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Guyana P14 Carnival unveils “Wildlife” theme & costumes for 2027 season Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 6603 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Works on new US$20M Parika Ferry Stelling project advance

PRICE $140 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Grass fires surge by P21 469% in Reg 5 & 6 – GFS

- reports 46 properties damaged, 41 homeless, 1 death recorded in 9 months

Page 7

- weight cap on cargo lifted as diversion route completed

TAU welcomes future P11 physicians at White Coat ceremony - unveils cutting-edge medical training, technology

New West Demerara Hospital expected to open in late 2027 P24

New CJIA Terminal 2 designed to showcase Guyanese culture, - says Guyana investing in heritage – Pres Ali new era of airport experience

Page 3

Guyana targets 500 acres of onion production to end imports by year-end Page 24

Police reissue wanted bulletins for suspects inPage murder of 22 Cuban national

Guyana nears 6000 hotel rooms by year-end – GTA Director - says 15 new hotels expected post 2026

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75-year-old kidney patient receives new home through MoM initiative

P24

Driver agrees to pay compensation after damaging GPL network in P23 Mahaica accident

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Berbice – Sunday, October 11 – 16:40h–18:10h and Monday, October 12 – 17:10h–18:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny skies are expected to during the day, followed by clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 3.12 metres and 4.91 metres. High Tide: 16:46h reaching a maximum height of 2.79 metres.

Low Tide: 10:23h and 22:42h reaching minimum heights of 0.53 metre and 0.40 metre.

New CJIA Terminal 2 designed to showcase Guyanese culture, heritage – Pres Ali – says Guyana investing in new era of airport experience

resident Dr Irfaan Ali says that the new terminal two building being constructed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) will not only enhance capacity and efficiency at the main port of entry but is being designed as a gateway to Guyana’s rich cultural tapestry to add to the passenger experience. The Head of State made these remarks during the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2026 that was held in Georgetown last week. Addressing hundreds of Government officials, investors, and tourism stakeholders from across the Caribbean, President Ali pointed out that modern tourism requires undertaking projects that are fundamentally different from the traditional approach to investments. “When we conceptualise a project today, we must be building for resilience, building for the market, building for experience, building for expectation, and building for storytelling,” he stated, adding that

aspires to be.” The modern 180,000-square-foot, three-storey Terminal Two will showcase Guyana’s natural and cultural beauty, as well as feature duty-free zones, retail opportunities, rental offices, and lounges. With this new building, the CJIA will be able to dedicate separate buildings for arrivals and departures. The sod for the CJIA Terminal Two Building was turned in August 2025, and construction commenced earlier this year by BHM Construction Inc. out of the

An artist’s impression of the new Terminal Two Building at the CJIA

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2026

LOTTERY NUMBERS I

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A dance group performed a routine during a welcoming ceremony for passengers

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COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil

US$ $104.72/barrel

Rough Rice

$305.46/ton

London Sugar

$542.50/ton

Live Spot Gold

Change %

+0.42 +0.71 +0.26 USD Per Ounce

Low/High

$4193.60 $4130.10

$4195.60 $4208.10

Change

+61.10

+1.48%

Bid/Ask

Guyana has already taken a step towards this direction with the CJIA expansion project. According to the Guyanese leader, “An airport today is not an airport of yesterday. It’s not an airport for persons to come in and go out. The airport itself must be able to tell a story and present a picture. That is why you are seeing tremendous investment in airports and air hubs that allow an experience to be had.” “Here in Guyana, we embrace this change. That is why we are investing in Terminal Two [at the CJIA], not only as a new terminal, but as a terminal that will tell the story of Guyana and where Guyana

President Dr Irfaan Ali

United Kingdom (UK) in collaboration with the largest airport group known for world-class operations within the global aviation sector, Manchester Airport Group Ltd – both of which are teaming up on the facility’s design and construction. The project is being financed in part by the United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF), which has offered Guyana a credit loan ceiling of up to a whopping £3 billion. In Budget 2026, the Guyanese Government had set aside some $3.2 billion to advance the construction of Terminal Two, which is slated to be completed before the end of 2028. Complementing the construction of Terminal Two

are several other major projects currently underway at the airport. These include relocating the air traffic control tower to the opposite side of the airfield, a move that will free up valuable space for additional aircraft parking. The airport is also set to benefit from a new inline baggage handling system equipped with additional scanners and cameras, as well as the introduction of off-site check-in services. Further developments include a modern VIP lounge, upgraded tarmac facilities, and expanded administrative offices. These upgrades are intended to streamline operations and provide a more seamless experience

for travellers. The expansion comes in response to the airport’s rapid growth and increased traffic since 2020. Between 2020 and 2025, CJIA recorded sustained double-digit growth, with passenger movements increasing by 433 per cent. In fact, last year, the airport processed 973,016 passengers – a 14 per cent increase over the 856,831 passengers in 2024. For 2026, Guyana recorded 360,623 visitor arrivals during the first nine months of the year. This unprecedented influx aligns with efforts by the Government to position the country as a leading aviation hub in the region. TURN TO PAGE 7

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

An old prescription, a new purse

uyana has discovered a remarkably modern agricultural development strategy: rehabilitate sugar, diversify agriculture with “other crops”, improve drainage and irrigation, support farmers, and find markets for their produce. Modern, that is, if we overlook the fact that much of the prescription was already on the table as far back as 1897. With sugar again on the ropes, the West India Royal Commission’s (WIRC) proposals from that year – after a twoyear inquiry – have acquired an uncomfortable familiarity. We have changed the flag, the ownership of the estates, and the vocabulary of development, but the underlying challenge has proved considerably harder to change. The Norman Commission, as the 1897 WIRC became known, confronted a sugar economy threatened by a decade of depressed prices from the competition of subsidised European beet sugar. It recognised that British Guiana’s leading plantations and factories had already made substantial technical improvements and factory rationalisation by halving their numbers. There was, of course, the reduction of the wages of workers at a time when indentured workers were still dominant and had been paid the same one-shilling daily since 1838. The wage was effectively decreased by increasing the “task” that had to be completed in a day. Efficient production, however, could not guarantee survival under adverse global trading conditions under a free trade regime meant to benefit the colonial power, Britain. The Commission’s answer combined efforts to restore sugar’s profitability with land settlement, alternative agriculture, scientific instruction, and better access to markets. For Guiana, the practical issue was especially plain: farmers needed usable land and reliable water management. A plot under floodwater was hardly an opportunity, and land preparation, drainage, and irrigation were seen as essential to the development of small farming and rice cultivation. Nearly 130 years later, we are still discussing how to keep fields productive, factories efficient, and rural communities economically secure. History has apparently been waiting patiently while we arranged another meeting. There is, however, one enormous difference. Today, Guyana possesses an oil-funded capacity to invest on a scale unavailable to the old sugar colony. Petroleum revenues are helping finance the infrastructure through which the envisaged broader economy can develop. The opportunity presented is to turn income from beneath the seabed into productive assets above it. The resemblance between the old prescription and the present programme is striking. Budget 2026 provides GY$113.2 billion for agriculture, including GY$81.9 billion for drainage and irrigation. It also supports other crops, agro-processing, cold storage, and fisheries. These are the practical foundations of diversification in keeping water under control, preserving what farmers produce, and getting it to customers. Sugar itself receives GY$13.4 billion for modernisation, including mechanised harvesting and factory equipment. The government’s stated ambition is to transform GuySuCo into an agro-industrial hub for rural development. That is a consequential recognition that the corporation’s land, engineering capacity, and workforce must generate a wider range of economic activity. This deserves support and not sniping from the side-lines, as the opposition is wont to do. Sugar communities cannot reasonably be told that generations of labour have become an accounting inconvenience. Rehabilitation should nevertheless produce measurable improvements in costs, output, and earnings. Oil money gives us room to make the transition properly, but it also makes it dangerously easy to postpone difficult decisions. Diversification demands the same discipline. Announcing a new crop is the easy part, but the government has recognised that farmers need dependable buyers, affordable transport, processing facilities, financing, and timely technical assistance. But in a free-enterprise economy, the farmers will have to step up to the plate and modernise their operations. The deepest irony is that oil now offers the means to carry through a programme first urged when sugar’s supremacy began to look precarious over a century ago. Farmers and agroprocessors should use that opportunity to give rural Guyanese more choices, stronger businesses, and incomes that can survive changes in any single commodity market. Otherwise, a future commission may recommend diversification all over again and discover that Guyana had both the prescription and the money.

Mister Global Türkiye, Dilhan Divrikli, was crowned Mister Global 2026 on Saturday when the male pageant was held in Thailand. The first runner-up spot was awarded to Mr Nigeria Bethel Mbamara, while the second runner-up spot went to Mr Philippines MJ Ordillano, and the third runner-up slot went to Mr Hmong Anthony Tub Zaj Moua. Mr Venezuela, Alejandro Quintero, took the title of fourth runner-up in the international pageant that drew participants from around the world

avratri is a Hindu festival of worship and dance. The word “Navratri” literally means “nine nights” in Sanskrit, with “Nava” meaning “nine” and “Ratri” meaning “nights”. During these nine nights and 10 days, nine forms of shakti/Devi, i.e., female divinity, are worshipped. The nine-night festival of Navratri begins on the first day of Ashwina of the bright fortnight. The festival comes to an end on the 10th day of Vjay Dashmi or Dussehra, when the idols of the Goddess Shakti are immersed in the river. Dussehra, meaning “10 days”, becomes dasara in popular parlance. The Navratri festival, or “nineday festival”, becomes the “10-day festival” with the addition of the last day, Vijayadashami, which is its culmination. On all these 10 days, the various forms of Mother Mahisasura-mardini (Durga) are worshipped with fervour and devotion. The nine nights are dedicated to the three main goddesses of Hinduism – Parvati, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. Navratri is separated into sets of three days. The first three days of Navratri are dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Goddess of power and energy. The next three days of Navratri are dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. The final three days belong to Goddess Saraswati, who is worshipped to acquire the spiritual knowledge. Goddess Durga is also worshipped under nine

the mother of Skanda, the chief warrior of the Gods’ army. Sixth Day Puja On the sixth day, the Goddess Durga is worshipped as “Kaatyayani”. Seated on her lion, Kaatyayani has three eyes and four hands. different names for the nine days in Navratri. Every day, she assumes a new character, a new look and a new duty. These nine forms of manifestation are Shailaputri, Brahmachartini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamaata, Kaatyayani, Kaalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidaatri. For the initial six days, Puja celebrations are limited to home. The celebrations acquire a festive form since the seventh day, when the festivities of Navratri surround the atmosphere. Navratri is divided into sets of three days to adore three different aspects of the supreme goddess or goddesses. First three days The goddess is separated as a spiritual force called Durga, also known as Kali, in order to destroy all our impurities. First Day Puja The first form of Goddess Durga is called “Shailaputri”. She is considered the daughter of the Himalayas. She is a form of Shakti, the consort of Lord Shiva. Second Day Puja The second form of Goddess Durga is known as

