Guyana Times - Sunday, January 18 , 2026

Health Ministry launches national Electronic Health Records system

Traffic officials look at road lawlessness link to improperly issued driver’s licences

Suspect in murder of miner at Barakat Landing arrested $120M digital X-ray machine commissioned at Region 10 hospital

Police rank injured at Port Kaituma while making arrest

J’ca PM commends GDF ranks for dedication in reconstruction efforts

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, January 18 – 16:15h–17:45h and Monday, January 19 – 16:55h–18:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers are expected to clear to sunny skies in the late afternoon, and clear skies will cloud over before raining heavily at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 16:28h reaching a maximum height of 2.54 metres.

Low Tide: 10:02h and 22:30h reaching minimum heights of 0.83 metre and 0.65 metre.

Health Ministry launches national Electronic Health Records system

– will reduce waiting times, improve efficiency – Dr Anthony

The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Saturday launched the National Electronic Health Record (EHR) System at the Festival City Polyclinic in North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, as part of efforts to modernise Guyana’s public healthcare system.

Speaking at the launch, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said that the introduction of the EHR system will significantly reduce long waiting times, eliminate lost medical files, and improve the overall patient experience within the public health system.

He explained that under the previous paper-based system, patients often spent hours waiting for their medical cards to be located, moved between departments, or re-created when records could not be found.

He noted that the movement of physical records between clinics, pharmacies, laboratories, and imaging departments often resulted in further delays, repeated visits, and, in some cases, lost information.

“Patients would come in, sit and wait while staff searched through files –sometimes finding the card quickly, sometimes taking a long time. In the meantime, the patient is waiting for hours. If you did blood tests, you often had to return another day, and when you came back, someone had to search through paper records again. If you took an X-ray and lost the film on your way home, you lost part of your medical record,” he explained.

According to Dr Anthony, the new digital system will centralise patient information, allowing records to be accessed instantly and securely in one place.

“With this paperless system, there will be no phys-

said.

Dr Anthony explained that doctors will now enter findings electronically, and prescriptions will be sent directly to the pharmacy, allowing medication to be prepared in advance.

Laboratory results and imaging, including X-rays, will be uploaded directly to a patient’s electronic record, eliminating the need for return visits simply to collect results.

The Minister also said the system will introduce online appointment booking, reducing overcrowding and unnecessary early arrivals

The Health Minister recalled that in Guyana, the vision for digital health systems has been long-standing. “In the early 2000s, while serving as Head of the Health Sector Unit, we commissioned a consultant to examine how we could establish electronic health records in Guyana,” he revealed.

He added that the ambition to implement such a system has existed for many years, and the report from that initial study may still be found within Government records, noting the enduring commitment to modernising

ical card. Staff can pull up your name on the computer in seconds, and you go straight to the doctor,” he

at health facilities. He noted that relatives can assist elderly patients with online bookings where necessary.

healthcare through digitalisation.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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The US Dollar

The US dollar has become a fixture in the news in the last few years – if for nothing more than businesses complaining about its shortage. But why do our businesses need US dollars when we are an independent country with our own currency, the GY dollar? Most usually they, like most others in the world, need the US dollar to pay for goods they are importing or to engage in investments in foreign capital markets that are preponderantly denominated in US dollars.

The US dollar achieved this pre-eminent status globally following WWII when it displaced the British pound sterling, which had played the role up to then. Initially, the US dollar was backed by its stock of gold at Fort Knox to give confidence to its use at a conversion rate of US$35 to 1 oz of gold. However, in 1971 the US unilaterally untethered its dollar from the gold standard and became in effect the global reserve currency because of the pre-eminent role of the US economy and capital markets. Other countries had to swallow hard and accept it. The US could now simply print pieces of paper, call them “dollars”, and other countries would accept them in exchange for real goods and services.

But what this means is that the US has run a constant deficit in trade – and piled up debts denominated in dollars – to maintain the liquidity of the system. However, with the US now declaring that it intends to reduce its trade deficit –and debts – by imposing massive tariffs on US imports, it is unwittingly decreasing reliance on its currency as the global reserve. Ironically, efforts towards that end had already been assiduously pursued by China and members of BRICS because of their resentment of the power the US can exert through controlling the reserve currency via sanctions, etc.

However, it is unlikely that these efforts will succeed in the short or medium term. The main hurdle is China’s or any other member of BRICS’s unwillingness to forgo their trade surpluses, much less convert them into deficits.

Another factor not appreciated enough is the need for deep and extensive capital markets for a reserve currency. This is because less than 10 per cent of foreign exchange transactions are due to trade; the overwhelming majority are investment flows. And some of these are important for trade to work well, such as commodity and foreign exchange hedging. There are no other capital markets in currencies other than dollars large enough to facilitate the present transactions.

While bilateral trade mechanisms are being used by participating states such as China and Russia etc. to evade dollar-based sanctions, these efforts also cannot replace the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency. Finally, there are the Bretton Woods institutions, such as the IMF and the World Bank, that intermediate global interventions into countries facing economic challenges, which are also US dollar-based, and they will have to be replicated. The performance of the BRICS-funded development bank does not indicate any threat from this quarter.

At the time of the formation of the Bretton Woods institutions, there had been a discussion of an independent institution to issue a world reserve currency (the Bancor) to prevent any single country’s currency from gaining that benefit. It did not gain favour, and the US dollar won by default.

For the foreseeable future then, we in Guyana will be needing US dollars to find our way in the world. With oil providing a fulcrum, we should ensure US dollar shortages are a thing of the past.

Don’t stop playing

By Ryhaan Shah

Haven’t we all watched our favourite sportsmen and women lose their form and ability to perform at their best? The more senior among us would remember the glory days of cricketers Clive Lloyd and Alvin Kallicharran, who were succeeded by names like Chanderpaul, Sarwan, and Hooper. What happened to them happens to all of us – ageing.

Many athletes often stay trim and healthy into their senior years because of the good habits they developed during their professional careers. They learnt the benefits of a well-balanced diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, carbohydrates and healthy fats. Most of them do not smoke, and during the training and playing season, they would stay away from alcohol. In

retirement, they often do not give up the bat or ball or racquet but continue to play in senior leagues or choose to coach the next generation of athletes.

They know the truth about that advice given by English playwright George Bernard Shaw, who once quipped, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”

Playing for us could be anything from cycling, swimming, playing tennis or softball, or simply going for regular walks or taking a yoga class. Living with sunshine all year round is a boon to maintaining an active lifestyle. A bracing walk on the seawall or in any park in the fresh air can do wonders for maintaining good health and a feeling of wellbeing.

We know well the physical signs of ageing. It’s not just the greying and thinning hair, the wrinkles or the loss of 20/20 vision as we get fitted for reading glasses; there can also be the loss of muscle mass and flexibility, and our bones can become more brittle, which increases our risk of fractures.

Our tropical weather plays a role here again since we get a free daily dose of vitamin D from the sun, which is vital for bone health; it helps the body absorb calcium and maintain bone strength.

Not everyone ages at the same rate or shares similar or even all the signs. Much has to do with our genes and family history, which is why doctors ask for that information. Hereditary conditions can predispose us to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. Early detection and treatment could add years to our lives, so if there is a need, make sure and seek medical advice and help.

There are some signs of ageing that occur quietly, and, unless we pay attention, they can endanger our health. As we age, our blood vessels and arteries become stiffer. This means that our heart has to work harder to pump blood around the body, and this can lead to high blood pressure and other heart problems.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure or simply “pressure” locally, is known as the “silent killer” because it frequently has no noticeable symptoms, yet it can cause significant damage to the body over time. Many people with hypertension are unaware they have it until serious problems arise, such as a heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure.

If there is a history of heart disease in your family, you will want to keep an eye on your blood pressure levels in your middling

years and most definitely as you grow older. Most pharmacies provide free blood pressure checks, and if your pressure is high – or low –you should see a doctor who will likely prescribe medications and advise you about maintaining a healthy diet and weight and getting regular exercise. These would help to keep your pressure under control.

The same advice about diet and exercise is often given to those who become diabetic. There are medications to help with high sugar levels, and it is well known that a well-balanced diet and exercise can help to reverse this condition or keep it in check.

It makes good sense to be aware of the signs of ageing and to get medical help if needed since this can help save our life and add years to it.

Our senior years can be the most rewarding time of our life. The children have grown into their own lives, and playing with our grandchildren can be a real joy. We have gained patience and much knowledge about the world, and we are much more confident than our younger selves.

It is, as American comedian George Burns put it, “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” Play on; there are more memories to be made.

Stronger accountability for schools, teachers this year – Ed Minister

In light of the significant investments being made to strengthen the education sector, Education Minister Sonia Parag has pledged to enforce stronger accountability across schools and among teachers.

This will be achieved through the reintroduction of teacher appraisals and the introduction of school report cards.

Speaking during the “Start Point” podcast, the Minister disclosed that both initiatives will be implemented this year.

The teacher appraisal system, she explained, was piloted before the Covid-19 pandemic but later suspended and will be reintroduced this year.

“It is an evaluation of teachers’ performance, their attendance… The objective of doing that is accountability and ensuring that we

have quality; ensuring that the quality of what is delivered in the classroom is coming from those teachers,” Parag noted.

The system will also support teachers’ career advancement in terms of promotions and other opportunities for growth.

“It’s a formal process, and it is a process that has been piloted before, and I believe the Ministry would have had several engagements with the GTU [Guyana Teachers Union] in terms of these appraisals. So, this is not something that is coming from the Ministry alone, or this is not a decision that was made by the Ministry to do this alone,” the Minister added.

Meanwhile, to further ensure accountability in the education sector, the Ministry is gearing up to launch the school report

cards initiative.

“We’re building schools. We’re ensuring that resources are placed in schools for students to be able to benefit from that,” Minister Parag affirmed.

“This report card is going to be based on the per-

formance of that school overall,” she explained, noting that the appraisal system will take into account the performance of students and the attendance rate and performance of teachers.

“Again, it’s going towards accountability, hold-

Gratitude and optimism about strides in special education needs and disabilities

Dear Editor, As a mother of a child with special needs, I am compelled to share my gratitude and optimism about the strides Guyana has made in Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

A few years ago, families like mine struggled to access proper support.

In 2020, there were just a handful of recognised SEND spaces in Guyana, and honestly, to many, it was a for-

eign concept. To get their children an education, many parents had to travel long distances or relocate.

Thanks to the caring and progressive actions by the current Government and the Ministry of Education, things are changing.

The recent commissioning of the Yas School of Inspiration at Craig on the West Coast of Demerara was another delight. The newspapers said it was the

49 SEND space, so I told my son that now not only he, but many others like him have a chance of a close-tonormal life.

SEND spaces are not just located in central areas anymore; they are all over, and we, the parents of special needs children, are the most grateful.

As a mother, I cannot

overstate how much this means. My child now has access to opportunities that simply did not exist a few years ago. He is learning, growing, and most importantly, he feels included. I just want to again say thank you.

Yours faithfully, A grateful mother

ing the schools accountable,” the Education Minister emphasised.

This initiative is expected to be developed and implemented in time for the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) this year. “That will definitely give us a good idea of the schools that performed,” Parag noted.

Moreover, she explained that these accountability measures are necessary, especially in light of the significant investments being made by the Government to improve the education sector.

“You are training teachers; you’re ensuring that you give all the resources, whether financial resources or otherwise, for students to be able to attend school, and you are having the necessary content available in terms of the textbooks. So, there should be no excuse why someone can’t develop,” she posited.

Among the initiatives that have been implemented to support the education system is the “Because We Care” cash grant, which is expected to be increased to $100,000. Also to be introduced this year is an annual transportation grant for students valued at $100,000 per child. Together, this means that every schoolchild will benefit from a minimum of $200,000 per year – a policy expected to inject $40 billion annually into households across Guyana.

Students are also benefiting from a school feeding programme being imple-

mented by the Ministry of Education, which will be expanded this year. They are also benefiting from the provision of textbooks from the Ministry, further reducing the financial burden on parents.

Additionally, the Government has begun covering the costs for students writing CSEC and CAPE examinations. Under the initiative, the Government will cover the full cost of CSEC and CAPE exam fees for up to eight subjects for all students, both in the public and private sectors. Furthermore, teachers are receiving grants to help support their activities in the classroom. Under this initiative, schools on the coastland receive $4500 per student per term, while hinterland schools receive $5500 per student per term. In nursery and primary schools along the coast, teachers receive $3500 per student, while $1000 will remain with the school’s administrative department to offset expenses in common areas. Similarly, in hinterland nursery and primary schools, $4500 will be given to the teacher, and the remaining $1000 will be used by the school’s administrative department to offset common expenses.

Teachers are also benefiting from free training at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) and have opportunities to access free tertiary education at the University of Guyana and through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL).

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07:00 Movie - Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (2025) 09:00 David Persaud

Page Foundation

Water is all around us – from rivers and ponds to the taps in our homes – but how do we know if it is clean?

Scientists measure water quality by checking features like temperature, clarity, and pollution.

With growing pressures such as climate change, population growth, farm runoff, and plastic waste, monitoring water quality is more important than ever because we rely on water for drinking, food, and recreation.

Common Methods for Water Testing

There are some standard methods for water quality analysis, which can help us understand the physical, chemical, and biological properties of water. These methods (described in more detail below) can include handheld digital probes, colorimetric methods, visual observation, and physical filtering. Each method tells a story about what is happening in the water.

Digital Probes

Handheld digital probes are sensors that can be used to measure a range of different parameters when monitoring water quality, including pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, and dissolved oxygen. The fundamental principle behind this method is the detection of a change in the electrical signal.

Colorimetric Methods

Colorimetric water analysis uses chemical reactions

that produce a colour change when specific substances are present. These reactions can occur on dipsticks or when powders or solutions are added to water. Results may be judged by eye or measured with digital devices to reduce subjectivity.

Nitrates and phosphates support plant growth, but excess amounts can cause algal blooms that deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life. These nutrients are commonly measured using handheld colour-detecting devic-

Examples of equipment that can be used for water testing: (A) clipboard, data sheet, and pen for observations; (B) safety goggles; (C) pH, conductivity, and temperature probe; (D) tubes and plastic beakers to collect water in; (E) nitrate dipsticks with a colorimetric scale; (F) phosphate meter, instructions, and reaction ingredients; and (G) Secchi disc

es or dipsticks. Colorimetric methods are also used to detect metal pollution, such as copper and iron, particularly in rivers affected by runoff from old metal mines.

