana’s lawful control and administration of the territory that is the subject of the controversy while the judicial proceedings are still pending. The written phase of the case concluded last year after Guyana filed two written pleadings on the merits of the case and Venezuela also filed two, the last being in August 2025.
The ICJ will reconvene on Monday to hear Venezuela’s second round of oral arguments.
APolice Inspector was on Thursday placed under close arrest following the discovery of a quantity of ammunition during an intelligence-led operation along Hadfield Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown.
While the Police did not provide additional information, reports are that the incident stemmed from the handing over of approximately 100 rounds of 9mm ammunition to a civilian in the vicinity of the Linden minibus park.
The Inspector remains under close arrest as the investigation continues.
In another matter, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) reported that an investigation is underway by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), fol-
lowing an incident on Sunday, May 3, 2026, involving a senior officer, a Police Corporal, and a Police Constable. The investigation was initiated following the circulation of a video online in relation to the incident, but no further information has been provided.
"The Guyana Police Force wishes to make it clear that matters involving the conduct of its ranks are treated with the seriousness they deserve. In this regard, an impartial investigation will be conducted in keeping with the Force's standards of accountability, discipline and professionalism," the GPF added.
The OPR is also investigating an alleged assault involving Police ranks, which occurred on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Anna Regina
Police Station in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
Preliminary enquiries revealed that a female rank was allegedly assaulted by her Sergeant during an incident at the station, while another female rank was also reportedly threatened. The matter was brought to
the attention of the region's senior command, and the Sergeant was arrested and placed in custody pending further investigations. The female rank was escorted to a medical institution, where she was examined by a doctor. Investigations are ongoing.
Well, all the arguments and counterarguments on the Venezuelan border controversy have been made to the august jurists up at the World Court!! We now gotta wait for them to announce their decision –which, being the full bench of all 15 of them – will take some time!! From the Venezuelans’ central argument that the original arbitral panel back in 1899 didn’t use “legal” doctrine to delineate the boundary – but yielded to “pressure” from the President – they know they better dot their legal “i’s” and cross their legal “t’s” as they huddle!!
But the Venezies are gonna be hoisted by their own petard!! After all, all the legal reasons for awarding territory in an international dispute – possession, Dutch rather than Spanish occupation since the 17th century, acceptance for five decades, effective rule by Guyana since, Uti possidetis juris – to preserve inherited boundaries, etc. – the decision will certainly be in our favour!! It’s a slam dunk, baby!! The Venezies always knew this – and that’s why they’ve rejected the ICJ’s jurisdiction to adjudicate!! Let’s pick sense from nonsense, shall we?? If they believe there was a LEGAL miscarriage of justice back in 1899, doesn’t it make sense for the TOP INTERNATIONAL JURISTS to correct the same if it were so??
Why insist the LEGAL procedure to resolve a LEGAL issue must be abandoned in favour of the two contending parties settling the matter between themselves in a “practical manner”?? Aren’t they ensuring a repetition of the 60+ years of wrangling that defined the denouement of the Geneva Agreement?? Years of mixed border teams meetings, a 10-year moratorium, and the UN Secretary General’s “Good Offices” process??
Anyhow, since we know we’re a while away from the judgement we gotta have a plan to deal with Devious Delcy’s designs during that time. Sadly, it’s gonna be more of the same ole; same ole – a combination of the cold and hot war we’ve been facing for over a decade – ever since we struck oil!! We can even expect ramped-up belligerence – since there is nothing worse than an installed, precarious ACTING President scorned! Devious Delcy knows her opponents for power are gonna be pushing the line that she’s a sell-out – so she’ll be shooting from both barrels going forward to counter them.
Expect more “Sindicatos” – controlled by Devious Delcy’s military – to harass and attack our border settlements, including the GDF, who’ve been deployed to protect them!! Up to now, all we’ve been hearing is them shooting at us!! How about us returning fire and taking out some of them?? That’ll get Delcy’s attention!!
Then of course, we gotta ramp up our diplomatic outreach to the world to show how she’s thumbing her nose at them!!
The US? Let’s increase the business linkages!! That’ll talk!!
…Exxon’s pipelines
Up at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, with all the biggies in the oil business present and accounted for, the President of Exxon – lead operator in our world-class Stabroek Block, approaching 1M bpd – announced they’ll be landing the second gas pipeline in Berbice before Pressie’s term ends!! Meaning before 2030!! Now if Exxon says so, it’s gonna be so!! They proved it with the gas pipeline to Vreed-en-hoop – to feed the Wales GtE projects!!
The challenge, however, ain’t with the pipeline and gas supply – Berbice is gonna be supplied from the new Haimara field. From our (bitter) experience, it’s with the structures that needs to be installed – starting with power generators then the factories that’ll use the power and gas to manufacture fertilisers, etc. And more importantly, encourage investors to use the cheap electricity to add value to Berbice’s agricultural products, create employment and thus raise the standard of living from its present depressed state!
Don’t wait to build a latrine till you just GOTTA go!! It’s messy!!
…at World Donkey Day
Yesterday was World Donkey Day. Sadly, your Eyewitness didn’t see no tribute to our local donkeys, who were the mainstay in transporting goods for over a century!
Not to mention the donkey carts we rode on!!
SATURDAY, MAY 9,
Twenty-six young professionals graduated from the Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited Apprenticeship Programme at a ceremony held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel on Wednesday. The programme marked its 15th year, with the latest cohort completing a seven-month training period focused on workplace readiness and banking operations.
The graduates, part of Republic Bank’s Youth Link Apprenticeship cohort, each received a Caribbean Vocational Qualification in Banking Operations Level One.
office procedures, and sales functions.
Managing Director of Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited, Dr Toussant Boyce, said the programme is designed to develop confidence, adaptability, and professional skills among young people. He noted that this cohort brings the total number of beneficiaries since the programme’s introduction in 2008 to 350 participants.
“The Republic Bank Youth Link Apprenticeship programme is about more than banking. It is about building confidence, resilience, and the ability to think, adapt, and grow,” Dr Boyce said.
Labour and Manpower Planning Minister Keoma Griffith delivered the motivational address. He shared aspects of his personal journey and encouraged graduates to take advantage of opportunities as Guyana undergoes continued economic and social development.
Participants also engaged in a range of development activities during the
programme, including interaction with children from the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre, first aid training facilitated by Cerulean Inc., and a field visit to a local resort aimed at broadening their exposure beyond the workplace.
Special awards were presented at the ceremony for outstanding performance in categories including Best All-Rounder, Best Business Proposal, Most
Effective Presentation, Most Disciplined Apprentice, Most Improved Apprentice, and Most Congenial Apprentice. The Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme was introduced in 2008 by Republic Bank Group to bridge the gap between education and employment by providing structured training and workplace experience for young people transitioning into the job market.
Throughout the programme, apprentices underwent classroom instruction, on-the-job training,
The certification is approved by the Council for Human and Social Development of CARICOM through the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET). The qualification enables participants to seek employment within CARICOM member states.
and self-directed learning. They were placed at various branches of Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited between October 2025 and April 2026, where they gained exposure to daily banking operations, customer service,
A41-year-old Brazilian national was taken into custody on Thursday after he was unable to produce the required permit for an Outlander Rossi air rifle, pellets, and a telescope that he had in his possession.
