Guyana Times - Sunday, April 19, 2026

Govt

McCoy

Man

MoE engages stakeholders on construction of

Police burn $258M worth of ganja during Berbice River operation

As the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues with its drug eradication exercise, some $258 million worth of ganja was found and destroyed at Kimba along the Upper

Berbice River on Friday. Police stated that during the operation, two fields measuring about seven acres with

approximately 310,000 cannabis sativa plants ranging from two to six feet in height were discovered. In addition, two makeshift camps, two drying areas, 380 pounds of

dried cannabis and farming tools were also found at the location. As such, the cannabis plants, dried cannabis, camps, drying areas and tools were all destroyed by fire. The police stated that the estimated value of the narcotics is $258,729,310. At the time of the operation, no arrests were made. Back in March, the police reported that $551 million worth of ganja was destroyed at De Veldt, Upper Berbice River. It was reported that during the eight-hour exercise, two fields with a combined area of approximately seven acres, with about 640,000 cannabis plants, were discovered. The plants ranged between four and 10 feet in height.

In addition, one large drying area was also found with about 850 pounds of dried cannabis.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, April 19 – 05:00h-06:30h and Monday, April 20 – 05:40h–07:10h.

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light rain showers are expected during the day, with sunny conditions in the mid-morning and mid-to-late-afternoon hours. Partly-cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.13 metres and 4.92 metres.

High Tide: 18:02h reaching a maximum height of 2.73 metres.

Low Tide: 11:34h and 23:47h reaching minimum heights of 0.28 metre and 0.55 metre.

Chinese acrobats bring artistry, unity to Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations – Pres Ali

...set to thrill audiences nationwide with 1st show at Leonora tonight

The world-renowned Chinese acrobatic troupe, which is currently on a countrywide tour as part of Guyana's 60th Independence anniversary celebrations, put on a thrilling performance on the lawns of State House on Friday evening before they set out to dazzle Guyanese over the coming days.

Established in 1976, the Hebei Acrobatic Troupe has performed in more than 80 countries across the world and received over 50 awards globally. After first visiting Guyana in 1981, the troupe has returned to local shores some 45 years later to further strengthen the enduring friendship between Guyana and China.

Delivering brief remarks during Friday night's special performance at State House, President Dr Irfaan Ali expressed gratitude to

the Chinese Embassy in Georgetown for facilitating the tour - something he says is instrumental in deepening cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

"The relationship between Guyana and China has long been built on mutual respect, cooperation and shared progress, but beyond agreements and development partnerships, the true strength of any friendship lies in the connection between peoples. Culture has a unique power to bring hearts closer, to inspire understanding, and to remind us that excellence, discipline and beauty are values admired in every corner of the world. That is why tonight's occasion carries special meaning," he posited.

According to the Head of State, Guyana's historic 60th anniversary of Independence this year is a proud milestone in the nation's journey, and the tour of this Chinese acrobatic troupe adds great significance to the celebrations. He said the troupe will enrich the celebrations through its remarkable artistry, discipline, and brilliance, leaving Guyanese

with memories that go beyond mere ceremonies.

"To the members of the troupe, I say that your presence adds splendour and spectacle to a year already rich with national pride. The Chinese Acrobatic Troupe is internationally renowned for breathtaking performances, astonishing precision, and remarkable creativity. Across the world, audiences have marvelled at the courage, grace, and skill displayed on stage. Tonight, Guyana joins that global audience of admiration."

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Venezuela's rising challenge

Fresh from her first foreign visit to Grenada – a Caricom member but also a member of ALBA, which her country founded and dominates – acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez has been on a roll after arrogantly flaunting her Essequibo-appended brooch. On Thursday, after signing an "Organic Law of Mines" that placated a large swathe of local interests, she welcomed Venezuela's reinstatement in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after years of exclusion.

Earlier in the week, she had authorised the transfer of a licence for a Chevron-controlled gas field to Venezuela in exchange for the incorporation of an oil block in the Orinoco Oil Belt, Chevron's joint venture with PDVSA. This will increase oil production beyond one million barrels per day (bpd).

These moves follow very friendly signals from President Trump, who reiterated that Rodriguez will soon be visiting Washington. This reemergence of Venezuela signals a shift in the regional balance that we cannot afford to ignore. This is not a crisis, but it is undeniably a strategic turning point.

For years, we have benefited from a favourable alignment of circumstances: a pariah Venezuela, we becoming a significant regional oil producer, and growing investor confidence. That landscape is changing. A Venezuela regaining economic footing and expanding its oil output will inevitably seek to reassert influence, and with hardliner Rodriguez at the helm, the long-standing controversy over the Essequibo region will remain central to that ambition.

But the answer for us is not panic, nor is it militarisation on a scale we cannot sustain. The path forward lies in discipline, clarity, and strategic layering. First and foremost, we must continue to anchor our position in international law. The ongoing International Court of Justice (ICJ) adjudication of the border controversy provides us with our strongest advantage: legitimacy. A clear legal outcome, backed by broad international recognition, would raise the diplomatic and economic cost for Venezuela to defy it. We must therefore invest sustained diplomatic energy in ensuring that the legal process is not only concluded but widely respected.

Second, partnerships matter more than ever. Security in the modern era is rarely about unilateral strength; it is about networks. By deepening ties with regional and global partners such as the US and Brazil – through joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and visible cooperation – we can reinforce a quiet but effective deterrent. The presence of trusted allies, even indirectly, alters the strategic calculus of any potential aggressor.

Third, we must continue our focused, asymmetric approach to defence. Not to build a large standing army, but rather to develop capabilities that address real vulnerabilities. Maritime surveillance, coast guard capacity, and rapid response systems are essential, particularly given the importance of offshore oil operations. The objective is not to fight a conventional war but to detect, deter, and respond to incidents before they escalate.

Equally important is the protection of our economic assets. The country's oil sector – especially with Exxon as the operator – is not only a source of revenue; it is a strategic shield. International investment brings with it international attention, and any disruption would carry consequences far beyond the region. By ensuring that its energy infrastructure is secure and closely integrated with global partners, Guyana strengthens its overall security posture.

Diplomacy must also extend beyond traditional allies. By consistently engaging regional and multilateral organisations, we must frame the Essequibo issue as one of international law and the rights of small States. In doing so, we broaden the circle of stakeholders and increase the political cost of escalation for any party.

Domestically, development of the Essequibo region should be accelerated steadily and visibly. Infrastructure, services, and economic activity are not only beneficial for citizens; they reinforce sovereignty in practical terms. Presence matters, and long-term investment signals permanence without provocation. Our country's response must remain measured, transparent, and firmly grounded in international law.

The reality is this: a stronger Venezuela will be more assertive, but it will also have more to lose. Our task is to ensure that any challenge to our sovereignty becomes prohibitively costly – politically, economically, and diplomatically. This is not a moment for alarm. It is a moment for strategy, which President Ali clearly grasps.

McCoy's boast rooted

Dear Editor, PWD (Persons Living with Disabilities) in Guyana are in an unprecedented era. The current PPP/C Administration has gone the " extra mile " in " normalising " everyday living for this once marginalised and even despised group. For example, continuing a slew of investments, as recent as January of this year, there was the " sod-turning " exercise for the planned G$194,472,570 Cummings Lodge facility, "... a landmark project in the country's educational landscape and the commencement of construction on Guyana's first dedicated School for the Deaf."

Mind you, this salubrious move "... comes amid broader efforts by the Ministry of Education to strengthen educational access for deaf learners (a sub-group within the PWD fraternity). As for the general details, this necessary institution "... will be designed to accommodate 30 learners and will provide a nurturing environment that supports deaf culture while advancing specialised learning." I add that under these 'broader efforts' from the Guyana Government, and as per the 2026 National Budget, the sum allocated to invest in Persons with Disabilities includes $316.5 million for specialised education and training, plus a one-off GYD$50,000 grant for over 27,000 beneficiaries." By the way, when all is said and done, this will mark Guyana's 50th Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) space, indeed reflecting continued progress in inclusive education and a policy that is

in reality

non-discriminatory, but conversely, quite holistic and all-inclusive.

No wonder then, that at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights preparatory debate in Istanbul, Türkiye, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, was able to proudly reaffirm his government's commitment to "... advancing the rights and empowerment of persons living with disabilities, outlining an ambitious national agenda that includes job creation, expanded social support, and inclusive infrastructural development." Subsumed under the theme and resolution titled, "Inclusive Social Development for All: Parliamentary Strategies to Promote the Rights and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities," held in Istanbul, Türkiye, McCoy waxed lyrical, emphatically noting that "... Guyana remains firmly aligned with its international obligations, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development."

He elaborated most succinctly that "Guyana reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the promotion, protection, and full realisation of the rights of persons with disabilities ... (adding that) "... disability inclusion is both a human-rights imperative and a prerequisite for inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development." Evidence of what McCoy echoed is the fact that "Five years ago... in 2020, there were only 13 recognised

– PWD well-catered to

Specialised Education Needs and Disabilities spaces across the entire nation... now it's up to 50."

I must point out too, and as the Minister clearly spelled out, that this kind of unfolding is not ad hoc, willy-nilly politics at work. The country is mandatorily guided by a "... strong legislative and institutional framework, anchored in the Persons with Disabilities Act 2010, and supported by constitutional guarantees of equality and non-discrimination." Simply put, the PWD contingent is guaranteed its rightful place by virtue of the Constitution of Guyana. This is a 'rightsbased' approach and not intermittent acts of benevolence.

For example, the 'Right to Gainful Employment' is a focus of the PPP/C Government, as there are strategies in place for creating at least 5,000 jobs for persons with disabilities over the next five years. These translate into the Government's investments in skills development, entrepreneurial financing, and the removal of structural barriers to employment."

Editor, putting this into the global framework, the United Nations focuses on ensuring people with disabilities are not left behind in development targets, particularly in education, employment, and reducing inequalities. Overall, around 15 per cent of the world's population, or an estimated 1 billion people, live with disabilities. They are the world's largest minority, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). How about a 2003 study by

Rutgers University? This found that people with physical and mental disabilities continue to be vastly underrepresented in the US workplace. One-third of the employers surveyed said that persons with disabilities cannot effectively perform the required job tasks. The second most common reason given for not hiring persons with disabilities was the fear of costly special facilities. (Dixon, Kruse, Van Horn, 2003).

However, and consistent with Guyana's direction (in terms of investments), companies are now reporting that employees with disabilities have better retention rates, reducing the high cost of turnover. Also, thousands of persons with disabilities have been successful as small business owners, according to the US Department of Labour. The 1990 national census revealed that persons with disabilities have a higher rate of self-employment and small business experience (12.2 per cent) than persons without disabilities (7.8 per cent). (US Census of Population and Housing, 1990).

No wonder then, during the Christmas season of 2025, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced a major policy shift, requiring that every new Government project dedicate at least 10 per cent of its space to supporting persons living with disabilities, thus ensuring that persons living with disabilities benefit from equal treatment, dignity and meaningful inclusion nationwide.

Yours truly, Raymond Anderson

There’s no retirement from life

By Ryhaan Shah

Retirement is a time not for retreat from life but for an evolution into one where we now have the freedom to design our own schedule and spend our time exactly how we want without the intrusion of a work schedule.

It is a major life event and an important transition, and now that we are away from the stress of a daily work routine, our mental health should improve, and we can turn our thoughts to pursuing our passions and hobbies or even projects that make use of the knowledge we gained in our jobs and careers.

Professionals could become consultants, working at their own pace while also earning an income. Others could use their experience to start a small business or engage in volunteer work, which provides immense satisfaction and feelings of well-being.

Retirement is a concept that applies to many professionals and wage earners. The Private Sector and the State determine that at age 65, our productivity diminishes due to natural aging and, maybe, ill health. We retire and make way for the next generation. This is the established pattern in most countries, and both the Government and the Private Sector provide pensions scaled to our respective salary when we retire.

For many of the self-employed, however, there is little or no such idea as retirement. Mr Hemraj Kissoon is still at the helm of his business, as is Mr Sattaur Gafoor at his. They are just two prominent members of our business community who remain engaged with what has been their lifelong and very satisfying work, and they will continue to be in charge for as long as their health permits.