Optical Observations

Optical observations are similar to colorimetric methods and rely on visible changes or how much light can pass through a sample. Water cloudiness depends on the number of particles present.

Turbidity describes how clear or cloudy water is.

High turbidity can indicate pollution, algae, or suspended particles, though some environments are naturally murky due to stirred-up sediment. Turbidity is commonly measured using a turbid-

ity column or a Secchi disc, which assess clarity based on how visible the water is.

In clearer water, the Secchi disc can be seen at greater depths than in more particle-rich water.

Physical Monitoring

Physical monitoring uses observations and data from filtering particles from the water or measuring the flow rate to help us understand how the environment might be changing.

Microplastics are a widespread form of pollution found in every environment studied. They are typically plastic pieces smaller than 5mm and take many shapes, such as fibres, spheres, or fragments. Microplastics have been detected from mountain tops to deep ocean trenches, showing their extensive spread. They are commonly sampled using fine-mesh nets (~0.3 mm), either by holding the net in flowing water or filtering a known volume. This method only captures floating microplastics and does not account for those that sink into sediments.

Why Do We Need to Monitor the Water?

Keeping track of what is in our water helps us catch problems early. If pollution levels rise, we can figure out where it is coming from and take action before it gets worse. Healthy water is not just for the environment; it is also for us! Clean rivers and lakes mean safer drinking water, healthier wildlife, and better places for swimming, fishing, or just relaxing outdoors.

There are many factors that impact the quality of these environments, and when combined they can paint a complex picture of what is going on in the environment. For example, an increase in nitrate levels and turbidity, in combina-

tion with a decrease in dissolved oxygen, could be an indicator of poor water quality due to an algal bloom. Monitoring the changes in these environments can be really useful in identifying a problem, and if we do this often enough using a range of good methods, we can catch problems early –before there is more damage or long-term environmental changes.

Glossary

Digital Probes: Electronic sensors that are built into a handheld instrument to detect changes in the environment using methods such as changes to electrical resistance in the water.

Colorimetric: Describes a method that measures the colour, or colour change, of something and translates this into a number that can be read by the person measuring.

Conductivity: A measure of the water's, or material's, ability to conduct electric currents, which is determined by the presence of ions in the material.

Bioavailability: How easily a substance can be used by living organisms. Ions: An atom or molecule that has an overall charge, for example, a negative charge if it has extra electrons or a positive charge if it has extra protons.

Algal Blooms: Overgrowths of algae that can harm water environments by using up all the oxygen so that other water dwellers do not have enough.

Turbidity: How clear or cloudy water is, often linked to how much mixing is occurring and how much sediment (particles) is present.

Microplastics: Small pieces of plastic, less than 5 mm in one dimension, and can be any shape or colour.

“Shape up fast or ship out with haste” – GGDMA tells foreign operators

– backs Govt’s

In light of the Guyana Government’s renewed efforts to streamline the mining sector, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) is calling on foreign operators here to follow local rules and regulations or close their operations.

“To all the foreign-based operators who have been allowed the privilege to mine in our country: you are welcome if you are following the rules. To those who are not: you better shape up fast or ship out with haste,” the GGDMA declared in a statement on Saturday.

This comes on the heels of the Ministry of Natural Resources announcing on Thursday last that the Guyana Government has commenced a zero-tolerance policy against mining operations that have failed to meet their statutory obligations.

In recent months, there has been a renewed drive by local mining authorities to curb illegal gold trade and streamline the mining sector to strengthen accountability, environmental protection and production compliance.

During a high-level meeting earlier this month, President Dr Irfaan Ali had ordered that all registered dredges with no declaration be deregistered and all foreign miners operating illegally in Guyana be iden-

tified for prosecution and expulsion.

This was after it was reported that some Brazilian miners operating in Guyana have had very low or no declarations. Those miners were given 24 hours to comply fully with the laws of Guyana and the requirement to declare to the Guyana Gold Board.

Suspended operations

Following the Head of State’s directives on January 2, the Natural Resources Ministry carried out a joint operation with the Police Force in Georgetown during which undocumented individuals were processed, gold was seized and persons of interest were verified.

In fact, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has since suspended the operations of over 100 Brazilian nationals who operate here and failed to be processed and verify their information during the recent exercise.

According to the GGMC in a public notice on January 5, “Such suspension takes effect immediately and shall remain in force pending the affected persons’ engagement with, and compliance to the satisfaction of, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission.”

Moreover, all mining operators, including foreigners, are now required to

campaign to rid mining sector of bad actors

open a local bank account in order to continue operating in Guyana.

On Thursday, the Natural Resources Ministry said the rollout of its zero-tolerance campaign has already resulted in a number of operations being shut down, minerals seized, and legal proceedings initiated against the offenders.

Ending illicit activities

The GGDMA, in Saturday’s missive, said it fully endorses the Government’s zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining and unregulated activities.

“We stand firmly behind the comprehensive campaign to sanitise the industry, ensuring that 2026 becomes the defining year for ridding the sector of bad actors who tarnish the reputation of compliant miners. The serious steps currently being taken are necessary to bring an end to illicit activities in the sector,” the asso-

ciation noted.

Highlighting that the mining sector is evolving, the GGDMA declared that the days of informal, undocumented trading are over. It stressed that legitimate miners have nothing to fear from these changes, but those who operate in the shadows must either regularise or exit the industry.

Recently, there have been suggestions that the enforcement of mining laws regarding gold trading threatens the livelihood of small miners or dismantles established credit systems. Addressing these concerns, the GGDMA pointed out that laws governing the sector are clear: that is, gold must only be sold to the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) or to authorised buyers, which are strictly defined as

dealers licensed by the GGB and licensed traders in gold as approved by the GGMC.

According to the Association, “If a shopkeeper or business owner wishes to deal in gold, they must obtain the requisite trading license from the GGMC for the purpose of bartering. We applaud the insistence by the Government agencies that miners have bank accounts, as this will aid in increasing the transparency as well as security in the sector.”

“Miners have already adopted modern platforms to communicate and manage their operations; they are the owners of smartphones, and most have access to the internet throughout the interior. Radio sets and similar devices are tools of the past. The industry needs to transition from a “keep your money under your mattress” mentality to utilising these same modern communication tools to securely view their bank accounts and make electronic transfers instead of cash payments to settle their bills, both in the rural and urban areas.”

Necessary steps

The GGDMA went on to encourage the adoption of

these types of financial tools and services for greater security in the sector, which will also result in ease of conducting business since, for many transactions, miners would not even need to leave their camps.

The Association also reminded miners that the archaic practice of “paying in gold” for goods or services, commonly referred to as the “blai box”, must end.

“Gold is the property of the state and must enter the formal system through licensed channels with a verifiable paper trail. Enforcing the requirement for gold buyers to be licensed is not an attempt to wipe out small miners; it is a necessary step to stop the smuggling of gold. Unregulated itinerant trading posts, or “landings”, set up at will often feed directly into smuggling rings. Any entity wishing to trade gold has a clear path to get licensed,” the GGDMA asserted.

It went to encourage all miners to adopt these positive changes, as it reiterated support for the full restoration of the sector, where legitimate miners can operate comfortably, free from the stigma caused by those who refuse to follow the law.

Time to…

Mash!

Well…that time of the year is coming up fast and furious on February 23rd – the time for all of us to Mash. There they were – the Ministry of Home Affairs that’s supposed to “serve and protect” the nation launching their Mash band last night at the Mashramani 2026 Launch at the Railway Courtyard. Some folks still think that the point about February 23 is that it’s the day we became a Republic – free from having the Queen of Britain having a President to represent her as Head of State!

But from what your Eyewitness can see, the point we became a republic was to have a good old jump-up sport that we decided to call “Mashramani”!! Where we all Mash… Get it? Why else would we consign mention of becoming a republic to a midnight ceremony that hardly anyone attends? And Mash attracts thousands and thousands in GT and other locals across the country.

The story we’re told is the good folks of Linden –not incidentally coinciding with Burnham’s first name – decided on the jump up. They then pulled the name “Mashramani” out of thin air and claimed it meant “Celebration after a hard day’s work”!! It was just a cover for the jump up – since there was no noticeable hard work done before February 23!! It set a pattern, however, for us to equate nation-building with having a good time!!

What was interesting was if they were serious about the Amerindian origin, why wasn’t the “celebration” conducted the way they would’ve done it?? Like imbibing some locally brewed paiwari and knocking back some cassava bread with pepper-pot!! Then collapsing into hammocks to sleep off the fun!!

In your Eyewitness estimate, what we should be emphasising is exactly what was claimed to have preceded the sport – hard work! He ain’t aware of how we’ll ever gonna become developed – at the level of people, which development is all about! – if we don’t accept that ultimately we gotta lift ourselves up by our own efforts!! Do we really think that because we got this oil windfall we don’t have to work anymore – just sport?? C’mon… Please!! It’s the jump-up mentality that has Black Pudding Man’s party insisting that every year every citizen should have $1 MILLION plunked into their hands!!

Preferably just before Mash so we could jump up!!

…get on with Int’l treaties

Your Eyewitness wants to know if our Mashramani Republic puts the interest of the one over the interest of the all. International treaties or agreements signed by a country are done so on behalf of everybody in the country. So it’s all our reputation on the line.

So we arrive at this ridiculous state where some of our good citizens are actually questioning the motives of officials of the state when all they’re doing is trying to fulfil one of our Republic’s international agreements! Your Eyewitness of course, is referring to Sanction Man and his political vehicle WIN’s frantic efforts to stymie the operation of the Extradition Treaty that we have with the USA!!

C’mon now… Do we really think Sanction Man and his Daady are being railroaded…? that the entire US Justice System will be subverted for this minnow!!

…get Parliament going?

There’s no question that the convening of this 13th Parliament is a bit tardy. But does anyone believe it’s all due to preventing Sanction Man from becoming the LOO?

That doesn’t save him.

Wealth in Guyana Health Ministry launches...

Today there is much discussion about wealth and its acquisition.

Growing up in a Hindu home, there was never any doubt about one’s attitude to acquiring wealth. It was right up there as one of the four fundamental “drives” of life –sensuous desires (kaam) and material wealth and social status (artha), which were, however, to be pursued within a righteous life (dharma) and, if successful, would lead to liberation from this cycle of birth and death (moksha).

Apart from the Pandit expounding this lesson in various lectures in the Mandir or in any one of the several religious functions that dot the Hindu calendar, it was driven home every day right in the home. The wealth was to be acquired through hard work, and nothing was to deter one from this pursuit.

Raised by my maternal grandfather (Nana), I grew up with the story of his father severely injuring a finger while clearing a rice “bed” (field) which adjoined the railway line. The old man calmly walked up to the metal rail, placed his injured finger on it, lopped off the hanging extremity, bandaged the stub and went back to work.

My grandfather was born in 1896 and was over sixty when I went to live with him at the age of six. He was at the tail end of his job on the sugar plantation, working as a shovel man. He was proud of his “false” name, “Steelrod”, earned from his reputation of never backing down in the cane fields even though he was not the biggest man around. He was proud too of being a Kurmi, an agricultural caste. I never knew him not to be at work – either in his home garden or on the land his father had acquired in lieu of his return trip to India. Even though in middle age he had acquired a “timber grant” and operated a “saw pit”, he returned to farming. He built his “high house” in the 1930s, long before Bookers established their housing schemes, and much of the lumber came from his saw pit.

I am amused at the hullabaloo being made nowadays about “child labour”. The philosophy I imbibed was that when it came to the family earning its way to whatever lifestyle it aspired to, it was a matter of every man-jack putting their shoulders to the wheel. And “man jack” included women and children. I too was driven to work. In whatever field one found oneself.

My grandfather and his peers might have been forced to work on the plantation and sell their labour, but their dream was always to work for themselves. When the Indians made their move from the cane and rice fields to the professions and business, most assumed it was to acquire status in the wider society. But it had as much to do with being independent.

I’ve also heard a lot about the “risks” one undertakes to establish a business. Perhaps naïvely, it was felt that hard work would overcome any barrier to success in any endeavour. But it worked. All the businesses in my village (mostly retail outlets of one sort or another) had been established by individuals who had no prior experience or caste history. When I was in New York (from 1972) and observed the IndoGuyanese community establish itself in Richmond Hill by the late ‘70s (an aunt of mine was one of the early ones to move there in 1977), again most of the new business owners had no prior experience. Just the desire to earn an independent living through hard work – and of course to acquire wealth and status.

But the end of earning wealth and status was only one side of the coin of “artha”. The other side was how to use them: one, first of all, had the responsibility to improve the lot of one’s family and then that of the wider society, in everwidening circles. The ideal was that the best son was given to “dharma” to serve and work for its spread.

Today, as our country continues on its growth trajectory fuelled by oil revenues, there is an even greater need for us to take our societal responsibilities and duties seriously.

He highlighted the Government’s commitment to digitalisation as a key driver of productivity and innovation across the country, noting too that when countries embrace technology, innovation, and digital solutions, they are able to achieve significant advancements.

Upcoming launch of mobile app

Looking ahead, Dr Anthony said a mobile application will soon be launched, allowing patients to access their medical records directly on their smartphones. He added that the system will also benefit patients who seek care in both public and private health facilities.

“Sometimes patients move from the public to the private sector and don’t have their records,” he said. “With this system, you can access your information and take it with you, ensuring continuity of care.”

The EHR system, or eHEALTH, now rolled out and piloted at the polyclinic, will be rolled out later at the Georgetown Public Hospital

Corporation (GPHC) and eventually at all public health institutions. In the long term, the system will be integrated with the private sector, Dr Anthony said.

To guarantee privacy, a $20 million fine will be imposed on anyone who shares patient information without the patient’s knowledge. Institutions that breach confidentiality will face a fine of $100 million.

“We’ll work with the private sector to integrate this system so that, as a country, everybody’s record would be available. While technology allows greater access, there are also challenges. We like to keep our medical information private. One of the provisions in the law is that if anyone takes your information and shares it without your permission, they will be liable to a fine of 20 million Guyana

dollars. And if an institution breaches confidentiality, the fine will be 100 million dollars. We are taking this issue of confidentiality very seriously – it is in the laws of Guyana to protect your data,” he said. The initiative represents the 1st phase of implementation under the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) Healthcare Network Strengthening Programme, the Health Ministry noted.