Police stated that, on the day in question, the geologist from Para State, Brazil, presented himself at the Customs Department Complex in Lethem, Central Rupununi, where he declared several items, including the air rifle, pellets,
and matching telescope.
Upon questioning, he was unable to produce the relevant permit and was subsequently detained, along with the items, which were examined and lodged pending further investigation. He remains in custody assisting Police with their probe.
Ajoint venture (JV) between the United States-based GE Vernova and OEC USA, along with Worley from Australia, has submitted the highest bid in response to the Guyana Government’s call for proposals to develop the 165-megawatt (MW) Amaila Falls Hydropower Project.
The JV partners put in a bid of US$800,060,842, according to tender documents seen by the Guyana Times. A total of five foreign companies are in the race for the Amaila Falls Hydro project.
The OEC, GE Vernova, and Worley grouping had previously tendered to be prequalified for this project in 2023 before the Government eventually decided to reissue the Request for Proposal (RFP) last year.
Coming in second with a US$668,000,000 proposal is a consortium of CAMCECMEC from China. China CAMC Engineering Co, Ltd (CAMCE) and China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) have
individually done construction projects in Guyana’s public sector and have also bid for major gas-related projects here.
Another Chinese company, China Gezhouba Group Company LimitedHYI, submitted a bid totalling US$432,338,377 - the third highest proposal. In addition, the Chinese state-owned Sinohydro Corporation Limited came in fourth with a US$416,866,949.21 proposal.
The fifth company that bid for the project was a JV comprising Indiabased Afcon Infrastructure Limited and Scandian Infrastructure AB from Sweden. However, no figure was listed for this JV in the tender document seen by this newspaper.
Back in October 2025, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), which has responsibility for the energy sector, published the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Amaila Falls Hydro project under a Build-OwnOperate-Transfer (BOOT)
model and subsequently extended the deadline.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips had previously explained to this publication that the extension to May 8 was due to the complex technical details required for the proposals. He said the bidding companies had requested more time to prepare their submissions.
According to the RFP document, the project is expected to deliver a minimum installed capacity of 16MW, including the hydro dam, powerhouse, substation, and a 23-square-kilometre storage reservoir, consistent with environmental studies and permits.
However, it was noted that the size of the hydro may be re-engineered to account for changes in turbine technology, thus allowing more than 165MW to be generated and transmitted. Under the revised RFP, developers are required to assume all geotechnical risks associated with the project and must demonstrate proven capability and financial capacity to deliver large-
scale hydro projects. Only firms or consortia that have successfully built at least three hydro projects of 100 MW or more in the last 10 years will be considered.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has been keen on reviving the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, which has been on the cards since 2011 but was blocked by the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition both in and out of office.
The 165-MW project was the flagship initiative of the Bharrat Jagdeo-crafted Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). However, the project failed to take off despite having a developer in United States-based Sithe Global, which was backed by investment major The Blackstone Inc.
In August 2013, Sithe
An initial artist impression of the 165-MW
Global announced that it was pulling out of the project, which it said was too large to continue without national consensus and cited the lack of consensus in Guyana’s Parliament. At the time, the then APNU and AFC oppositions, holding majority seats in the National Assembly, had both voted down key pieces of legislation, which consequently halted the project.
Then during its term in office from 2015 to 2020, the APNU+AFC Coalition regime again shelved the project.
The revival of the 165MW hydropower project was one of the promises made by the ruling PPP/C in its 2020 Elections Manifesto.
In November 2021, the AFHP was awarded to
China Railway First Group (CRFG), but negotiations fell through after the company wanted to change the BOOT model, which the Government rejected. A revised Request for Proposals (RFP) was then issued in 2023, and four companies - Rialma S A (Grupo Rialma) from Brazil, China International Water & Elec. Corp, Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc, and a group made up of OEC, GE Vernova, and Worley - had submitted tenders to be pre-qualified for the Amaila Falls Hydropower project. Those bids were under evaluation for several months before the Government decided to eventually retender the project with new technical requirements last year.
President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday met with Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Mark Carney in Ottawa, and they both praised their longstanding relationship while underscoring the importance of shared values, economic cooperation, and global leadership on climate and biodiversity.
As Guyana celebrates its 60th independence anniversary this month, both leaders lauded the simultaneous establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations and reaffirmed their shared commitment, promising that future talks will continue in the same vein.
“Welcome to Canada, a country you know well, [where there are] many ties between Guyana and Canada. And, of course, this is the 60th anniversary of independence [of Guyana] and the 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relations,” Carney said.
He highlighted the personal, business, and cultural connections that have long bound the two nations, noting, “We have lots of ties and personal connections between families; we have business ties, and we have common interests in peace, stability, and territorial integrity in the CARICOM region and all of the countries there, and, of course, more broadly.”
Carney also commended Guyana’s economic achieve-
ments under President Ali’s leadership, remarking, “I commend you on your re-election and a rate of economic growth that I can only speak about.”
His words reflected Canada’s recognition of Guyana’s rapid transformation into one of the fastest-growing economies in the Western Hemisphere, driven by energy development, agriculture, and diversification. Both leaders articulated a vision of collaboration that reflects shared values and mutual aspirations.
President Ali responded with gratitude and a clear articulation of Guyana’s priorities. “Thank you very much; it’s an honour to be here. I want to congratulate you on the work you have been doing,” Ali said. He stressed the multidimensional nature of GuyanaCanada relations, noting that the partnership extends beyond diplomacy into global leadership on environmental issues.
“Guyana and Canada share a very intense and diversified relationship –not only diplomatic. We are both leaders on climate issues and tropical forests; we are both pursuing leadership in biodiversity,” Ali explained. His remarks underscored Guyana’s role as a steward of vast tropical forests, which serve as critical carbon sinks, and Canada’s commitment to advancing biodiversity protection on
the global stage.
Guyana’s emphasis on climate and biodiversity reflects its broader strategy of positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development, even as it harnesses new energy resources. The balance between environmental stewardship and economic growth is central to Guyana’s vision, and Canada’s alignment on these issues strengthens the partnership.
Trade and economic cooperation were highlighted as President Ali recalled Canada’s historic role as one of Guyana’s largest trading
partners and expressed optimism about renewed collaboration. “Canada, at one time, was our largest trading partner, and that is some of the discussion we want to have; to see how, in this new dimension, the new economy we are building, Canada can play a deeper and greater role in the diversification, innovation, and advancement of our economy,” Ali said.
His remarks pointed to Guyana’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas, with large investments in agriculture, food security, renewable en-
ergy, and technology, which he continues to champion both at home and as he travels.
Canada’s expertise in innovation and sustainable development offers opportunities for partnership in these sectors, as Ali called for that nation to play “a deeper and greater role” that reflects Guyana’s desire to leverage international partnerships to ensure long-term resilience and inclusive growth.
Beyond trade and diplomacy, both leaders emphasised the enduring people-to-people connections between Guyana and Canada, given that Guyana has a large Canadian diaspora.
The diaspora community in Canada continues, the President pointed out, to grow from strength to strength, holding firmly to cultural and familial ties.
Ali noted, “Of course, deep people-to-people relationships and cultural and historical relationships; we are also leaders when it comes to food security, and we believe in the same values of sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
He said that cooperation extends beyond Government policy, fostering mutual understanding and shared identity, as the diaspora community plays a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations, contributing to both economies and serving as cultural ambassadors.