“Brahmacharini”. Her name is a derivative of the word “Brahma”, which means “Tapa” or “penance”. She is also a form of Uma or Parvati, a form of Mata Shakti. Third Day Puja On the third day the Goddess is worshipped as “Chandraghanta”. She is the symbolic representation of beauty and bravery. Second three days The Mother is adored as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing on her devotees inexhaustible wealth, as she is the goddess of wealth. Fourth Day Puja On the fourth day Goddess Durga is worshipped in the form “Kushmanda”. It is believed that Kushmanda is the creator of the entire universe, and she has created the entire universe by her laugh. Fifth Day Puja On the fifth day, the form of Goddess Durga is called “Skandamaata”. She is actually called so because she is here represented as

Final three days The final three days are spent in worshipping the goddess of wisdom, Sarasvati. In order to have all-round success in life, believers seek the blessings of all three aspects of the divine femininity, hence the nine nights of worship. Seventh Day Puja On the seventh day, the Goddess Durga is worshipped as “Kaalratri”. As the name suggests, Kaalratri is as black as a dark night. She has four hands; she is meant to make the devotees fearless. Eighth Day Puja On the eight day, the Goddess Durga is worshipped as “Mahagauri”. She is considered extremely beautiful, white like snow, and accessorised with white-coloured ornaments. She represents calmness and exhibits wisdom. Ninth Day Puja On the ninth day, Goddess Durga is worshipped as “Siddhidaatri”. It is believed she consists of all eight siddhis. She lives on the lotus and is worshipped by all the Rishis-Munis, Siddhas, Sadhakas, and Yogis.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

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The whole truth must be told FOR OUR HEALTH’S SAKE By Ryhaan Shah

resident Dr Irfaan Ali recently urged all Guyanese to set aside at least 30 minutes each day for physical activity as concerns continue to be raised about cardiovascular disease and other non-communicable diseases affecting the population. Through these weekly columns, we have been learning about the absolute importance and necessity of movement and exercise if we are to stay healthy, even as we grow older. The President is right to urge everyone – young and old – to incorporate exercise into their daily routine. Now, many of us may not be able to manage 30 minutes of exercise every day, but as we have been learning, doing as many minutes as you can will help lower the risk of developing serious and chronic illnesses. If you are housebound and using a walker or cane, you can still do some walking for as many minutes as you are comfortable with. As we age, changes in our balance, strength, vision, hearing, and medication use can all increase the likelihood of slipping and falling. While falls are not a normal part of ageing, they remain one of the leading causes of injury among the elderly, and injuries to arms, legs, hips, and our back can create serious issues for our mobility and our independence. There are several precautionary measures we can take to ward off the dangers of falling, starting with our home environment. Family members can help ensure that there are clear pathways to help us move about safely and comfortably. Walkways, stairs, and hallways should all be free of clutter, as rugs and carpets are the most common items that cause trips and slips. They should either be secured or removed completely. Furniture placed too close together forces tight turns and awkward movements. You can rearrange rooms to create wide, direct paths for the most-used routes, such as from the kitchen to the living room area. Lighting should also be clear and bright, and switches should be easy to reach and turn on. Grab bars should be a must in areas like bathrooms, but they can also be used in other parts of the home to ensure proper safety. While our footwear can be stylish, they should also fit well and have soles with good grips. Loose-fitting slippers or very high heels would not be sensible options as we grow older and become unsteady on our feet. If any medications or combinations of medications are causing dizziness or low blood pressure, these should be reviewed with your doctor to ensure you feel safer and steadier while moving about. Head of Internal Medicine and Cardiology at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Dr Mahendra Carpen, also recently raised concerns over what he described as an apparent increase in sudden deaths among young adults in Guyana. He said cardiovascular disease was a leading cause and noted that individuals in their 20s to 40s have been dying unexpectedly, including during sleep or while engaged in routine activities. He warned about the risks of severe uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking. He also urged people experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or light-headedness to seek medical evaluation and encouraged everyone to get regular health checks. The President has also called for a holistic approach to nutrition and made a case for healthier eating habits and for health education to be added to the school curriculum. At the same time, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony highlighted unhealthy diets, consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity as factors contributing to preventable illness and disease. Over the past months, these columns have underscored the importance of proper nutrition and exercise for the elderly. Thus, the call from the President and leading health care officials adds critical voices to the national health programme as we all try to improve our health and lower our risk of developing lifethreatening illnesses such as stroke, heart attack, and type 2 diabetes. The President has also announced plans for the government to work with religious communities on public health and primary healthcare initiatives. Such a programme would include health checks, counselling, and efforts to change lifestyles and living habits for the better. “Give your body the energy, give your body the fuel, give your body the chance to be victorious. Give your body the chance to be optimal. Let us do this together, Guyana,” President Ali urged. It is an important call coming from our Head of State, and we should heed it for the national good and for our health’s sake. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Dear Editor, The recent passing of Robert Corbin in October 2026 must be commiserated, if only from a basic human standpoint, as death naturally ushers in a period of reflection and pause. However, with his life’s journey now concluded, I feel compelled to offer a few remarks. Why? Because it is vital for the Guyanese public to accurately contextualise Corbin’s legacy, given the significant, albeit diabolical, role he played in our nation’s history. Predictably, we are currently witnessing a concerted effort by those within the fraternity of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) to “gloss up” his image. They are fiercely promoting the narrative that he was an astute statesman, a great politician, and a man above reproach. Yet, there remains a sombre and undeniable reality concerning his political life. I posit that Corbin’s true legacy is deeply steeped in democratic subversion, a culture of systemic corruption, and an absolute ruthlessness – to the extent that he was heavily implicated in a major rape scandal. We must recall that Corbin’s career was birthed and nurtured within the oligarchy created by Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. Rising to become a close

confidant and a literal “creation” of Burnham, Corbin actively aided and abetted the consolidation of the PNC dictatorship. He was an indispensable element in the party machinery that engineered the widely condemned and heavily rigged national elections of 1968, 1973, and 1980. Corbin was at the centre of operations throughout this era, contributing significantly to the dismantling of Guyanese democracy and serving as one of Burnham’s primary vanguards in stealing the franchise from citizens for decades. Between 1966 and 1977, Mr Robert Corbin rose rapidly through the PNC ranks into the upper echelon, becoming the National Chairman of the Young Socialist Movement (YSM) – originally the PNC Youth Organisation. Under Burnham’s dictatorship, this arm was far more than a political brotherhood; it functioned as a paramilitary-style tool, weaponised to enforce party dominance and systematically suppress opposition voices. During the controversial national elections of 1968, 1973, and 1980, this dreaded youth arm served as a vital instrument for election-day operations. Corbin utilised his administrative prowess and mobilisation fervour to galvanise his youth bri-

Land of six races

Dear Editor, “One People, One Space, One Destiny”. This caught my attention as I listened to the address of the Prime Minister of Burkina Faso to the General Assembly of the United Nations. The audience of international delegates, and indeed the world watching on television, was told that those words comprise the motto of the Confederation of Sahel States. The aspiration, in 2016, is to further galvanise the peoples of three African nations belonging to different tribes into thinking and acting as one Confederation. Guyana’s national motto, like others created in the 1960s as Great Britain relinquished colonial control over countries that today form the Commonwealth of Nations, reflects the coloniser leaving with goodwill and handing over to independent people the stable polity colonial management had created. Guyana’s “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” could easily have been Jamaica’s “Out Of Many, One People”. Our national motto was not seriously intended to do more than congratulate the United Kingdom for giving the people of the former British Guiana the English language, the English education system, a British-styled civil service, and not driving on the right side of the road – but on the correct side! Unlike the AES’s motto coined in 2026 out of patriotically founded and sup-

ported military takeovers, our national motto neither generated nor fostered feelings of unity amongst Guyanese as one people over the past 60 years since independence. It is good that we have continued to acknowledge we are a land of six races – perhaps not the same six as in 1966 – for our Portugueseheritage brothers and sisters have never considered themselves White, although they are ever conscious that despite arriving as indentured servants, their European origin and pale skin afforded them many practical social benefits. Guyana’s sixth race today is, in reality, made up of all who have any racial mix of Guyanese blood. Most “Puddagee” Guyanese are indeed mixed with a drop of some other Guyanese heritage. To develop onwards and upward from this good starting position towards a true unity of Guyana’s sons and daughters, a unity that goes beyond the inherited British institutions that are an indelible part of what Guyana is, we need to truly aim to see ourselves as one Guyana. Yes, One Guyana encompasses it all – One People, One Nation, One Destiny – in an easy two-word expression which, when uttered or even thought of, feels like Oneness... like togetherness... like just what it means: One Guyana. Yours truly, Ronald Bostwick

gades, leveraging state machinery to insulate the PNC from opposition resistance, while Burnham was left unencumbered to engineer massive and repeated electoral frauds. Editor, so deeply ingrained was Corbin’s proclivity for rigging that he manifested his “real self” again decades later during the infamous 2009 PNCR Internal Congress. At this juncture, when he was challenged for party leadership by the highly favoured Winston Murray, Corbin resorted to the exact same tyrannical tactics he had mastered in his youth as a Burnham devotee. His camp weaponised massive internal fraud, deliberately blocking genuine party delegates and supporters from entering the Congress to manipulate the voting outcome. By disenfranchising his own party members to secure power, Corbin deeply fissioned the PNCR, proving his ultimate loyalty had descended to a state of being an obsessive narcissist whose personal survival transcended the democratic process, even within the very group that bred him. Editor, moving from the ballot boxes, I now come to an even darker chapter of criminality and violence in Corbin’s CV. In the late 1980s, while serving as a senior Government Minister, Corbin was accused of raping a young woman. Predictably, the case was quietly dropped by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) after the complainant reportedly refused to testify. It remains a

horrifying testament to how the powerful evaded justice during that era. To provide vital historical context, the collective opposition at the time – the PPP and the WPA – publicly argued that the lines between the ruling PNC and independent state institutions like the DPP’s office had been deliberately blurred. They accused the Administration of utilising the “reluctant witness” narrative as a convenient legal loophole to quietly shield a sitting Government Minister. Because the DPP possessed absolute, independent constitutional authority to discontinue criminal cases, the opposition could not easily launch a direct legal override in the courts. Instead, leaders like Eusi Kwayana demanded that the DPP file be made public, calling for open transparency on exactly why a subpoena was not issued to compel the complainant to take the stand. Finally, we must look at the late 1990s and early 2000s, an era when Corbin weaponised aggressive “street politics”. He repeatedly orchestrated disruptive protests and instigated public disorder to deliberately destabilise the Government at a time when democracy had finally been restored to Guyana but still had to be fiercely defended. As Guyana looks back on his passing, we must remember the complete history – not just the sanitised versions being offered today. Yours truly, Raymond Anderson