Finance Minister engages private sector as Govt intensifies preparations for Budget 2026

Ahead of the presentation of Budget 2026 in the coming weeks, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is intensifying preparations to finalise its fiscal plan for this year. Consequently, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, on Saturday met with leading representatives of the local private sector. Held at the Ministry of Finance’s boardroom, the engagement allowed representatives of the business community to

raise and discuss issues of interest. Attending the engagement were senior representatives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry Guyana, Tourism and

Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Ltd., Guyana Association of Bankers (GAB), and Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA).

Also joining the engagement was the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey Statia, and a team of senior officials from the Finance

Ministry. During his remarks, Minister Singh used the opportunity to reiterate the Government’s appreciation of the strong collaboration and the ongoing engagement with the private sector throughout the years. He also reassured the representatives of the sector that the PPP/C Government is committed to maintaining an environment that is conducive to increased private investment, job creation and in-

come generation. Minister Singh further elaborated: “…we want more people working, earning, accumulating savings and wealth, investing and prospering.” In fact, he expressed that the Government, under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, remains committed to doing all that is necessary to ensure that Guyana remains an attractive destination for diversified private investment.

Govt’s US$200M Development Bank will not crowd out commercial banks – Pres Ali

As the Government forges ahead with the rollout of the US$200 million Guyana Development Bank this year to assist small and micro enterprises, President Dr Irfaan Ali has assured commercial banks that this initiative will not serve as a competition for them but rather create new opportunities.

The Head of State made these remarks on Friday evening at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry’s (GBTI) launch of its private banking service.

“[We] will establish a Development Bank aimed at providing interest-free loans to small and micro enterprises. But I want to say that this in no way will be crowding out the commercial banking sector. For a matter of fact, we are hoping that this will catalyse a segment of the market and allow that segment to leverage what they get from the Development Bank to unlock more resources from the commercial banks that will benefit from similar incentives, like the low-in-

come loans, so that opportunities will be multiplied as a result of what we are doing,” the Guyanese leader explained. Already, through the intervention of Government, commercial banks have been offering subsidised interest rates as low as 3.5 per cent.

The development bank, a key commitment in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration’s 2025 Manifesto, aims to create financial opportunities for Small and MediumSized Enterprises (SMEs) so they can benefit from long-lasting prosperity in Guyana’s development trajectory. It forms part of the Administration’s broader vision to empower local entrepreneurs, stimulate innovation, and dismantle long-standing barriers to financing.

Just last month, President Ali announced that the development bank is slated to be operational before the end of the first quarter of this year with some US$200 million available to support SMEs.

Unlocking financing

During an Address to the Nation on December 17, 2025, the Head of State disclosed that small business owners will have access to up to $3 million with no collateral at zero interest. Additionally, through the co-financing mechanism, businesses will have access to an additional $7 million at preferential interest rates – unlocking financing of up to $10 million.

“In the past, thousands of young Guyanese would have been denied access to financing for lack of collateral or a business plan. You no longer have to worry about that,” the Head of State had noted during last month’s address as he outlined the Government’s policy agenda for economic and social development over the next five years.

Youth, women and persons living with disabilities (PWDs) will be prioritised for financial support from the development bank. Moreover, the Government will also appoint a technical team to assist aspiring entrepreneurs in developing sustainable and comprehensive business plans. This will be complemented with mentorship programmes and financial literacy initiatives to help Guyanese save for future investments.

Meanwhile, just last weekend, President Ali disclosed that his Administration has already initiated discussions with several major companies, including Banks DIH Limited, to forge new avenues for SMEs through the soon-to-be-launched development bank.

Police rank injured at Port Kaituma while making arrest

APolice Constable attached to the Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini) Police Station was injured on Friday while attending to a report at the Port Kaituma Waterfront, Northwest District.

The incident occurred at about 12:50h while Police ranks were at the location conducting enquiries into a separate matter.

According to preliminary investigations, a 25-year-old male gold miner of Port Kaituma became disorderly during the en -

gagement. He was warned on several occasions by Police ranks to keep the peace but reportedly continued behaving in a disorderly manner.

While ranks attempted to arrest the suspect, the Police Constable was assaulted and sustained injuries to the mouth.

The suspect was subsequently restrained, arrested, and escorted to the Port Kaituma Police Station, where he remains in custody, assisting with the investigation.

The injured Constable was examined and treat -

Speaking at the commissioning of the Banks DIH $13.7 billion Malts Bottling Plant last Sunday, the Guyanese leader explained that joint efforts between larger companies and the development bank can build an integrated value chain across the economy.

“Their procurement power and market access can put smaller businesses into formal manufacturing networks, spreading industrial capability beyond a few large firms and creating broader-based employment and entrepreneurship,” he stated.

The President added that well-established enterprises can also provide mentorship, training and knowledge transfer to the

smaller entrepreneurs to help them become successful. He said, “Legacy companies can also act as anchors within Guyana’s manufacturing ecosystem by partnering with smaller local suppliers, contracting local service providers, and mentoring emerging firms.”

More robust financial system

With these initiatives part of the Government’s plan to create a more inclusive and robust financial system, President Ali used the opportunity on Friday evening to assure commercial banks that the enabling environment and infrastructure needed to support this will be created.

In the same breath,

however, the Head of State emphasised that the commercial banks need to play their part in supporting the development and modernisation of the local financial system.

In fact, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GBTI, Shawn Gurcharran, pointed out that Friday evening’s launch of the private banking service is a demonstration of the institution meeting the needs of a growing and more sophisticated economy.

Private banking is a personalised, exclusive offering that provides highend financial services like wealth management, investment advice, and lending to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) through a dedicated relationship manager.

“At GBTI, innovation has never been about novelty; it has always been about foresight. From introducing the country’s first ATMs in 1994 to establishing our SME and micro-lending division –GROW – in 2024 and pioneering invoice financing in 2025, we have consistently led by anticipating what our clients and our economy would need next. We continue to invest in technology to enhance our offerings and the client experience across our branches and the regions of Guyana,” the CEO stated.

ed at the Port Kaituma Hospital and was subsequently discharged.

In a statement, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) reminded members of the public that any form of assault on Police ranks in the lawful execution of their duties is a serious criminal offence and will be dealt with decisively.

The GPF further stated that it will continue to take all necessary action to ensure the safety of its ranks while maintaining law and order.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

EPA Annual Report Submission Aligns with Compliance Requirements

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) wishes to advise developers and stakeholders that March 31, 2026, is the deadline for submitting annual environmental reports, a critical requirement for those dedicated to sustainable and responsible development

What is an Annual Environmental Report?

An environmental report is a clear, structured document that assesses both the potential and actual effects a business or project may have on the environment It provides key information on resource use, land modification, waste generation, and other activities that were undertaken by the developer during the year The environmental report also outlines the strategies that were implemented to reduce harm to the environment, meet legal requirements, and improve environmental performance

Why should developers complete and submit their annual environmental reports?

Developers should submit their annual environmental reports to show that they are following environmental laws, regulations, and permit conditions administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) In completing these reports, the developer is able to prevent legal penalties, fines, or project delays that can result from non-compliance

Additionally, environmental reporting provides transparency, allowing the public and regulatory bodies to see how developmental activities affect air, water, land, and wildlife Ignoring environmental impacts can lead to longterm destruction of ecosystems and serious health risks for people For this reason, taking proactive steps to comply with environmental standards is important, not only to protect natural systems and public health, but also to strengthen the developer’s position in a marketplace where environmental responsibility and stewardship are increasingly valued

Furthermore, since these reports offer a detailed summary of a project’s environmental impacts, it therefore allows the EPA to effectively monitor, evaluate, and support the operations of the business or project To assist developers in fulfilling this obligation, there are two clearly defined options for preparing and submitting their annual reports to the Agency, each structured to ensure a thorough presentation of the environmental performance of their operations

Under the first option, developers describe key aspects of their operations, including daily activities and any changes made during the reporting period; how waste and hazardous materials were managed, treated, and disposed of with measures taken to reduce environmental impact; and how they monitored and maintained compliance with applicable environmental standards Under the second option, developers focus specifically on how they fulfilled each of the permit conditions set out in their Final Environmental/ Operation Permit, documenting how every condition was met over the year Both approaches ensure that the Agency receives a complete and accurate account of the project’s environmental impacts and compliance efforts

Submit Your Annual Report Using These Two Approaches:

1 Online Submission:

- Visit the official EPA-GUYANA website

- Navigate to the ‹Annual Report› section

- Submit the report to the EPA’s email address: epa@ epaguyana org

- Receive confirmation of successful submission

2 Physical Submission:

- Visit the official EPA-GUYANA website

- Navigate to the ‹Annual Report› section

- Download the Annual Report form

- Complete the form with accurate and detailed information

- Submit the physical copy to the EPA office by the specified deadline

The EPA is urging all developers to submit their annual reports by March 31, 2026, to demonstrate compliance with their environmental permit conditions According to the Environmental Protection Act, Cap 20:05, “Any person who holds an environmental authorisation and fails to comply shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable to a fine of not less than ($30,000) thirty thousand nor more than ($80,000) eighty thousand dollars

The Environmental Protection Agency offers compliance assistance to developers throughout this process By working together and meeting these reporting requirements, we can promote responsible development that protects our environment for generations to come

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana ready for big leagues in tourism – Pres Ali declares

– as US$18M Plaza Court Hotel opens on Main Street

With the number of hotel rooms rapidly growing, coupled with heavy investments to enhance experience and infrastructure across the country, President Dr Irfaan Ali says Guyana is positioning itself to be a major player in the regional tourism market.

The Head of State made this remark on Saturday while delivering the feature address at the commissioning of the US$18 million Plaza Court Hotel on Main Street, Georgetown.

“Today, as we open the Plaza Court Hotel on Main Street, we’re making a statement – a statement that says, ‘Guyana is ready, ready for the big league in tourism. We are going to play in the league. We are not spectators anymore. We’re coming for the market. We’re com-

posited.

Already, the fruits of these investments are showing. President Ali disclosed that he had discussions earlier on Saturday with at least nine different groups that are coming to Guyana to host conferences this year.

tor.

According to the President, there is more to be done. “Over the past five years, Guyana has experienced a remarkable transformation in its accommodation landscape… But the next phase is to match the

ing hard, and we’re coming to be successful.’”

“We have a vision, which we are converting to a mission. It is to establish Guyana as a premier sustainable tourism destination in the Caribbean and South America, where unparalleled natural wonders, culture and world-class hospitality converge to create transformative experiences for visitors and shared prosperity for all Guyanese,” President Ali noted.

According to the Guyanese leader, Guyana has been described, for decades, as a country with great potential – potential for ecotourism, cultural tourism, adventure tourism and so on. Today, he stressed, the country is realising this potential in its quest to emerge as one of the premier tourism destinations in the Caribbean over the next five years.

“To turn [potential] into reality, you must build a platform, and we recognise that the foundation of any serious tourism industry is infrastructure. Tourism does not happen in brochures. It happens on runways. It happens in ports. It happens in hotels. It happens in communities that are accessible, prepared and proud. That is why Guyana has been investing decisively in this physical and social infrastructure,” the President

He said, “…a common theme in all of those groups was ‘we are now looking at Guyana because you now have the infrastructure, you now have the rooms, and you now have the capability.’ All morning, I spent with these groups ensuring that we are supporting what they’re doing and we are going big. As I said, I don’t want to jump the gun, but hopefully we

eco-lodges and match investment in a nature-based product or eco-based product with the same intensity for the development of hotels. And we’re going to match it. We don’t have a choice. The only choice before us is success,” the President stated.

Plaza Court Hotel

The newly opened US$18 million Plaza Court Hotel,

can get something huge that we’re going for – huge, and if we get that, we have to accelerate 100 times faster in the next four years.”

The Head of State pointed out that these conferences are coming because Guyana has positioned itself in the market by creating a space it never had. This, he outlined, is as a result of the investments made by the private sector and their confidence in his Government’s vision of creating a thriving tourism and hospitality sec-

which was constructed by Dayuan Construction Group, is a 60-room modern state-of-the-art facility with a large Presidential suite. It features a spacious lounge, a fully stocked indoor bar, a restaurant, a meeting room, a private dining room, a modern gym, and a rooftop bar that offers a stunning view of the Demerara River flowing into the Atlantic Ocean.

Chairman of the Plaza Court Hotel, Ravin Prashad, said this project was born

out of vision, commitment, and an unwavering belief in Guyana’s future.

“We reflected deeply on the consistent message shared by His Excellency, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, regarding the growing demand for quality hotel accommodation in Guyana, particularly during major events such as CPL (Caribbean Premier League), the Global Super League, the Guyana Energy Conference, CARICOM Conferences and visiting

ficult it was to secure accommodation. Today, he said, the landscape has changed dramatically.

“Wherever you turn, you see hotels rising; clear evidence of Guyana’s rapid growth, opportunity, and confidence in the future… When we look across the Caribbean, roughly 95 per cent of the region’s hotels are owned by foreigners. What is particularly encouraging about Guyana is that our hotels are 90 per cent owned and developed

international delegations, among others. The demand is real, the need is pressing, and we felt strongly that we could contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s hospitality landscape,” he stated.

His father, Manniram Prashad – formerly Tourism Minister of Guyana – recalled back in 2007, when Guyana first hosted the Cricket World Cup, how dif-

by Guyanese. This not only promotes local tourism but also strengthens local content, local investment, and national pride,” Prashad declared.

Meanwhile, also speaking at the hotel opening was Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues, who said the Plaza Court Hotel is opening at a critical point in

Guyana’s tourism and economic trajectory.

“Tourism today is no longer a supporting industry. It is a strategic sector that contributes to employment, private investment, foreign exchange earnings and the international positioning of Guyana as a destination for business, leisure and sustainable development,” she noted.

Pointing to the 22 per cent increase in visitors to Guyana recorded in 2025, Rodrigues said this sends a clear signal of market performance and regional competitiveness. According to the Tourism Minister, the Plaza Court Hotel will strengthen Guyana’s room stock, easing pressure on existing facilities, and raising the overall standard of accommodation available in the capital. This, she added, will further improve the local capacity to secure repeat visitors, support major events and attract both business and regional travellers.

Guyana has developed nine major hotels over the last five years, adding more than 1000 rooms to the national inventory. Locally branded hotels, along with international players such as Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, AC Marriott, Aiden by Best Western and soon, Four Points by Sheraton, will all be complemented by several additional major brands that are projected to deliver more than 1300 new rooms in the coming years.