The President also expressed support for Canada’s evolving foreign policy. “I’ve noticed the diversification of your foreign agenda, which we support. Of course, CARICOM and Guyana, we want to be not behind the curve but right in your line of sight, and that is what we look for,” he said, a position he has echoed while serving as CARICOM Chairperson and which reflects this country’s commitment to ensuring that CARICOM remains central to Canada’s regional strategy and that the voices of the bloc are heard in global discussions.
Ali’s visit comes at a time when Canada is “reigniting or resetting its own foreign policy”, as he observed. This reset provides an opportunity for Canada to deepen its engagement with the Caribbean, particularly in areas of shared interest such as climate resilience, food security, and democratic governance. Guyana’s rapid economic growth and strategic position within CARICOM make it a natural partner in this renewed engagement. The meeting between PM Carney and President Ali underscored the enduring strength and evolving potential of Canada-Guyana relations. Rooted in history and cultural ties, the partnership, as they believe, is now poised to expand into new areas of cooperation, from climate leadership to economic diversification.
Jury hears details of arrests, confrontations as Henry boys’ murder trial continues – Police witnesses testify accused initially arrested for another matter
Friday
The second day of testimony in the trial into the murders of teenage cousins Isaiah and Joel Henry focused heavily on the Police investigation, with the court hearing details about the arrests of the accused, confrontations conducted at Police headquarters in Georgetown, and allegations raised during cross-examination about how investigators obtained information in the case.
The day’s proceedings at the Berbice High Court before Justice Simone MorrisRamlall began with testimony from Isaiah’s father,
Gladstone Henry, who recalled joining the search party that went into the backlands where the bodies of the two teenagers were discovered in September 2020.
Henry told the court that after the bodies were found, he remained at the scene until Police officers arrived later that afternoon. The prosecution, led by State Counsel Marisa Edwards, then called Rural Constable Devindra Paradat, who testified that he was among the officers who arrested the accused Vinod Gopaul and Akash Singh at Yakusari,
Black Bush Polder, on September 6, 2020.
According to Paradat, the men were not arrested in connection with the murders of Isaiah and Joel Henry at the time. Singh was among three men who were initially charged with the murders following the deaths of the teenagers.
However, proceedings against him were later discontinued, leaving Gopaul and co-accused Anil Sancharra to stand trial.
The court also heard evidence from Police Inspector Shane James, who is attached to the Major Crimes Unit. James testified that
he arrested Sancharra on January 9, 2021, on the Essequibo Coast. According to the officer, Sancharra was in the company of a female at the time and was informed of the allegation of murder upon his arrest.
The inspector further testified that on January 11, 2021, confrontations were conducted at Police headquarters in Georgetown, one involving Akash Singh and Sancharra and another involving Singh and Gopaul.
According to James, information was provided to investigators during those confrontations, which he said were videorecorded.
Under cross-examination by defence attorney Dexter Todd, James denied suggestions that Sancharra had been beaten by several Police officers in an effort to force him to give a confession statement. When asked whether Sancharra maintained that he was never involved in the killings, the officer said he would rely on the video evidence recorded during the confrontation.
Attorney-at-law Chandra Sohan, who represents Gopaul, questioned the officer about whether Akash Singh had been present when Gopaul was interviewed. In response, James reiterated that he would rely on the video recordings from the investigative process. The prosecution also called Rural Constable David Samnarine, who tendered photographs taken during the post-mortem examinations conducted on the two teenagers. Some of those photographs were shown to the 12-member jury.
Sancharra, also called “Dan Pole” or “Rasta”, and Gopaul, known as “Magga”, are jointly charged with the murders of Isaiah and Joel Henry, whose bodies were discovered in the Cotton Tree backlands, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), in September 2020. The trial will continue on Monday.
Guyana’s partnership with the European Union (EU) remains essential to advancing cooperation in climate action, trade, health, governance, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and sustainable development.
This was stated by Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips at a reception commemorating Europe Day 2026 and the 76th anniversary of the
tial. Together, we can shape a future that delivers opportunity, stability, and prosperity for our peoples in the Caribbean and Europe.”
He also noted that multilateralism, trust, and mutual responsibility remain fundamental in addressing complex global challenges.
The importance of a rules-based international order was also underscored, with the Prime Minister explaining that it remains
sustainable forest management. These are not abstract ideals – they are urgent, shared responsibilities that demand coordinated global leadership and action.”
He explained that Guyana’s development trajectory is guided by a low-carbon pathway that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship and social inclusion. Adding to this, the country remains people-centred, resilient, and aligned with global commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The expansion of cooperation under the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative, which continues to support key investments in Guyana and the wider Latin America and Caribbean region, was also lauded.
The PM noted that recent engagements have delivered tangible outcomes, including support for Guyana’s ambition to become a regional hub for pharmaceuticals, investment opportunities in port infrastructure, agro-processing, and logistics, and partnerships in digital innovation.
Schuman Declaration, held on Thursday evening at the Herdmanston Lodge in Georgetown.
Phillips, who is acting in the capacity of Head of State, emphasised that the relationship between Guyana and the EU is grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to a rules-based international order.
He nevertheless congratulated the EU on its continued role in fostering unity, resilience, and prosperity while expressing Guyana’s readiness to deepen engagement with the EU, both individually and collectively, through partnerships that respond to the realities of global development.
“The partnership between Guyana and the EU is strong because it is essen-
essential to uphold international law, foster trust among nations, and ensure that even the smallest states have a voice and that their views are fully recognised in shaping the world’s collective future.
He highlighted that Guyana-EU relations have grown significantly over the years, particularly in climate change and biodiversity, and reaffirmed Guyana’s role as an active partner in global climate solutions.
“As a country that maintains over 85 per cent of its forest cover and serves as a vital global carbon sink, Guyana sees itself as an active partner in global climate solutions. We are deeply committed to working with Europe to advance ambitious climate action, protect biodiversity, and promote
Further, he highlighted strengthened health cooperation through agreements with BioPark Charleroi and Expertise France under the PharmaNext programme, which represents an investment of €8.9 million in Guyana.
He also underscored the importance of advancing visa waiver arrangements with EU and Schengen partners, noting that such arrangements would support greater people-to-people engagement, closer institutional ties, increased mobility, and stronger business-to-business linkages.
Guyana, he emphasised, remains committed to expanding market access, strengthening resilient supply chains, and deepening trade and investment ties with Europe.
The Government of Guyana, through Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL), has inked a US$27 million contract with PowerChina International
Group Limited for the engineering, procurement, and construction of a 60 megawatt-hour (MWh), 30 megawatt (W) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS),
along with associated substation expansions and system integration.
Under the project, two 30MWh, 15MW lithium-ion battery systems will be installed at the New Sophia and Goedverwagting substations in Region Four.
The project will add 30MW of power to GPL›s grid and significantly improve the stability and reliability of the DemeraraBerbice Interconnected System (DBIS).
The systems will be integrated with the Guyana National Control Centre (GNCC) through modern Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), energy management, and automatic generation control systems.
GPL in a social media post on Friday stated that the project also includes spare parts, maintenance services, and training for GPL engineers and is expected to be complet-
ed within eight months and will cost US$27,366,171.06.
Speaking during the signing, Nandlall noted that the project represents a major step in strengthening Guyana›s electricity infrastructure.