Professionals such as accountants, medical doctors, and lawyers who manage their own offices or clinics also continue to work well into what is considered retirement age as long as they, too, enjoy good health.

While some welcome retirement, it’s not always a rosy picture for others. If you have not managed to save enough for retirement, there could be real challenges to living on a reduced or fixed income. And while some enjoy the freedom that comes with retirement, others can feel bored or irrelevant with the loss of the daily structure, camaraderie, and busyness that come with a work environment.

If the workplace was the main source of your social interaction, you might find it difficult to make new friendships or find new ways of making social or community connections. Feelings of isolation could translate to a loss of good mental and physical health. Perhaps you can look at retirement, instead, as a challenge and approach it as if it were simply a new job.

Giving some structure to your day could help with the transition, and finding new purpose can be a powerful motivator. Perhaps your work experience can translate into a small business or can lead to doing some volunteer work. Those who engage in volunteerism are said to have much higher levels of happiness and feelings of well-being.

It’s not just the altruism; it’s a hack for mental health, replacing the dopamine hit of “being needed” that work used to provide. For some, the purpose that volunteering provides leads them back into the workforce with an offer of part-time work. Volunteering to do the accounts for your church or temple, for instance, could lead to a job offer.

A few retirees even report the joy of doing absolutely nothing for lengths of time after decades of hard work and their daily commute, and many simply embrace the time they can now spend with family and, more especially, with grandchildren.

This can be enough compensation for some retirees for their loss of work, and here is where the family and community can help to make sure that the retired relative or neighbour feels included and cared for. The saying that retirement is retirement from work and not from life is a good reminder of the priorities we should keep in mind.

Many quotes about retirement celebrate this period as giving us a chance at a new beginning, to enjoy life on our own terms, and to relax after years of hard work. Writer HG Wells said, “Don’t simply retire from something; have something to retire to.”

Finally, there is time to focus on our own personal achievements and to embrace the journey ahead by living life fully and to see the years ahead as a chance to continue our journey with purpose and passion.

Now is our chance for self-discovery, for simplifying our lives, and adapting to a new, fulfilling chapter.

Woman admits to setting partner on fire during domestic dispute

– to be sentenced on May 13 on manslaughter charge

A24-year-old

Georgetown woman is expected to be sentenced on May 13 after pleading guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her partner, who succumbed to severe burn injuries sustained during a domestic altercation at their New Market Street, North Cummingsburg residence. Melissa David, of Lot 99–100 New Market Street, appeared before the High Court last week, where she entered a guilty plea to the lesser count of manslaughter. The matter was prosecuted by State Counsel Padma Dubraj, Nelissa Peterkin and Aleria Aliya Heywood while David is being represented by Attorney-at-Law Ronald Bostwick.

The case, which was originally indicted as murder, stemmed from a violent incident on May 22, 2024, involving David and her partner, 31-year-old Edmond Moses. The court heard that David and Moses were in a romantic relationship and lived in the same two-storey apartment building at New Market Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown. Although residing in separate rooms, both occupied the same premises. On the day in question, a domestic dispute escalated inside the building during the evening hours. The confrontation, which began earlier in the day over personal

and household issues, intensified inside the apartment.

At approximately 18:05h, the situation escalated into violence, during which a flammable liquid was thrown on Moses, and he was set alight inside the residential property. The fire quickly spread within the immediate area of the apartment landing, causing panic among other occupants of the building.

A nearby resident, Abdur Rahman Wohab, who lives within the same apartment complex, became aware of the incident after hearing disturbances and observing signs of fire from his unit. Upon investigating, he observed flames in the verandah area of the deceased’s apartment. He, along with another resident, immediately intervened and used buckets of water to bring the

Good first step

Dear Editor,

Following the recent incident at Eugene F. Correia International Airport involving a Trans Guyana Airways aircraft and a runway incursion by wildlife, it’s clear that some immediate steps are now being taken. Reports from crew departing Ogle indicate that rangers were positioned on both sides of the runway, actively scanning the bushes and attempting to keep animals from straying onto the active strip. A patrol vehicle was also seen prior to taxi.

That tells us one thing, there is awareness, and there is action, even if it’s interim, and that matters. In aviation, however, how we do something is just as important as what we do.

Any personnel operating in close proximity to an active runway, especially at night or in low visibility, must be clearly visible and fully integrated into the operation. That means reflective vests are not optional, they are essential. More importantly, Air Traffic Control must advise flight crews of any ground activity in or near the runway environment. Pilots need full situational awareness, not

surprises in the grass at rotation speed.

This is how risk compounds. You fix one hazard, wildlife and unintentionally introduce another, uncoordinated human presence. The effort by the Airport Authorities is commendable. They are responding, and that response should be acknowledged. But this needs to be structured, briefed and standardised. Proper Notice to Airmen (NOTAMs) where applicable, Air Traffic Control (ATC) advisories, high-visibility gear, and clearly defined procedures for runway sweeps must become part of the system, not just a reaction in the moment.

Wildlife hazards are not new to aviation, especially in environments like Guyana where nature sits right on the edge of our infrastructure. But managing that risk requires coordination, discipline, and communication across every level, ground crews, ATC, and pilots alike. This is a good first step. Now let’s make it the right one.

Sincerely,

Capt Miles Williams Former GDF/Special Forces/Military Pilot

fire under control.

Following the intervention, Moses was seen exiting his apartment suffering from extensive burn injuries affecting his upper body, arm, and lower limbs. Emergency medical services were summoned, and he was transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was admitted in critical condition.

Despite receiving treatment, his condition deteriorated over the following weeks. He later died as a result of complications arising from the burns. A PostMortem Examination conducted on July 15, 2024, by Government Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh proved that he died from pneumonia resulting from septic burns. Medical findings indicated that Moses sustained burns covering approximately 50 to 55 per cent of his body surface area, classifying the injuries as severe and life-threatening. Following the incident, police investigators visited the scene, accompanied by the accused. During the scene examination, items of interest were recovered, including a yellow jersey and a wooden stick, both of which were photographed and logged as exhibits. Investigators also observed a mop on the balcony area, which appeared to contain traces of a liquid emitting an odour consistent with kerosene or a similar flammable substance.

Following her arrest on the day of the incident, David was cautioned by police in accordance with standard procedures and admitted her involvement in the incident. She provided a caution statement indicating that a physical confrontation had taken place between herself and Moses prior to the fire being set. In a subsequent written statement, she alleged that the incident occurred during a domestic dispute involving accusations over personal belongings and money.

She further claimed that she was assaulted during the confrontation and that the situation escalated inside the room, where she was prevented from leaving. David also stated that she acted in fear during the altercation, which led to the act that resulted in Moses being set on fire. Investigators also obtained statements from residents of the apartment building who confirmed hearing loud arguments shortly before the incident. One witness reported hearing threats exchanged between the couple earlier in the evening, followed by movement and commotion from within the apartment complex. Another resident corroborated seeing fire emanating from the direction of the deceased’s living quarters and observed the aftermath of the incident shortly thereafter. David was initially charged with attempted murder when she first appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. The prosecution later proceeded with the matter at the High Court following the victim’s declining medical condition and subsequent death. After completion of the investigation and presentation of agreed facts, the charge was reduced to manslaughter, to which David pleaded guilty this week.

The High Court has adjourned the matter to May 13, 2026 for sentencing.

Page Foundation NGSA Questions

1. (a) Divide 4.8 by 1.2. (2 marks)

(b) Find the value of 68 x 2.4. Round your answer to the nearest whole number. (3 marks)

Total (5 marks)

2. (a) The length of a ribbon is 4:5 metre. How many 15 metre pieces can be cut from the ribbon? (2 marks)

(b)Five packets of parboiled rice cost $4280. How much will 25 packets cost? (3 marks)

Total (5 marks)

3. A farmer had 40 tomatoes in a basket. 18 tomatoes were green and the rest were red.

(a) (i) How many tomatoes were red? (1 mark)

(ii) What fraction of the tomatoes was red? (1 mark)

(b) (i) What is the ratio of red tomatoes to green tomatoes? (2 marks)

(ii) Write your ratio in its simplest form. (1 mark)

Total (5 marks)

The Venn Diagram in Figure 1 shows the number of children in Grade 5. Study the diagram, then answer question 4

4. (a) How many children like Mathematics and English? (1 mark)

(b) How many children like Mathematics only? (1 mark)

(c) How many children do not like Mathematics and English? (1 mark)

(d) How many children are in Grade 5? (2 marks)

Study Figure 2, then answer question 5

5. (a) How many triangles are there in the figure? (3 marks)

(b) How many lines of symmetry are there on the figure? (2 marks)

Total (5 marks)

Study the diagram of a house, garage and lawn shown in Figure 3 carefully, then answer question 6

Figure 3

6. (a) Find the area of the house and garage (3 marks)

(b) Find the perimeter of the lawn (2 marks)

Total (5 marks)

Total (5 marks)

7. Study the diagram below and answer the questions that follow.

(i) What is the size of the angle marked y? (1 mark)

(ii) Find the size of the angle marked p (1 mark)

World Bank looking to boost private investment opportunities in Guyana

– inks agreement with Finance Minister to support job growth, expand impact

The World Bank Group (WBG) is looking to play a greater role in Guyana's unprecedented economic transformation by expanding its investment portfolio here through the local private sector. This was cemented in an agreement that was inked between the WBG and the Guyana Government on the sidelines of the 2026 World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Spring Meetings that were held in Washington, DC, over the past week.

In a brief statement late Friday evening, the World Bank's Caribbean division said it is strengthening the partnership with Guyana.

"In the context of the #WBGMeetings, the Government of Guyana and IFC (International Finance Corporation) signed the WBG Establishment Agreement-a key milestone to scale private sector development, support job creation and deepen impact in the country," it noted.

Signed by Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance in Guyana, Dr Ashni Singh, and IFC Vice President (VP) for Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean (LAC), Alfonso García Mora, the agreement provides the institutional framework for the operations of all WBG institutions, enhancing its ability to deliver in the world's fastest-growing economy.

The IFC is the private-sector arm of the WBG, focusing on economic development through private enterprise in emerging markets. As the largest global development institution for the private sector, it provides investments and advisory services to create jobs and reduce poverty.

Exploring new products

Only a few weeks ago, Minister Singh pointed out that Guyana's relations with the World Bank are evolving into different dimensions given the country's changing economic circumstances. This

includes exploring products being offered by entities within the Group, including the IFC. Dr Singh's remarks came in light of concerns as Guyana risks potentially losing its eligibility for access to concessional resources under the World Bank's International Development Association (IDA) due to the country's rising income per capita. Access to IDA resources is tied to the per capita income of countries-something which the finance Minister had said Guyana has long been arguing against even before its oil boom and a challenge that the country is facing with many of its other development partners.

"We will always fight for the largest possible access to concessional resources, but as we navigate this period of change in the Guyanese economy, other members of the World Bank Group have tools, instruments and products that will take on new relevance, including, in particular, the World Bank's private sector operations... The private sector arm of the World Bank is now doing a lot more in Guyana, and we're pushing them

to do a lot more given the speed at which we're seeing the private sector grow," the Minister explained during a podcast interview last month. At the time, Dr Singh was joined by World Bank Country Director for the Caribbean, Lilia Burunciuc, as they reflected on the work of the financial institution in Guyana over the years and the role it will play in helping to build out the country's future. In fact, Burunciuc assured that the World Bank is committed to continuing to work with Guyana even as a high-income nation, expressing hope that this collaboration would expand into new areas.

According to a former World Bank representative, these include "...focusing on attracting private investments, making sure that high-quality jobs are created, ensuring that not only the oil economy but also the non-oil economy is doing well, and for this, there is a need for investments... Going forward, it's about more investing in systems, investing in 'know-how,' and investing in innovations to ensure that the economy continues to advance, while also

Chinese acrobats bring artistry...

"To the children, remember this night and all the other children who will be joining the celebrations across our country... This is a beautiful part of your own history... I have no doubt that this show will leave a lasting impression on all who witness it. It will be an experience that Guyanese will cherish and value for the rest of their lives," President Ali noted.