“I couldn’t believe I was in Guyana” – migrant returns home to a country transformed

By Andrew CArmiChAel

Vonda Liverpool did not expect to feel disoriented when she returned home. She expected familiarity. Comfort. Recognition. Instead, standing outside of the Cheddi Jagan Airport after almost eight years away, she felt something closer to disbelief.

“I couldn’t believe I was in Guyana,” she said.

Not because she doubted where she was, but because she no longer recognised what she saw. The skyline felt taller. The roads wider. The bridges bolder. Villages [Leitchfield, West Coast Berbice (WCB)] she once knew as modest and quiet now displayed rows of large houses, bright colours, and confident architecture. Georgetown, once predictable in her memory, now felt like a city rewriting itself.

Liverpool left Guyana for the first time in 1994. Since then, she has travelled back and forth, but rarely and briefly. This visit, however, forced comparisons between what she remembers and what now stands before her.

She has not yet crossed the Bharrat Jagdeo Bridge, but she has already planned the moment carefully. Not in daylight – at night.

“I want to see it with the lights,” she said.

For her, the transformation is not just physical. It is emotional.

Memories

She grew up without running water in her yard. She remembers bathing with trench water after letting it settle in the sun. She remembers praying for rainwater to wash clothes. She remembers pushing heavy drums on go-karts for miles, hoping not to lose everything to a pothole before reaching home.

Those memories are not stories for sympathy. They are the foundation of her perspective.

“When I turn on a tap now, I know what it means,” she said.

One of her clearest memories is from her second pregnancy. She broke a pipe in her village to fetch water, running back and forth through crowds to fill two barrels. That same night, she went into labour.

“I always say my son was born because I exercised myself fetching water,” she said.

Today, she walks into homes and sees water everywhere: kitchens, bathrooms, yards... and she sees not luxury, but relief.

Her return has also been filled with humour. When her sister suggested she rent a car, she laughed.

“I don’t know these roads,” she said. “Everything changed.” The bridges. The

flyovers. The cut-throughs. The unfamiliar routes... It’s beautiful. It’s really beautiful,” she declared.

Crossing the Berbice Bridge brought another moment of pause.

“I never knew the river was so wide,” she said. “I only knew it from the boat.”

Standing at Fort Wellington, WCB, looking across at the Ministry of Housing buildings she never imagined existing, she felt decades collapse into seconds.

“We never had these things,” she said.

“Come home and see for yourself”

Liverpool does not claim Guyana is perfect. She does

not deny flaws. But she insists that progress must be acknowledged honestly.

“A dressmaker can make a small mistake and go back and fix it. That doesn’t mean the dress is useless,” she said.

Her message to Guyanese overseas is simple. “Come home and see for yourself.”

She remembers how Guyanese were once treated in other Caribbean countries, questioned harshly, seated on benches, and returned on flights.

“We were just looking for a better life. Now people want to come to Guyana,” she said. That reversal matters, and Liverpool has noticed it at immigration encounters, customer service locally, and the attitudes of those in the public sector.

At the Guyana Revenue Authority, she was struck by politeness, patience, and professionalism.

“It felt different,” she said.

At Georgetown Hospital, she observed emergency care that, while not perfect, exceeded what she had experienced in Trinidad, the country where she now lives.

“We need to appreciate what we have,” she said.

On the roads, she saw Volvos, Audis, and young women driving confidently.

“If I was here, I would have done well,” she said,

not with regret, but with recognition.

Yet, beneath every observation, one feeling remained constant. “I am proud to be home,” she added. “I am proud to call myself Guyanese.” Liverpool, 56, grew up in Litchfield. No matter where life carried her, she never replaced that identity.

Her pride is not loud, but grounded. “I get overwhelmed… Because I’m happy,” she said.

She speaks of farmers, fisherfolk, rural people, and development reaching ordinary lives, not just headlines.

She believes more is coming; not because she was told, but because she sees momentum. When Liverpool tells her story, she is not praising a government. She is acknowledging a journey – from trenches to taps, from go-karts to flyovers, from leaving quietly to returning proudly.

Guyana, for her, is no longer the place people escape from. It is the place they come back to.

And when she finally crosses the Bharrat Jagdeo Bridge, which she is hoping to do tonight, under lights she once could not imagine, she will not only be crossing water, she will be crossing memory into reality.

GPF undertakes clean-up drives in multiple regions

Top Cop Clifton Hicken was at the Bandstand to Marriott Beachfront stretch to lead the clean-up exercise on Saturday

Cleanliness took several communities by storm on Saturday as the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Men on Mission (MoM) conducted its campaign across multiple regional divisions nationwide.

In Regional Division Three, the clean-up exercise was carried out under the leadership of Regional Commander, Assistant Commissioner M Siwnarine.

Police ranks worked collaboratively to improve sanitation and environmental conditions across several neighbourhoods. The initiative focused on clearing litter and debris, improving drainage areas and promoting proper waste disposal practices. The exercise is expected to positively impact the communities served by reducing pollution, limiting rodent infestation,

discouraging future littering, and increasing environmental awareness among residents. Assistant Commissioner Siwnarine emphasised that maintaining a clean and healthy environment is a shared responsibility and encouraged continued community support for such initiatives. He noted that environmental cleanliness contributes directly to public health, safety and overall community well-being. Meanwhile, also on Saturday, between 05:45h and 08:00h, ranks of Regional Division Nine, led by Divisional Commander Superintendent Ally and Deputy Commander Deputy Superintendent Harris, conducted a large-scale community clean-up exercise

across the Division in collaboration with key community stakeholders. The initiative formed part of the National Clean-Up Exercise and aimed to promote environmental cleanliness, enhance public health, foster community pride and create a safer and healthier living environment for residents.

Police ranks from Lethem, Annai, Aishalton, and Karasabai Police Stations, along with those attached to the Corkwood, Kurupukari, and Bush Mouth Police Checkpoints, as well as other departmental units, actively participated. Community members and local stake-

holders also supported the initiative, demonstrating strong cooperation between the Police and the public. The operation focused on garbage removal, clearing and desilting drains, disposal of derelict materials, and general sanitation activities in public spaces, Government buildings, Police facilities and surrounding residential areas. Proper waste collection and disposal procedures were observed, resulting in noticeable improvements in cleanliness, sanitation and overall appearance.

Hoff Van Aurich infrastructure works showing rapid progress

– as housing Ministers inspect Essequibo Coast development project

Infrastructure works at the Hoff Van Aurich New Housing Development are advancing at a rapid pace, marking a major step forward in the Government’s drive to expand affordable housing options in Region Two. On Friday, Minister of Housing Collin Croal led a high-level inspection of the sprawling development, accompanied by Minister within the Ministry Hon Vanessa Benn. The team also included Permanent Secretary Bishram Kuppen, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Dr Martin Pertab and Regional Chairman Devin Mohan. The visit formed part of the Government’s ongoing monitoring of large-scale housing projects to ensure the timely delivery of critical infrastructure before landowners commence construction. Spanning approximately 102 acres, the Hoff Van Aurich scheme is currently a hive of activity, with multiple contractors working simultaneously across six separate lots. Heavy-duty infrastructure works are underway, focusing on drainage, road access and land preparation to support the development of a modern residential community.

Key components of the project include the construction of a strategic concrete access bridge, designed to ensure seamless connectivity to the housing area, along with the development of approximately 9.7 kilometres of internal

roadways across five distinct sections. The roads are being built with a loam surface to provide a stable and durable base for future upgrading. In addition, extensive reinforced concrete drainage systems and comprehensive pipework installations are being executed to ensure effective water manage-

ment and utility access throughout the scheme, a critical requirement given the coastal location.

Officials were briefed on the pace and quality of the works, with Minister Croal reiterating the Government’s policy of ensuring that housing areas are properly serviced before beneficiaries

Triumph shooting probe

are allowed to build. The Hoff Van Aurich development is expected to deliver more than 400 residential lots, directly addressing the growing demand for housing on the Essequibo Coast. Land allocation is already underway, following the Ministry’s flagship “Dream Realised” housing drive held in July 2025, during which 250 families were allocated house lots at the location. Authorities have emphasised that the remaining allocations will continue in a structured manner as infrastructure works near completion. The latest inspection underscores the Government’s broader national housing agenda, which prioritises not only land distribution but also the delivery of reliable infrastructure, roads, drainage and water access – to ensure sustainable and orderly community development across Guyana’s regions. Once completed, the Hoff Van Aurich housing scheme is expected to significantly transform residential access in Region Two, providing hundreds of families with the foundation to build safe, secure homes within a fully serviced community.

Wanted Annandale teen found hiding in ceiling

Awanted 19-year-old welder of Annandale New Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was arrested Friday after Police found him hiding in the ceiling of a residence in the community.

The teen was wanted in connection with an alleged attempted murder and robbery under arms incident at Triumph. The wanted bulletin had been issued for his arrest earlier in the day.

The suspect, Kobie Isiah Benjamin, was arrested after Police acted on information and went to a residence

at Annandale, ECD. Benjamin is wanted in relation to an incident that occurred on Monday, January 12, at Triumph, ECD, during which Shaheen Amanat, also known as “Ryan”, sustained a gunshot wound to the head. Amanat, a 31-year-old taxi driver, remains hospitalised in critical condition.

It was reported that the shooting occurred at about 23:45h in the vicinity of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office at Triumph, while Amanat was driving a motor car. He was reportedly accompa-

nied by another male who has since become a suspect in the case.

According to initial Police reports, the vehicle was allegedly being pursued by several motorcyclists when a loud sound was heard and the rightside glass of the car shattered. Amanat reportedly lost consciousness moments later, causing the vehicle to veer off the roadway and collide with a metal railing. He was rushed to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where doctors confirmed he sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

Investigators have since obtained CCTV footage of the incident and are examining contradictions between the footage and initial accounts provided. As a result, the man who was in the vehicle with Amanat has been detained as the investigation intensifies. He is reportedly a licensed firearm holder.

Information gathered during the probe suggests that Amanat and the suspect were imbibing earlier in the night and later travelled along ECD, where they encountered a group of men on motorcycles. An ex-

change reportedly occurred, followed by a confrontation at a bar. After leaving the location, the motorcyclists reportedly followed the vehicle. While near Triumph, the situation escalated, and investigators suspect that shots were discharged, during which Amanat was struck.

Benjamin remains in Police custody, assisting with the investigation. Prior to his arrest, another suspect was taken into custody. Investigations are ongoing.

Mabura Health Centre commissions $84M staff quarters

The Mabura Health Centre and staff quarters in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) were officially commissioned on Friday in yet another significant step in the Government’s ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen healthcare services in hinterland and riverine communities.

The Mabura Health Centre, constructed at a cost of $54 million, is fully staffed and equipped with the necessary amenities to deliver essential healthcare services to residents within the community and surrounding areas.

The facility is designed to improve access to primary healthcare, reduce travel time for patients, and ensure timely medical attention for families living in Mabura and nearby settlements.

In addition, staff quarters valued at $30 million were commissioned to provide safe and comfortable

accommodation for healthcare workers. This investment is expected to enhance staff retention, ensure the consistent presence of medical personnel, and support the delivery of continuous healthcare services, particu-

larly in this remote location.

During the ceremony, officials highlighted that the new health centre will offer a range of services, including outpatient care, maternal and child health services, basic emergency care, and

health education. The facility is also equipped to support preventive healthcare and early intervention, contributing to improved health outcomes within the community.

Health Minister Dr

Frank Anthony stated that the commissioning of the new health centre underscores the Government’s strong commitment to strengthening the healthcare system across all regions of the country. He explained that the facility plays a strategic role in saving lives, particularly in responding to accidents and medical emergencies that occur within the area.

“What we are trying to do is something extraordinary. We want to ensure that the same services available on the coastland are also accessible in the hinterland,” the Minister said.

Dr Anthony further emphasised that residents will now have access to basic laboratory services directly at the health centre, significantly improving the timeliness and quality of care. He also revealed that telemedicine services will soon be introduced at the facility, allowing patients to benefit from specialist consulta-

tions and advanced medical support without the need to travel long distances.

Additionally, the Minister noted that opportunities will be made available in the near future for persons interested in pursuing nursing and other healthcare training programmes, further strengthening human resource capacity within the region.

The commissioning of the Mabura Health Centre and Staff Quarters forms part of the Ministry of Health’s wider strategy to modernise healthcare infrastructure, improve working conditions for healthcare professionals, and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare for all Guyanese, regardless of geographic location.

This initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to building a resilient, people-centred healthcare system and improving the overall well-being of communities across Region Ten and beyond.

Finance Minister engages private sector...

Only recently, during an Address to the Nation on December 17, 2025, President Ali highlighted that “over the next five years, we’ll witness Guyana’s environment for doing business becoming one of the most attractive to the private sector, both domestic and foreign.” The President had also reiterated the Government’s commitment to continue to diversify the economy, modernise the infrastructure, expand business opportunities, create jobs, educate and train people, raise income and cut the cost of living. The Head of State, at the time, had outlined a five-year blue-

print aimed at fast-tracking Guyana’s transformation, promising people-centred development through cash grants, tax relief, salary increases and welfare support. The Guyanese leader explained that the aim is to build an even more resilient economy through further diversification of non-

oil economic activities while ensuring that citizens’ interests and well-being are protected. Just last week, the President, while speaking at the commissioning of the Banks DIH Limited $13.7 billion Malts Bottling Plant, revealed, “In the forthcoming budget, measures will be announced to support busi-

nesses so they are better positioned for this new era of industrial and business development. The manufacturing and industrial sectors will receive targeted support. But I will not steal the Minister of Finance’s thunder by making specific announcements. What I will say is this: the direction is clear. The opportunity is real. The time is now!”

During Saturday’s meeting, representatives from the private sector expressed appreciation for the Government’s continued engagement with the local business community and recognised the Government’s efforts to drive economic transformation and foster a more competitive business environment. The private sector representatives also reiterated their commitment to working with the

GPF undertakes clean-up drives...

Commander Ally emphasised that such initiatives strengthen trust and cooperation between law enforcement and citizens while encouraging residents to take shared responsibility for their surroundings.