He explained that the battery energy storage system will help reduce the frequency and duration
of outages, improve power restoration through its black start capability, and support the integration of renewable energy sources in keeping with Guyana’s LCDS 2030 goals.
GPL remains committed to investing in modern infrastructure aimed at improving the reliability, efficiency, and sustainability
of electricity supply across Guyana.
The contract signing was led by the Head of GPL›s Executive Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, along with Divisional Director Ryan Ross and other personnel from GPL and PowerChina International Group Limited.
As Police continue their drug eradication exercise along the Upper Berbice River, some $264,933,120 worth of ganja was destroyed on Thursday at Kimbia.
Based on reports received, during the 16-hour exercise, Police discovered two fields with a combined area of approximately eight acres, containing approximately 300,000 cannabis plants ranging from four feet to six feet in height.
In addition, two makeshift camps and two drying areas were also found at the location, with some 400 pounds of dried cannabis. The cannabis plants, dried
cannabis, camps, and drying areas were destroyed by fire.
At the time of the operation, no arrests were made, and the operation was con-
ducted without incident. Police stated that the estimated value of the narcotics destroyed was $264,933,120. An investigation is underway.
Just last month, some $258 million worth of ganja was found and destroyed in the same area. It was reported that two fields measuring about seven acres, with approximate-
ly 310,000 cannabis sativa plants ranging from two to six feet in height, were discovered along with two makeshift camps and two drying areas.
In addition, 380 pounds of dried cannabis and farming tools were also found at the location. Back in March,
the Police reported that $551 million worth of ganja was destroyed at De
Upper
During that raid, about 640,000 cannabis plants, ranging between four and 10 feet in height, were destroyed along with 850 pounds of dried cannabis.
The Agriculture Ministry, through the Fisheries Department, has commenced cage aquaculture activities in Nappi Village, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), as part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to expand aquaculture production and create sustainable income opportunities in hinterland communities.
Last October, five fish cages were assembled and subsequently installed in the Nappi Reservoir to fa-
cilitate the rearing of tambaqui. On Thursday, subject Minister Zulfikar Mustapha visited the reservoir and participated in stocking several of the cages with fingerlings.
While engaging residents, Mustapha said the cage aquaculture initiative has emerged as one of the most transformative projects introduced in the agriculture sector since its inception. He noted that when the idea was first proposed by President Dr Irfaan Ali,
it faced significant criticism.
“When President Ali first spoke about the cage aquaculture initiative, many people had negative things to say. Today, we are seeing that this is one of the most transformative projects introduced by the Government of Guyana in the agriculture sector. This is because we have a President with a futuristic vision. The project is now enabling hinterland villages and communities to become more economically stable. While we will continue to provide assistance through our relief programmes, our Government aims to make communities more self-sustainable while increasing their earning potential and economic standing,” he explained.
Under the project, the Government provides cages, fingerlings, and feed to riverine and hinterland communities, along with technical support and training for villagers and beneficiaries.
Mustapha also disclosed that, to ensure the longterm sustainability of the initiative, an aquaculture station is currently being established in Lethem.
He further stated that the facility will provide Tambaqui and Matrinxa fingerlings, along with additional support, to communities involved in cage aquaculture as well as approximately 12 communities
One day after a stabbing incident at the Tuschen Secondary School, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), the Police have confirmed that a 14-year-old student was taken into custody as investigations continue. According to reports received, at about 10:10h on Thursday, two 15-year-old students, one from Tuschen Housing Scheme and another from Greenwich Park, EBE, were reportedly attacked and stabbed by the suspect during an altercation on the school’s premises.
Police stated that the victims were reportedly standing together during their break time in the school compound when they observed two female students engaged in a scuffle.
The victims attempted to intervene but were threatened by the suspect. The victims then informed the headteacher, but they were again threatened by the suspect. A scuffle broke out between one of the victims and the suspect, during which the victim received wounds to his left hand and upper chest area from the suspect, who was armed with a sharp object – reportedly a screwdriver.
The second victim then intervened, and he too re-
ceived injuries to his right hand. Upon realising what was happening, several teachers intervened and apprehended the suspect.
The injured students were taken to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where they were treated and released.
The suspect, who had fled the scene after the incident, was subsequently contacted by Police, informed of the allegations made against him, and arrested in accordance
currently engaged in pond aquaculture.
Meanwhile, the facility will be equipped with tanks, water and aeration systems,
pumps, and a backup power supply and is expected to benefit more than 5000 residents across the region.
With construction
currently underway, the aquaculture station is expected to become fully operational before the end of July this year.
Ewith the procedures applicable to juveniles.
He was then escorted to the Tuschen Police Station, where he was placed in custody as investigations continue.
Following the incident on Thursday, the Ministry stated that it has launched an investigation into the matter and that a teacher at the centre of the issue has been sent on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigations.
pied by Subrina Yadram and Jeffrey Fraser before spreading to a neighbouring property owned by Phulmattee Madramoottoo.
Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald said that after receiving a call at 11:59h on Friday, firefight -
ight persons were left homeless after a fire, believed to have been started by a four-year-old child, destroyed two houses at Sheet Anchor, East Canje, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) on Friday. The blaze reportedly began in the upper flat of a two-storey wooden building occu-
flattened, and the fire had spread to a second house, but they managed to contain the blaze before it spread further through the tightly packed community.
ers and tenders were deployed to the scene where one building was already
“We were able to stop and suppress the fire from spreading to other nearby structures,” McDonald explained while speaking at the scene. He explained that firefighters initially relied on water from the fire tenders before later sourcing additional water from a nearby canal during mopping-up operations. According to McDonald, firefighters encountered some difficulty accessing the area because of parked vehicles along the roadway partially blocking the passage for emergency vehicles.
After four years of close collaboration with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in educating hinterland communities on domestic and sexual violence, the Canadian-funded Justice Education Society (JES) Guyana programme will come to an end on September 30, 2026. In light of this development, JES Country Director Lisa Thompson, accompanied by its International Programme Director, Gavin Martyn, paid a courtesy call on the DPP, Shalimar AliHack, at her office and expressed gratitude for the support through collabora-
tive outreaches to regions one (Barima-Waini) and nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
Ali-Hack, during the farewell courtesy call, noted that while JES has done a good job through its work in sensitising and educating the Amerindian communities, particularly the wom-
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) recently inked a new cooperation agreement with the Government of Spain to the tune of €400,000 to address new and existing health challenges within the region.
The agreement was signed on Wednesday by the Secretary-General of CARICOM, Dr Carla Barnett, and the Ambassador of Spain to CARICOM, Her Excellency María Cristina Pérez Gutiérrez, during the 10th Meeting of the Joint Technical Committee (JTC) of the CARICOM–Spain Joint Fund for Scientific and Technical Cooperation.
In her opening remarks, co-chair of the meeting, Assistant Secretary-General, Foreign and Community Relations Directorate, Elizabeth Solomon underscored the value of the
CARICOM-Spain partnership, noting “the CARICOMSpain Joint Fund continues to play an important role in advancing regional priorities through cooperation that has evolved into a results-orientated programme of support that is both practical and responsive, delivering tangible benefits to the people of the Caribbean Community.”
Pérez Gutiérrez, who also chaired the session, reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to CARICOM, stating, “Spain values its partnership with CARICOM and remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen resilience, sustainability and regional cooperation.”