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

0:00 Sign Off 6:00 TVG Devotional Hour 7:00 Documentary: Nat Geo Animals 8:00 Cartoons 9:00 David Persaud Religious Program 9:30 Movie - Moana (2026) 11:30 Movie - Camp Rock (2008) 13:05 Movie - Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam (2010) 14:45 Movie - Camp Rock 3 (2026) 16:20 Movie - Coyote vs. Acme (2026) 18:00 Maths is Fun 18:30 Week-in-Review 19:00 Merlin S1 E2 20:00 The Flash S3 E18 21:00 Heartland S5 E3 22:00 Movie - Men in Black: International (2019)

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

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Foundation

How do smartphones affect our sleep?

martphones are very convenient. They can help you navigate and connect you to other people anywhere in the world. You can take photos, play games or even study. But what are the downsides? On average, people spend four hours a day using their phones. That’s 1460 hours a year – or 60 days round the clock! If we use smartphones too much, they can become harmful. Smartphones may be addictive, and this may lead to problematic use. This is even more true for teenagers and young adults. People can lose interest in face-to-face contact. They can become anxious when their phones are not around. Smartphone addiction can also negatively affect students’ school grades. What about our sleep? Many studies have shown that prolonged screen time is bad for our sleep. It can make it hard to fall asleep and even harder to wake up in the morning. But is it different if you are actually addicted to your phone? Is that more of a problem for sleep than just spending time on your screen? This is what researchers wanted to find out. Researchers asked 1043 students aged between 18 and 30 to complete two questionnaires. The first questionnaire was about the students’ smartphone use. This questionnaire checked whether the students are addicted to their smartphones or not. The second questionnaire assessed the quality of the students’ sleep.

Around 39 per cent of the students showed several signs of smartphone addiction. It was more prevalent among students under 21. Prolonged use was strongly linked to addiction. About 54 per cent of the students who used their smartphones for more than 5 hours a day suffered from addiction. Only 20 per cent of those who used them for under two hours a day were addicted. Smartphone use before bed is also an important factor. Addiction levels were: • High among students who used their phones less than 30 minutes before bedtime • Low among those who stopped using their phones more than an hour before bedtime. There is also an association between addiction and use in the late hours. As expected, smartphone addiction leads to poorer sleep. Almost 70 per cent of the students who reported addiction also reported poor sleep. The levels of smartphone addiction among the participants are high. This is especially true for the younger group – students below 21. This might be because they have more free time. Or

It included questions such as: • On an average weeknight, what time do you go to bed? • How many hours do you usually sleep? • What is the latest time you usually use your smartphone? Then, they analysed the data to find if there is an association between: • Smartphone addiction and sleep • Smartphone addiction • Factors like age, ethnicity, or gender

it could be because they are happy to use smartphones in different ways (for example, for social media). There is a significant association between using your phone for longer and being addicted to it. But do people use their phones more because they are addicted? Or are they addicted because they use their phones more? It’s hard to know. There is also an association between addiction and using your phone late at night. For example, if you use your phone after 01:00h you are three times as likely to have an addiction. So the amount of time spent on your phone is not enough to suggest addiction. But combining that with the latest time you use your phone can be a good indicator. This study also shows that smartphone addiction could be harming people’s sleep. And this is not just because of screen time. People could suffer from addiction and poor sleep even when they used their phones for under two hours a day. But use in the late hours or right before bedtime tended to harm the students’ sleep. If you have a smartphone, it could have a bad impact on your health. It’s a good idea to track your own screen time to prevent future problems. It’s also worth ditching your phone before you go to sleep, especially if you often feel sleepy during the day! Even if you don’t own a smartphone, there are other screens that can also be harmful. Try reducing the time you spend on screens – and see the positive effects! (ScienceJournalForKids)

NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Works on new US$20M Parika Ferry Stelling project advance – weight cap on cargo lifted as diversion route completed

he transformation of the Parika Ferry Stelling into a modern, state-of-the-art port and waterfront development continues to take shape, with significant progress being achieved at the site. Minister of the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, on Saturday inspected the ongoing works at the US$20 million Parika Modern Port and Waterfront

lowing cargo exceeding 20 tonnes to once again be transported through the facility. Construction of the diversion route became necessary after structural deficiencies were identified in the existing timber jetty at the Parika/Supenaam Stelling, resulting in the imposition of a load restriction. The Public Works Ministry had said the

These works offer massive relief for truck operators while supporting the restoration of normal operations along the ParikaSupenaam route. In fact, truck operators in Region Two had raised concerns over the reduced allowable tonnage and its impact on the transportation of goods and commercial operations, thus prompting the diversion route. However, the Government continues to push ahead with critical works to modernise the major transport facility at Parika and strengthen connectivity. “This major investment is about building a safer, stronger, and more efficient ferry facility that will better serve thousands of commuters, businesses, and communities for

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj (centre), being updated on the Parika ferry stelling development Project during a site visit on Saturday

In June 2025, a contract was awarded for the first phase of the new US$20 million Parika Ferry

Sea Dam, East Bank Essequibo, with the aim of relocating them in order to facilitate the Parika

Construction works at the Parika Modern Port and Waterfront Development Project advancing

Development Project. He was accompanied by the Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Vickash Ramkissoon. According to Ramraj, river defence works have significantly advanced, with the area now fully sealed to protect against flooding. “Construction of the stelling is approximately 15 per cent completed, with pile cap works underway ahead of the installation of precast beams.” In addition, the temporary diversion timber jetty has been completed, al-

20-tonne restriction on the loading links span bridge was to ensure the safety of vehicles utilising the ferry service due to the current rehabilitation works at the Parika Stelling. The new temporary facility is designed to safely accommodate the loading of trucks exceeding 20 tonnes onto roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels. The works done also included the upgrading of the tarmac on the southern side of the jetty to facilitate the safe manoeuvring, staging, and loading of heavier trucks.

The completed diversion route being utilised by heavy-duty vehicles

years to come,” Ramraj said following Saturday’s visit. To advance the construction of the new Parika Ferry Stelling and Waterfront Development Project, the Government allocated the sum of $2.2 billion in Budget 2026. With completion set for 2028, this project will transform the old Parika Stelling into an international port of entry and a major regional hub for tourism, agriculture, and shipping.

Stelling and Waterfront Development Project. Phase one of this project includes foundation works and river defence, totalling more than $4.5 billion. Executing the first phase of works are contractors Gaico Construction, Toolsie Persaud Limited, and A&S General Contractors. Before the project design was approved, consultations were held with all stakeholders, including farmers, minibus drivers, taxi drivers, boat operators, and businesses – essentially all agencies that currently operate from the area. Additionally, the Government also engaged residents along the Parika

Waterfront development. During a visit to the area back in March, Housing Minister Collin Croal assured the families that the relocation process would be conducted in a fair and orderly manner. He noted that the Ministry has engaged extensively with affected residents throughout the process and has received cooperation from the majority of households. As part of the initial groundwork for the relocation initiative, on August 22, 2025, a joint team comprising representatives from the Public Works Ministry, the Agriculture Ministry, and the Sea and River Defence Commission con-

ducted a site visit at the Parika Waterfront Informal Settlement to inventory households occupying the area earmarked for development. During that assessment, 42 structures were identified, representing 36 households slated for relocation. Of these, 36 households were deemed eligible for house lot allocations, while the remaining occupants were found to have already benefited from previous allocations based on CH&PA’s records. Significant progress has since been made in the allocation of house lots to affected families in order to allow for their relocation. Meanwhile, phase two of the Parika waterfront development project will see the establishment of a marina for yachts arriving from the Caribbean and around the world. Additionally, the entire waterfront will also be developed for entertainment and restaurants, providing tourists access to Essequibo’s rich, untapped beauty and biodiversity. The modern international port facility at Parika is one of several critical transport upgrades being implemented nationwide to support Guyana’s economic expansion, regional connectivity, and tourism development. The development of the Parika port ties into the Government’s goals of positioning the country as a key expedition cruise hub destination.

New CJIA Terminal 2 designed...

FROM PAGE 3

Just last month, Guyana hosted the The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)/ European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Third Global Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOO) and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organisations (RAIO) Forum on Aviation Safety, during which President Ali disclosed that the country is seeking a major international airline to establish a hub

at the CJIA’s new terminal building. According to Ali, the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation was given the mandate to begin discussions with major international carriers interested in using the new terminal as a base for regional and international connections. The Government is targeting airlines capable of using Guyana’s geographic position to facilitate connections to South America, the

Caribbean, and Africa. “We are looking now for a partner in Terminal Two, someone who will take Terminal Two as their hub, their global hub... We are mandating the Ministry to begin negotiations with all the big players who want to use Terminal Two as their hub, whether it’s to West Africa, South America, or connected to the Caribbean. We are ready to finalise those negotiations,” the President declared.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Whither…

…the UN?