He noted that clean environments contribute significantly to crime prevention, public safety and overall community well-being. Similarly, on Saturday between 06:00h and 08:00h, an environmental cleanup exercise was conducted in Regional Police Division Two under the leadership of Senior Superintendent

K Shivbaran, along with Deputy Commander Superintendent R Das and other senior and junior ranks. The exercise covered Police stations, outposts, divisional headquarters, and the Suddie Police Academy. Targeted areas included Charity and its surroundings, Lima Sands, the Anna Regina car park, Suddie Market, Onderneeming, and Aurora. The initiative was conducted to maintain a healthy environment and promote safe public spaces and forms part of an ongoing programme by the GPF and its regional divisions.

In Regional Division Seven, a clean-up exercise was conducted Saturday, between 06:00h and 08:00h within Bartica Township. The activity was led by Assistant Commissioner Dion Moore, Commander of the Division. Also participating were Superintendent Handy, Mayor of Bartica Anthony Murray, Regional Education Officer Mr Ward, a representative of the Prime Minister (PM), Erwin Warde, along with ranks from the Bartica Police Station and members of the Bartica Municipality. The exercise formed part of His

Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s MoM initiative, which emphasises regular clean-up activities aimed at beautifying communities and promoting environmental responsibility. Garbage was collected, bagged and transported to the designated dump site for proper disposal. Residents expressed appreciation for the initiative and committed to maintaining a clean and tidy community. Meanwhile, ranks of Regional Division 4 C, led by Assistant Commissioner K Pareshram, conducted a large-scale commu-

Government to continue developing the country’s economic potential.

This year’s budget will be the first budget presented to the Parliament following the PPP/C’s successful re-election to office led by President Ali and the launch of its 2025 manifesto. The party’s 2025 manifesto was crafted after extensive and inclusive consultation with the private sector, religious organisations, youth and women’s groups, and every Guyanese citizen at large. “Budget 2026 will be presented within a clear policy framework already laid out in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic 2025 manifesto, reflecting extensive public consultation and President Irfaan Ali’s vision for national transformation,” a statement from the Finance Ministry detailed.

FROM PAGE 19

nity clean-up exercise on Saturday between 06:00h and 08:00h in collaboration with key stakeholders. Police ranks from Cove and John, Sparendaam, Clonbrook, Vigilance, Annandale, Lusignan, Cane Grove, St Cuthbert’s Mission, Mahaica, NonPareil, Mon Repos, Betterverwagting, Good Hope, Martyr’s Ville and Enmore Police Stations, along with various departmental units, participated. The operation focused on garbage removal, drain clearing, and general sanitation activities in pub-

lic spaces and surrounding communities, resulting in a noticeable improvement in cleanliness and overall appearance. Assistant Commissioner Pareshram noted that such initiatives play a vital role in fostering trust between law enforcement and citizens while encouraging residents to take responsibility for their environment. He reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to supporting community-based initiatives that promote public safety, environmental responsibility and positive Policecommunity relations.

As Guyanese across the country gear up for the various parties, concerts and fetes that go with the annual Mashramani celebrations, Christian Guyanese looking for less secular, cleaner, family fun can be sure that they won’t be left out of something to do as the “Gospel Fest” gospel concert celebrates its tenth anniversary, hosting on Mash Night at the National Exhibition Centre un der the theme “Abnormal Praise: Keeping It Loud”.

And event organis er Pastor Kwame Wilson shared that patrons look ing for clean, fun, high-en ergy time can expect “some thing major” as they “get high but still leave sober”.

“We will be gather ing to lift up a loud praise to the Lord this year,” Wilson shared in a recent interview with the Times Entertainment.

“Mash is a time for cel ebration after hard work, and there are Christians and even non-Christians as well that sometimes want to go out, but there’s nothing clean or healthy for them to be a part of. Gospel Fest is that clean environ ment, that healthy envi ronment. We often say it’s where you get high but you still leave sober. You get high, you praise the Lord, and then you leave sober.”

This year the Gospel Fest line-up will be headed by the return of Jamaican dancehall and gospel artist DJ Nicholas. Well known for his energetic performances, DJ Nicholas is no stranger to the Guyanese stage and is known to deliver when he steps out.

With Nicholas, real name Nicholas Eccleston, not hav ing been to Guyana for quite some time, no doubt his Guyanese fan base is eager ly anticipating his return.

“He’s excited to be com

counted for is Trinidadian Sean Daniels of the “Who

Started the Waving Thing” fame. The concert will carry its usual line-up of local heavy hitters in the gospel music scene. As has become a custom, the local line-up will be led by arguably Guyana’s best-performing gospel artist, Samuel Medas.

agant praise and worship on Mashramani night. And with obedience from 2015 until now, we’ve been gathering, and we thank God for the persons that turn out. We started with about 2000 persons, and by last year our numbers increased to over 3000, and we are believing for 4000 persons to be at the location this year,” Wilson shared.

The event was initially held at the tarmac of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall but quickly outgrew that venue over the years before moving to its current home at the National Exhibition Site. Wilson shared that the new venue has also made it possible for the organisers to offer secure parking at

“We provide free safe parking. We have a security team that will be looking over the vehicles for everybody. And we don’t charge you for that; when you pay for your ticket, you get free parking,” Wilson explained.

Patrons who haven’t gotten their tickets as yet just missed out on the early bird tickets, which ended on January 15, but patrons can still pick up the regular tickets at $5000 a pop from several locations all across the country, including many Wilson is promising that it’ll be an exciting one and you won’t regret it.

“That’s one thing people are always excited about – the next experience at Gospel Fest – and this year something major is happening at Gospel Fest 2026, and we want to encourage everyone to come out and be part of it. You definitely won’t be among those who will look at the pictures afterwards and say, ‘I should’ve been there.’ We know that the presence of the Lord is going to be there, so come out,” Wilson encouraged.

Hurricane Melissa recovery

J’ca PM commends GDF ranks for dedication in reconstruction efforts

amaican Prime Minister

J(PM) Andrew Holness met recently with members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) who have been deployed in Jamaica to provide critical support to national recovery efforts in White House, Westmoreland.

The GDF’s presence was described as a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity and the enduring strength of Caribbean cooperation in times of need.

PM Holness expressed sincere appreciation to the officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force for their professionalism, dedication, and selfless service to the people of Jamaica, noting that their on-the-ground assistance continues to make a meaningful difference for families and communities as recovery and rebuilding efforts progress.

On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, and par-

Rose

ticularly the beneficiaries whose lives have been directly impacted, heartfelt thanks were extended to President Dr Irfaan Ali, as well as the Government and people of Guyana, for their timely and generous support.

“I must commend you and your team, and President Ali, for sending the equipment and materials, and for the dedication and effort you have put into assisting your Caribbean brothers and sisters. Your support has helped to improve response times on behalf of all beneficiaries. We are most grateful. Again, thank you,” the PM stated.

Guyana dispatched its second tranche of emergency relief supplies to Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in November 2025.

The shipment, coordinated by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), departed on Thursday

from the AFS Shipping Wharf at Friendship aboard the MV Falk. This support followed President Dr Irfaan Ali’s visit to Jamaica alongside other Heads of Government from the Caribbean

Community (CARICOM) in November 2025 and reflects strong collaboration between the government and the private sector.

The supplies include wood and zinc sheeting to rebuild 200 roofs, as well as mattresses, water tanks, and rice. Showcasing local manufacturing capacity, the mattresses and water tanks were produced locally by A&F Foam Factory and Lion Tank, respectively.

Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI), CDC Director General Colonel (Ret’d) Nazrul Hussain said the deployment reflects Guyana’s commitment to standing with its Caribbean neighbour in times of crisis.

Additional critical relief supplies, including tarpaulins, generators, and chainsaws – gathered by the Guyana Government in collaboration with local stakeholders –have arrived in Kingston and were

“A positive start for 2026”

officially handed over to Jamaican authorities to support ongoing recovery efforts.

Jamaica was struck by Category Five Hurricane Melissa in late October of last year, resulting in deaths and extensive damage to property and infrastructure, widespread disruption of essential services, and the displacement of communities across affected areas.

Guyana had earlier dispatched its first shipment of essential equipment and materials to assist with immediate recovery and humanitarian response efforts. Those items were mobilised by the Civil Defence Commission in collaboration with the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

White House is a settlement in Westmoreland Parish with approximately 4000 residents and is traditionally known for its fishing industry, which supplies fresh seafood to businesses across Jamaica.

Hall Police Station receives major equipment

– as community partnership strengthens policing

The Rose Hall Town Police Station has received a significant boost to its operational capacity following the official handing over of dozens of traffic and street signs, communication equipment, furniture and essential amenities by its Station Management Committee and private sector partners on Friday. Among the major items handed over were 47 traffic signs and 46 street signs, all of which have already been installed across the municipality, providing long-overdue direction for motorists and improving traffic management during peak periods, including the recent Christmas season.

The presentation took place at the Rose Hall Town Police Station Staff and Training Room and formed part of a broader initiative aimed at improving service delivery, public access and working

conditions at the station.

Head of the Station Management Committee

Alex Foster said the donations were the result of a structured needs assessment conducted with Police officers at the station during the committee’s first meeting in November. “What do you need to make your working conditions better so that residents who visit this facility can experience a service second to none?” Foster recalled asking the officers. He noted that the achievement was especially significant given that December and January are traditionally difficult months for mobilising resources. The traffic and street signage project, he explained, was driven by concerns raised by Police about the difficulty of managing diverted traffic during the festive season in the absence of proper signage. He said motorists entering Rose Hall

from other parts of Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and Brazil were often confused when diverted into back streets, sometimes entering one-way roads incorrectly or becoming trapped in narrow passages. To address this, the committee partnered with the Ministry of Public Works, which provided the traffic signs and solar street lights, while True Force Services Inc., through contractor Sulaiman Sakur, supplied the street signs manufactured to international standards. Foster commended Sakur and the ministry for exceeding expectations. “Some contractors would just slap on paint. He insisted they be done to international standards,” Foster said, adding that Rose Hall was now setting a benchmark for future projects. In addition to the signs, 10 solar street lights were installed along Cemetery Road

and surrounding areas, with a further 35 permanent solar lights distributed across the town. The lighting project has already improved safety in previously dark sections of the municipality.

Temporary traffic management works carried out for the Christmas season have since become permanent improvements. These include upgrading turning areas with crushed stone, raising and resurfacing bridges with asphalt to match road height, and eliminating water pooling and traffic bottlenecks. “These projects were temporary in intention, but they are now permanent benefits for the town,” Foster said. Inside the Police Station, officers also received 20 desks, 20 waiting chairs and 20 executive chairs from the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Kitchen facilities were improved with a six-burner gas stove and a mini refrigerator, allowing officers on extended duty to prepare meals on site. A water dispenser with a builtin mini fridge, donated by Sakur, was also handed over for public use, while another unit installed upstairs will serve training sessions, meetings and officers’ dormitories.

To improve public access to the station, Republic Bank Williamsburg donated a cellular phone that will serve as a direct contact line for the station. Foster said once the SIM card is installed and billing arrangements finalised, the number will be widely distributed to residents through printed cards and community outreach.

boost

“In the next two months, every home in this municipality should have the numbers to contact the Rose Hall Police Station,” he said. Foster stressed that the absence of reliable landline service had made it difficult for residents to reach Police quickly, often forcing them to contact private individuals for assistance instead. He also announced that construction has commenced on a children’s playfield and playground for the Police Day Care Centre and Rose Hall Nursery School, funded by a $5 million donation from the Central Chambers of Commerce. Walkways and washroom facilities are currently under construction, with play equipment to follow. Commander of Regional Police Division Six, Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus, in brief remarks, praised the Station Management Committee for fulfilling its mandate under Standing Order 105, which outlines its role in strengthening Police-community collaboration. “This is a positive start for 2026,” Bacchus said, noting that Police Stations across the division have management committees,

but not all have been able to activate them as effectively. “The Police cannot do the work alone. We need your assistance in sharing information and supporting professional service delivery,” he told stakeholders. Bacchus thanked Republic Bank, the contractors and the committee for their contributions, noting that the new signage significantly improved traffic control during the Christmas season. He said the Rose Hall initiative should serve as a model for other stations in the region. The handing-over ceremony concluded with an appeal from Foster for continued community involvement.

“We cannot always wait on one annual budget. If we work collaboratively, we can make Police Stations places of efficiency, professionalism and dignity,” he said. He urged businesses, organisations and individuals to contact the Rose Hall Town Clerk’s office, the Police Station, or the Station Management Committee to contribute to future projects. “This is how we protect and serve – together,” Foster said.

Educator Brian O’Toole leaves legacy in Guyana’s educational landscape – President Ali

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Saturday paid tribute to the late Dr Brian O’Toole, co-founder of the prestigious School of the Nations and director of Nations University, describing him as “an educator, builder and moral presence” whose life’s work has enriched Guyana not only in example but also in substance. In remarks posted on his official social media page and delivered during a reflection service held Friday evening at the School of the Nations campus on New

Market Street, President Ali lauded Dr O’Toole’s quiet dedication to education and service. “Dr O’Toole was a quiet man. He did not seek attention, nor did he cultivate public acclaim,” the President wrote, highlighting how through “steady effort and deliberate choices, he altered the educational landscape of Guyana in ways that are now impossible to ignore.” The President noted that while the institution mourns the loss of one of its founders, Dr O’Toole’s influence lives on. “The School of the Nations remains his

monument, quiet, functional, and enduring,” he said, adding that the standards he helped establish will continue through the school’s students and teachers.

Dr O’Toole, who passed away on January 10, 2026, at the age of 71, was a towering figure in Caribbean education and a much-loved member of the Guyanese community. Originally from the United Kingdom (UK), he had made Guyana his home since 1978 and became a citizen, contributing more than four decades of service to teaching and educational

development. Together with his wife, Pamela O’Toole, he opened the School of the Nations in June 1996, inspired by educational models he encountered during international consultancy work, including with UNICEF. What began as a modest private school has since grown into an institution offering preschool through sixth form education with internationally recognised Cambridge qualifications, as well as a tertiary arm known as Nations University.

Dr O’Toole’s contributions to education were formally recognised in 2018 when he was awarded both the Golden Arrow of Achievement by the

Government of Guyana and appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by the British Crown for his service to education in the Commonwealth.

Beyond his academic roles, Dr O’Toole was respected for his humanitarian efforts and commitment to inclusive education. The school he helped nurture became known for embracing students from diverse backgrounds and for its community outreach programmes that extended learning opportunities to underprivileged neighbourhoods.