The Hebei Acrobatic Troupe will commence their tour across Guyana today, Sunday, April 19, at the Leonora Track and Field Stadium at 18:00h, followed by a performance at the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown on Monday, April 20, at 19:00h. The troupe will then head to Linden for a performance on Friday, April 22, at the Bayroc Stadium, and wrap up the tour with their final show on Thursday, April 23, at the Anna Regina Car Park on the Essequibo

Coast. All shows will be free of cost except for Georgetown's performance. However, according to Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, acrobatics are a treasured part of Chinese culture. She said acrobatics are rich in Chinese elements and national charm. The Ambassador noted that the tour by the Hebei Acrobatic Troupe, which hails from her home province of Hebei, represents another one of China's gifts to Guyana to commemorate its independence anniversary - the first gift being the recently commissioned Guyana-China Friendship Park. "The tour of the Hebei Acrobatic Troupe will be China's second special gift for this [60th Independence anniversary] milestone. It will serve as a bridge of culture and art and further deepen the friendship between our two peoples," she noted during the State House

show. Ambassador Yang also underscored the significance that cultural exchanges have played over the last 60 years in building friendship between Guyana and China, ensuring that they remain closely connected.

"China-Guyana relations are rooted in history and in the people. From the arrival of Chinese forebears 173 years ago to this ' land of many waters, ' where they gradually became one of Guyana's six peoples, to the close cooperation we see today in every field, the bond of China-Guyana friendship has never been broken. It has only grown stronger with time. In recent years, more and more Guyanese friends have been drawn to Chinese culture. Many have begun learning Chinese, practicing Chinese characters and appreciating Chinese traditions," she stated.

The Chinese diplo-

FROM PAGE 3

mat went on to add that Guyana's 60th anniversary celebration, which is being referred to as a 'Diamond Jubilee, ' symbolises that the achievements of independence are as lasting and precious as a diamond. She explained that, in Chinese culture, a span of 60 years is known as 'jiazi' - a complete cycle associated with renewal. "Whether ' Diamond Jubilee ' or ' jiazi, ' both speak to the extraordinary weight of 60 years - greater prosperity and greater resilience... For sixty years, we have stood together through thick and thin. China has firmly supported Guyana's cause of independence from the very beginning... For sixty years, we have advanced practical cooperation across many fields... China-Guyana relations have moved into a fast lane... building a ChinaGuyana community with a shared future," the Chinese diplomat stated.

trying to offer Guyana new innovative products like... various guarantees that will allow Guyana to access resources in the capital markets at lower costs ."

High-level engagements

Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the World Bank Meetings, which concluded on Saturday, Minister Singh had a series of high-level engagements with senior officials from the WBG. He met with the World Bank's VP for the LAC, Susana Cordeiro Guerra, which he said paved the way for discussions on new avenues of cooperation aimed at driving sustainable growth and prosperity for all Guyanese.

The Finance Minister also engaged with the Executive Head of the Pandemic Fund - a World Bank partnership with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Priya Basu, and her team to discuss the advancement of global pandemic preparedness and responses. Singh said he took the opportunity to recognise the Fund's support towards Guyana, especially in strengthening health resilience and reiterated the Government's interest in continued close collaboration with the Fund well into the future. In addition to bilateral engagements, Minister Singh also participated in a series of breakout sessions over the past week, including a Constituency Meeting, which focused on issues of shared interest to countries in the Brazil constituency including Guyana, Haiti, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, as well as Cabo Verde and Timor Leste. During remarks, Dr Singh highlighted Guyana's unprecedented economic trajectory and the Government's strategic roadmap for long-term economic stability. He further used the opportunity to call on the IMF to recognise the unusual and peculiar economic circumstances of Guyana's extraordinary growth and, therefore, adopt more customised policy advice that aligns with the country's unique development needs and global climate vulnerabilities.

Sustainable growth & food security

Additionally, Dr Singh also attended an AgriConnect Partners Meeting that convened public and private stakeholders to evaluate the initiative's progress since its launch in October 2025. The session also focused on overcoming emerging challenges and identifying strategic opportunities to meet the goal of supporting more smallholder farmers by 2030. In his presentation, Singh outlined that Guyana holds the lead responsibility for agriculture and food security within the Caribbean region and underscored that agriculture remains a primary contributor to Guyana's non-oil GDP, supported by abundant arable land and freshwater resources. He further noted the strong alignment between Guyana's Government's policy objectives and the AgriConnect initiative, particularly in areas of access to technical assistance and extension services for small farmers and the deployment of science and technology in the agricultural sector, and reaffirmed that Guyana looks forward to actively participating in this initiative to drive sustainable growth and food security. Moreover, Dr Singh participated in the 16th V20 Ministerial Dialogue, which was held under the theme "Prosperity, Stability, and Security in an Era of Planetary Instability," and brought together V20 members and global partners to address the critical convergence of climate, development, and nature. The dialogue focused on navigating the escalating shocks of the climate crisis while exploring sustainable opportunities for economic resilience. During the week-long WBG and IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, DC, the Minister Singh was joined by Guyana's Ambassador to Brazil, D. Compton Bourne, and the Executive Director in the Caribbean Office of the IDB, Navita Ramroop. The Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr Gobind Ganga,

Motivation…

…for wealth

Our government continues to roll out opportunities for we the Guyanese people to become rich – the latest being business ideas to youngsters with funding by our new Development Bank loans! To motivate them, your Eyewitness will highlight what may be ahead by mentioning how the already-wealthy are living. He scoured the news from the States –- which still has most of the success stories!

According to the New York Times, Lauren Sanchez Bezos – the wife of the Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos – revealed she and her husband spend every morning reciting 10 gratitudes – as they sip coffee in the sunroom of their US$230 million island compound in South Florida!! With Amazon – their “family business” according to Lauren – grossing US$719 billion, you might say they got a lot to be grateful about!! But that would mean you’ve missed that “gratitude” is having a moment, despite – or maybe because of – the challenges of this war-torn year!! “Gratitude practice” being the “in thing”– the Bezoses are clearly in that vanguard.

According to the Daily Mail, they drove their US$500 million superyacht to Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands for a vacation this week!! Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reported that Amazon has agreed to acquire satellite operator Globalstar for US$11 billion— their latest effort to compete with (rival?) Trillionaire Elon Musk’s Starlink!! But some folks just don’t appreciate the beneficence of the super wealthy. Imagine the democrats are alleging that Amazon’s US$40 million payment to license Melania Trump’s vanity documentary – THREE TIMES higher than the next highest offer! – is actually a bribe by trying to buy the President’s favour by dumping millions into the Trump family’s pockets!! Can you believe that??!!

Meanwhile, in other news in super-richdom, the research firm Emarketer reported that Mark Zuckerberg’s Facebooknow-Meta is projected to generate US$243.46 billion from its advertising business this year alone!! You might be pleased to know that according to Financial Times, Meta’s building and testing an AI simulacrum of Mark Zuckerberg that’s gonna appear as an on-screen digital avatar, mimicking his mannerisms, speech patterns, and opinions!! The company wants to use the AI version of its chief executive to hold meetings and interact with employees, believing the model might make them feel more “connected to the founder through interactions with it”!! Isn’t this soooo thoughtful?? It’s gonna make all 79,000 employees feel soooo special!!

Finally, a report from NBC News on Tuesday found that Grok, the chatbot created by Elon Musk’s xAI firm, is still generating sexualised images and videos of real women without their consent!! The owner of Tesla wanted to know what’s so wrong about that – since Meta and Google also does it!!

And Tesla’s gonna be paying him US$1 trillion over the next 10 years!!

…for self sufficiency

Your Eyewitness is pretty chuffed that we’ve started producing onions in Reg 9 in commercial quantities!! With the Government’s help, the farmers harvested 2600 bags of our go-to flavour perk – bringing the total production to 52,000 kilograms of onions!! With each bag weighing 20 kilograms and sold at $6000 per bag, this works out to $136 per pound. Unfortunately, the Missus informed your Eyewitness that she just bought – at RETAIL – onions at the local market for $100/pound!!

And this will be our challenge to produce all the other ‘non-traditional” items we’re valiantly trying to produce –such as wheat and potatoes: to match the prices from those countries that are way ahead of us in the learning curve. Plus, they have achieved economies of scale, etc!! So, we gotta keep on intensifying our efforts notwithstanding that we heard the Strait of Hormuz is open after Israel-Lebanon 10-day truce!!

Even if that lasts, something’s else gonna explode that will be pushing prices of foreign stuff ever upwards!!

…for gossip mongering

We’re informed by a credible polling agency that Americans no longer turn to TV and newspapers as their primary source of news. Instead, they’ve swivelled to online opinion personalities and comedians over social media and elsewhere in cyberspace!!

Police warn motorists against following emergency vehicles

– cite rising dangerous road behaviour

The Traffic Department within the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has raised concern over what it describes as a growing and dangerous trend of motorists unlawfully following emergency vehicles during active responses, warning that such conduct obstructs emergency operations and breaches traffic regulations.

The warning was issued during the televised programme Road Safety and You, where Inspector Moolchand Jagunandan, who is stationed at the Regional Division 4B, East

Bank Demerara (EBD) and attached to the Traffic Department, and Sergeant Dundas of the Ruimveldt Police Station’s Traffic Department outlined the issue and its implications for road safety. Inspector Jagunandan explained that the behaviour has become increasingly common along major roadways, particularly in congested areas where drivers attempt to use emergency movement as a way of bypassing traffic.

He noted that motorists are often seen trailing ambulances and police vehicles once sirens are acti -

vated, sometimes at close range and through multiple intersections. Sergeant Dundas supported the concern, pointing to ongoing challenges along the EBD corridor, where construction and heavy traffic contribute to driver impatience. Inspector Jagunandan said the practice is not only unsafe but also directly interferes with emergency operations.

“As soon as the ambulance passes, if the police are not there, the driver keeps following the ambulance,” he stated, noting that the behaviour creates convoy-like movement that

was never intended by law. He added that some motorists also attempt to disguise their actions by acti -

vating hazard lights, which contributes to confusion on the road. “For any additional siren, the person who

turns on the hazard light is a part of the convoy or the siren. That is a source of the problem on the East Bank,” he explained.

Sergeant Dundas reinforced that motorists are legally required to give way to emergency vehicles and must not attempt to follow or obstruct them.

“We understand that traffic is heavy, everybody wants to be safe, and everybody wants to live in a timely manner,” he said, before stressing that compliance with the law remains mandatory. He reminded listeners that motorists must immediately clear the way once emergency sirens are heard or seen.

“Even on the East Coast, you find the same thing. Police vehicles are passing, siren blaring, and the vehicles are trying to bandwagon, following them,” he added.

According to him, such actions amount to an offence under traffic regulations, particularly where drivers fail to yield the right of way. “It’s an offence as well, failing to adhere to the siren. Failing to give the right of way as well,” the Sergeant stated. Officials explained that motorists are prohibited from following emergency vehicles within close proximity, including entering areas where emergency units have stopped. They further noted that drivers must not park or assemble within the same block as an active emergency scene, as this can obstruct operational movement. Inspector Jagunandan stressed that the law specifies distance restrictions designed to ensure emergency services can operate without interference. The officers pointed to ongoing enforcement challenges, particularly in high-traffic corridors where driver behaviour is influenced by congestion and delays. They warned that, despite public perception, following emergency vehicles does not provide legal or safe passage through traffic.

Instead, it increases the risk of collisions and obstructs emergency responders who require clear access to incident locations. The GPF said the issue forms part of its broader road safety education campaign, which includes the weekly Road Safety and You programmes.

Asha Bhosle and the New Era

LMan pleads guilty to manslaughter for Reg 9 killing

Aast Saturday, my family and I were in Essequibo on a pilgrimage to Badrinath Ashram, with its mammoth Lord Shiva murti, when we heard Asha Bhosle had been rushed to a Mumbai hospital with severe respiratory problems. It was a mark of Ashaji’s longevity in the music business that my son, born in 2000, and I, born fifty years before, both expressed concerns. For me, the 1950s were a special time for the over 70,000 Indians who were moved out of the logies in our sugar belt and into over 12,000 new homes stretching from Tuschen on the East Bank of Essequibo to Crabwood Creek on the Corentyne in Berbice.