ow, Dear Readers, don’t assume that because our Carolyn’s chances of becoming the next UN Secretary General are now slim to none, your Eyewitness has become stricken with the sour grapes’ syndrome!! It’s just that he stumbled across this piece that claims the UN’s approaching its breaking point – after surviving the strain of proclaiming equality among nations while reserving vetoes for five countries to do WHATEVER they want!! The fella’s proposed escape route is a new global forum built around BRICS, drawing on the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLC) – which your Eyewitness only learns about now!! - as a model of sovereign equality!! No permanent aristocracy; no exclusive veto club – and rules that might even apply to the people writing them!! Steady on…utopia?? We mustn’t frighten the international community with such revolutionary notions – but what has CPLC ever done?? To his credit, the fella identifies the exquisite obstacle to reform – changing the UN Charter requires the consent of the same five veto powers!! It’s like asking the old sugar planters to chair the committee on abolishing slavery!! What’s in it for them?? But we on the outside right now know that change has gotta come, and the only question is how!! Maybe if we put powerful states around a different table, they may discover why THEIR particular emergency requires everyone else’s understanding?? And so, include us?? The acid test would come when the proposed organisation had to discipline one of its heavyweight sponsors. Would equality survive the telephone call from the capital that pays the bills? Or would the secretariat suddenly discover the “virtues” of patience, dialogue and a further consultative process? Then there’s the dilemma of consensus, where if you give everybody the right to block a decision, you’ve created democratised obstruction!! Like with our local shared-government stalwarts’ utopia!! Your Eyewitness’s prognosis is less a sudden funeral than a prolonged loss of authority. The danger is an institution that keeps its name, ceremonies and splendid vocabulary – while governments increasingly conduct the consequential business elsewhere!! For small countries like us, that’s gonna be no laughing matter, so we’ve got every reason to demand a stronger international system – but every reason to examine the replacement before applauding the demolition!! Small states need rules that restrain their neighbours, rather than assurances that the next collection of powerful friends are gonna be nicer!! The fella’s right to challenge the lassitude surrounding reform, but the successor must answer the question the UN keeps dodging - what happens when the powerful refuse to comply? Until someone supplies a convincing answer, we risk replacing one diplomatic talk shop with another – even with a fresh logo, an inspiring declaration and excellent catering!! So maybe it’s best Caroline’s being bypassed?? …Judicial forbearance A cornered rat’s primary instinct is to run and hide, but if no escape route exists, it’s gonna do whatever it can do to escape – jump, lunge, or bite whatever is blocking its path!! Your Eyewitness – who’s had some experience with rats! – has even seen them puff up their fur, hiss, screech, or squeak to look larger and warn off a threat!! Your Eyewitness was spurred into this meditation on cornered rats when he saw the latest move by Sanction Man’s well-paid troglodytes over social media. Realising their day of judgement is literally nigh, when he and his Daady are gonna face the Appellate Court – consisting of Chancellor George and two other justices – their hissing and screeching have reached a new, desperate, sickening crescendo!! Imagine because one of the authoritative rulings (King) used as precedence in bias and extradition cases in our country was written by a previous Appellate Court with the present Chancellor’s father as then Chancellor – she should step aside!! Hiss!! Hiss!! Squeak!! …Sanctimonious Gangster’s ingratitude At the passing of Robert Corbin – who literally made him President – the sanctimonious gangster gushed at the departed man’s statesmanship. But not a word because he slighted Corbin with no appointment after he became President!! The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

TAU welcomes future physicians at White Coat ceremony – unveils cutting-edge medical training, technology

Robert Corbin and Shared Governance

obert Corbin, who passed on October 4, the day before the anniversary of the return of free and fair elections in Guyana in 1992, played an outsized role as a leader of the PNC in politics before and after that date. By the time I returned in 1988 to represent the NY-founded “Jaguar Committee for Democracy” and join the local struggle for electoral reform, Ravi Dev Robert had become indispensable to Desmond Hoyte’s campaign to solidify his leadership of the PNC. In the 1985 elections, he reprised the role he had played in the party since he was a teenager, working assiduously as a member, then leader, of the party’s youth wing, the YSM, to organize majorities for the PNC in the polls of 1968, then in 1973 and 1980 for Forbes Burnham. Missing a parliamentary seat because of his age in 1968, he was handed one in 1973 and occupied it for over three decades. He earned a formidable reputation as a street politician, feared only slightly less than Hamilton Green, who was eased out of the party after Hoyte calculatedly rewarded Corbin with the Deputy Prime Ministership and transferred several PM responsibilities to him. Quite conscious by then of the snobbery of Caribbean “doctor politics, “ Corbin entered law school after the PNC’s loss in 1992 and had just finished his first year at Hugh Wooding when he rushed back to mobilize for the Dec 1997 elections. As such, he would again prove his worth as he subsequently helped organize massive rallies for Hoyte’s violent “mo fyaah; slow fyaah” campaign against Janet Jagan’s presidency. Elected to Parliament in 2000 on the ROAR ticket after the PNCbludgeoned, truncated PPP term, I became personally acquainted with Robert as a member of the opposition. Evidently knowing that I was vegetarian (then), he sought me out at a meal break with a particular non-meat dish, which served as an icebreaker to many discussions on several of my pet issues - including reforming and “balancing” the Disciplined Forces. To my surprise, he said he agreed with me but advised that the process would have to be carefully crafted and executed. After he became PNC leader, he vigorously supported the establishment of the Disciplined Forces Commission which, inter alia, would recommend that policy and enabling mechanisms. Mr. Hoyte’s sudden passing in late 2002 resulted in Robert being elected PNC leader the following March - but not without much drama in the party from several quarters including Mr. Hoyte’s protégé Raphael Trotman and Team Alexander. Not long after, I received a call from Lance Carberry saying that Robert wanted a meeting, to which I agreed, at his home in South GT. I found that Robert was convinced - as Mr. Hoyte had become not long before he passed - that shared governance was the vehicle to resolve our political logjam. I informed him, however, that such a vehicle would suffer from disequilibrium in size if individuals or smaller parties were to join the PNC/R and the PPP was out. He agreed to the latter proposition and emphasized subsequently in discussions that there could be no national government without the PPP. We parted amicably, and very soon the nation heard that talks between President Jagdeo and Opposition Leader Corbin had commenced as the latter downplayed Hoyte’s “slow fyaah; mo fyaah” strategy. This precipitated greater consternation from within and without the PNC. Sitting next to WPA’s Shiela Holder in Parliament, one day she burst out that “this is not why we put Corbin there...he was supposed to ‘ manners ‘ the PPP.” Robert believed that Jagdeo would arrive at a modus vivendi with him at power sharing and acted accordingly. He also diligently had discussions at Watercress with the smaller opposition parties like ROAR and WPA. However, sitting next to him in early 2006 at Sash Sawh ‘s funeral at Castellani House, when Jagdeo pointedly mentioned the “intellectual authors” of Sash’s murder, Robert angrily exclaimed, “If I were the old Robert Corbin...!” There was no agreement between them and with Trotman’s AFC siphoning off five seats from Corbin’s PNC/R One Guyana in the 2006 elections, he faced more strident leadership challenges. Robert stuck to his guns about the PNC needing an accommodative image and by 2010 announced he would not be their presidential candidate for the upcoming elections. He riled party leaders like Aubrey Norton when he engineered APNU’s formation and David Granger’s presidential candidacy. Ironically, he was peripheralized in the new APNU-AFC government, and Granger destroyed his inclusive vision by also sidelining his smaller coalition partners. Robert Corbin demonstrated it is possible for political leaders to evolve and rise to the needs of their country. RIP Robert. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

exila American University (TAU) welcomed a new cohort of aspiring physicians to its College of Medicine during a White Coat ceremony on Friday thus marking an important milestone in the students’ medical education journey, symbolising their commitment to professionalism, ethical practice, compassion and patient-centered healthcare. The event also highlighted the university’s continued investment in advanced medical education technologies, including its Medical Simulation Laboratory (SIM Lab), an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered virtual patient learning platform and modern clinical training facilities. With a diverse student community representing Guyana, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and North America, Texila continues to strengthen its position as an internationally recognised institution for medical education.

Chief Academic Officer and Dean of the College of Medicine, Dr Dheeraj Bansal at TAU with the new physicians

investment in simulation-based learning reflects its commitment to preparing students for the practical demands of modern healthcare. Complementing the SIM

ronments. The combination of AI-powered learning platforms, advanced simulation facilities, and faculty-guided instruction demonstrates Texila’s commitment to innovative, student-centred

Dr Dheeraj Bansal administering an oath to the new physicians

A key feature of TAU’s medical education infrastructure is its advanced Medical SIM Lab, designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience. The laboratory provides students with handson learning opportunities through medical simulation mannequins capable of replicating various human physiological functions, including cardiac, respiratory, and other clinical responses. These simulation technologies allow students to practice patient assessments, develop clinical reasoning skills and strengthen their ability to respond to medical situations in a supervised and controlled environment. By incorporating simulation-based education into its medical curriculum, Texila provides students with opportunities to develop clinical confidence, improve decision-making, and strengthen patient safety practices before progressing to real-world clinical environments. The University’s

Lab, Texila has integrated AI into medical education through its CyberPatient virtual patient simulation platform. This innovative learning technology allows students to interact with virtual patients, obtain medical histories, evaluate clinical findings, select diagnostic investigations and make clinical decisions. The platform provides feedback on students’ clinical assessments, enabling them to identify areas for improvement and strengthen their diagnostic reasoning and decision-making abilities. Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Academic Officer and Dean of the College of Medicine, Dr Dheeraj Bansal highlighted the importance of integrating emerging technologies into medical education. He emphasised that AIassisted learning and simulation-based clinical training provide students with additional opportunities to apply medical knowledge, develop practical competencies, and prepare for increasingly complex healthcare envi-

medical education. TAU holds a distinctive position in Caribbean higher education through its three international accreditations, reflecting its commitment to academic quality, institutional governance and internationally benchmarked educational standards. The University’s College of Medicine holds accreditation from two internationally recognised medical education accrediting bodies: These three accreditations demonstrate the University’s continued commitment to external quality assurance, institutional accountability, academic standards and continuous improvement. Combined with its advanced medical simulation facilities, AI-enabled teaching technologies, and clinical education opportunities, these recognitions reinforce Texila’s position as an internationally accredited medical education institution in the Caribbean. While highlighting advancements in medical technology, the White Coat

Ceremony also reinforced the fundamental values of the medical profession. Addressing the incoming students, Dr Bansal highlighted that becoming a successful physician requires more than academic knowledge and technological competence. He encouraged students to demonstrate empathy, patience, integrity, professionalism and a lifelong commitment to patient care. The University also highlighted the importance of community engagement as an integral component of medical education. Through health camps and community outreach initiatives conducted across Guyana, including remote communities, students gain exposure to diverse healthcare needs while developing a deeper understanding of social responsibility and community-oriented healthcare. These experiences complement classroom instruction and simulation-based training, helping students appreciate the human dimension of medicine. TAU continues to invest in academic infrastructure, advanced teaching technologies, simulation-based learning and clinical training opportunities to support the development of future healthcare professionals. Its emphasis on integrating traditional medical education with emerging technologies such as AI reflects the University’s forward-looking approach to preparing physician for the evolving demands of global healthcare. The White Coat Ceremony served as both a celebration of the students’ entry into the medical profession and a reminder of the responsibilities associated with wearing the white coat. As the new cohort begins its journey, TAU remains committed to developing knowledgeable, clinically competent, compassionate and globally prepared physicians.