On Saturday, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya

Persaud also paid her final respects at a solemn tribute held at the National Cultural Centre. The Minister was one of many who signed the official book of condolences and offered deep sympathies to Dr O’Toole’s wife, Pamela, and their family, honouring his lasting legacy as a distinguished educator. Dr O’Toole is survived by his wife, Pamela, his children and five grandchildren. His passing is widely mourned across Guyana’s educational and civic sectors, with many reflecting on a life dedicated to shaping future generations.

Dr O’Toole was laid to rest on Saturday.

Traffic officials look at road lawlessness link to improperly issued driver’s licences

Traffic officials are looking at a possible link between the widespread lawlessness on Guyana’s roadways and the improper acquisition of driver’s licences, warning that many dangerous driving practices point to motorists who may not have gone through the required testing process. The issue was raised during the televised road safety programme Road Safety and You by the Chairman of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), Earl Lambert. He raised concerns about drivers engaging in reckless behaviour that suggests a lack of formal training.

“We are witnessing a lot of lawless behaviour on the road,” the programme’s host said, adding, “You see the kind of lawlessness, and you wonder if those persons went through the driving test and if they did the right thing,” he said. Lambert recalled that late last year, His Excellency the President issued an ultimatum after authorities discovered that some individuals had obtained driver’s licences without following the proper procedures.

“They would have been told that they need to surrender those licences and go back over the process; make sure you do the right thing and you get your li-

cence,” Lambert recalled. Last month, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali issued a firm directive to address irregularities in Guyana’s driver licensing system after a comprehensive Government audit uncovered significant discrepancies in how licences were being issued.

Audit alarm

The announcement was made during the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Traditional Christmas Breakfast, where the President revealed that new technology-driven post-au-

dit procedures had exposed anomalies in the licensing process. The audit, conducted in collaboration with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Public Service and the Government Efficiency & Implementation Unit, used integrated digital systems to trace the entire licensing chain. Authorities were able to track who passed the theoretical examination, who was certified for the practical test and who was ultimately issued a licence. This revealed glaring mismatches, such as far more practi-

cal certificates and licences being issued than the number of theory exam passes, indicating licences were being obtained without completion of all required steps.

President Ali warned that individuals found to have obtained licences through irregular or improper means would be given six weeks to surrender those licences and re-enter the legal process, which requires passing both theory and practical examinations. After that deadline – set to expire around January 20, 2026 – the Government said it would publish the names

of those affected, suspend the licences and pursue legal action and prosecution against offenders.

The President also made it clear that the move was part of a wider effort to strengthen institutional integrity, accountability and transparency within Government systems. He emphasised that with modernised digital tracking, the authorities now have detailed records showing where irregularities occurred and are better equipped to correct them and deter future abuses in the licensing process.

Highlighting examples of unsafe practices, the Chairman of NRSC noted, “People are overtaking on these straight lines, solid lines… we call it undertaking. The traffic chief is speaking a lot on that, with the cameras picking up the defaulters.”

Procedures

Sergeant Patterson, the licensed and certified officer for Region 4A (Georgetown), explained during the programme that obtaining a driver’s licence is a structured process involving both theoretical and practical examinations. “You must undergo a theoretical phase and a practical phase in order to qualify for a driver’s licence,” he said. He

explained that applicants must first apply online for the theoretical examination, which is conducted at the Police Building at Eve Leary, and only after passing can they proceed to obtain a provisional licence and apply for the practical test. “There is a twostage process,” Sergeant Patterson said. “There is a stick test, and then there is a road test, and considering that you would have passed both phases, then we move ahead, and the certificate of competence would be issued.”

Meanwhile, Lambert stressed that motorists should avoid illegal shortcuts when acquiring their licences. “You don’t have to buy a licence; you don’t have to bribe anyone to get your licence,” he said. “It is better for you to go the right way and make sure you do the right thing. He further noted that compliance with licensing requirements could play a key role in reducing accidents, stating, “I think that we can slow down our accident rate on the road if we do the right thing.”

Police officials continue to urge motorists to ensure their licences were lawfully obtained, warning that indiscipline on the nation’s roads will remain under close scrutiny as enforcement measures intensify.

$120M digital X-ray machine commissioned at Region 10 hospital

The Upper Demerara Hospital in Region

Ten on Friday marked a major milestone in healthcare advancement with the commissioning of a stateof-the-art digital X-ray machine.

The advancement represents a total investment of $120 million and follows an extensive retrofitting exercise to accommodate the modern equipment.

The upgrade significantly strengthens diagnostic services within the region as the newly installed digital X-ray system replaces outdated analogue technology, delivering faster image processing, improved accuracy,

and enhanced diagnostic capabilities to better support patient care.

The retrofitting works, valued at approximately $72,217,844, ensured that the facility meets modern safety and operational standards required for the efficient use of advanced diagnostic equipment.

Addressing the commissioning ceremony, Health Minister Dr Anthony reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to upgrading healthcare infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to quality medical services nationwide. He explained that the transition to digital imaging will re-

duce waiting times, improve patient outcomes, and enable healthcare professionals to make more timely and accurate diagnoses.

“Today we are very pleased to commission this digital X-ray machine. All facilities in this region will now be equipped with digital X-ray systems, replacing the older analogue machines,” Dr Anthony stated.

Meanwhile, Regional Health Officer (RHO) Dr Gregory Harris noted that the new equipment will greatly benefit residents of Blueberry Hill, Wismar, and surrounding communities. He emphasised the Government of Guyana’s

ongoing commitment to enhancing the Upper Demerara Hospital to deliver quality, advanced healthcare services.

“We want our residents to have access to efficient healthcare services on a 24hour basis. Our duty is to serve the people of Region 10,” Dr Harris said.

The commissioning of the digital X-ray machine will reduce the need for patient referrals to other regions, easing travel burdens and improving access to critical diagnostic services.

This investment aligns with the Ministry of Health’s broader agenda to modernise healthcare facilities,

strengthen service delivery, and build a resilient, people-centred healthcare sys-

tem that meets the evolving needs of the population.

Suspect in murder of miner at Barakat Landing arrested

Police in Regional Division Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) have arrested the suspect in last weekend’s fatal stabbing incident at Barakat Landing, Cuyuni River.

Based on previous Police reports, on the evening of Sunday, January 11, 2026, a 38-year-old male gold miner (the suspect) got into a heated argument with two brothers.

During the incident, the suspect reportedly armed himself with a pair of scissors and dealt the two brothers several stabs about their bodies. As a result, Matthew

Ramlochan, a 27-yearold pork-knocker of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, was killed, while his brother, Tyrone Ramlochan, 39, also of Soesdyke-Linden, was injured.

The suspect had made good his escape after the incident.

The subsequent post-mortem examination on Matthew Ramlochan, performed by Government Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, stated the cause of death as perforation to the heart and lungs due to two incised wounds.

On Friday, January 16, 2026, at about 08:30h, acting on information received, Police ranks went to Barakat Backdam, where they contacted the 38-year-old suspect of Half Mile, Wismar, Linden. He was informed of the allegation, cautioned and subsequently arrested. Additionally, two Venezuelan nationals, both females, ages 37 and 27, respectively, who were present at the location, were also arrested.

All three individuals are currently in Police custody and are assisting with the ongoing investigation.

OECS discuss accepting unknown US deportees

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has agreed to establish a high-level negotiating team to engage the United States (US) on a recent request affecting several member states, as regional leaders met in St Lucia this week to address urgent geopolitical and regional issues. According to a news release, OECS leaders discussed the recent request from the US for some OECS member states to accept Third Country Nationals (TCNs) from the US. The leaders noted that some member states have already signed non-legally binding agreements with Washington to facilitate further talks.

The Donald Trump Administration has stepped up US immigration enforcement, which has seen them deporting individuals

who are neither US citizens nor nationals back to countries other than their own. In some cases, the US has sought agreements with partner countries to temporarily receive these deportees, even when they have no direct legal or residential ties to those states. Regional leaders have expressed concern about the social, economic and security implications of such

arrangements for small island states, particularly given pressures on public services, immigration systems and national security. In response, OECS leaders agreed to form a broadbased, high-level negotiating team made up of representatives from member states to conduct technical negotiations with the US. The move is intended to ensure a coordinated region-

al response as discussions with Washington continue in what leaders described as a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment. For the British Virgin Islands (BVI), which is an associate member of the OECS, the US request may not have direct implications. Unlike independent OECS member states, the BVI conducts negotiations with major global partners through

the United Kingdom (UK), a factor that could shield the territory from being directly bound by any arrangements negotiated between the OECS and the US. Nevertheless, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley attended the meeting. Beyond the US request, the leaders also focused on wider geopolitical developments, including the ongoing situation involving Venezuela

and the US. Leaders said they are closely monitoring developments and assessing potential impacts on the Eastern Caribbean, including economic stability, regional and energy security, migration flows and diplomatic relations. The OECS reaffirmed its commitment to peace, stability and good neighbourly relations within the hemisphere, while maintaining principled engagement with international partners. Leaders also agreed to meet in a political caucus as frequently as necessary to ensure timely and coordinated decision-making. They also promised to keep citizens informed, stressing that any decisions taken will be guided by the best interests of people across the sub-region, as the bloc navigates an increasingly complex global landscape. (BVI News)

US air authority warns of “military activities” over Mexico, South America

The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued notices to airlines, urging them to “exercise caution” over Mexico and other Central American countries, as well as Ecuador and Colom-bia, due to “military activities”.

On Friday, the FAA released a series of advisories that come amid an ongoing US military build-up in the Latin America region, including US military attacks on Venezuela and US President Donald Trump’s warning to Cuba and threats of strikes against drug cartels in Mexico and Colombia, leaving many in the region on edge.

The FAA issued warnings of a “potentially hazardous situation” in a number of areas, including above parts of the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortes.

The warnings issued on Friday will last 60 days, the FAA said.

Last month, a JetBlue passenger jet bound for New York took evasive action to avoid a mid-air colli-sion with a US Air Force tanker plane near Venezuela.

Following the US military’s January 3 attack on Caracas and the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Trump has raised the possibility of other military

actions in the area, in-cluding against Colombia.

Trump said last week that cartels were running Mexico and that the US “will now start hitting land” to combat them, in one of a series of threats to deploy US military force against drug traffickers.

After the attack on Venezuela, the FAA restricted flights throughout the Caribbean, which forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights by major airlines.

On Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Mexican Foreign Secretary Juan Ramon de la Fuente released a joint statement after a phone call, saying they agreed “more must be done to confront shared threats”.

Sheinbaum, mentioning the call on Friday in her morning news briefing, said that Mexico’s Government

had made significant progress, citing a steep drop in the homicide rate, much lower fentanyl seizures by US authorities at the border and sparse migration.

The President also reiterated her call for Washington to stop the trafficking of weapons into Mexico from the US and highlighted drug use in the US as a key factor heightening cartel violence in Mexico.

“The other side also has to do its part. This consumption crisis they have over there also has to be ad-dressed from a public health perspective, through education campaigns,” Sheinbaum said.

Sheinbaum and Trump also spoke by phone last week, with the Mexican leader telling her counterpart that US intervention in Mexico was unnecessary.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

J’ca: Cash grants of up to $500,000 being provided to help restore hurricane-damaged homes

Thousands of persons still picking up the pieces from Hurricane Melissa are breathing a sigh of relief as the Government announced its Shelter Recovery Programme.

Those affected by Hurricane Melissa can expect cash grants of either $75,000, $200,000 or $500,000 for minor to severe damage.

Prime Minister (PM) Dr Andrew Holness said the amount that persons will receive will be based on the assessments done on their properties.

T&T: Cops kill 2, injure 1 in Facebook sting

Police killed two men and injured another while carrying out a sting operation to catch bandits suspect-ed of using fake Facebook ads to rob people.

In a media release on January 16, the Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) Police Service (TTPS) said officers attached to the North Central Division, in collaboration with a specialist unit, conducted an intelli-gence-based, covert sting operation along Mt Hope Road, St Joseph.

Acting on information regarding a Facebook Marketplace arrangement to purchase a vehicle, officers posed as prospective buyers and went to the proposed meeting site.

When they arrived at the location to carry out the transaction, four men approached them and announced a robbery.

Police say the bandits,

when confronted, shot at them, and they returned fire.

Three of the suspects were shot, while one escaped.

One of the injured bandits was arrested at the scene, while the other two were taken to the Eric Wil-liams Medical Sciences Complex, where they were declared dead on arrival.

The third wounded suspect was taken for medical treatment and remains under Police guard.

The officer recovered two guns at the scene, and investigations, along with the search for the escaped suspect, are ongoing.

The TTPS, in the media release, urged the public to exercise caution and “prioritise their safety at all times” when conducting online marketplace transactions.

Commenting on the incident, Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro noted criminals continue to ex-ploit

digital spaces to “entice unsuspecting citizens” into dangerous situations.

Guevarro urged the public to be careful, adding, “Always verify identities and insist on safe meeting locations. Avoid attending transactions alone.”

He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity and warned anyone with knowledge of the escaped suspect’s whereabouts to contact the Police.

“If we should find out you are hiding that individual, you will feel the full brunt of the law!”

Guevarro also sent a message to criminals who use online platforms to “ambush” citizens.

“Just know if you come to commit a violent crime, expect to meet officers who are trained, prepared and ready to act decisively and within the law. (Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)

Suriname: 4 dead, 18 injured at intersection collision

Four persons were killed and eighteen others injured Saturday morning in a serious collision between a car and a minibus. The traffic accident occurred at the intersection of Johannes Mungrastraat and Veldhuizenlaan.

Emergency services, including the Uitvlugt Police station and other relevant agencies, responded im-mediately to the scene to provide first aid and direct traffic. The injured were taken to various hospitals for medical treatment, the Suriname Police Force reports.

A total of 22 victims were treated at the Emergency Room (ER) of the Academic Hospital Paramaribo, Fauzia Poese, the hospital’s medical director, stated in an interview with DTV. Two victims are in criti-cal condition; one is in the Intensive Care Unit, and the other is being treated by a neurosurgeon for brain damage.

person has been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit; 1 person is being treated by a neurosurgeon for brain injury; four to five persons, including a child, were admitted with injuries, but their lives are not in danger; and 15 persons had minor injuries and were able to go home after treatment and observation.