The 1950s heralded a new era here and in India, and it was rather serendipitous that in the Hindi movie of the same name (“Naya Daur, “ in Hindi), released in the late fifties, there was an important scene involving a murti of Lord Shiva. Asha had sung eight songs in that movie, composed by her companion, music director OP Nayar, and the upbeat “Ude Jab Jab Zulfen Teri, “ a mega hit that made her a sensation. In our new housing schemes, almost every family now had a radio in their “high house”, and the song could now be received over Radio Demerara, broadcast from its new High St building, which would become an institution in the community. Indians were not used to having their culture in the public sphere even if it was relegated to unholy hours.

By now, songs in Indian movies where actresses would lipsync pre-recorded songs by playback artists were beginning to displace the musical genres brought from village India by the indentured laborers into their logies around the sugar factories. The village picturized in Naya Daur would have been very familiar to the older folks who just departed the logies, with their temple, masjid, and run-down range houses. But they were now becoming much more aggressive in their efforts to move up. Even though the PPP had been split and the PNC had been formed by the time the movie was shown at the Earlo Cinema on the Estate Road, Cheddi Jagan’s 1950 promise of a “new era” still redounded.

Not that we analysed it as such back then, but Asha’s willingness to venture away from the track set by her older sister Lata and into Western-inflected sensibility pushed by OP Nayar appealed to youngsters like myself in the new zeitgeist. Lata herself, with her soprano voice possessed also by Asha had eclipsed earlier, more doleful songstresses like Shamshad Begum. Especially at the bars and wedding houses, alcoholfuelled attempts to reproduce the gyrating moves to Asha’s songs by the item dancer Helen in cabaret scenes dominated. We all conceded that Lata was much more adept at tugging at the heartstrings, but while Asha was no slouch in that department, her forte was generating excitement.

Indian movies were very influential in shaping Indian Guyanese mores, and the breakout movie “Dil Dekhe Dekho” (Try Giving Your Heart) with Shammi Kapoor opposite a debuting Asha Parekh launched a new, aggressive Indian hero from his older brother Raj Kapoor’s typecast village innocent (“Anaari”). Asha Bhosle sang four duets with Mohammad Rafi in that movie. A decade later, when I was writing English “O” levels, the Asha/Rafi duet “O Meray Sona” (Oh My Beloved) from the movie Teesri Manzil, featuring the same Shammi/ Asha duo, was blaring from a nearby jukebox, and I had to pause in rapture. My friends thought I had a “brain freeze”!

Indian “filmi” songs and movies were an integral aspect of “Indian culture” that helped to shape our identity in the sixties and seventies, and Asha Bhosle’s style resonated with the younger crowd. Just as the style of Rohan Kanhai “blasting for runs” in his unorthodox manner mesmerised us. He was a product of the same initiative of the sugar barons to move us out of the logies when they established “community centres” centred around cricket.

Nowadays, I wonder what would have happened if we had continued with the folk music traditions we had brought from rural India, where, in certain genres like the call-andresponse “Birahas”, the singers extemporaneously duelled verbally. Instead, we started imitating the Bollywood songs until we made a U-turn in the 1980s and revived the Maticore songs we called “Chutney”. These escalated the “hot” style of singing pioneered by Asha Bhosle years earlier and which appealed so much to our Girmitiya sensibilities.

Maybe she rather than Kanchan should have covered “Kaise Banee”.

Demerara High Court matter took a decisive turn on Friday when Deivi Bazzi, known as “Spanish Man,” pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter in connection with the 2022 killing of Kevin Ramroop. Bazzi appeared before Justice Joy Persaud-Singh, where the plea was formally entered and accepted. The State was represented by prosecutors Padma Dubraj, Nelissa Peterkin, and Aleria Aliya Heywood. The charge originally laid against Bazzi alleged that he unlawfully killed Ramroop between December 21 and December 24, 2022. However, following discussions between the prosecution and defence, the matter was resolved with a plea to manslaughter. According to the agreed statement of facts read in court, the body of Kevin Ramroop was discovered on December 24, 2022, in a ditch in the vicinity of Ted’s Place, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo). He was found in a downward-facing, seated position.

The body was subsequently identified by relatives. Investigators were told by the deceased’s sister that Bazzi had threatened Ramroop’s life prior to the incident. This claim was corroborated by the victim’s

mother, adding weight to the prosecution’s case. The court heard that during a video and audio interview conducted on December 27, 2022, Bazzi admitted to killing Ramroop. In that interview, he alleged that the deceased had thrown a brick at his chest.

Bazzi reportedly told investigators, “If I didn’t kill him, he would kill me,” and

further stated that he acted out of frustration after being struck, saying he was “fed up” at the time of the incident. A post-mortem examination conducted on December 29, 2022, by pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh revealed that Ramroop sustained multiple blunt force injuries about the body, with significant trauma to the head. The cause of death

was given as a subdural hematoma due to blunt trauma to the head, compounded by haemothorax. The findings were consistent with a violent assault. Following the guilty plea to manslaughter, the matter was adjourned for sentencing. Bazzi is expected to return to court on May 13 when Justice Joy Persaud-Singh will impose a sentence.

munity vibe where poets help poets, creatives help creatives, to put something on stage that is worthy of the ‘oohs, ahhs, and wows’, making people go through emotions every night. We’ve had people in the audience who say, ‘Wow, I’m never missing this show. Once I’m around, I will come to the poetry slam.’”

He added that there is only one way to truly experience the magic, and that is to attend the event firsthand.

“And you will see exactly what I mean when you come to the poetry slam. We also invite poets,

tured at the poetry slam.”

Kazim further noted that the event also features singers, performers, comedians and painters, with several surprises planned for this edition. In fact, this month’s edition of the poetry slam is set to take a slightly different direction, introducing a refreshed creative element that Kazim says will add a new layer to the experience for patrons.

“We have a fashion designer… someone in Guyana who is doing an amazing job with paintings on clothing and we are going to

budding poets, or people who want to be involved in poetry to come and be inspired. We’ve had many poets come, say something on the open mic, either win or receive a really good review, and the next month they are featured artists. Every month there is an audition process where people are invited to submit pieces to be fea-

bring this person to light at this poetry slam. I’m excited about it because it’s an idea I’ve been playing around with, and now I’ve found the perfect person to bring it to life.”

“We also have a comedian to perform. This will probably be the launching of a new band, a collaboration of singers, so I’m very excited. I don’t want to let the cat out

of the bag, but I can’t wait for this to happen. Tickets are available at the Boulevard and other outlets.” The main goal of the initiative is to encourage artists to continue producing and writing, ensuring that poets have a consistent platform available to them each month. Organisers emphasise that all creatives need to do is show up and participate, reinforcing the poetry slam as an open space for expression. “We want to encourage artists to keep producing, keep writing. That’s why they stay creative. So, poets know that there is a place for them every month. All they have to do is say, ‘I am using it.’ The poetry slam has often inspired me. It’s like a renewed vigour in the cultural world in Guyana.” As with previous editions, the event will continue its tradition of giveaways, with numerous patrons having received prizes over time. Many attendees simply come to enjoy the show, with several leaving as winners of various gifts and rewards. Tickets can be obtained directly from performers or reserved in advance via WhatsApp at 666-4883. Persons who message the number will have their tickets set aside at the door, eliminating uncertainty about entry. The event will cater to a limited, intimate audience, with organisers emphasising a cosy setting ideal for poetry and live performances. The aim is to create a warm, communal atmosphere when patrons gather on April 25 at the Boulevard located at Giftland Mall.

Govt opens $58M agro-processing plant at Canal No 1 to support farmers

Awhopping $58.5 mil-

lion agro-process-

ing facility was commissioned on Saturday at Canal Number One Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD), underscoring the Government’s continued commitment to transforming Guyana’s agro-processing sector.

The facility is outfitted with modern solar drying and agro-processing technology, with the capacity to process up to 500 kilograms of fruit per day.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, at the commissioning, stated that for too long, Guyana has focused primarily on producing and exporting raw agricultural commodities-a situation he said has limited the earning potential of farmers.

He explained that the seasonal nature of crops, combined with their perishability and fluctuating market demands, has of-

ten prevented farmers from maximising returns on their hard work.

“Agro-processing is one of the areas we are transforming. For too long, we have been producing and exporting primary products. Today, in Canal Polder, we are harnessing that potential. Agroprocessing in Guyana is not

only about value-added production; it is about creating new opportunities and empowering people. This facility at Canal Number One is equipped with modern solar drying and agro-processing technology, with the capacity to process up to 500 kilograms of fruit per day, enabling the drying

of approximately 120,000150,000 kilograms annually. It will convert perishable produce into shelf-stable, value-added products such as dried pineapple, citrus slices, pulps, juices, herbs, seasonings, and condiments. This will reduce post-harvest losses by as much as 35-40%, while opening new income streams for 70 to 90 small-scale farmers and processors, including wom-

en’s groups and youth-run agro-enterprises who will directly benefit,” he explained.

He added that the Government is actively addressing longstanding challenges associated with Guyana’s reliance on primary production through strategic investments in value-added agriculture.

He further highlighted that the facility was deliberately established in Canal

Number One Polder, a community recognised as one of the most productive agricultural areas in Region Three. While emphasising that agriculture remains a primary source of income for many residents, he explained that the investment is both timely and impactful, as it will bridge the longstanding gap in preservation and value addition.

“For too long, our farmers and consumers have been confined to the fresh produce market. With many crops being seasonal, there has always been a gap when it comes to preservation and value addition. This facility will help bridge that gap.”

Further, he stated that since assuming office in 2020, the Government has significantly expanded agro-processing capacity across the country, with this latest addition bringing the total number of such facilities to approximately 15.

Oprah Winfrey once said,

“Being different is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, because it frees you from the pressure of fitting into expectations that were never meant for you.” For Devina Deonarine, owner of OmnificMe, being different was something deeply embedded in her from an early age, as she always sought to chart not one path, but many. This mindset, she says, has helped shape the person she has become today. To understand this, one only needs to look at how she has expanded her pursuits, turning modest beginnings into a growing entrepreneurial journey. She has since established her own state-of-the-art beauty brand, OmnificMe, where she provides professional makeup artistry services under her own name – standing out in the field in her own distinctive style. However, her journey did not begin on a picture-perfect evening with a beautiful sunset, as often portrayed in movies where everything seems effortless and serene. Instead, her story has been shaped by years of toil along less comfortable and unconventional paths. Employed with the Ministry of Education, she serves as a Graduate Senior Mistress. Teaching has always been her first choice, and even after 20 years in the profession, she has maintained a long-standing dream of enhancing women’s beauty through makeup artistry.

One can only imagine the level of commitment and effort required to balance a demanding career in education with the pursuit of higher academic qualifications, while simultaneously building an

and she found herself at home with more time on her hands. It was during this period that her long-standing passion for creativity began to take shape more seriously. Deonarine has always enjoyed creating – whether

did it to earn extra income, as well as out of passion. To get resources and money, I asked around –family and friends, those close to me. They would help me buy products from the US and things like that. But one of the main things I did was, resell clothes I no longer needed,” she explained.

Support from family and friends played a key role in getting

through makeup artistry or crafting various items – and gradually began exploring makeup as a business. This led her to experiment with content creation, record videos and practise her skills until she eventually took a bold step forward. Within just a few months, she transformed a tiny corner of her home – what she called her “verandah studio” (because it was just big enough for ambition and a mirror) – into the birthplace of OmnificMe Beauty Bar, operating from her residence in Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice. She spoke to this publication, reflecting on the many pieces of her journey that now form what many see as a bigger picture of success.

“I came from a poor family and was still struggling as a teacher to make ends meet. So, I

started, including assistance with sourcing products from abroad. “I moved from the verandah upstairs and created a small space downstairs. It was about 10 (ft) by 10 (ft), or even less, and I operated there for about three years. But I have now upgraded to a much larger space – over 20 feet – with what many describe as luxury finishes,” she said.