12 NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana nears 6000 hotel rooms by year-end – GTA Director ... says 15 new hotels expected post 2026

uyana’s hospitality sector is expected to reach nearly 6000 hotel rooms by the end of 2026, with another 15 hotels projected to come on stream after this year as the country continues to expand its tourism market. This was revealed by Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Kamrul Baksh during the recently concluded State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2026. The conference, which was hosted in Guyana, brought together more than 300 delegates from across the

GTA Director Kamrul Baksh

Courtyard Marriott, CJIA

Caribbean and beyond for a week of discussions, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration. “This here is the growth of the accommodation market, so if we are to accommodate additional visitors, we, of course, need rooms. That’s just simply logical, and as you could see, we had a relatively small number of rooms as of 2020. But because of an aggressive investment strategy by the

started that investment. We have signaled a great intention to take this to the next level through the establishment of the Hospitality and Tourism Institute, and that is going to be completed by the end of this year so our people could be trained, and they could then go back out into the industry and exercise those skill sets to provide great service delivery. That is something that we think is very, very crucial

experiences, would remain central to the sector’s expansion. “Whatever we do in the tourism industry, it has to be for the people. It has to be for the people, it has to be for the community. We want to ensure that the people of Guyana benefit from this, and that is going to be the hallmark, you know, as we expand tourism in the next few years. Quality and service, I spoke about that. Connectivity and capacity,

One of the hotels under construction

Government, you can see what the expected number of rooms will be like by the end of 2026 – close to 6000 rooms – and that is pretty strong,” Baksh stated. He added that another 15 hotels are expected to come online after this year, further expanding the accommodation sector as Guyana develops its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) market, as well as diaspora travel and leisure tourism. “We, of course, are expecting an additional 15 hotels to come on board post this year, so that is only going to continue to expand as we build out the MICE market and continue to build out on the diaspora travel and leisure, of course.” Baksh also highlighted the importance of training and developing the local workforce to meet the demands of the expanding tourism industry. “At the heart of this, Guyana is at a place where we need to upscale our people at scale, and to this point, we have

if we are to expand tourism here in Guyana.” He explained that visitors attending conferences or traveling for leisure were increasingly looking for activities and experiences during their stay. “It is very good because when people are coming to the conferences, when they are coming for leisure, or whatever type of travel, they want activities, activities, activities, activities, so that is very, very important,” he said. Baksh further noted that attracting more airlines would require improvements to airport infrastructure and passenger-handling capacity. He pointed to the Government of Guyana’s investment in a new airport terminal, Terminal Two, which is expected to increase capacity and enable the country to accommodate more airlines. Looking ahead, he said sustainability, community development, service quality, connectivity and capacity, along with the creation of new tourism products and

we need to build out that, so that we can grow, and of course, new products and experiences, so that we can give people, you know, more reasons to come to Guyana,” Baksh said. Only recently, this publication reported that GTA Director Kamrul Baksh highlighted at the 2026 SOTIC event that approximately 80 new tours and experiences had been launched across the country over the past six years. “So, the capacity building is absolutely important. I spoke about diversifying the product portfolio, so within the last, I would say, last six years, we launched about 80 tours, 80 new experiences all across Guyana, from food experiences to adventure products to nature products, in all the major tourism circuits. I think we have done a very good job in partnership with the private sector as well. I want to at this time shout out to the private sector, and kudos for bringing additional experiences to the market,” Baksh said.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

uyana Carnival r e c e n t l y launched its 2027 season by unveiling a vibrant collection of costumes under the theme “Wildlife.” The 2027 theme pays homage to Guyana’s extraordinary natural beauty

Guyana Carnival unveils “Wildlife” theme & costumes for 2027 season and the rich flora and fauna for which the country is renowned. For the upcoming season, that beauty will be brought to life through mas, with costumes drawing inspiration from some of the country’s most striking birds, butterflies and other elements of the wild. The launch featured presentations from Genesis the Band, Decoded Carnival, Crystal Ivy, and Caribbean Power Jam, alongside roadwear from BOOMNATION and package options for the popular Stink & Dutty J’Ouvert experience. Genesis the Band unveiled two sections for the 2027 road experience: Rosé - Roseate Spoonbill, designed by Elytes by Jen, and Jeweled Nectar, designed by Lauren x Austin. Inspired by the Roseate Spoonbill, Rosé embraces soft pink tones and the elegance of one of the region’s most distinctive

orange. It is designed for both men and women by Brittany Wood. The Ultra Frontline and Frontline presentations incorporate elaborate wings, embellishments, and hummingbird-inspired accents around the shoulders to recreate the beauty and energy of the bird. Its tagline, “Where every wingbeat is a taste of temptation,” captures the bold and seductive character of the section. Genesis the Band costumes will be available for purchase from October 15 via birds. The costume is adorned with thousands of shimmering pink gems and complemented by layers of light- coloured feathers, creating a dramatic yet feminine presentation. With the tagline “Sweet in pink, wild in mas,” Rosé will be available in Curvy, Frontline and Backline options. Genesis’ second option, Jeweled Nectar, is a dazzling, gem-covered portrayal inspired by the hummingbird, featuring colours like pink, teal, and

HJEXPERIENCE.COM, with payment plans starting as low as US$100. Decoded Carnival unveiled Melelaus Butterfly, designed through a collaboration between Decoded and Olympia’s Fashion. It was inspired by the rare butterfly found within Guyana’s rainforests and offers a shimmering orange option and a bold blue costume, with a matching bedazzled butterfly-like wing. Designed by Jermaine Broomes, Crystal Ivy’s 2027 presentation celebrates the breathtaking Scarlet Ibis. The collection uses rich tropical reds, feathers, flowing silhouettes, and dramatic detailing to capture the bird’s striking appearance and graceful movement. Crystal Ivy will offer five options: Wings of Scarlet - Ultra Frontline, Ibis Allure - Frontline, Crimson Seduction - Backline, Crimson Knight - Male Costume, and Scarlet Essence - T-Shirt option. Caribbean Power Jam introduced King Vultra, designed by Preston Paul and inspired by the brilliantly coloured vultures found within Guyana’s rainforest ecosystem. Featuring bold shades of orange, green, blue, and pink, the costume includes large feathered wings for the Frontline and Ultra Frontline options, along with LED gemstones inspired by the bird’s vibrant colours. BOOMNATION also introduced its 2027 bodywear presentation, Canje Pheasant, designed by DesignsbyCi. This royal blue piece is perfect for those who want something different from the traditional costume look while still standing out on the road. The design is inspired by one of Guyana’s most treasured birds. Costume and package options for Stink & Dutty J’Ouvert were also revealed during the launch. Designed by Haus of Mavelle, the J’Ouvert looks provide patrons with another opportunity to immerse themselves in the 2027 Carnival experience beyond the main road parade. More bands and costume presentations are expected to be unveiled as Guyana Carnival continues its rollout for the 2027 season, with Mas Mani, Allure, and Yemaya Mas among those still to come. Earlier this summer in New York, Euphoria, Fete-Ish, Muse, and Decoded unveiled their 2027 costume options during Soca & Wine: Shades of an Apple, giving patrons an early look at what they

will bring to the road. Additionally, Guyana Carnival has partnered with Mile High Travels to make travel to the 2027 season easier and more convenient through Flight+ an all-in-one travel package offering flights, hotel accommodation, event tickets, and costumes. Packages can be secured with a $250 USD deposit, with dedicated flights operating from May 4 to June 5, 2027, connecting Guyana with New York, Barbados, and Trinidad. W h a t began in 2019 as the Carnival no one saw coming has developed into an evolving

national entertainment brand that continues to attract attention from Guyanese at home, the diaspora, and visitors from across the Caribbean and further afield. In 2027, organisers anticipate another major turnout as thousands will be a part of the Guyana Carnival Road experience. Patrons are encouraged to follow Guyana Carnival on social media for additional costume launches, event announcements, and information on the 2027 season.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

16 NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Haemophilia patient walks again after years of disability

fter years of disability caused by haemophilia, 48-year-old Pooran Sookdeo is walking again following a complex surgical procedure at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Sookdeo has faced a lifetime of medical challenges but a landmark surgical achievement at GPHC has given him renewed hope, offering him the opportunity to regain his independence and improve his quality of life. On September 22, 2026, GPHC performed a total knee replacement on Sookdeo through its partnership with the Louisiana Center for Bleeding & Clotting Disorders (LCBCD) at Tulane University, New Orleans, facilitated through the World Federation of Haemophilia (WFH) Twinning Programme. Haemophilia A is a rare, lifelong bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of clotting factor VIII (Repeated bleeding into

Pooran Sookdeo and the team that worked on his surgery

joints can result in severe arthritis, chronic pain and permanent disability). Performing major Orthopaedic surgery in pa-

tients with haemophilia is particularly challenging because of the significant risk of bleeding during and after surgery, as well as poten-

tial complications involving wound healing and infection. Success therefore requires meticulous surgical

planning, specialised clotting factor replacement, laboratory monitoring and coordinated postoperative care. This procedure brought together the expertise of Hematology, Orthopaedics, Anaesthesia, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Laboratory and Operating Theatre Services, demonstrating the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in managing complex medical conditions. Local Expertise and International Collaboration The surgical team included Dr Kaaleshwar Ramcharran and the GPHC Orthopaedic team, working alongside Dr Fernando Leon Sanchez, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Chief of Adult Reconstruction at Tulane University. Edgardo Javier, an experienced Orthopaedic surgical technician, provided essential technical and operative support. The patient’s specialised bleeding management was coordinated by Dr Kamela

Bemaul-Sukhu, Consultant Hematologist, and Dr Jamal Shamsudeen, Senior Medical Officer, Hematology, in collaboration with Dr Maissaa Janbain, Associate Professor of Medicine at Tulane University and Director of the LCBCD. Carefully planned factor VIII replacement before and after surgery, together with close clinical monitoring, was essential to minimising bleeding risks and supporting recovery. Nurse June Willery, of GPHC’s Haemophilia Nursing Service, collaborated with visiting Haemophilia Nurse Nicole Reynaud in specialised nursing care, treatment monitoring and patient education. The GPHC Physiotherapy Department, led in this initiative by Simone Seckle, played a vital role in postoperative rehabilitation, with additional specialist rehabilitation guidance from Kenneth Martin of the Louisiana team. CONTINUES ON PAGE 17

NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Haemophilia patient walks again...