Suriname President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, responding on her official Facebook page to the acci-dent, said, “The serious collision this morning breaks our hearts…”

President Simons also addressed the bereaved: “I wish the bereaved much strength and courage during this difficult time.”

Police have since launched a traffic accident analysis to determine the exact circumstances of the inci-dent. Footage shows the car failed to yield, resulting in a collision. The bus overturned several times. More information will be released when it becomes available, reports say.

Traffic in the area was disrupted for a considerable time due to the incident.

“$75,000 – minor damage; that would get you a couple sheets of zinc to put back on your roof. Of course, this is not meant to totally rehabilitate. This is to support. So that’s from minor damage. For major damage [$200,000], we’re assessing that you may have lost a section of your roof that would amount to maybe a room, but the structure is still intact, it’s still functional, and it’s accessible. You still have some shelter, but there’s great inconvenience. And severe damage would mean that you would have lost probably a roof accounting for more than two rooms or a total loss. The structure is inaccessible or totally damaged. And for that, you get $500,000,” he announced.

“The strategy of the Government for roof restoration and shelter restoration is to, first of all, address those persons who are not able to restore their roofs themselves, and they may have lost everything. So we have what is called the Government-led Roof Restoration Programme. Very early in the day, I had indicated that the JDF (Jamaica Defence Force) will lead that, and the JDF is in the field coordinating with other engineering corps who have come to Jamaica to volunteer,” he noted.

PM Holness said the Government is directing much of the restoration effort that is taking place across western parishes.

Dr Holness was speaking at the launch of the Shelter Recovery Programme on Thursday. (Radio Jamaica News)

Of the 22 victims, one

In her message,

(Source: Suriname Herald)

Colombia to launch $1.7 billion anti-drone shield

Colombia on Friday launched a $1.68 billion project to develop a so-called anti-drone shield to protect the country from attacks by unmanned drones operated by illegal armed groups, the Defence Minister said.

Colombia has been involved in an ongoing internal armed conflict for six decades that has left more than 450,000 dead. Conflict in the Andean nation has involved the military and Police forces, leftist guerrillas, criminal gangs formed by former right-wing para-

militaries and drug cartels.

“Colombia is embarking on one of the boldest and most innovative strategies for our national security and defence,” Defence Minister Pedro Sanchez said in a video statement.

Colombia’s Government has approved a budget of $271.1 million for the first phase of the project, Sanchez added.

A meeting with countries and companies interested in the project was held on Friday in Bogotá, though no details were disclosed.

Between 2024 and 2025,

Colombia recorded 264 attacks from unmanned drones loaded with explo-sives. They were registered predominantly across the country’s dense jungles and mountainous regions dedicated to the cultivation of coca leaves, the base ingredient in the production of cocaine.

The drone attacks between 2024 and 2025 left 15 soldiers dead and an additional 153 others wounded, according to official statistics. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Protests in Greenland and Denmark against Trump’s plans

Thousands of people in Greenland and Denmark have protested against plans by US President Donald Trump to take over Greenland – an autonomous Danish territory.

Demonstrations were held in Danish cities, including the capital, Copenhagen, as well as in Greenland's capital, Nuuk.

The rallies coincide with a visit to Copenhagen by a delegation from the US Congress. Its leader, Democratic Senator Chris Coons, described Mr Trump's rhetoric as "not constructive".

Mr Trump has not ruled out taking Greenland, which he insists is critical for America's national security, by force – and has now announced he will impose tariffs on European countries that are opposed to his plan.

Goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the

Netherlands and Finland will be subject to a 10 per cent US tariff from February 1, he wrote on his Truth Social platform on Saturday.

Accusing these countries of playing "a very dangerous game", he said the tariffs would be raised to 25 per cent on June 1, "until such time as a deal is reached for the complete and total purchase of Greenland".

Greenland is sparsely populated but resource-rich,

and its location between North America and the Arctic makes it well placed for early warning systems in the event of missile attacks and for monitoring vessels in the region.

Trump has previously said Washington would get the territory "the easy way" or "the hard "way" – an apparent reference to buying the island or taking it by force. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Israel objects to US announcement on Gaza reconstruction committee

In a rare criticism of the US, its close ally, Israel's Government is objecting to the White House announcement of leaders who will play a role in overseeing the next steps in Gaza.

Prime Minister (PM) Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement Saturday, a day following the announcement, that the Gaza executive committee was "not coordinated with Israel and is contrary to its policy." Netanyahu has told the Foreign Minister to contact US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the statement said.

Minutes after the state-

ment from Netanyahu's office, Israel's far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, in a statement backed the PM and urged him to order the military to prepare to return to war.

The White House released the names of some of the leaders who will play a role in the committee. The list does not include any Israeli officials but includes an Israeli businessman.

Other members announced so far include Rubio, President Trump's son-inlaw Jared Kushner, US special envoy Steve Witkoff, former British PM Tony Blair,

Ali Shaath, an engineer and former Palestinian Authority official from Gaza, Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan, World Bank President Ajay Banga and Mr Trump's deputy national security adviser Robert Gabriel.

The White House has said the executive committee will carry out the vision of a Trump-led "Board of Peace", whose members have not yet been named. The White House also announced the members of a new Palestinian committee to run Gaza's dayto-day affairs, with oversight from the executive committee. (Excerpt from CBS News)

Indonesia searches for missing plane with at least 10 on board

Indonesian authorities are searching for a plane carrying three Government workers and at least seven crew members after contact with the aircraft was lost, officials said.

The fisheries surveillance aircraft had been heading to Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi, after departing from Yogyakarta Province, before contact was lost, Andi Sultan, operations chief at the Makassar search and rescue agency, told the news agency Reuters.

He said that air traffic control lost contact with the ATR 42-500 aircraft, operated by Indonesia Air

Transport, at about 13:30h (05:30h GMT) on Saturday, around the Maros region ⁠in South Sulawesi province.

He declined to comment on the possible cause of the incident.

Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono told a news conference on Saturday that three employees from his ministry were on board the plane, which was operated by Indonesia Air Transport.

Reports on the number of crew members varied. Sultan said there were eight on board, while news agency AFP cited the air-

Around the World

Iran's supreme leader acknowledges thousands killed during recent protests, blames Trump

Iran's supreme leader has for the first time publicly acknowledged that thousands of people were killed during recent protests.

In a speech on Saturday, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said thousands had been killed, "some in an inhuman, savage manner", and blamed the US for the deaths.

A violent response to the unrest has claimed 3090 lives, according to the US-based Iranian Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), with some activist groups putting the death toll far higher. An internet blackout has made it extremely difficult to get clear information.

US President Donald Trump recently urged Iranian demonstrators to "keep protesting" and threatened military intervention if security forces kill them.

"Those linked to Israel and the US caused massive

damage and killed several thousand," Khamenei said, quoted by Iranian state media.

"We consider the US President criminal for the casualties, damages and slander he inflicted on the Iranian nation."

The protests, which began on 28 December over the economy, have turned into calls for the end of the rule of Iran's supreme leader.

The Iranian Government

has called the demonstrations "riots" backed by Iran's enemies.

During his speech on Saturday, Khamenei also said Iran considered President Trump to be a "criminal" and said the US must be "held accountable" for recent unrest. He also claimed on social media that "America's goal is to swallow Iran."

Trump has not yet responded to the supreme leader, and the BBC has approached the White House for a comment.

The US State Department said on Saturday that it had "heard reports that the Islamic Republic is preparing options to target American bases".

It said Iran would be met with "a very, very powerful force" if it launched such an attack and warned Tehran not to "play games with President Trump". (Excerpt from BBC News)

Rare twins born in DRC raise cautious hope for endangered mountain gorillas

It was noon by the time Jacques Katutu, head of gorilla monitoring in Virunga, first saw the newborn mountain gorillas. Cradled in the arms of their mother, Mafuko, the tiny twins clung to her body for warmth in the forest clearing in Virunga National Park, in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Katutu has seen dozens of newborns in his 15 years as a ranger. But, he tells the Guardian, even he was touched by the sight of the fragile infant males, who face serious obstacles if they are to become silverbacks one day.

line as saying there were seven.

The plane had been chartered by Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, ministry official Pung Nugroho Saksono told state news agency Antara.

Sultan said the search and rescue agency suspected that the plane had come down near the peak of Mount Bulusaraung, with about 400 personnel, including ⁠military and police units, deployed to search for the plane and those on board, though the effort was being hampered by bad weather. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

“Watching Mafuko holding two babies was both moving and filled me with responsibility, given the twins’ extreme vulnerability,” he says.

“Twin births in mountain gorillas are extremely rare and always present significant survival challenges. We are cautious and vigilant while also maintaining hope. The first four weeks are the most critical.”

The mother and her babies are being monitored daily since they were spotted on January 3, with specialist vets on hand if the gorillas show signs of distress. The young males are healthy for now, rangers say, but the subspecies has high rates of infant mortality – with about a quarter falling victim to disease, trauma or infanticide. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

US kills al-Qaeda affiliate leader tied to December attack in Syria, Centcom says

US military forces on Friday killed an al-Qaeda affiliate leader linked to an Islamic State attack on Americans in Syria last month, US Central Command (Centcom) said in a statement on Saturday.

Bilal Hasan al-Jasim had "direct ties" to an ISIS gun-

man who killed and injured US and Syrian personnel on December 13 in Palmyra, Syria, Central Command said.

“The death of a terrorist operative linked to the deaths of three Americans demonstrates our resolve in pursuing terrorists who attack our forces,” said Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of US Central Command, in a statement.

Since the December 13 attack, US forces have been conducting strikes in Syria, with the US military saying it has hit more than 100 ISIS targets. (Reuters)

ARIES

You’ll gain the most if you play catch-up and focus on unfinished business. How you relate to others will make a difference and lead you to consider and seek professional changes that make your life more fulfilling. Sometimes it’s not the money that matters, it’s the peace of mind you get from what you do.

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

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

A positive change is heading your way. Take a leap of faith, trust your instincts, and make whatever move feels right. An opportunity will lead to fulfillment and happiness if you let yourself go and enjoy the ride. Personal gain and love will reward you for your strength and courage to pursue your heart’s desire.

Refurbish yourself, your circumstances, and your options. A change is overdue, and the best place to begin is with you. Start by assessing how you present yourself physically, and update your look to reflect how you feel and the direction you want to head in. Let your uniqueness shine through, and your discipline help you reach your goal.

Be open to ideas and concepts. Using your skills uniquely will open up a window of opportunity that can change your perspective or direction. Consider the costs of change and how you can use your skills to barter your way forward. Positive feedback will promote greater confidence and prospects. Challenge yourself, and something good will unfold.

Interacting with those who power their resources and with hope, excitement, gratitude, and hard work will encourage you to follow suit and put your dreams in motion. Partnerships are on the rise, and personal relationships will turn into reinforcement that you can and will succeed. Enjoy the company of someone you love and let romance grow.

Sign up for something that interests you. What you discover about yourself and the people you meet will give you the hope and desire necessary to launch something you want to pursue. Let your thoughts lead the way and your energy carry your plans to fruition. A physical change will be uplifting and attract positive feedback.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

Indecisiveness will weigh you down and cast shadows on what you should be doing. Shake off negativity and replenish your vibe and thoughts with innovation and imagination. The right mindset will help you claim what’s missing from your life. Stop standing on the sidelines when you should be dancing in the streets. Change begins with you.

Be patient, listen, learn, and revisit and overhaul old ideas into something that suits current trends and can easily harvest a new and exciting way to pave a lucrative path forward. Refuse to let negative people confuse you or taint how you think or feel about the choices you make. Do what makes you feel alive.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Pay attention to how you present yourself to others. Dress the part, finish what you start, and you will attract the right crowd. Be willing to see through and let go of those who bring you down. Only trust what’s tangible and dismiss what’s a waste of time. Put your energy into positive change. Romance is favored.

AQUARIUS

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

PISCES

(Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Engage in events that excite you. Participation will lead to interesting conversations, potential opportunities, and a rush of ideas that can lead to new beginnings. A new look, style, or pastime will give you a positive push in the right direction. Love and romance are on the rise, along with greater selfworth and contentment.

You are on the right path, so don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Stick close to home, work hard to get your house in order, and prepare for new beginnings. What you achieve will put your mind at ease and encourage you to head in a direction that offers peace of mind. Self-improvement will enforce personal growth.

Engage in outings that free your mind. A change of atmosphere, people, and places will renew your perspective, offering you a clearer picture of what’s possible. Participate in events that address your concerns or help you meet your expectations. Let communication lead the way and positive change unfold, and you’ll discover peace of mind, gratitude, and happiness.

Mandhana, Voll, bowlers

make 4 in 4 for RCB

Smriti Mandhana became the ninth player to enter the 90s in the Women's Premier League (WPL). For a large part of her knock, she looked set to end the tournament's century drought: she needed just four, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were 12 away from their 167-run target. She missed out, though, falling for 96 off 61, but RCB went on to seal their fourth successive win.

Lucy Hamilton, whose cameo with the bat earlier in the evening got Delhi Capitals (DC) to a total of 166, dived to her right at backward point to deny Mandhana and extend the WPL's wait for its first centurion.

For a third time this season, RCB's new-ball bowlers had a big say in the win. Thanks to Lauren Bell and Sayali Satghare, they picked up four wickets in the first nine balls after opting to chase. Shafali Verma then resisted with a half-century, and aided by a 19-ball 36 by debutant Hamilton at No. 9, DC managed to get to a respectable total.

But it was never going to challenge RCB, especially with Mandhana being in sublime form. Georgia Voll struck

an unbeaten half-century as well and ensured RCB got home with eight wickets and ten balls to spare.

RCB ended the Navi Mumbai leg of the WPL with an unblemished record in four games, while DC were dealt their third defeat in four matches.

ed the line to outside off and got it to move in a little. Rodrigues went for the dab but chopped it onto the stumps. On the very next ball, Marizanne Kapp could do little about a length ball that held its line and hit the top of off. DC were 10 for 4

pull another but only got an under-edge. She mistimed a double towards midwicket before punching one off the middle of the bat to end the over. That got her going. Shafali then hit two sixes in the next over from Satghare, followed by two

play.

DC were 60 for 4 after six overs, but Shafali faced only four balls in the next four overs. She soon got to a 27-ball half-century and fell for a 41-ball 62 when she scythed a Bell slower ball to backward point. Mandhana and Voll make light work of the chase.