Many young girls looking at her journey may wonder how they can start something similar without capital. As such, she offered advice for those hoping to build similar entrepreneurial paths. “Well, I would say invest wisely. That’s one way I see it. I would not just buy things, because others are using them or because they seem necessary. As long as you master your craft and know what you are doing, you do not need a lot of products. So, one way I save is by buy-

ing wisely – only what I need and using it efficiently,” she explained.

“Another thing that also helped me save is not lowering my price for anyone – family or friends. Because if you keep doing that, saying this is my friend or my family and giving discounts or not charging at all, you are taking away from your business. So, I had to stand firm in my business,” she added.

She related that she now operates from a fully stocked studio with more than 20, and possibly up to 40, different foundation shades, along with a wide range of lipsticks, brushes and other makeup products. She noted that it has evolved into what she describes as a full studio collection, featuring mostly luxury brands. Deonarine is normally booked way in advance. She noted that as the

She further explained that when she started out, she only had a handful of products – about two or three foundations and a few lipsticks, just enough to fill a small basket. That was her starting point, and it remained that way for about a year. “Midway through, as I began saving, investing in the right products, and building my clientele, I had maybe a drawer full – a small vanity of products, which was satisfactory. But right now, I have what you could call an entire studio,” she said.

years have passed and her expertise has grown, she is now setting her sights on training women in makeup application this summer, as she continues to guide and inspire the upcoming generation. She explained that her goal is to make use of the time and opportunities she has now, so that she can continue to influence others positively and share her skills before later stages of life limit what she is able to do.

“I just did not stick with teaching alone, and I always say you have to focus on the artistry. You can’t just focus on the money – you have to do it for the love of it and ensure that when you are finished, you are satisfied with what you do,” the Berbice make-up queen stated.

McCoy highlights Guyana’s push for disability inclusion at IPU Assembly

...says Guyana allocated $8B in 2026 budget to support PLWD

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Kwame McCoy, has reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering commitment to the promotion, protection and full realisation of the rights of persons with disabilities, consistent with its obligations under the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

McCoy was at the time addressing the 152nd Assembly of the InterParliamentary Union (IPU) in Istanbul on Friday, which focused on parliamentary strategies to promote the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities. During his presentation, he emphasised that disability inclusion is both a human rights imperative and a cornerstone of sustainable and equitable development.

McCoy outlined Guyana’s robust legislative and institutional framework, anchored in the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2010 and supported by constitutional guarantees of equality and non-discrimination.

In addition, he highlighted the role of the National Commission on Disability

in advancing a rights-based, whole-of-Government approach grounded in dignity, autonomy and equal opportunity. Highlighting Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy, the Minister noted that the Government is intentionally aligning economic growth with social inclusion while pointing to a strategic shift from welfare-based support to empowerment and participation, including investments in skills development, expanded access to entrepreneurial financing, and ini-

tiatives aimed at removing barriers to employment.

As part of this effort, Guyana has set a national target of creating at least 5,000 jobs for persons with disabilities over the next five years. Among key initiatives, he referenced the operationalisation of the Centre for Equity, Opportunity, and Innovation, which provides training and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, alongside plans to establish business centres across all Administrative Regions to support economic

independence.

He further detailed targeted interventions across critical sectors. In housing, persons with disabilities are prioritised in access to house lots and homes, while in education, inclusive systems are being strengthened through specialised programmes, dedicated facilities and enhanced Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) frameworks. McCoy also underscored the Government ‘s commitment to accessibility, noting that all new public infrastructure must incorporate accessibility features, advance universal design principles and ensure inclusivity by default. In promot-

ing economic participation, he highlighted initiatives integrating persons with disabilities into emerging sectors such as agriculture, including plans for a model farm to be managed by persons with disabilities, aimed at fostering self-reliance and community engagement.

The Minister also addressed social protection measures, noting that more than 27,000 persons benefit from direct financial assistance. In 2026, over $8 billion has been allocated to support persons with permanent disabilities, alongside increased monthly payments, ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible bene-

fits for vulnerable groups. Reiterating the importance of inclusive governance, McCoy stated that meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes is essential. He called on parliaments to play a leadership role not only through legislation but also through effective oversight, adequate financing, and strengthened accountability mechanisms. On that note, he urged a shift from commitments to measurable outcomes, stressing that evidence-based policymaking and sustained parliamentary engagement are key to advancing inclusive social development globally.

3 foreign nationals sentenced for illegal gold mining in Iwokrama Protected Area

agement of Iwokrama reported that it has also noticed with grave concern the presence of “Draggers” (river dredges) in the area.

“In fact, one Dragger had to be removed by GGMC in February last from an area that is special to Iwokrama, nearby communities and other tourism operators for charismatic aquatic wildlife,” Iwokrama stated in a release.

Two Brazilian nationals and one Venezuelan national who were caught redhanded operating illegal gold mining operations in the Iwokrama Forest Protected Area were sentenced to five months each.

2025, by rangers attached to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and Iwokrama, along with members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

Rondiney Barbosa

However, after three months of court hearings, which saw nine wit -

to serve five months in prison each.

Pereira and Edwardo De Souza Braz from Brazil and Cristhian Jose Cedero from Venezuela were arrested on December 10,

nesses testifying, the trio who initially pleaded not guilty changed their plea and were fined under the GGMC Act and sentenced

In light of this, Iwokrama’s management stated that it is grateful for the continued support of the Natural Resources Ministry, the GGMC, the GPF, the Protected Areas Commission (PAC), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for their support in these enforcement operations. Nevertheless, the man -

“It is especially concerning that yet another suspected illegal dragger was seen being built at Kurupukari Landing since January 2026, which is not a designated Mining Landing. Foreign nationals from Brazil without work permits were seen building the dragger, and when told to stop by the GPF Immigration in February 2026.” As a result, they subsequently moved to Chinie Landing, a designated Mining Landing, and continued building the dragger structure without work permits. The legality of the mining papers presented is very unclear.

“It is very concerning as well that there is also currently yet another ‘dragger’ under construction at Chinie Landing with foreign nationals who possess work permits who showed police a map of the area they plan to minefurther downstream in the Essequibo River (i.e., River Mining).”

According to Iwokrama, the rivers bordering protected areas act as buffer zones, and a further onekilometer inland are designated buffer zone spaces. Meanwhile, the Centre has once again reminded the public and other stakeholders that gold mining activities are prohibited

This, he said, reflects the Government’s strong focus on advancing the agro-processing industry as a key pillar of agricultural development. The Minister also pointed to complementary infrastructure investments currently underway in the region.

“Here in Region Three, farm-to-market roads are being constructed, and pump stations are being developed to improve drainage. In Canal No. 1 Polder, a new pump station with four pumps is already servicing the area. We are also conducting consultations with residents for the construction of high-level canals, similar to the

in the Iwokrama Forest and rivers that buffer the Protected Area. It reiterated that such illegal activities pose an imminent threat to our national eco

logical integrity, disrupt local livelihoods and traditional practices and undermine Guyana’s forestry and protected areas management systems.

He added that Guyana currently imports approxi-

MoE engages stakeholders on construction of new Suddie Primary School amid overcrowding concerns

By Raywattie DeonaRine

Residents, parents, educators and other stakeholders gathered on Friday for a consultation hosted by the Education Ministry aimed at discussing the planned construction of the new Suddie Primary School, in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The engagement forms part of the Government’s broader push to modernise educational infrastructure while ensuring that communities play an active role in shaping developments that directly affect them. Head Teacher of Suddie Primary School, Venetia Overmola, in welcoming attendees, stressed the importance of collaboration and community involvement in advancing education within the district. She expressed hope that the consultation would generate meaningful discussion and bring the project closer to fruition.

In addition, Regional Education Officer (REDO) Shondelle Hercules highlighted the significance of the project, noting that it addresses longstanding concerns about overcrowding and infrastructure limitations. She emphasised that the new school will better serve the growing student population and improve learning conditions across the community. Providing an in-depth overview of the initiative, Project Coordinator Patrick John explained that the consultation was intentionally designed as an open dialogue rather than a formal presentation, with the goal of gathering community input to guide the project’s development. “The objective here today is to just enter the conversation dialogue with you, to get your thoughts and feedback inputs into the school that will be constructed...” he said John related that the project falls under the Support to Education Recovery and Transformation Programme, financed through a US$90 million loan secured by the Government in 2024. He emphasised that the initiative is geared toward strengthening human capital and supporting long-term economic growth through improved education systems. “The objective of that loan is to actually contribute to the development of the hu-

man capital… necessary to drive economic growth.” he stated. He further detailed that approximately 82 per cent of the funding is allocated to civil works, with a target to construct six new primary schools across Regions One, Two, Four, Five and Six by 2029, in addition to rehabilitating 19 schools nationwide. According to John, the Suddie project was identified based on overcrowding issues and the need to better accommodate students in surrounding areas. Elaborating on the proposed development, he explained that the new school will differ significantly from traditional designs, as it will be guided by newly developed non-academic standards for primary schools. These standards, he noted, outline requirements ranging from land size and classroom capacity to recreational space, safety systems and thermal comfort within classrooms. John also revealed that the facility will incorporate modern features, including digital learning tools and smart classrooms. “All of these schools will have smart classrooms and the classrooms will have digital boards… all the modern amenities that you would expect from a primary school being constructed in the 21st century,” he explained. He noted that the selected site, located at Onderneeming, spans approximately 13 acres, with an application already submitted for five acres to accommodate the project. He encouraged stakeholders to share feedback on the location and overall design. In addition to infrastructure, John highlighted another key component of the project focused on inclusive education. This includes developing policies and tools to identify students with learning disabilities and creating individualised learning plans supported by trained professionals. Meanwhile, Environmental Consultant, Khalid Alladin of Environmental Management Consultants (EMC) provided further technical details, focusing on the safeguards required for the project’s implementation. He explained that the initiative must comply with the Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB) environmental and social performance standards,

which are designed to ensure that projects are executed responsibly.

Alladin noted that the project has been classified as Category B, meaning that while there may be some environmental and social impacts, these can be effectively managed through proper planning and mitigation. He outlined three key safeguard instruments that must be developed and updated: an

environmental and social assessment and management plan, a stakeholder engagement plan, and a sociocultural analysis. These documents, he explained, are essential in identifying potential risks and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to address them. “The project has to comply with these environmental and social performance standards… to ensure that the

project doesn’t negatively impact on the environment or communities."

Further elaborating, Alladin encouraged participants to provide input in three main areas: the current challenges facing the existing school, recommendations for the design and capacity of the new facility, and any concerns related to construction activities, including environmental, so-

cial, and safety issues. He pointed out that community feedback is critical in shaping both the project design and the mitigation strategies that will be implemented during construction. Also attending the meeting were Regional Vice Chairman (VC), Humace Oodit, Regional Executive Officer (REO), Susan Saywack, among other regional officials.

Indigenous health to take centre stage as APA participates in UN Forum

President of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA), Lemmel Thomas, will lead a team to the 25th Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) in New York which is set for April 20 to May 1, 2026. Thomas will be accompanied by Policy & Advocacy Coordinator, Nicholas Peters; Policy Officer, Felecia Valenzuela and Communications Coordinator, Lakhram Bhagirat. Together, the team will seek to collaborate with APA partners to amplify the voices of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples at the international forum, bringing a fuller perspective of the experiences of our peoples.

The UNPFII is a high-level advisory body to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Established in 2000, it addresses Indigenous Peoples’ issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health, and human rights. The Forum provides expert advice and recommendations to ECOSOC and UN agencies, promotes awareness of Indigenous issues, and works to ensure the full implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

(UNDRIP), which Guyana has adopted. The theme for this session is: “Ensuring Indigenous Peoples’ health, including in the context of conflict”. This year’s theme highlights growing concerns over the disproportionate impact of war, displacement, resource extraction and inequality on Indigenous populations.