The committee considered two new regional project proposals with a combined value of US$700,000. The first proposal targets the “Greening Caribbean Ports Programme (GCPP):
en and girls, on domestic and sexual violence, training the Toshaos and other senior village councillors is important.
“Education is needed for a generational change, and the ideal way to do it is to go and interact with the people to educate them, buy into them... They are well educated, and they are smart. Once the Amerindians are exposed to education, they will develop. We try to educate them on their rights.”
The DPP recalled that on numerous outreaches, she would advocate for the young Amerindians to take their education seriously from primary to tertiary levels and, on completion, for them to return to their homesteads to serve and develop themselves and their communities.
She noted that Amerindian communities are now benefiting from electricity and Internet connectivity with ICT hubs in satellite communities that will expose them to new frontiers and cultures.
She alluded to the infiltration of societal ills like the playing of loud music through “boom boxes” and the consumption and selling of intoxicants, including the use and sale of marijuana and other illicit drugs.
“For you to move from the natural state of quiet and tranquillity to these things, it’s against the law. We need to take that into consideration when we are doing these outreach programmes.”
The DPP commend-
ed the Canadian-funded project. “Canada is an ideal place to guide Guyana in Amerindian/Indigenous communities ... you are developed in the areas of the internet and technology.”
Through the years, the DPP’s Office, together with JES, has held outreaches in Amerindian communities, including Moruca and Baramita in Region One, and the Deep South Rupununi villages of Potarinau, Shulinab, Meriwau, and Quiko in Region Nine.
Importantly too, JES has joined forces with the DPP’s Office to train members of the Guyana Police Force in those regions, police prosecutors, and legal staff of the DPP’s Office on culture sensitisation.
TAdvancing Sustainable Maritime Infrastructure in Caribbean Small Island Developing States” and is expected to be implemented by the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE) and the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC).
The second proposal, titled “Strengthening the Caribbean Emergency Response Capabilities through the Next Level Regional Response Mechanism (RRM)”, is expected to be implemented by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).
Both sides reaffirmed the CARICOM–Spain Joint Fund as a key instrument for supporting priority regional initiatives and strengthening technical cooperation between CARICOM and Spain.
he sentencing hearing for Maxton Walker, the Hururu Mission man, who pleaded guilty to the brutal chopping death of logger Marcus Adrian, was on Wednesday postponed in the Berbice High Court. The postponement occurred after the court was told that a court-ordered psychiatric evaluation had not been completed because the National Psychiatric Hospital reportedly never received the order directing that the assessment be carried out.
Walker appeared before Justice Simone MorrisRamlall for what was scheduled to be a sentencing hearing following his guilty plea in April this year to the March 18, 2024, killing. However, before the sentencing process could proceed fully, State Prosecutor Marisa Edwards informed the court that Dr Meenawattie Rajkumar, Medical Superintendent of the National Psychiatric Hospital and forensic psychiatrist, indicated that the institution did not receive the court order requesting the psychiatric evaluation of
Convicted: Maxton Walker
Walker.
Additionally, the court also heard that the report from the Welfare Department remained outstanding.
Walker is being represented by attorney Charlyn Artiga.
The accused had earlier admitted that he unlawfully killed 36-year-old Marcus Adrian of Hururu Mission, Upper Berbice River. Investigators had alleged that the two men were
drinking together at Seven Miles, Hururu Mission, when an argument erupted, and Adrian was chopped multiple times on his body.
According to the prosecution’s case, Adrian collapsed along a trail and was later transported to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead. Walker was subsequently arrested after residents and community leaders alerted the Police.
A post-mortem examination later revealed that Adrian sustained 23 incised wounds, including 13 to the anterior neck. The largest wound reportedly measured approximately 21x2x4 centimetres. Major blood vessels on both sides of the neck were severed, while the larynx was completely cut. Injuries were also found to the trachea and thyroid.
The cause of death was given as haemorrhage and shock due to multiple incised wounds.
The matter was adjourned to facilitate the completion and submission of the outstanding psychiatric and welfare reports before sentencing can proceed.
The country’s first-ever AutoCAD laboratory was commissioned at the Abram Zuil Secondary School, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam)
– a move that will revolutionise technical and vocational education across Guyana.
Delivering the featured address, Education Minister Sonia Parag described the occasion as a proud and
Region Two, noting that additional programmes have already been introduced at the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI), including engineering and pre-medical studies.
According to the Minister, the AutoCAD laboratory represents far more than a new classroom facility, describing it as an important tool that will pre-
the Essequibo Coast.
However, she cautioned students about overreliance on artificial intelligence (AI).
“AI is to enhance the knowledge that you have. It is not to replace the knowledge that you have. AI is not to
storage, a 72-inch smart board, and a 24-inch plotter. He commended the school’s Industrial Technology Department, led by Rishi Narain, for constructing the furniture and ensuring the facility became fully operational.
Regional Education Officer Shoundelle Hercules echoed similar sentiments, describing the facility as an investment in the future of education and workforce development in Region Two. “This laboratory symbolises progress and our commitment to equipping students with the technological competencies required in an increasingly digital and competitive world,” Hercules stated.
also for meaningful careers and entrepreneurship.
“The vision for this laboratory extends across the whole region. This resource will be available to all secondary school students and teachers in Region Two,” she explained.
In addition, Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO) for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Ritesh Tularam reflected on the evolution of technical education from traditional drawing boards and drafting tools to digital innovation.
careers in engineering and technical fields.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, an alumnus of the school, became emotional while reflecting on his years at Abram Zuil Secondary and praised the institution’s remarkable transformation.
transformative moment for the school and the country’s education sector.
“Today we are commissioning the first-ever AutoCAD lab in Guyana. The first-ever. So, when I tell you that you’re continuously a part of history, you’re continuously a part of history,” she told the gathering.
She added that Abram Zuil Secondary has rapidly evolved into a modern educational institution, benefiting from significant Government investments under the Administration of President Dr Irfaan Ali. Parag emphasised that Guyana’s education sector has undergone extensive transformation over the past five years, with new nursery, primary, and secondary schools being constructed nationwide to expand access to education.
“With the completion of several secondary schools at the end of this year, 2026, Guyana will achieve universal access to secondary education,” Parag announced. She further highlighted the Government’s push toward expanding tertiary and technical opportunities in
pare students for careers in architecture, engineering, design, and other technology-driven fields.
She further explained that the introduction of modern computer-aided design technology would allow students to move beyond traditional manual drafting methods and gain exposure to digital systems currently used in developed countries and international industries.
On this note, she added that by integrating technology into technical education, students would be better equipped with practical and globally relevant skills needed to compete in an increasingly modern workforce.
As such, she encouraged students to think beyond the classroom and envision themselves contributing to Guyana’s rapidly transforming landscape. She also announced that four additional AutoCAD laboratories are expected to be commissioned shortly.
Importantly, she stressed that the facility would not only serve students of Abram Zuil Secondary but also students throughout
replace your brain. You still need to be the critical thinkers and problem solvers of tomorrow,” she advised.
Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony was the headteacher of the institution, Jerome Rajpersaud, who described the laboratory as a “significant milestone” in the institution’s development.
“Cutting the ribbon does not signify just the establishment of the AutoCAD lab. It is about opening the way for us and opening the door to new possibilities,” Rajpersaud related.
He explained that the laboratory will provide students with hands-on experience in design and drafting, preparing them for careers in engineering, architecture, and other technical fields.