Sookdeo has since been discharged and is walking. He continues physiotherapy three times weekly, with no complications reported to date. The surgery formed part of a three-day WFH Haemophilia Treatment Centre Twinning Visit, held from September 21 to 23, 2026, which extended beyond the operating theatre. The programme included clinical consultations, multidisciplinary case discussions, training in ultrasound-guided intra-articular joint injections and specialist educational activities. Visiting Obstetrician and Gynaecologist (OBGYN) Dr Janifer Tropez collaborated with Dr Natasha France and GPHC’s OBGYN and Hematology teams to strengthen the

FROM PAGE 16

GPHC CEO Robbie Rambarran and a team of experts

management of women with bleeding disorders. Countrywide Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions, delivered virtually, also provided health-

care professionals across Guyana access to specialist teaching on haemophilic joint disease, von Willebrand disease and modern approaches to

bleeding disorder management. Special recognition is extended to Jennifer Borrillo, Programme Director and Social Worker with the Louisiana Center,

whose dedication and extensive coordination were instrumental in making this collaboration possible. This achievement highlights Guyana’s growing

capacity to deliver complex specialist healthcare through strong partnerships, knowledge exchange and multidisciplinary teamwork. More importantly, it offers renewed hope to patients living with haemophilia and its disabling complications. For Sookdeo, the impact is already deeply personal. After years of restricted mobility, he is walking again, with the prospect of greater independence and an improved quality of life. This landmark achievement is more than a successful knee replacement. It demonstrates the power of collaboration, the advancement of specialised healthcare in Guyana, and the possibilities created when medical expertise is united in the service of patients.

18 FEATURE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

From childhood fishponds to a vision for marine science L

ong before Dr Tej Singh became a fish biologist, he was just a young boy fascinated by the aquatic animals swimming in the trenches of Guyana. His siblings still remember him at five years old, catching fish from those trenches and keeping them in aquariums at home. That childhood fascination eventually grew into a lifelong scientific pursuit that took him to the Department of Biology at the University of Guyana (UG), where he became Head of Department, and later Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences. Decades after his tenure at the University, Dr Singh returned to UG on Thursday, September 17, for a networking lunch hosted jointly by the Institute for Marine and Riverine Ecologies and Economies (IMAREE) and the Faculty of Natural Sciences (FNS), in recognition of his contribution to the University and its development. At the event, Dr Singh informed the attendees that his fascination with fishes continued well beyond his departure from UG. “I’m basically a fish biologist,” he said, affirming his continued interest, and then explaining that this interest continues to span “every aspect of fish, from consuming

– Dr Tej Singh reflects on his legacy

fish to rearing fish, to doing anything with the biology of fish,” he added. It was this enduring interest that helped shape one of the significant aspects of his legacy at UG. During his tenure as Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Dr Singh envisioned the expansion and development of marine sciences at the university. In pursuit of this

Dr Ivan Goodbody, which examined Guyana’s marine and aquatic resources. The report from this study continues to be a body of work held in high regard by Dr Singh. Throughout his consultancy and subsequent work in the field, the proposed institute remained a priority for Dr Singh. He even identified a building along

That early vision for the university has since found renewed expression through IMAREE, which is advancing research on Guyana’s marine and riverine environments. “I’m very proud,” Dr Singh said, noting his particular satisfaction that one of his former students, Phillip DaSilva, is now part of the initiative. “They have a good vision. They’re enthu-

“There’s lots of work to do here,” he said. Dr Singh is already looking toward contributing to this work. Having followed developments in Guyana’s fisheries from abroad, he became particularly interested in the growing exploitation of the peacock bass, locally called Lukanani fish. “Nobody’s done the biology of the Lukanani,” he observed,

Dr Singh with members of the IMAREE – (left to right), Troy Broomes, Coordinator, Education and Training; Phillip DaSilva, Deputy Director; Dr Tej Singh, Calvin Bernard, Director; Dr Mark Ram, Coordinator, Research, Innovation and Services; Dr Ivor English, Senior Lecturer; and Rajshrie Balram, Administrative Officer

vision, he initiated efforts to establish an Institute of Marine Sciences and secured a UNESCO consultancy to explore the possibilities. It was through this consultancy that he became involved in a study led by Jamaican marine scientist,

Liliendaal Public Road, Greater Georgetown, which he envisioned as a potential home for the institution. Although he eventually left Guyana before the vision was realised, he continued to follow the University’s progress towards establishing the institute.

siastic,” he said. Dr Singh believes Guyana’s aquatic environment, which spans from its mudflats and mangroves to aquaculture, fisheries and the wider marine and riverine ecosystem, presents enormous opportunities for research and development.

expressing his intention to pursue a collaborative research project with young scientists at UG, drawing on his expertise in reproductive biology and population dynamics. For Dr Singh, the opportunity to work with a new generation of scientists is

one of the most rewarding aspects of returning to a university environment. “I enjoy working with young people. Anytime I went on campus, those were the happiest days of my life,” he said. His return also gave him an opportunity to reflect on how dramatically UG has changed since he first joined the Department of Biology in the 1970s. He remembers a university where staff worked with limited resources, research materials could take months to arrive, and even basic chemicals and equipment were sometimes difficult to obtain. Yet, he said, the institution was driven by people with vision and determination. Today, he sees a very different university. “The quality of the staff has improved remarkably,” Dr Singh said. “Now, these guys [staff] are super qualified. They’re enthusiastic. They are doing wonderful work,” he continued. He is particularly encouraged by the achievements of former students who have gone on to become academics, researchers and professionals in Guyana and abroad. “I feel very proud when I see my students teaching here,” he said. CONTINUES ON PAGE 19

FEATURE

From childhood fishponds to...

For the young scientists now at UG, Dr Singh sees opportunities he could scarcely have imagined during his own academic career. “I envy this new generation. They are young, they are bright, they have the resources, they have the energy, and they are connected,” he said. The internet, he noted, has transformed access to scientific knowledge. Whereas researchers once depended on libraries and international institutions to photocopy and mail research

Generations of aquatic biologists at UG – from left to right, Dr Tej Singh, Phillip DaSilva, Calvin Bernard, Elford Liverpool, Dr Devya Hemraj-Naraine, and Dr Mark Ram

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM FROM PAGE 18

papers, scientists today can access vast amounts of information almost instantly. Dr Singh believes Guyana’s natural wealth makes this generation particularly well positioned to advance scientific research. “Guyana is rich in so many resources and so many avenues,” he said. From fish biology and aquaculture to mangroves, mudflats and marine research, he sees an abundance of questions waiting to be answered and opportunities for young Guyanese

scientists to answer them. For a man whose scientific pursuits began with catching fish in a trench as a child, the return to UG represents more than a visit. For Dr Singh, it is a chance to see a decades-old vision taking shape, to reconnect with the institution that helped shape his career and, perhaps most importantly, to help inspire those who will carry the work forward. (Feature by the Department of Events, Conferences and Communication [DECC], UG.)

20 FEATURE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Rooted in heritage, - Alliah Simon’s journey to Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen crown 2026

St Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), representing Region Four, crowned Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen 2026

pageant runway may stretch 40 to 80 feet, with bright lights, cheering crowds, and all eyes fixed on the woman making her way across the stage. But for Alliah Simon, her first runway looked nothing like that. It was the winding paths of the place where she was raised, surrounded by towering trees and the lush greenery of the forest, where she could run barefoot, swim in the creek, and let her curiosity lead the way. Before the gowns were fitted, the heels slipped onto her feet, and the loud applause filled the room, nature was her world. This is, in fact, the plain truth for the newly crowned Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen 2026. Her victory marks the first time in the 25-year history of the pageant that Region Four has captured the crown. Simon, who is a public relations and project management coordinator, is also pursuing an MSc in project management. The pageant forms part of a month of activities dedicated to showcasing Guyana’s Indigenous heritage, traditions, talents and contributions to national development. The 23-year-old spoke to Guyana Times just days after winning the competition. During a telephone interview on Saturday, she revealed that preparing for the national pageant was quite

a challenge, particularly given her natural affinity for the outdoors. According to Simon, she had to master everything from walking in heels to maintaining the right posture and carrying herself on stage.

after enrolling at university to pursue a degree in biology that the pieces of her varied interests slowly began to fall into place. While her first two years were spent exploring the fundamentals of the subject, it was in her third year, when she encountered courses in conservation, that she discovered where her true passion lay. From there, her focus shifted towards conservation and environmental management. “I would much rather go and swim and jump in a creek and go in the forest, barefoot and all of these things. So, putting me in a six-inch heel was quite a challenge. I had to learn how to do it, and huge credit to the previous Miss Region Four. As well as my pageant coach. They really shaped me to be a pageant queen. So, huge credit to them.” She added, “Before the national leg of the pageant, it was a bit more challenging, because everything was so new to me. I had to literally learn how to walk in heels, fix my posture and all of these things. So, that was a bit challenging, because it’s completely unlike me and who I am as a person. I’m a very down-to-earth kind of person.” Although Simon had attended the Indigenous pageant as a child, she said she never developed an interest in pageantry. Following the previous competition in 2024, she was approached by several people who encouraged her to participate and represent her village, the only titled Indigenous village in Region Four. However, she declined the opportunity at the time, as pageantry was not something that particularly interested her.

Family Support

Accustomed to a more downto-earth lifestyle, she said the demands of pageantry were a departure from her natural personality, making the transition particularly challenging.

Lover of Nature

Interestingly, Simon’s love for nature was accompanied by an early interest in biology, a subject that would eventually help shape her career aspirations. As a high school student, biology was her favourite subject, although she admits she had little idea what she wanted to do with her life. It was only

This year, however, the encouragement came from her family, who believed her work in youth empowerment, environmental preservation and conservation made her a suitable representative for her community. Simon explained that, at 23, she also recognised that she had limited opportunities to participate in the competition, given its age limit of 25. She therefore decided to take up the challenge, viewing it as an opportunity to serve her community. Her journey began at the regional level, where she represented her village. She said that stage was not particularly challenging, as the process consisted mainly of interviews, with insufficient participants to stage a full pageant. Simon spent three years of primary school in Linden before moving on

to President’s College, where she lived as a boarding student for five years. Those were formative years, she said, and the institution played a significant role in shaping the young woman she is today. Growing up away from her Indigenous village meant Simon

missed out on some of the experiences that connect many Indigenous children to their heritage, including trips to the farm, the rhythms of village life and the everyday traditions passed down through generations. However, she said her university studies and wider exposure to Indigenous issues allowed her to appreciate her heritage in a new light. That awakening prompted her to make a deliberate effort to learn more about her own culture while also exploring the rich traditions of other Indigenous communities across Guyana.