The two-week forum serves as the UN’s primary platform for dialogue on Indigenous issues, covering key areas such as human rights, health, education, culture and environmental sustainability. Health will take centre stage at the 2026 session, with discussions focusing on unequal access to healthcare, mental health challenges, and the preservation of tra-

ditional healing practices. Beyond health, the forum will address interconnected issues such as climate change, environmental degradation and economic inequality. Many Indigenous leaders are expected to emphasise the link between environmental protection and community well-being, as ecosystems play a vital role in sustaining traditional lifestyles and health systems. The APA will bring the Guyanese context, based on the Association’s engagement with communities, to the conversation through interventions on the thematic areas. The session will also provide a platform for reviewing progress on the implementation of international frameworks, including the rights of Indigenous Peoples and the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through dialogue with UN agencies and member states, the forum seeks to influence policies that promote equity, inclusion and self-determination.

As global challenges continue to evolve, the 25th session of the UNPFII is seen as a critical moment to amplify Indigenous voices and push for meaningful action. Observers say the outcomes of the forum could shape international approaches to health, human rights and development for years to come.

Govt to introduce new system to cut diagnostic wait times

Patients in Guyana could soon have their X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scans in as little as one min-

ute under a new initiative announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali. Speaking at the opening of a new eye hospital on Friday evening, the first privately owned facil-

ity on New Market Street, President Ali said the country has already invested in the infrastructure needed to support the shift. "We have now signed on to a programme that will allow us to read X-rays, CT scans, and MRI in seconds. One minute," he said. For years, patients have faced lengthy delays waiting on scan results, delays that often-slowed treatment and placed added pressure on the healthcare system. Acknowledging that reality, the President remarked, "Before, you would be waiting for hours for those scans to be read."

The new system is expected to significantly speed up both the reading and analysis of scans, enabling medical professionals to respond to patients more quickly. President Ali noted that faster diagnostics will translate into stronger results across

the system, saying, " That allows better outcomes, faster responses, and greater results."

The initiative forms part of a broader push to ex-

pand the use of technology in Guyana's healthcare sector, spanning diagnostics, imaging and specialist services, where new systems and partnerships are expected to drive greater efficiency. The goal is to establish a world-class health sector by 2030, driven by massive public investments and partnerships with the private sector.

Palmyra Housing Scheme 35% complete, homes set for June delivery

The Palmyra Housing Scheme which caters to 110 young professional homes are currently under construction, with works approximately 35 per cent complete and three units already at about 50 per cent completion. This was according to Housing Minister, Collin Croal during a visit to the area on Saturday where he added that homes are expected to be completed by the end of June. He explained that the young professional homes are replicas of those being constructed in Georgetown and are being built at a cost of $19.5 million each.

He highlighted that all contractors involved in the project are from Berbice. Of the 110 houses, 50 Berbicebased contractors are engaged, creating employment for more than 450 persons who are working daily on the project. Croal expressed satisfaction with the pace of development

and noted that additional persons have already expressed interest in this type of housing, with the Region Six Housing Office set to engage those individuals. During the visit, he also noted that the Government has reserved 1,100 house lots at Palmyra for the construction of homes as part of its nationwide housing programme. Additionally, 99 per cent

of 100 three-bedroom houses in the area have already been completed.

Junior Engineer attached to the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and serving as one of the project’s supervising engineers, Orlando Arno, explained that each unit measures approximately 1,700 square feet. The homes comprise one self-contained master bedroom, two additional

bedrooms, two bathrooms, a general kitchen and living area, and a dedicated laundry space. He noted that the houses will be equipped with all necessary electrical and plumbing instal-

lations and will be movein ready upon completion.

The units will also feature Shovel-textured ceilings, tiled floors and an external painted finish. Arno added that contractors are work-

ing diligently to meet the deadline, while the supervising team continues to ensure that construction standards are maintained so that beneficiaries receive quality homes.

Around the World

OIL NEWS

As oil prices plunge below US$91 after weeks, a new Hormuz

crisis emerges

Oil prices have plummeted to their lowest point in weeks after Iran said the Strait of Hormuz was open for passage during a ceasefire in Lebanon, and United States President Donald Trump said he expected to ⁠reach a deal to end the war soon.

Brent crude, the international benchmark, fell more than nine per cent to US$90.38 a barrel on Friday, taking it below US$91 for the first time since March 10.

The plunge came after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the strait was “completely open” and would remain so for the duration of the 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which took effect on Friday.

Hailing Tehran’s announcement, Trump declared the waterway “ready for business and full passage,” but said the US Navy’s blockade of Iranian ports would remain in “full force” until the sides reached a peace deal.

On Saturday, however, Iran rowed back on its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning that it would continue to block transit through the key waterway as long as the US blockade of Iranian ports remained in effect.

The announcement came after Trump said the blockade “will remain in full force” until Tehran reaches a deal with the US, including on its nuclear programme.

Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes through Hormuz and further limits would squeeze already constrained supply, driving prices higher once again.

Amid the escalation, Pakistani officials say they are trying for more talks between the US and Iran ahead of the April 22 ceasefire deadline.

Meanwhile, ship tracking data displayed by MarineTraffic earlier on Saturday showed a significant uptick in vessels crossing the strait, which is located between Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Oman.

“It’s busy out there, the busiest I’ve seen it since the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed at the beginning of the war,” Michelle Wiese Bockmann, an analyst at maritime intelligence firm Windward, said in a post on X.

“Last night there were few ships taking the risk, but overnight there seems to have been a change.”

While Iran allowed a limited number of vetted ships to transit the waterway since the start of the war, traffic has remained at a trickle compared with pre-conflict levels.

The near-total closure of the Strait has triggered one of the worst energy shocks in history, driving up fuel prices and prompting Governments to roll out emergency measures.

Oil prices have swung wildly since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, hitting a post-conflict peak of US$119 a barrel on March 19. (Al Jazeera)

6 die in Kyiv shooting, hostage situation; Police kill suspect

Six persons were killed when a Russian-born man opened fire on passersby in a Kyiv district on Saturday before barricading himself in a supermarket with hostages, where he was shot dead by Police, authorities said.

Ukraine’s Security Service said the shooting was being investigated as a terrorist act, but offered no motive.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking in his nightly video address, said the shooting happened in the leafy Holosiivskyi district, injuring 14 persons.

“He took hostages and unfortunately, one of them was killed,” Zelenskyy said. “Four people died simply on the street. One woman died in hospital after being seriously wounded.”

One of the wounded was

a 12-year-old boy whose parents were also killed, Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko said.

Reuters video footage showed emergency crews loading bodies into vehicles.

Shootings of this nature are extremely rare in Ukraine, whose cities face regular Russian airstrikes.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Iran tightens control of Strait of Hormuz, Trump warns against ‘blackmail’

Iran said it was tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, warning mariners the vital energy route was again closed, but President Donald Trump said Tehran could not blackmail the United States by shutting the waterway.

Tehran said it was responding to a continued US blockade of Iranian ports, calling it a violation of their ceasefire, while Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran’s navy was ready to inflict “new bitter defeats” on its enemies.

Shipping sources said at least two vessels reported coming under fire and being hit while trying to transit the waterway. India later said the Iranian Ambassador in New Delhi had been summoned and that it had expressed deep concern to him that two Indian-flagged ships had come under fire in the Strait.

State media in Iran quoted the Supreme National Security Council as saying Iranian control over the Strait included demanding

the payment of costs related to security, safety and environmental protection services.

State television also quoted the Supreme National Security Council as saying the US had put forward new proposals after talks mediated by Pakistan in recent days. Tehran was considering them, but had not yet responded, it said.

There was no immediate sign of direct US-Iran talks taking place at the weekend, despite Trump saying on Friday that negotiations would take place.

Uncertainty around Iran conflict

Tehran’s renewed tough messaging caused fresh uncertainty around the Iran conflict, raising the risk that oil and gas shipments through the Strait could remain disrupted just as Washington weighs whether to extend the fragile ceasefire.

Trump said the US was having “very good conversations” with Iran, but that Tehran wanted to close the Strait again. Iran could not blackmail the US, he said.

Maritime security and

shipping sources said some merchant vessels had received radio messages from Iran’s navy saying no ships were allowed through the waterway, reversing Friday’s signs that traffic might resume.

Maritime trackers had earlier shown a convoy of eight tankers transiting the narrow passage in the first major movement of ships since the US-Israeli war on Iran began seven weeks ago. Hours earlier, Trump had cited “some pretty good news” about Iran, declining to elaborate. But he also said fighting might resume without a peace deal by Wednesday, when the two-week ceasefire expires. Iran had announced its temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following a separate US-brokered 10day ceasefire agreement on Thursday between Israel and Lebanon. Israel invaded parts of southern Lebanon after the Iran-allied Hezbollah militant group joined the fighting in early March. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Trinidad and Tobago Police uncover 56 bodies, mostly children, at cemetery

aw enforcement offi-

Lcials in the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago have launched an investigation after 56 bodies, mostly of children, were found abandoned at a cemetery.

On Saturday, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) announced the discovery in a statement. The bodies of 50 infants were recovered, as well as those of four adult males and two females.

At least one of the adult women and one adult male

showed signs of having undergone a post-mortem examination. All the adults had identification tags, similar to what is often used at morgues.

“Preliminary indications suggest that this may be a case involving the unlawful disposal of unclaimed corpses,” the police service said.

“Further forensic analysis is underway to determine the origin of the remains and any associated breaches of law or procedure.”

The discovery took place in the town of Cumuto, some

40 kilometres (25 miles) from the capital, Port of Spain.

After the remains were discovered at the cemetery, Cumuto Police secured the scene and began a forensic examination. Specialised units, including homicide experts, have also been deployed to the site.

In Saturday’s statement, Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro acknowledged how disturbing the discovery was.

“The nature of this discovery is deeply troubling, and we understand the emotional impact it will have on fam-

ilies and the wider national community,” Guevarro said.

“The TTPS is approaching this matter with urgency, sensitivity, and unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. Every cadaver must be handled with dignity and lawful care. Any individual or institution found to have violated that duty will be held fully accountable.”

The improper disposal of human remains is a criminal offence in Trinidad and Tobago, as it is in other parts of the world. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

North Korea fires multiple ballistic missiles towards sea off its east coast

North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast, South Korea and Japan said on Sunday, marking the latest in a flurry of launches by Pyongyang to accelerate efforts to boost its military capabilities.

The incident marks the North’s seventh ballistic missile launch this year and its fourth in April.

“As the US is focused on Iran, the North sees this as a golden time to upgrade their nuclear power and missile capability,” Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam

University, said.

South Korea’s presidential office said it had held an emergency security meeting, media reports said.

Such tests violate United Nations Security Council resolutions against the North’s missile programme. Pyongyang rejects the UN ban and says it infringes its sovereign right to self-defence.

The missiles were fired near the city of Sinpo on North Korea’s east coast at around 06:10h, South Korea’s military said in a statement. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Mexico, Spain, Brazil call for Cuba’s sovereignty to be protected

The leaders of Mexico, Brazil and Spain have pledged more aid to Cuba, while appealing for the island nation’s sovereignty to be respected amid an ongoing pressure campaign from United States President Donald Trump.

The joint statement on Saturday was released as leftist leaders from across the globe met in Barcelona.

The three countries expressed “great concern about the serious humanitarian crisis that the people of Cuba are going through”.

The US has imposed a trade embargo on Cuba since Cold War tensions emerged in the 1960s.

But the Trump Administration has ratcheted up pressure on the island’s communist Government,

in an apparent attempt to prompt leadership change.

Since January, Trump has barred the import of oil from Venezuela. He also threatened other countries with sanctions if they deliver oil to Cuba, leading to fuel shortages and energy blackouts.

The campaign against Cuba’s Government follows similar pressure tactics against Venezuela’s

former President Nicolás Maduro, who was captured in a US military operation on January 3 and placed before their courts.

Trump, meanwhile, has floated the removal of Cuba’s President Miguel Diaz-Canel.

In Saturday’s statement, the Governments of Mexico, Spain and Brazil — represented by President Claudia Sheinbaum, Prime Minister

Pedro Sanchez and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, respectively — warned against any actions that run “contrary to international law”.

“We are committed to coordinating an increase in our humanitarian response, aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Cuban people,” the trio said.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Take the plunge and follow through with your plans. Dreaming and doing are not the same thing. You must take the initiative and see where it leads.