“I envision this AutoCAD lab as a hub of learning, collaboration, and innovation, where ideas can be transformed into tangible solutions,” the headteacher declared.
Rajpersaud also revealed that the laboratory was outfitted with 15 Nitro V15 computers, each equipped with 16GB RAM and 512GB
She noted that AutoCAD technology is widely utilised in engineering, architecture, construction, manufacturing, and technical design industries, adding that exposure at the secondary level would prepare students not only for examinations but
“We are not just commissioning a lab today at Abram Zuil Secondary, but we are commissioning innovation. We are commissioning creativity. We are commissioning possibilities for all the students at this wonderful institution,” Tularam said.
He encouraged students to maximise the opportunities now available to them through the facility and position themselves for future
“My heart belongs to this beautiful place... We’ve seen remarkable transformation here at this school... Now under this Government, we can see the progress, the magnificent progress, unfolding here in our beautiful region,” he said.
Mohan noted that initiatives such as the AutoCAD laboratory will help make students “marketable for the world of work” while advancing innovation and creativity throughout Region Two.
The commissioning ceremony concluded with the official ribbon-cutting exercise and a tour of the state-ofthe-art facility by officials, teachers, and students. SATURDAY,
The firefighters were nevertheless able to successfully contain the fire to the two buildings. At the scene, Yadram, a security officer who was at work at the time of the blaze, recalled receiving a telephone call and rushed home only to find the house engulfed in flames and most of their belongings destroyed.
“They called the workplace. When I came, the house was in flames ... everything, everything damaged, everything... I don’t have anything, anything more,” the distraught woman responded.
Meanwhile, Fraser, who identified himself as a self-employed man attached to Gotham Inn and Plum Inn, told reporters that his four-year-old son had been left at home shortly before the fire started. According to Fraser, he had briefly left the building and was returning when he noticed smoke and flames.
“By their coming by the end of the street… I see like a rubbish rolling,” he explained while describing the moment he observed smoke. He said that by the time he got closer, the house
had already started catching fire. Fraser told reporters that when he first noticed the flames, the fire appeared to be concentrated toward the back upper section of the house. Residents in the community later stated that a young boy from the area rushed into the burning building and rescued the four-year-old child moments before the flames intensified. Fraser said that when he returned, he eventually saw his son outside on the roadway.
The fire eventually spread to a neighbouring building owned by Phulmattee Madramoottoo, who said she had recently purchased new furniture and household items for the home she had occupied for decades. She explained that while efforts were being made to contain the first building, the flames later crossed over and destroyed much of her property.
Asked how long after the first house started catching fire did it actually come over to her house, she said, “Half an hour, a little bit more.” Nearly one hour.”
Madramoottoo, who said she has been living at the
property for about 30 years, explained that while some vehicles were removed before the flames intensified, much of the household furniture and personal belongings were destroyed.
“I had to find a key; I had to take a truck and a car.” This was in order for neighbours to be able to remove the two vehicles from under the house. “I made up the house the other day. I bought a new bed and a new wardrobe. I spend over half a million on chains and banners. I bought furniture, everything new I bought in the house...” she continued, “… new bed, mattress, new bed, wardrobe and the sunbed. Three beds in all, with a new brand sponge and everything. I spend over half a million… I bought furniture, everything new I bought in the house,” the 60-year-old woman lamented. She also explained that a shop formerly operated from the premises had been closed since the death of her husband, although goods remained inside the building. Firefighters are investigating the circumstances surrounding the blaze.
Size up situations, and allocate enough time to make a difference. How you help others will determine how they perceive you and what they are willing to do in return. Offering your time and expertise will bring higher returns than making a cash donation. Put your energy into exercises that improve your performance. Romance is favored.
Share your thoughts, but be willing to compromise. Keep an open mind when constructive criticism comes your way. Don’t go over your budget when improving your surroundings. Overspending will lead to stress and regret. Refuse to let anyone pressure you to take on more than you can handle.
Put some muscle behind the changes you want to make. Dreaming doesn’t get the job done. Wasting time and effort arguing or trying to do the impossible will result in fatigue and disappointment. Explore what is possible, and you’ll learn something new and overcome what’s holding you back. You are overdue for a change of heart or surroundings.
Keep your life simple, your projects doable and your mind on what’s important to you. How you reach out to others will make a difference. Using criticism or negativity will not bring you closer to resolving financial, emotional or moral issues. Offer patience, sincerity and a helping hand to bring about positive results. Think big; budget wisely.
It’s what you do that matters. Overthinking or arguing will hold you back. Put your energy where it can do some good or help you advance. A personal change to how you present yourself, or updating your appearance to give you the edge you need to command attention, will attract partnerships.
Researching and paying attention to detail will help you expand your awareness and prospects. Let your words plant suggestions that encourage others to participate. Emotional wear and tear will leave you vulnerable, giving those who want to take advantage of you a chance to interfere. Risks may tempt you, but common sense is in your best interest.
Social events will change your perspective regarding love, learning and lifestyle. Reach out to someone who grabs your attention, and you’ll discover you have more options than you realize. Update your look, embrace a pastime that makes you feel free and give yourself a chance to grow emotionally. Romance is in the stars.
Mixed emotions will surface if you discuss domestic plans with someone close to you. Refrain from overreacting to what someone suggests. Hit the reset button, apologize if necessary and offer comfort, not confusion. Pay attention to your physical wellbeing, and build strength through regular exercise. Share the workload and expenses with someone. Keep the momentum flowing and your expectations growing. Embrace each challenge with a competitive mindset and an attitude that commands attention. You will find the success you desire. Keep everyone guessing while you zigzag with the comfort of knowing what you want. Turn your home into your safe place.
Don’t labor over what you cannot change; instead, put more time and effort into surrounding yourself with what makes you happy, brings you peace and encourages you to explore and expand life’s little pleasures. Change is overrated when it has more to do with ego than kindness and gratitude. Choose compromise, patience and peace.
It’s up to you to bring about change. Stop letting what you don’t like dictate what happens next. Spice up your life, discover who you have become and test the waters to see what soothes your soul. Pay attention to detail, and turn your mind and body into the best version of yourself to see what transpires.
Put more thought into what you enjoy doing and how you earn your living. Put greater emphasis on intellect and money management and less on temptation and overspending on things you don’t need. Look for outlets that encourage personal growth and connecting with people who share your beliefs, values and pastimes, and happiness will follow.
Chakravarthy took control. Between overs 12 and 16, DC managed just 11 runs in 30 balls – the slowest such phase for any IPL team in nearly two decades.
Roy set the tone, stumping Nissanka with a slower, wider delivery before bowling Tristan Stubbs with a quicker, straighter one. It showcased impressive variation from a bowler with-
Narine and Varun in the act
With DC at 89 for 5, Axar Patel struggling for form (44 runs with just three boundaries – the fewest, with any batter this season to have faced at least 50 balls), and con ditions favouring bowlers, Narine and Varun simply stuck to their strengths. They varied their pace, attacked the stumps, and maintained control. Narine finished with 4-0-
out mystery elements.
17-1, while Varun, despite limping through his final over that cost 16 runs, ended with 4-0-28-0.
Ashutosh Sharma ended a 38-ball boundary drought in the 17th over and later reverse-swept Vaibhav Arora for six in the 19th. His cameo of 39 off 28 balls helped DC reach 142 for eight.