Identity

Her story, which is still unfolding, has become about much more than one young woman’s personal journey. For Simon, understanding her identity and heritage is an important step towards empowering young Indigenous people and encouraging them to speak up about the issues affecting their communities. “I think that as youths, we really should try to first understand who we are and where we come from, especially Indigenous people. Many Indigenous youth tend to shy away from their heritage because of modernity and contemporary living. But we should all try to really learn about our heritage, especially those on the coast and for those in the hinterland that have the opportunity to still be very much involved and live in their heritage and culture, to appreciate who we are as a people. Whatever nation you are from, really appreciate your heritage and your culture so that you can understand the severity of many of the social issues affecting our communities. Do not be afraid to be a voice for your people!”

NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Grass fires surge by 469% in Reg 5 & 6 – GFS ...reports 46 properties damaged, 41 homeless, 1 death recorded in 9 months ...GFS warns against unattended burning as incidents climb from 45 to 256

rass fires across Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) have surged by a staggering 469 per cent during the first nine months of 2026, with the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) warning that unattended burning, particularly on agricultural lands and open fields, continues to pose a serious threat to communities, buildings and motorists. The alarming increase comes as Guyana observes Fire Prevention Month, with firefighters intensifying their public awareness campaign amid a sharp rise in emergency calls across the two regions. Statistics provided by the GFS revealed that 256 grass fires were recorded between January and September this year, compared with just 45 during the corresponding period in 2025, an increase of 211 incidents. Overall fire calls almost doubled, climbing from 264 during the first nine months of 2025 to 532 for the corresponding period this year, representing an increase of 102 per cent. Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald, whose division covers Regions Five and Six, has expressed concern over the frequency of grass fires, attributing many of the incidents to persons setting vegetation alight and subsequently leaving the fires unattended. During an interview with the Guyana Times on Saturday, McDonald explained that firefighters have been responding to numerous grass fires, with hot, dry conditions adding to the challenges confronting the Fire Service. He explained that some of the fires originate on agricultural lands, particular-

ies and endanger surrounding areas. The Fire Officer also explained that firefighters sometimes employ specialised techniques, including counter-firing, to contain fires in open areas. However, he cautioned members of the public against attempting such techniques, explaining that they require professional knowledge and an understanding of factors such as wind direction and fire behaviour. Divisional Fire Officer, Clive McDonald

ly rice fields, where farmers burn vegetation in preparation for cultivation. However, these fires sometimes spread beyond their intended boundaries, engulfing neighbouring fields and threatening nearby communities. McDonald further added that what residents commonly describe as wildfires are often grass fires that have spread across open lands. While some occur in remote areas where they pose little immediate danger to life or property, others spread towards populated communities, forcing firefighters to intervene. He noted that smoke from burning vegetation can create dangerous conditions for motorists when it drifts across public roads, significantly reducing visibility. According to him, some grass fires have also threatened buildings, including schools along the Corentyne Coast, although firefighters were able to intervene and prevent the flames from spreading to those structures. As such, he stressed that residents must exercise greater responsibility when burning vegetation, warning that fires can quickly spread beyond their intended boundar-

Garbage Fires

Meanwhile, the statistics reveal a significant increase in rubbish fires, which climbed from 63 during the Januaryto-September period in 2025 to 92 this year, representing an increase of 46 per cent. In contrast, the number of house fires remained relatively stable, with 68 recorded during the first nine months of 2026, compared with 67 during the corresponding period last year. Despite the dramatic increase in grass fires and overall fire calls, the number of persons left homeless as a result of fires declined considerably. According to the figures, 41 persons were left homeless between January and September this year, compared with 105 during the corresponding period in 2025, representing a reduction of 61 per cent. Nevertheless, property damage remains a concern. The GFS also recorded 46 properties as completely damaged during the first nine months of 2026, compared with 49 during the corresponding period last year. An additional 12 properties were classified as severely damaged this year, compared with 18 in 2025, while 37 sustained slight damage,

Firefighters battling a brush fire

up from 33 last year. The statistics also recorded one death during the first nine months of 2026. Another significant development highlighted by the figures is the substantial increase in fires classified as deliberately set. A total of 344 such fires were recorded between January and September this year, compared with 109 during the corresponding period last year, representing an increase of 216 per cent. Fires classified as malicious also increased, moving from 32 in 2025 to 46 this year, an increase of 44 per cent. The Fire Service records deliberate and malicious fires as separate categories, with the former not necessarily indicating an intention to cause destruction. McDonald also expressed concern about fires at abandoned buildings, where persons sometimes enter to remove materials. He explained that some individuals frequent abandoned structures to extract copper from electrical wiring, using fire to burn away the insulation. According to the Fire Officer, these activities can

result in fires being left unattended, creating the potential for flames to spread throughout the structures. He urged residents to remain vigilant whenever suspicious activities are observed around abandoned properties and to report such occurrences to the Fire Service.

Public Cooperation

Against this backdrop, the Fire Service is intensifying its prevention activities throughout October, seeking greater public cooperation in reducing the number of incidents. This year’s Fire Prevention Month campaign places particular emphasis on the safe charging of electronic devices, especially those powered by lithium-ion batteries. McDonald explained that these batteries, commonly found in mobile phones and other rechargeable equipment, can pose fire hazards when improperly charged or used contrary to manufacturers’ specifications. He warned that overheating can trigger a phenomenon known as thermal runaway, during which a battery can generate intense heat and potentially ignite.

With rechargeable electronic devices now forming an integral part of everyday life, he stressed the importance of following recommended charging practices and exercising caution when handling such equipment. However, McDonald emphasised that fire prevention extends beyond electrical safety and requires a collective effort involving Government agencies, communities and individual citizens. He explained that the Fire Service cannot effectively prevent fires without the cooperation of the public, particularly in communities where agricultural burning and the disposal of rubbish by fire remain common practices. The Divisional Fire Officer said firefighters are intensifying their public education efforts throughout Regions Five and Six, encouraging residents to adopt safer practices and report potentially dangerous situations. McDonald stressed that preventing fires cannot be the responsibility of firefighters alone, reminding residents that “fire prevention is everybody’s business.” (Andrew Carmichael)

GGDMA distributes over 300 school packages in back-to-school drive

he Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) recently brought the curtain down on its nationwide back-to-school drive, distributing more than 300 backpacks filled with school supplies to children across several communities in Linden and Region 10. The final leg of the initiative saw the GGDMA visiting communities including Coomacka Mines, Siberian Mines, Chinese Road, Speightland, West Watooka, and Block 22, taking the school packages directly to children and families in communities with close ties to Guyana’s mining sector. The Region 10 exercise concluded a month-long programme that saw the Association reaching children in Region Four, Bartica, and other mining communities across Guyana. The overall initiative, valued at more than G$6 million, was made possible through contributions from more than 20 miners and formed part of the GGDMA’s ongoing commitment to giving back to the communities that support the mining industry. Managing Director of

GGDMA, Avalon Jagnandan said the Association was pleased with the response throughout the programme and grateful that miners had been able to make a tangible contribution to children and families. “We are excited to give back to the mining community and the mining town of Linden. Over the past month, we have been actively engaging several mining areas and districts, giving back to the kids in those areas and giving back to the mining communities,” Jagnandan said. He noted that the Linden outreach marked the conclusion of the current phase of the project and thanked the miners and other donors who made the programme possible. “We are pulling down the curtains here on this project. We have visited several areas over the past month, and I want to thank all of our donors,” he added. The school packages included backpacks and essential school supplies intended to help primary and secondary school students prepare for the new academic year and to ease some of the financial burden on parents.

Outreach at West Watooka

The initiative was warmly welcomed by residents in the communities visited. A community representative, Sunita Jacobs expressed appreciation to the GGDMA for taking the programme directly into the community. “We want to say a big thank you for coming to our community and for bringing this initiative here, not only just to visit but to bring something back into our community. We want to say thank you,” Jacobs said. School teacher and resident Rufina Allicock said she understood firsthand the importance of ensuring

that children have the materials they need to learn. “Being a school teacher, I know what it means for learners to be equipped with the necessary materials to prepare them for schooling. We as a community would like to extend our gratitude and appreciation to the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association for this initiative,” Allicock said. She said the donation had brought “joy and smiles” to the children while also helping to ease the cost to parents of purchasing school supplies. In Chinese Road, resident Lorina Swaven said the com-

munity was grateful to have been included in the programme. “We are so grateful that you would have chosen our little community, Chinese Road. The children are very happy. We want to say a special thanks to you for making Chinese Road a priority,” Swaven stated. The Linden outreach followed earlier GGDMA distributions in Region Four and Bartica, where hundreds of children received school packages as part of the same initiative. In Bartica alone, more than 500 primary and secondary school children received

backpacks and supplies, with the Association also providing meals for children attending the exercise. Throughout the programme, the GGDMA said its objective was not only to provide school supplies but also to demonstrate the mining sector’s appreciation for the communities that have supported the industry over the years. The Association said investment in education and young people remains an important part of its corporate social responsibility programme, recognising that children in mining communities must also be given the tools and opportunities needed to succeed. As the current back-toschool initiative concludes, the GGDMA expressed its appreciation to its contributing miners, community leaders, parents, teachers, and volunteers who helped the programme reach children across the country. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting mining communities and contributing to initiatives that strengthen families, education and the development of the next generation of Guyanese.