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

Examine your environment and situations and evaluate what's working and what's outdated or draining your energy. Stop procrastinating, and you'll start to feel relief.

GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)

CANCER

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) (March 21April 19)

Learn as you go; reach out, help others when possible and be the light for those who have lost their way. Set boundaries and standards, and don't hesitate to use institutions, agencies and whatever is available to you.

Hedge your bets. A low profile will help you accomplish the most with the least amount of interference. You can resolve issues if you put your time, energy and skills to work for you.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Push yourself, take care of unfinished business and strive to get along with others to avoid setbacks. Choose your battles wisely, and use your time, energy and skills to gain momentum and respect.

Acknowledge a change of heart. Fine-tune your approach and execute your plans. Don't hesitate; alter your situation and put an end to what's dragging you down.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

If you find yourself in a push-pull situation, deal with it before it escalates. Partnerships will require patience, respect and perhaps a change to even out the playing field.

Insert more "me time" into your routine. Energy that has no place to go will fester; keep busy, active and up to date, and you'll keep on an even keel.

Home is where the heart is, so don't let outside influences take away from precious time building fond memories with those who matter most to you. Nurture meaningful relationships and make romance a priority.

Be cognizant of what's happening around you. Keep an open mind but refuse to let anyone railroad you into something that isn't in your best interests.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Set your sights on your career and financial goals. Do what's need

ed and be prepared to compromise when necessary, and it will make the process easier.

Socialize, connect with friends and enjoy every interaction you have. There is something to gain or to learn from every encounter. Love is favored, and a kind gesture will bring you closer to someone special.

Stubbs, Miller win DC a thriller against RCB

David Miller has been here before in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Against Gujarat Titans (GT) he had turned down the tie and ended up costing Delhi Capitals (DC) the game. Ten days later, Miller was in a similar situation once again. Except on Saturday, he won the game for DC with a ball to spare, handing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) their second defeat of the season and first at home.

It came to DC needing 15 off the final over bowled by Romario Shepherd, who was bowling his first of the game. Miller had missed out on the first ball – a hittable delivery on leg stump that cost RCB just one run – and Tristan Stubbs also managed only a single next ball, leaving DC needing 13 off four balls. Miller completed his redemption arc with 6, 6, 4 off the next three balls to stun the Chinnaswamy into silence.

Kohli, Salt quick off the blocks Virat Kohli and Phil Salt gave RCB a swift start on a slower-than-usual Chinnaswamy pitch after they were asked to bat first. Kohli nicked the second ball he faced from Auqib Nabi, between slip and short third, and Mukesh Kumar also found swing in his open-

ing over. But nothing could stop Kohli from shimming out of his crease twice and pumping Mukesh for a pair of fours over cover. However, when he tried to treat Lungi Ngidi in a similar way in the last over of the power play, the seamer shifted his line wider of off and had Kohli caught at sweeper cover, the only man on the boundary on the off side, for 19 off 13 balls.

In comparison, Salt had managed just 13 off his first 13 balls, but turned up the tempo when he took Nabi for 4, 6, 4 in the fifth over. When he cracked Kuldeep Yadav

catch at short third, but the ball evaded Mukesh’s outstretched left hand and snuck away to the deep-third boundary. Mukesh, who had landed face-first into the ground, left the field in discomfort, having completed his quota of four overs.

RCB did not score a boundary in their last two overs and only scored two in their last six overs. At the innings break, former RCB Captain Faf du Plessis reckoned that the hosts were 10 runs short.

Bhuvneshwar’s opening burst

over wide long-off for six, he brought up his half-century off 30 balls. Salt hit Kuldeep for another six before the left-arm wristspinner pushed one away from Salt’s swinging arc and had the batter holing out to wide long-off this time for 63 off 38 balls. The slowness in the surface also played a part in Salt’s dismissal.

Spinners trigger RCB slowdown

Kuldeep and his captain, Axar Patel combined to slow RCB down even further. Axar, who had delayed his introduction into the attack until the 10th over, possibly because of the presence of Devdutt Padikkal, managed to have the left-hand batter caught at long-on, though he had erred too full.

Tim David rose above the conditions and ran away to 26 off 15 balls. His drilled six off Ngidi in the 12th over had Kohli off his seat in the dressing room and the Chinnaswamy erupting in joy. Axar, though, played killjoy when he drew an outside edge from David that landed into the hands of short third. David had denied Jitesh Sharma, who was struggling at the other end, strike and turned down a single off the previous ball, but Axar shifted his line wide of off and bested David with turn.

Rajat Patidar had already been dismissed by Mukesh Kumar for 8 off four balls and Shepherd could not fire either, Kuldeep trapping the West Indian all-rounder lbw for 1. The pressure piled on RCB as they went 25 balls without a boundary until Jitesh found it in the 18th over. It should have been a

The first two overs from Bhuvneshwar Kumar in RCB’s defence was a passage of play straight out of Test match cricket. With two slips in place, Bhuvneshwar got the new ball to swing both ways and tore through DC’s top order.

He produced the opening breakthrough when he pinged Pathum Nissanka’s pad with a big inswinger in his first over. He then went bang bang in his second to dismiss Karun Nair and Sameer Rizvi. DC had brought Nair in at number three at his domestic home ground at the expense of a finisher in Ashutosh Sharma, but an outswinger from Bhuvneshwar had Nair carving a catch to deep third for a run-a-ball 5.

Three balls later, Bhuvneshwar had Rizvi caught behind with another outswinger. Jitesh dived full length to his right and pulled off a one-handed screamer, reducing DC to 18 for 3 inside three overs.

Rahul, Stubbs counter early blows

KL Rahul and Stubbs brought DC back into the contest with contrasting half-centuries. By the end of the power play, DC were 50 for 3, with Rahul contributing 31 off 18 balls. He played some glorious shots, including a flicked six over square leg off an off-stump ball on a Test-match length from Josh Hazlewood.

Rahul scored 22 off 10 balls from Hazlewood, extending his T20 tally against him to 135 off 78 balls. Nobody has a better head-to-head record against Hazlewood in T20s.

Rahul also lined up wristspinner Syuash Sharma, but when he tried to attack Krunal Pandya, the

leftarm

spin -

ner fired in a 103 kilometre per hour (kph) dart and had an advancing Rahul holing out for 57 off 34 balls in the 11th over.

Stubbs was on 18 off 17 balls by the time Rahul was dismissed. He picked up the pace in the 13th over, when he hit Rasikh Salam for a pair of fours, including one down the ground off a slower variation. Without taking too many risks, Stubbs added 47 for the fifth wicket with Axar before the latter retired hurt on 26 off 19 balls.

DC required 42 off 25 balls. Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar returned and ramped up the pressure on DC with their wide yorkers and reverse-swinging stump yorkers.

Miller FTW

Stubbs briefly diffused the tension in the 18th over when he latched onto a slower bouncer from Bhuvneshwar and launched it over square leg for six. It was Stubbs’ first six off the 40th ball he faced and first boundary for DC after four

overs.

Despite that six, Bhuvneshwar conceded only 12 off the over, and Rasikh followed it up with a tight penultimate over, giving away 10 runs. With 14 to defend off the last over, Patidar called up Shepherd, who got away with his first ball when he missed his length. Stubbs then pinched another single off the next ball. Shepherd then cracked under pressure and kept missing the yorker as Miller crashed him for 6, 6, 4. The first six came off a full toss, which was swatted into the second tier over midwicket. Shepherd then served up a wide half-volley and Miller biffed him over extra-cover for six more. On the next ball, Miller sealed the win with a flicked four to the midwicket fence off a full toss. (ESPNcricinfo)

Devdutt Padikkal c Miller

b Patel 18 Rajat Patidar (c) c †Rahul b Mukesh Kumar 8 Tim David c Natarajan

b Patel 26

Jitesh Sharma † c Miller

b Ngidi 14 Romario Shepherd lbw b Kuldeep Yadav 1

Krunal Pandya run out (†Rahul/ Ngidi) 12 Rasikh Salam not out 0

Bhuvneshwar Kumar not out 3

Extras (lb 2, nb 1, w 8) 11

Total 20 Ov (RR: 8.75) 175/8

Fall of wickets: 1-52 (Virat Kohli, 5.1 ov), 2-99 (Devdutt Padikkal, 9.6 ov), 3-105 (Phil Salt, 10.4 ov), 4-131 (Rajat Patidar, 12.4 ov), 5-146 (Tim David, 15.2 ov), 6-149 (Romario Shepherd, 16.3 ov), 7-172 (Krunal Pandya, 19.2 ov), 8-172 (Jitesh Sharma, 19.4 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Auqib Nabi 3-0-36-0 Mukesh Kumar 4-0-32-1

GFF launches Youth Ensemble Referee Programme at Providence

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has launched its Youth Ensemble Referee Training Programme, with the twoday initiative getting underway on Saturday at the National Training Centre.

The programme brings together aspiring referees from Regions Three and Four, including representatives from the East Demerara Football Association, West Demerara Football Association, Georgetown Football Association

and East Bank Football Association. It is designed to build capacity, improve officiating standards and create pathways to regional and international opportunities.

Led by Lenval Peart, Head of Referees and Referee Assessor at the Federation, the training focuses on developing the next generation of match officials to support the growth and integrity of the sport locally. Participants are expected to benefit from technical guidance and

practical sessions aimed at strengthening their understanding of the game and decision-making on the field.

The initiative forms part of the Federation s broader effort to elevate refereeing standards across the country, while investing in longterm development within the sport.

The training programme runs from April 18 to April 19, with daily sessions scheduled from 09:00h to 16:00h at the Providencebased facility.

Motie sticking to basics as he aims to claim 200th First-Class wicket

Ace spinner Gudakesh Motie is two wickets away from 200 First-Class wickets in only 56 matches. Motie is fresh from a 10-wicket haul against Windward Islands Volcanoes.

According to Motie, being consistent and patient is the key to his success over a long period of time. Reflecting on the opening round of the Regional FourDay tournament, Motie said the surface in Antigua was not one for bowlers to dominate, but he still reaped success by hitting the right areas.

“It was coming out well. The surface was two-paced and up and down. It was good for batting and bowling. I was just looking to put the ball in the right area and it worked well,” Motie said.

As it relates to preparation, Motie was also ham-

Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) by a massive 208 runs when the Georgetown Cricket Association Under-17 Eline Security Logistics 50-Over competition continued yesterday at the DCC Ground.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, DCC piled up an imposing 316 all out in 49.5 overs, built on solid contributions from their top order and an explosive display of power hitting.

Makai Dowlin anchored the innings with a patient 73 off 96 balls, striking six fours and one six to set the platform. Mickel Sharma then injected momentum with a brisk 53 from just 41 deliveries, laced with seven fours and two sixes. However, it was Yeshua Hutson who stole the spotlight with a scintillating knock of 96 from 77 balls.

Hutson’s innings featured one four and a remarkable nine sixes, as he dominated the MSC bowling attack and propelled DCC beyond the 300-run mark.

Kyle Gibson was the standout bowler for MSC, finishing with 4 for 67 from his full allotment of 10 overs, despite the heavy scoring. Facing a daunting target of 317 for victory, MSC never found their footing. DCC’s bowlers struck regularly to dismantle the opposition for 108 in 25.5 overs. Kaylon Callender led the bowling effort with three wickets, while Jasane Craig and Sharma supported well with two wickets apiece to ensure there was no chance of a recovery.

Nathaniel Ramkallawan top-scored with 34, and skipper Joshua Budhram offered some resistance scoring 31, but the rest of the batting line-up struggled to cope with DCC’s disciplined attack. With this comprehensive victory, DCC sent a strong message to the other teams in the competition, underlining their credentials as serious contenders for the Under-17 title.

pered by inclement weather in Guyana.

“Coming into the tournament I didn’t have too much practice because of the rain in Guyana. I was working on being consistent and patient,” the champion spinner explained.

Guyana will play the second match against the same Volcanoes outfit at the Antigua Recreational Ground. The match bowls off today, Sunday, April 19.