Allen’s landmarks
For the first time in his IPL career, Allen batted through the powerplay in what was his eighth innings. He had an early scare when his straight drive deflected off Mitchell Starc’s fingers onto the stumps, running out his Captain Ajinkya Rahane, but quickly recovered. With Kuldeep Yadav and Vipraj Nigam
Kuldeep’s struggle continues In a match dominated by his former team’s spinners (economy rate 6.33), Kuldeep endured another difficult outing, conceding runs at 13.66 per over despite avoiding the powerplay. Axar bowled three overs with fielding restrictions and still returned respectable figures of 4-027-1. (ESPNcricinfo)
aaa SCOREBOARD
Delhi Capitals (20 ovs maximum)
Pathum Nissanka st †Raghuvanshi b Roy 50
KL Rahul †c Green
b Kartik Tyagi 23
Nitish Rana c Narine
b Green 8
Sameer Rizvi c Powell
b Narine 3
Tristan Stubbs b Roy 2
Axar Patel (c) c Roy
b Arora 11
Ashutosh Sharma c Rahane
b Kartik Tyagi 39
Vipraj Nigam not out 3
Mitchell Starc run out (†Raghuvanshi/Kartik Tyagi) 0
Lungi Ngidi not out 1
Extras (w 2) 2
Total 20 Ov (RR: 7.10) 142/8
Fall of wickets: 1-49 (KL Rahul, 4.6 ov), 2-74 (Nitish Rana, 7.6 ov), 3-80 (Sameer Rizvi, 9.5 ov), 4-85 (Pathum Nissanka, 10.1 ov), 5-89 (Tristan Stubbs, 10.5 ov), 6-128 (Axar Patel, 18.3 ov), 7-140 (Ashutosh Sharma, 19.2 ov), 8-140 (Mitchell Starc, 19.4 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W
(T:
With preparations intensifying ahead of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Shield tournament in July, Slingerz Football Club (FC) will head to Linden today for a high-profile encounter against the Linden Town Week Inter-Ward champions at the Bayroc National Stadium.
Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00h, with the Georgetown-based club set to face the Blueberry Hill/Alleys/Valleys/ Christianburg combination team, winners of the recently concluded Linden Town Week football tournament organised by the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation.
A Linden versus Georgetown veteran game will serve as the supporting game, from 17:00h.,
The fixture forms part of Slingerz FC’s ongoing preparation programme for the CFU Club Shield competition in Trinidad and Tobago, where the club will
represent Guyana on the regional stage.
Slingerz FC’s head coach, Jamaal Shabazz, said
the match is an important component of the club’s efforts to ensure the players are fully prepared for the
Diamond Secondary and Bishop’s High captured top honours when the James “Uprising” Lewis 2026 Challenge Trophy competitions concluded on Tuesday at the National Park Tarmac.
Diamond Secondary secured the senior title after defeating Christ Church Secondary in the first final of the day. Batting first after winning the toss, Diamond posted 69 for three from their allotted overs, with Paul McTurk leading the scoring with 32 runs.
In reply, Christ Church Secondary finished on 58 for four despite a fighting 28 from Jarad Ramlacarun, who was later awarded a
trophy for his all-round performance during the tournament. Ravin Singh was named the competition’s Most Valuable Player. Meanwhile, Bishop’s High claimed the secondand third-formers’ title after defeating Westminster Secondary in the J S Lewis Challenge Trophy final.
Bishop’s High batted first and reached 49 for one from their allotted overs, led by Aryan Persaud’s 16 runs. Westminster, in response, struggled to build momentum and were restricted to 22 for three, with Anthony Hoyte top-scoring with six runs.
Persaud also impressed with the ball, taking two
wickets for eight runs, and was rewarded with the prizes for both best batsman and best bowler in the competition.
Organisers described the tournament as highly competitive, noting that matches throughout both divisions were closely contested. Appreciation was also extended to the participating schools for their involvement in the event.
Attention will now shift to the upcoming “One Guyana Independence Cup” for secondary school boys, which is expected to be sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport later this month.
demands of regional competition.
“As Guyana’s representative in the CFU Club
Shield, Slingerz Football Club is committed to ensuring that the team is adequately prepared to proudly represent both the club and country on the Caribbean stage,” Shabazz stated.
The experienced Trinidad and Tobago coach explained that the club has strengthened its roster significantly in recent weeks, adding several overseas-based players as part of its push to compete at a higher level.
“We have boosted the squad with the inclusion of players from The Gambia, Sierra Leone and Cameroon, and this match in Linden gives us another valuable opportunity to see the players in action and continue building chemistry within the team,” Shabazz noted.
The encounter is also expected to provide football fans in Linden with an opportunity to witness top-level competition at the newly constructed Bayroc National Stadium, a venue Shabazz
praised highly.
“Linden has produced several outstanding footballers over the years, and I’m very pleased to see football returning strongly in the community with an even better venue than before,” he said.
Shabazz also encouraged football supporters across Linden and surrounding communities to come out and support the event, noting that the presence of a club like Slingerz FC can help inspire local players.
“Seeing Slingerz FC in action in Linden can help boost the competitive spirit of players in the community, while at the same time helping our club continue its preparations. We are looking forward to a good match and strong support from the fans,” Shabazz added.
Slingerz FC qualified for the CFU Club Shield after winning last season’s Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League with an unbeaten record.
The Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) is set for an action-packed weekend as the Sherwin Wil-liams Second Division T20 Cup and the Enline Security Logistics Under-17 50-Over competition con-tinue on May 9 and 10 across several city venues.
All eyes will be on Transport Sports Club as they look to maintain their unbeaten run in Group A when they take the field this weekend. The in-form duo of Jeremiah Hohenkirk and Shamar Apple will be eager to repeat their recent dominance with bat and ball as Transport continues its charge toward the knockout stages.
Transport’s consistency has separated them from the chasing pack in Group A, and another strong showing could further cement their position at the top.
Meanwhile, Group B remains tightly contested. Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) and El Dorado Cricket Club are both hovering in the middle of the standings and searching for the kind of consistency that could propel them up the ladder. With several crucial fixtures scheduled, this weekend could prove de-cisive in shaping the group’s balance.
On the bowling front, Nigel Deodat of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has emerged as the tourna-ment’s leading wicket-taker. His 15 wickets from just five matches have made him a standout perform-er thus far, and he will again be central to GDF’s
hopes when they clash with tough opposition.
On Saturday, May 9, Sophia faces El Dorado at GCC from 09:30h, while at 13:30h Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) takes on PFA Agricola at the same venue.
Transport Sports Club will meet Police Academy at the Transport Sports Ground at 13:30h.
At Police Ground, GDF battles Police 2nd Division from 09:30h, followed by Police 2nd Division against Ace Warriors at 13:30h.
Meanwhile, Everest Ground will see Everest oppose diplomats at 13:30h.
On Sunday, May 10, GDF clash with El Dorado at Everest from 09:30h, while GYO/MMC take on Bel Air Rubis at 13:30h at the same venue.
At Police Ground, Police 2nd Division will face Sophia at 09:30h before Police Academy meet Everest at 13:30h.
DCC and UG will square off at the DCC ground from 13:30h.
The Enline Security Logistics Under-17 50-Over tournament also promises compelling contests.