Bell and Satghare make the new ball talk Playing her first WPL season, Bell has been a revelation for RCB with the new ball. She began with a short ball which Lizelle Lee pulled with disdain through backward square leg. But the next ball, she speared in a swinging yorker on the leg stump. Lee's weight was on the back foot, expecting another short ball, and she was bowled behind her legs. Two balls later, Bell got through Laura Wolvaardt's bat-pad gap to castle her for a twoball duck. Having bowled outswingers till then, Bell got one to nip back in from a length and had Wolvaardt play down the wrong line. From the other end, Satghare, brought in for Arundhati Reddy, who was unwell, produced a double strike of her own. Her Mumbai teammate Jemimah Rodrigues greeted her by scooping her for four through fine leg first ball. But Satghare shift-

in the second over.

Shafali lifts DC

While the damage was being done at the other end, Shafali watched helplessly, having faced just the one ball – the first of the game. When her turn to take a strike came in the third over, she shimmied down the track and missed a length ball. She looked to

more fours in the fifth over. She had scored 30 of the 41 DC had after five overs and was well set by the time Shreyanka Patil came on to bowl. She saw Niki Prasad being dropped on Patil's first ball and then getting an outside edge for four. When her turn to take strike came, she went dot, six, six to help take 19 from the last over of the power-

Kapp had dismissed Grace Harris five times in 24 innings before Saturday, and that seemed to play on Harris' mind. She looked tentative against the new ball, a single coming via an inside edge off Kapp. The DC all-rounder got the better of Harris when she toe-ended a loft to wide mid-off. That brought Voll, who came in the XI for D Hemalatha, in at No. 3. While she took her time, Mandhana was at her fluent best.

She hit three fours – two pulls and one square drive – in Hamilton's first over, then a four and a six off Kapp and Nandani Sharma, respectively. Despite that, RCB could manage only 37 for 1 in six overs. Mandhana then toyed with spinners N.

Shree Charani and Sneh Rana, getting back-to-back fours against each of them and getting to fifty off 31 balls. She relied more on placement than power. Once Mandhana fell, Voll got to her half-century off 41 balls and sealed the win. Mandhana and Voll added 142 for the second wicket, the third-highest partnership for any wicket in the WPL, setting the tone for the Vadodara leg, which starts on January 19. (ESPNcricinfo)

Registration opens for 4th Guyana-Monaco Mousetrap Car Grand Prix Competition

Registration is now open for the fourth annual GuyanaMonaco Mousetrap Car Grand Prix Competition 2026. The competition challenges secondary school students to create mousetrap race cars propelled by the original trigger mechanism on a mousetrap.

The local qualifier will be held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue on Thursday, February 26, 2026, and is coordinated by SBM Offshore Guyana with support from the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Through SBM Offshore, Guyana was once again invited to participate in the international competition in Monaco. Students will compete in three dynamic categories: Acceleration, Advanced, and Innovation and Creativity, offering multiple avenues for technical excellence and original thinking.

SBM Offshore Guyana’s General Manager, Martin Cheong, expressed that the company is proud to have initiated this competition locally with the overwhelming support of both the Ministries of Education and Culture, Youth and Sport, in underscoring the value that competing brings.

He further expressed, “Competitions like this go beyond the classroom. They challenge students to think critically, solve real-world problems and apply theory in practical ways, skills that are essential for innovation, leadership and lifelong learning.”

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Honourable Charles Ramson Jr, said, “Guyana’s development must be driven by productivity, and innovation remains an essential

ingredient for that recipe. The innovative mindset can be nurtured, and this initiative aligns with this and empowers students to think outside the box and see themselves as problem solvers for a better Guyana.”

Additionally, the Ministry of Education stated that “initiatives such as the Guyana Monaco Mousetrap Car Grand Prix play a critical role in nurturing our students’ interest in science, technology, engineering and innovation. By engaging learners in hands-on, problem-solving activities, we are not only strengthening classroom learning but also preparing young Guyanese with the skills, creativity and confidence needed for a rapidly evolving world.

The Ministry of Education remains committed to supporting partnerships that provide meaningful, practi-

cal learning opportunities for all students.”

Registration closes on January 26, 2026, and interested students can sign up at https://mousetraprace.sbm.gy/.

Once registration closes, mousetraps will be distributed to participating schools by the Ministry of Education.

Winning comes with major rewards. The firstplace winners of each of the three categories will re-

ceive $350,000 in science equipment, selected by the school, to strengthen their science departments. The journey doesn’t stop there.

The top three performers in each category will also have their race videos submitted to Monaco for consideration in the international leg of the competition. Should a Guyanese team advance, SBM Offshore Guyana will fully sponsor the team’s travel to Monaco, where students

will also have the opportunity to experience the Monaco E-Prix should they win.

The second phase of the adventure includes a fully funded educational and cultural trip to Suriname, during which students selected for the Monaco leg will apply for their Schengen visa and participate in immersive learning experiences that broaden their global perspective.

Full support will also

be provided for their travel to Monaco, where they will proudly represent Guyana on the global stage. In 2025, six students enjoyed an immersive visit to Suriname and a once-in-a-lifetime trip that spanned Nice, Monaco and the Netherlands, marking a significant reward for their creativity and out-ofthe-box thinking.

Students are encouraged to register early and seize this opportunity to race, innovate and compete beyond borders, where a simple mousetrap could be the key to an international STEM adventure.

TBritton John dominates WND Park Series as 2026 cycle season rides off

and confidence, Briton John of We Stand United Club stamped his authority early, lapping the entire peloton within the first nine laps and never looking back.

John went on to convincingly capture the Elite category, officially kicking off the season in emphatic fashion. The action continued across the categories with strong competition throughout the morning.

prizes, while Jolyn Joseph rode away with two and Masimba Williams and Kwame Fortune one each.

In the overall results for the Elite (30 laps), Briton John took first place, followed by Lynn Murry, Alex Newton, Alex Mendes, Dealing Hodge, and Nigel London.

son rode off on Saturday as the WND Park Series, organised by the Continental Cycling Club, delivered fast racing and outstanding performances despite the inclement weather.

In a dominant display of strength

Kwame Fortune of Kaieteur Attack Racing Club powered his way to victory in Category Four, while Joshua Holder of KFC Evolution took first place in the 12-14 category.

The female category saw an impressive international performance from Yukland Seow of Trinidad & Tobago, riding for Team Heatwave, as she secured victory against the field.

Briton John earned 30 of the sprint

In the 4-8 category, Kwame Fortune rode past the checkered line first, followed by Jolyn Joseph and Justin Tenpow.

In the 12-14 category (three laps), Joshua Holder secured the win ahead of Nuisance Greaves.

Meanwhile, in the female category (five laps), Yukland Seow took the chequered flag, followed by Rebecca Damon.

It was indeed an exciting day of racing to officially start the 2026 season.

Schools' Basketball League tips off with wins for GTI, QC & PC

The inaugural Schools' Basketball League got underway on Friday evening in Georgetown, with Government Technical Institute (GTI), Queen’s College (QC), and President’s College (PC) all opening their campaigns with victories.

GTI produced the most dominant performance of the day, overwhelming hosts Marian Academy 84–38. Queen’s College also impressed on home court, defeating St Stanislaus College 66–42, while President’s College secured a hard-fought 47–41 win over St Rose’s High.

The competition will continue on Friday, January 23, 2026, with two fixtures scheduled from 16:00h. Marian Academy will host

Queen’s College, while St Stanislaus College faces St Rose’s High at Burnham Court.

The Under-18 League will run until March 22 and will feature six schools, including Government Technical Institute (GTI), President’s College, Marian Academy, St Stanislaus College, Queen’s College and St Rose’s High School.

Each school is guaranteed 10 games, providing the consistent match frequency necessary for skill retention and tactical growth. The league will also serve as a training ground for first-time basketball officials, with schools submitting names for referee and scorekeeper development programmes.

GFF honours 6 Guyanese officials named in FIFA Int’l List 2026

The six Guyanese match officials who have been appointed to the prestigious FIFA International Match Officials List for 2026 were on Saturday officially presented with their FIFA badge during a presentation ceremony at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Secretariat in Georgetown.

The ceremony was attended by the Vice President of the GFF, Dion Inniss; General Secretary Pushpargha Chattopadhyay; Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Technical Instructor Natasha Lewis; and Head of Referees Lenval Peart, who joined members of the refereeing fraternity in recognising this year's appointees.

This year's appointments mark another significant milestone in the growth of local refereeing and represent a proud moment for Guyana on the global football stage.

Strengthening Guyana's int’l footprint

Those who were recognised and awarded with their badges were referee Shavin Greene (FIFA); assistant referees Kleon Lindey (FIFA) and Brandon Cyrus (FIFA); female assistant referee Denisha Isaacs (FIFA); female referee Kenisha Prescott (FIFA) – first-time appointment; and futsal referee Colin Abel (FIFA).

The appointments reflect both continuity and new growth: five returning officials and one new addition, signalling sustained development and widening pathways for Guyanese referees across different formats of the game.

Notable achievements & career milestones

First-time appointee Kenisha Prescott made an impact as the newest Guyanese referee to join the international ranks. Her rapid rise has been marked by excellence in multiple regional and continental referee development programmes.

After strong performances at the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Girls' Challenge Series in 2023, Prescott earned selection to the CONCACAF Referee Academy in Toluca, Mexico, in 2024, and later completed the CONCACAF Academy Consolidation Course.

Her international assignments include the CONCACAF U-15 Girls' Championship – fourth Official (third Place Match); CFU U-14 Boys' Championship; CONCACAF U-17 Women's Championship Qualifiers; and CFU U-14 Girls' Challenge Series 2025.

In addition, Denisha Isaacs earned her fourth consecutive FIFA appointment and

continued to break barriers. In 2025 she officiated several international fixtures, including a CONCACAF Friendly Series match in December, marking her first senior men's international assignment, a major milestone in her career.

Referee Shavin Greene, now in his fourth year on the FIFA List, was promoted to CONCACAF Tier 2, placing him just two tiers from Elite Referee status. His 2025 season included assignments to a FIFA World Cup Qualifier, the CONCACAF Caribbean Cup Final, and a CONCACAF Friendly Series match, an unprecedented schedule for a Guyanese referee.

Assistant Referee Kleon Lindey celebrates 12 consecutive years on the FIFA List, a rare achievement in CONCACAF and a testament to professionalism and longevity.

Assistant Referee Brandon Cyrus en-

joyed a successful debut year in 2025, earning multiple international appointments and establishing himself as a trusted match official regionally.

Futsal referee Colin Abel, on the FIFA list since 2023, continued elevating Guyana's futsal profile by officiating at the CONCACAF Women's Futsal World Cup Qualifiers, including the semi-final round.

The GFF Refereeing Department and the Guyana Football Referees Council (GFRC) jointly congratulated the appointed officials, recognising their commitment to excellence and urging them to continue striving toward CONCACAF Elite and FIFA Elite pathways.

The GFF remains committed to expanding referee education, upgrading training standards, and supporting officials as they represent Guyana with distinction around the world.

South Dakota set for major upgrade as GT Challenge de las Américas comes to Guyana

The South Dakota Circuit is poised for a historic transformation following a comprehensive track inspection on Thursday, signalling a new era for motorsport in Guyana.

A delegation led by the Director of the GT Challenge de las Américas, Eduardo

Aguilar, and the Caribbean franchise holder for the series, Franklyn Boodram, visited the facility to assess its readiness for international competition.

They were hosted by a team from the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC), led by its President, Mahendra

“Energise Guyana” 5k Run/Walk set for Feb 15 at National Park

With the aim of uniting the community to fight diabetes and heart disease and to champion healthier lives, the Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo 2026 is set to host its annual 5k Run/Walk on Sunday, February 15, 2026. The event will be hosted at the National Park and is slated to commence at 06:00h.

Presently, Stride 592 is hosting sessions leading up to the event every Sunday and Wednesday at the National Park, where persons are trained in order to stay motivated and build their stamina.

Those interested in participating in the event can visit https://guyanaenergy. gy/attend/energy-run to register.

Boodhoo. The inspection focused on bringing the circuit up to the stringent standards required to host the prestigious GT Challenge series.

A fast-track with potential

Following the assessment, Eduardo Aguilar expressed confidence in the circuit's layout and potential. He noted that while the track already possesses the inherent capabilities to host high-tier racing, specific modifications are necessary to ensure the series runs smoothly.

"The track has the capabilities," Aguilar stated. "It is fast, and with some minor improvements, we will be ready to get the series going here."

Technical upgrades and safety

The planned upgrades are designed not only to meet safety regulations but also to enhance the racing product's speed and competitiveness. Franklyn Boodram highlighted that the modernisation efforts would significantly increase average lap speeds.

He emphasised that the motor racing body is committed to meeting every requirement to ensure the event's success. Boodhoo outlined a vision for the South Dakota Circuit to become a hub for international motorsport tourism.

"This will be a major motorsport attraction," Boodhoo said. "We expect fans from Latin America, the US, and the Caribbean to converge at South Dakota. Furthermore, race engineers from Europe will be travelling in to support the teams."

To accommodate this influx of international visitors and VIPs, the GMR&SC plans to introduce premium hospitality stands to elevate the spectator experience to match that of global sporting events.

A new era for Guyanese motorsport

Back in February 2025, approximately 1000 persons ran and walked across Kingston, Georgetown, as part of the inaugural “Energise Guyana” 5k Run/

However, this event was endorsed days ago by the Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs, who encouraged everyone to come out and join the walk – one that will lead to a healthier Guyana.

Walk. The 5k event was held under the theme "Energise Guyana: Run Towards Wellness". President Dr Irfaan Ali, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, and Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony were among those who participated in the event.

Key infrastructure improvements identified during the inspection include the extension and rehabilitation of kerbs to allow for better cornering speeds and track limit definitions; the creation of an active pit lane, which will see competitors safely re-join the main straight of the circuit; and safety enhancements with updated barriers and runoff areas to protect drivers and spectators.

However, Boodhoo confirmed that the club is fully aligned with these recommendations and that the physical work on the ground has already commenced.

The collaboration between the GT Challenge de las Américas and the GMR&SC represents a pivotal shift in the local motorsport landscape. By adopting international standards, the organisers aim to produce a racing product that is both safe and thrilling.

As construction crews begin the rehabilitation of kerbs and the restructuring of the pit lane, the South Dakota Circuit is well on its way to securing its place on the international motorsport map, promising an exciting future for fans and racers alike.