The Police Academy Second Division delivered a disciplined all-round performance to defeat Mystic Marvel’s Cricket Club by six wickets in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Sherwin Williams 2nd Division T20 Cup 2026 at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary, on Saturday.

After winning the battle with the ball, Police Academy comfortably chased down a modest target to seal victory with more than nine overs to spare.

Batting first, Mystic Marvel’s Cricket Club struggled from the onset and were bowled out for just 65 in 14.1 overs. L Pellew top-scored with 16, while N Liverpool contributed 14, but the rest of the batting line-up failed to withstand the disciplined bowling attack.

Kerwin Amsterdam

spearheaded the demolition with outstanding figures of 4-18 from his four overs. Kelvin Leitch provided excellent support, returning remarkable figures of 3-2 from three overs to further derail the innings.

Hazel Williams (1-13 from 2 overs); Deo Singh (1-12 from 4 overs) and Troy Benn (1-8 from 1.1 overs) chipped in to complete the rout.

In response, Police Academy 2nd Division eased to 68-4 in 10.3 overs. Leitch capped a fine allround display with a top score of 21, while Benn added 12 and Semon Gaffoor supported with 11 to guide the chase.

2nd-Division T20 Cup Police Academy clinch victory; GDF rout Ace Warriors in record demolition

For Mystic Marvel’s Cricket Club, Anthony Fredericks claimed 2-8 from 1.3 overs, while Elian Whyte (1-27 from 4 overs) and Dequan Wray (1-14 from 4 overs) each took a wicket. However, the target proved far too small to defend.

Police Academy’s victory was built on a sharp, clinical bowling performance, with Amsterdam and Leitch laying the foundation for a comprehensive six-wicket triumph.

Meanwhile, in one of the most one-sided encounters ever recorded in the GCA, the Guyana Defence Force

(GDF) produced a devastating display to crush Ace Warriors at the Malteenoes Sports Club ground. Ace Warriors, after winning the toss and electing to bat, were sensationally bundled out for a mere 11 runs in 8.1 overs in a collapse that stunned onlookers.

Ayinde Rogers was virtually unplayable, claiming five wickets in a breathtaking spell of four overs without conceding a single run. Shamar Angel provided strong support with figures of 3-11 as the GDF bowlers tore through the batting order.

Chasing a target of just 12 for victory, GDF wasted no time in wrapping up proceedings. The military side raced to 15 without loss in just 1.3 overs to seal a crushing 10-wicket win.

Persaud claims Senior Light pole as tight qualifying sets stage for $10M Nitro Kart Klash

Zachary Persaud secured pole position in the Banks DIH Briggs and Stratton Senior Light class following a competitive qualifying session for the $10 million Nitro Kart Klash at the National Stadium parking lot on Saturday.

Persaud produced a fastest time of 35.310 seconds to edge a tight field, finish-

ing ahead of Calvin Ming, who clocked 35.553, while Khalil Rickford (35.634) and Matthew Phang (35.799) also remained within close range of the top spot.

The qualifying session, marked by narrow margins across multiple categories, also saw Persaud claiming pole in the Honda GX200 class after recording a time of 36.986. He will start ahead of Naresh Alves (38.240) and Luis Kumar

CChase make strong statement heading into QF of Massy U18 Football

Tournament concluded on Saturday at the Queen's College Ground.

Shaquan David led the charge with a hat-trick as Chase overwhelmed their opponents to book a place in the quarter-finals.

St Joseph High also advanced after defeating East Ruimveldt Secondary 4-2, with Semech Starke netting a double. They will now face West Ruimveldt Secondary, who secured their spot with a 4-1 win over West Demerara, powered by a hat-trick from Donavan Welcome.

Elsewhere, Charlestown Secondary and Santa Rosa recorded narrow victories in their respective fixtures. Charlestown edged Belladrum 2-1, while Santa Rosa defeated Yarrowkabra Secondary 3-2 in a closely-contested encounter.

(38.687), with Aqueel Edwards, Jaden Daziel and Shaun Bhoodoo completing the grid.

In the Chung’s Global Super Moto 125cc Junior class, Lishon Lewis secured pole with a time of 37.010 seconds, finishing ahead of Joshua Holder (39.970) and Troquille Sealy (41.060). Meanwhile, Mikhail Persaud topped the Forresters Lumber and Building Complex Briggs and Stratton Heavy class with a 36.594 effort, placing him ahead of Jhon Mohamed (37.492); Salim Azeez (38.236); Andre Rochford (39.315) and Jeremey Ten Pow. Another closely-fought category was the Triple J Construction IAME X30 125cc class, where Justin Ten Pow claimed pole with a time of 31.223 seconds,

St Rose’s

win

hase’s Academic Foundation signalled their title ambitions with a dominant 9-0 victory over Patentia Secondary when Round-of-16 action in the Massy Under-18 Schools Football

Ann’s Grove Secondary also progressed with a 2-0 win against New Amsterdam Secondary, thanks to a brace from Kennard Halley.

The quarterfinal round is scheduled for today from 10:30h at the same venue.

Quarterfinal fixtures:

10:30h – New Amsterdam Secondary v Charlestown Secondary (Match 58)

12:30h – Three Mile Secondary v Chase’s Academic Foundation (Match 57)

14:30h – Santa Rosa v Annandale Secondary (Match 59)

16:30h – St Joseph High School v West Ruimveldt Secondary (Match 60)

narrowly ahead of Kristian Jeffrey (31.288) and Calvin Ming (31.366). Benjamin Phang (31.844) will start just outside the top three, followed by Nicholas Sawh (32.319), Rayden Persaud and Mahendra Bhoodoo.

William Vieira emerged fastest in the SVC Incorporated Briggs and Stratton Cadet class with a time of 37.255, finishing ahead of Asrudeen Mohamed (37.452), Nathan Seejattan (37.720) and Gavriel Gayadin (37.729) in another tightly-packed field.

In the female category, Paige Mendonca topped the J’s Supermarket Briggs and Stratton class ahead of Malicia Lawrence, while Matthew Phang recorded the fastest time in the Mohamed’s Excavating Construction Incorporated

Elsewhere, John Mohamed secured pole position in the AJM Enterprise Briggs and Stratton Over35 Rookie class, while Shaun Bhoodoo led qualifying in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Briggs and Stratton Junior category.

The session was attended by Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr and Assistant Director of Sport, Franklyn Wilson. Racing is scheduled to begin today, with gates opening from 08:00h and the first events expected to start shortly after. Admission is set at $3000 for adults, with children under 12 granted free entry.

dominate, Saints

thriller in Georgetown City Regionals

St Rose’s High and St Stanislaus College secured victories when the Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) Georgetown City Regionals got underway on Friday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

St Rose’s High produced a dominant performance to defeat Marian Academy 74-22, led by a standout showing from Christian Williams, who was named Player of the Game after recording 23 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists. Williams was well-sup-

ported by teammates Tyler Paul, who contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds, Shequan Callendar with 16 points, and Daniel Cox, who added 10 points.

For Marian Academy, Lucas Pinol was the top performer with 13 points and six steals in a losing effort.

In the second encounter, St Stanislaus College edged Brickdam Secondary in a closely-contested matchup, winning 28-27. Omari White was named Player of the Game after finishing with 15 points and seven

rebounds to guide his team to victory, while Josiah Lee chipped in with six points and four rebounds. Brickdam’s Dontarion Denny delivered a strong all-round performance despite the loss, pulling down 13 rebounds and scoring six points.

The Georgetown City Regionals continue over the weekend and are being sponsored by Edward B Beharry Ltd, G-Boats Inc, the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Education and Banks DIH Ltd.

Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” GT Zone Laing Avenue, Bent Street B advance as Round of 32 wraps up

The Round of 32 of the 2025 Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Georgetown zone was completed on Friday night at the National Cultural Centre tarmac on Mandela Avenue, as several teams secured progression to the next stage of the competition.

Backed by a sizable crowd, Bent Street B produced one of the more convincing results of the evening, defeating Unity

Complete Results (Day -2) Game 1

Bent St B 3 v Unity Ballers 0 Game 2

Corinthians 1 v Team Cruel 4 Game 3

Gaza Squad 0 v Laing Avenue 1 Game 4

North Ruimveldt 0 v Z-Tekk 1 Game 5

Albouystown 2 v Young Stars 1 Game 6

North East La Penitence 1 v K-town All-Stars 0 Game 7

Leopold 1 v Kingston 0 Game 8

National All-Stars 2 v Team Madrid 0 Pitamber

Ballers 3-0, while Team Cruel recorded a 4-1 win over Corinthians to underline their attacking strength. Defending champions Laing Avenue edged Gaza Squad 1-0 in a closely-contested encounter, and Z-Tekk advanced with a narrow 1-0 victory over North Ruimveldt.

Albouystown also progressed after a 2-1 win against Young Stars, while North East La Penitence secured a 1-0 result against K-Town All-Stars. Leopold got past Kingston by a similar 1-0 margin, and National All-Stars completed the list of winners with a 2-0 triumph over Team Madrid.

With the Round of 32 now concluded, attention shifts to the Round of 16, which is scheduled to commence on Thursday, April 23, at the same venue. The upcoming fixtures will see Z-Tekk opposing Bent Street B at 19:00h, followed

National champion Candidate Master (CM)

Sachin Pitamber added another major title to his growing collection on Saturday, winning the National Rapid Chess Championship at the Pegasus Suites in Georgetown after nine rounds of competition.

Pitamber finished with eight points from a possible nine to secure the ti -

tle on tie-break, edging Keron Sandiford, who also ended on eight points but placed second. Former champion FIDE Master (FM) Anthony Drayton, last year’s winner, had to settle for third with seven points after a strong but inconsistent campaign.

The tournament, played under a Swisssystem format with a rapid time control of 15 minutes plus a five-second

by Albouystown taking on Leopold at 19:30h. Team Cruel will meet New Bay Ballers at 20:00h, while Island All-Stars face Broad Street at 20:30h.

In the later matches, Festival City will play North East La Penitence at 21:00h, and National

All-Stars are set to oppose Team Immaculate at 21:30h. Gold is Money will come up against East Coast All-Stars at 22:00h, while Sparta Boss will battle Laing Avenue in the final fixture at 22:30h.

The stakes remain significant as teams continue their pursuit of the $1 million top prize. The second-place finisher will receive $400,000, while third and fourth will earn $200,000 and $100,000 respectively. Additionally, three qualifying spots for the national championships are on offer.

Final Standings – Open (Top 10)

1. CM Sachin Pitamber – 8 pts

2. Keron Sandiford – 8 pts

3. FM Anthony Drayton – 7 pts

4. CM Taffin Khan – 6.5 pts

5. Kyle Couchman – 5.5 pts

6. Kishan Puran – 5.5 pts

7. WCM Jessica Callender – 5 pts

8. Odinnie Reece – 5 pts

9. Italy Ton-Chung – 5 pts

10. Kataleya Sam – 5 pts

Final Standings – Women

1. WCM Jessica Callender – 5 pts (7th overall)

2. Kataleya Sam – 5 pts (10th overall)

3. Parnita Kishun – 4 pts (18th overall)

4. Tharisha De Oca – 3 pts (23rd overall)

5. Amaya Sharma – 3 pts (24th overall)

6. Varsha Pooran – 2.5 pts (25th overall)

increment, featured nine rounds contested over the day. Pitamber set the tone early, defeating Drayton in round three and maintaining his position among the leaders through the

middle rounds, including key wins over Sandiford in round four and Kishan Puran in round eight.

Heading into the final round, Pitamber was in a strong position, but suf -

fered his only loss of the tournament, going down to former national champion CM Taffin Khan. Despite that setback, his earlier results proved enough to secure the overall title on tiebreak.

Sandiford, who finished second, produced a consistent run that included victories over several top contenders, while Drayton recovered from a mid-tournament loss to Pitamber to remain in contention and eventually claim third place.

Master (WCM)

CM Khan placed fourth with 6.5 points, while Kyle Couchman and Puran rounded out the top six, each finishing on 5.5 points. Woman Candidate

five points, finishing seventh overall. Further down the standings, several unrated players produced com -

performances,