Malteenoes Sports Club will be hunting back-to-back victories as they continue their campaign. Central to the GTXI ambitions is leading run-scorer Tyrell King, who has been in scintillating form with the bat and will be looking to make his presence felt once again when his side faces the Georgetown Cricket Club in what is expected to be a competitive encounter.
Saturday’s fixtures pit QC against GCC at 09:30h at the QC ground, while DCC battles Everest at the same time at DCC. On Sunday, GCC meets GT XI at the GCC ground from 09:30h, and Transport takes on Malteenoes at the Transport ground, also from 09:30h With senior and youth players alike vying for supremacy, the Georgetown cricket scene is poised for an exciting and pivotal weekend of action.
Beacon Football Club (FC) and Riddim Squad FC advanced to the final of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Knockout competition following commanding semi-final victories on Thursday night at the Plaisance Community Ground, East Coast Demerara.
Playing before a crowd of more than 50 spectators, according to the GFA’s official gate count, both semi-fi-
nal encounters proved to be one-sided affairs.
Beacon FC produced the most dominant performance of the night, thrashing Eastveldt FC 6-1 after racing to a 5-0 advantage at halftime. Antwoine Vincent opened the scoring in the 15th minute before Stayon Murray added a quick double in the 20th and 22nd minutes.
Tamiel Hutson then struck twice in succession in
the 25th and 29th minutes to put Beacon firmly in control heading into the break.
Eastveldt managed to pull one back in the 49th minute through an own goal by Beacon goalkeeper Simon Emmanuel, but Tefon Daly completed the rout with Beacon’s sixth goal in the 75th minute.
In the second semi-final, Riddim Squad FC secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Vengy FC after taking full
control in the opening half.
Dorville Stewart broke the deadlock in the 26th minute before Kelvin Gordon doubled the lead in the 42nd minute. Steffon Daniels added a third one minute later to effectively seal the contest before halftime.
The Nalico/Naficosponsored tournament, which is also supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, among others, is scheduled to conclude tonight, Saturday, May 9, with the final slated
The penultimate night of action in the inaugural Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS)/East Bank InterVillage Football Tournament continued to serve up absorbing play with Kuru Kururu and Grove turning back the challenges of their opponents to contest the final on Saturday night at the Eccles EE Ground.
Both semi-finals were gruelling encounters, Kuru Kururu storming back from a goal down to beat Herstelling 3-1 via kicks from the penalty mark, while
Grove needled Agricola in the opening game, which was affected by a power outage 15 minutes into the first half and lasted for about 40 minutes.
This delay resulted in Grove Captain Domini Garnett and Agricola Captain Solomon Austin agreeing to reduce the game to 70 minutes. It was soon after the resumption that Grove defender Trevor Jones found the space and range to slot one past Agricola’s custodian, Andel Mohanlall, and as it turned out, it was the golden goal in the 17th minute.
The exchanges between the two villages were endto-end as Grove sought to defend their advantage and Agricola constantly went after the equalising goal. Agricola were able to smother the efforts of the tournament’s leading goal scorer, Domini Garnett (six goals), in their defensive third, but it did not matter for Garnett.
The night’s main attraction produced a humdinger of a clash as the lads from the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, like Grove, maintained their unbeaten run in the tournament with a come-from-behind win.
Herstelling took the lead in the 24th minute through a Jesus Perez goal and defended that lead up until the 65th minute when Kevin Scott scored his third goal of the tournament to restore parity to the game.
At the end of full time the score was locked at 1-1, and it remained the same after extra time was exhausted. Kicks from the penalty mark did not go well for Herstelling as they missed three of four opportunities. On the other hand, Kuru Kururu converted three of
their five shots to book a date with Grove on Saturday night in the championship match.
At stake will be one million dollars for the winner, with the losing finalist receiving $500,000. The winner of the third-place clash between Agricola and Herstelling will earn $250,000 and fourth place, $150,000.
The MVP of the tournament will cash in on
$100,000, with $80,000 each set aside for the Highest Goal-scorer and Best Goalkeeper.
The competition is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Housing, National Sports Commission, Bounty Farm Ltd, Fitness Express, Star Rentals, Trophy Stall, NAMILCO and Republic Bank.
for 21:00h at the same venue. The third-place decider will be contested between Eastveldt and Vengy earlier in the night at 19:00h. (Michelangelo Jacobus)
The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) on Friday received its first shipment of Adidas products under a landmark four-year partnership agreement signed with Adidas in 2025.
The shipment, which includes performance footwear such as spikes and training sneakers, was officially distributed to athletes and clubs during a simple presenta-
tion ceremony held at the Guyana Olympic Association Headquarters at Block XXX, Plantation Lililendaal, East Coast Demerara.
President of the Athletics Association of Guyana, Sheryl Hermonstine, described the arrival of the products as an important step forward for local athletics development.
“On behalf of the Athletics Association of Guyana, I
wish to express our sincere gratitude to Adidas for honouring the partnership agreement signed in 2025. Today, in 2026, this commitment has become a reality as we receive the first consignment of performance gear –sneakers, running shoes, and spikes – for our athletes,” Hermonstine said.
She noted that the partnership goes beyond the distribution of sporting equip-
ment.
“This is more than gear; it is an investment in the future of Guyana’s track and field. As we prepare to make the first presentation to our clubs here at Olympic House, we thank Adidas for believing in our athletes and Mr Cubie Seegobin for being instrumental in the process and standing with us as we develop champions in Guyana,” she added.
Meanwhile, AAG General Secretary James Cole explained that the agreement provides substantial in-kind support over the four-year period.
According to Cole, the association will receive US$300,000 worth of athletic products during the first and fourth years of the agreement, including footwear and training apparel. In years two and three, the value of the products supplied will total US$250,000 annually.
Part B of the agreement is geared toward youth development, with the association set to receive US$20,000 worth of training apparel for young and developing athletes attached to various clubs, especially those that
are newly formed or expanding their programmes.
“This section is particularly designed to support young athletes who are now entering the programme and need the necessary gear to compete and train effectively,” Cole explained.
The agreement also contains a performance-based incentive structure linked to podium finishes at major international championships.
Under the arrangement, the association will receive
Youth Basketball Guyana’s (YBG) East Coast “Country” Regionals continued on Thursday at the President’s College hardcourt in Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara, with Plaisance Secondary and President’s College recording victories in the latest round of action. In the opening contest of the day, Good Hope Secondary edged Annandale Secondary 7-4 in a low-scoring encounter to secure the win.
Plaisance Secondary then produced a dominant performance to defeat Hope Secondary 29-8. Christopher Ram led the scoring for Plaisance with 11 points, while
Trevor James was named Player of the Game after contributing eight points and seven rebounds in an allround display.
President’s College closed the night with a 29-20 victory over Golden Grove Secondary. Terron Mohabir was the standout performer, scoring 14 points and collecting three rebounds to earn Player of the Game honours. Romarion Wolfe also supported the effort with six points.
The East Coast “Country” Regionals are being sponsored by Edward B Beharry Ltd, G-Boats Inc, the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Education and Banks DIH Ltd.
US$25,000 if a Guyanese athlete wins Olympic gold, US$15,000 for silver, and US$10,000 for bronze. At the World Outdoor Championships, the bonuses are set at US$15,000 for gold, US$10,000 for silver, and US$8,000 for bronze. For podium finishes at the World Indoor Championships, the association stands to earn US$10,000 for gold, US$8,000 for silver, and US$7,000 for bronze.