22 NEWS 24-acre Truck Parking Facility at Meten-Meer-Zorg 65% complete SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– 4 of 6 lots expected to be ready in new month

ork on the Truck Parking Facility at Meten-MeerZorg, West Coast Demerara, is progressing, according to Housing Minister Collin Croal during a visit on Friday. Spanning 16 acres, the facility is 65 per cent complete, with six contractors actively engaged in its development. Once completed, it will accommodate about 300 trucks, providing designated space for commercial vehicle parking and helping reduce heavy-duty vehicle parking in residential communities. The Meten-Meer-Zorg facility is one of two such projects currently being undertaken in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). The second facility at Hermitage, Wales, on

working on that 24-acre space, where work has advanced to the placement of crusher run, while lighting installations are also planned to facilitate operations beyond regular working hours. In fact, four of the six lots are expected to be completed within the next month, while the remaining two are scheduled for completion before the end of the year. The Hermitage Truck Parking Facility is slated for completion before the end of 2026. During Friday’s site visit at these facilities, Minister Croal indicated that a management committee will be established to oversee the operations of the dedicated heavy-duty truck parking spaces being built across the coastal regions. He also indicated that

According to Croal, the management structure will ensure the facilities are properly maintained, secured, and efficiently operated while providing designated space for truck operators and other commercial vehicle owners to park, service, and undertake routine maintenance of their vehicles. The Minister noted that the operational framework will include security arrangements, maintenance provisions, and a fee structure to support the longterm sustainability of the facilities. The initiative is also expected to create employment opportunities for persons involved in their daily management and upkeep. These facilities form part of the Government’s wider efforts to improve in-

Works progressing at the Meten-Meer-Zorg Truck Parking Facility

fic management and reducing congestion in residential communities. In addition to Region Three, similar truck parking facilities are also being con-

Housing Minister Collin Croal engaged with contractors working on the Meten-Meer-Zorg Truck Parking Facility

the West Bank of Demerara, is approximately 75 per cent complete. Six contractors are also

the proposed fee structure and operational arrangements will be announced in the coming weeks.

frastructure and provide a designated secure space for commercial vehicle operators, thus improving traf-

structed across other coastal regions. Already, a $500 million Truck Parking and Auto Zone, spanning ap-

proximately 14.1 acres, has been developed at Grove, East Bank Demerara, and will be the first to come on stream once the operational arrangements are finalised. This facility will accommodate at least 300 trucks. It will also address concerns raised by residents about automotive activities, including vehicle repairs and spray painting. There is also a second truck parking lot currently under construction at Enmore, East Coast Demerara. That second facility in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) is being developed on approximately 30 acres of land, with completion slated for November 2026. Another facility is being developed at Palmyra, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). Moreover, planned future works will see at least one other truck parking and automotive service zone on the Corentyne in the vicinity of the Number

75-76 Villages, as well as another in Region Four along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. This initiative is in keeping with a commitment by President Dr Irfaan Ali in response to numerous requests from persons operating within the commercial and industrial sectors for appropriate spaces to park, service, and repair trucks and other vehicles. These designated facilities will reduce roadside parking, especially by sand trucks and construction vehicles; improve traffic flow and reduce congestion on the roadways; protect public infrastructure, since heavy-duty vehicles have been damaging road shoulders and road edges; support Guyana’s expanding construction sector by creating an organised space for trucks and heavy equipment; and enhance urban organisation and development planning through designated industrial parking zones.

Days after surrendering …

Police reissue wanted bulletins for suspects in murder of Cuban national A lmost two weeks after two men wanted in connection with the murder of 23-year-old Cuban national Dainier Vegas Infante had reportedly surrendered to the Police, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has again stated that they are wanted for questioning in relation to the killing. Eighteen-year-old Nicholas Daby and 26-yearold Makhail Mario Joseph reportedly turned themselves in at the Brickdam Police Station on October 2, 2026, accompanied by their respective attorneys, Siand Dhurjun and Meshonn Persaud. Nevertheless, the GPF on Saturday issued new wanted bulletins for their arrest.

Wanted: Nicholas Daby

Wanted: Makhail Mario Joseph

It was reported that apart from Daby and Joseph, wanted bulletins were issued for 33-year-old Olofi De Santos of Bagotville, West Bank Demerara (WBD);

28-year-old Jermaine Castello of Vigilance, East Coast Demerara (ECD); and 36-year-old Rodrick Thomas of William Street, Kitty,

Georgetown. Vegas Infante was shot dead out of a bar at Forshaw Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, when four males were seen arriving in the area shortly before the shooting. One of the suspects, who was armed with a handgun, reportedly approached two men who were seated outside the business place and engaged them in conversation. Investigators said Infante later exited the building and walked toward the group when the armed suspect allegedly discharged a round in his direction. The Cuban national was struck and fell to the ground. The gunman reportedly escaped in a motor vehicle along Forshaw Street, while

Murdered: Dainier Vegas Infante

the other suspects fled separately. Detectives had reportedly identified and intercepted a motor vehicle believed to

have been linked to the fatal shooting. The vehicle suspected to have been used in the shooting was impounded.

NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Driver agrees to pay compensation after damaging GPL network in Mahaica accident

he Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) continues to bemoan the destruction of its electrical infrastructure after a Canter truck struck the network along the Mahaica Public Road, East Coast Demerara. The incident occurred at approximately 13:00h on Saturday. At the time, a motor canteen, registration number GAJ 7505, was proceeding east along the Mahaica Public Road when it collided with GPL’s electrical infrastructure, causing damage to the network. The driver, identified as Mohan Deonarine of Kumaka, Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), was taken into custody at

the Mahaica Police Station. Meanwhile, GPL’s investigator visited the scene, and photographs were taken as part of the investigation. According to the power company, “The driver has indicated a willingness to compensate for the damage caused.” Nevertheless, the investigation remains ongoing with both the Police and GPL. This is the latest in a series of vehicular accidents that continue to destroy the state-owned power company’s infrastructure. “GPL is concerned about the potential consequences of vehicular accidents involving its electrical infrastructure. Such incidents can result in serious injury

or loss of life, damage to critical network components, and service interruptions affecting customers,” the company said on Saturday. It also noted that damaged electrical infrastructure can pose significant safety risks to other road users and members of the public. To this end, GPL is urging all motorists to exercise caution and remain alert while using the nation’s roadways. “Drivers are reminded of the importance of operating vehicles responsibly, as careless driving can increase the risk of accidents. GPL remains committed to maintaining a safe and reliable electricity network and will continue to cooperate with

the Guyana Police Force and other relevant authorities as the investigation progresses,” the company added. In recent months, GPL has heightened efforts to recover costs associated with repairing and replacing network infrastructure that was damaged by members of the public as it continues to lament the destruction caused by vehicular accidents. Last month alone, several such accidents were recorded. On September 29, a black Nissan Juke struck a utility pole along the Hope Lowland Public Road, East Coast Demerara, resulting in the pole breaking and damage to approximately 400 feet of service line and a street light. The vehicle had reportedly left the scene before GPL personnel and ranks of the Guyana Police Force arrived. Days earlier, on A canter damaged GPL’s network infrastructure during an accident at Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, on Saturday

September 22, a two-vehicle collision along the Kitty Public Road, Georgetown, caused significant damage to GPL’s electricity network, including a broken nine-metre wooden utility pole and damage to two pole spans of secondary mains. The incident resulted in service disruption to the community, and GPL indicated that following an investigation and determination of the circumstances surrounding the incident, it would take the necessary steps to recover costs associated with repairs to the damaged infrastructure. In addition to motorists, the power company has also been pursuing contractors who destroy its infrastructure with the aim of recovering costs. Only on September 9, an incident caused major damage to the power company’s

network at Dennis Street, Sophia, in Georgetown. At the time, motor lorry GAG 6159 was being used to offload loam for an expansion project in the area. After offloading, the driver reportedly moved the vehicle while its tray remained elevated, resulting in it coming into contact with GPL’s network and damaging critical infrastructure. The driver had reportedly left the location before investigators arrived. GPL had strongly condemned the negligent action, warning that persons found responsible for damaging or interfering with GPL’s infrastructure would be prosecuted to the fullest extent permitted by law and may also be held financially liable for all associated repair and restoration costs. “The company reminds contractors, equipment operators, and motorists to

exercise extreme caution when operating near power lines and other electrical infrastructure. Any incident involving GPL’s network should be reported immediately, and the affected area avoided until it has been declared safe,” it noted in a statement. Back in April, GPL sought to recover a total of $30,645,189 from construction company China Railway First Group (Guyana) for losses incurred during roadworks along Dennis Street, Sophia. On April 26, heavy-duty machinery operated by the construction company came into direct contact with the L10 transmission line linking the new Georgetown and Sophia substations, resulting in significant disruption of electricity supply to tens of thousands of customers across multiple communities. Similarly, in June, GPL threatened legal action against an excavator operator and contracting firm, Avinash Contracting and Scrapmetal Inc, after the machinery came into contact with the company’s transmission line along the East Bank Demerara corridor. The incident resulted in damage to critical transmission infrastructure and caused a service interruption affecting a number of customers across sections of Demerara. Then in May of this year, GPL also sought to recover approximately $8 million from a contractor following transmission line damage during works at the Grove New Housing Scheme (Backlands) on the East Bank.

24 NEWS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

New West Demerara Guyana targets 500 acres of onion production to end imports by year-end Hospital expected to open in late 2027

– as cultivation expands to 4 regions

uyana is aiming to end onion imports by the end of this year as the Government expands local production, with Region Nine expected to lead cultivation alongside Regions Two (PomeroonSupenaam); Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said the country is targeting approximately 500 acres of onion cultivation as part of efforts to meet domestic demand through locally grown produce. “At the end of this year we will not import any onions. Region Nine will produce all the bulk of our needs, plus Region Two, Region Five and Region Six,” the Minister said. Guyana began onion production as part of an integrated farming approach aimed at diversifying agricultural output, reducing reliance on imported produce and creating additional income opportunities for farmers. The initial pilot project in Region Nine, Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo, recorded a harvest valued at more than

Approximately 2000 bags of onions stored for distribution across Guyana

$15 million, demonstrating the potential for local onion cultivation to contribute to the country’s food supply. Mustapha added that the initiative forms part of a broader crop diversification drive that includes corn, soya, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and lettuce, among other high-value crops. He further noted that farmers are embracing the integrated farming approach and encouraged interested persons to contact the National Agricultural

Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) to explore opportunities to cultivate onions. The Government is prepared to support farmers who wish to enter the sector, including those with relatively small plots of land. “I have already passed instructions that as long as they have an acre or two, we’ll work along with them. We will try as much as possible to provide the planting material, and we will give them all the technical

guidance so that they can come on board,” Minister Mustapha said. Through the expansion of onion cultivation and support for farmers, the Government is seeking to strengthen domestic production capacity and move Guyana closer to meeting its onion needs without depending on imports. This move forms part of the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) target of reducing the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2030.

75-year-old kidney patient receives new home through MoM initiative

eventy-five-year-old pensioner Abdool Nazir and his wife, Zanita Persaud, are now homeowners after receiving a newly constructed house through the Men on Mission (MoM) initiative, providing the couple with greater security and improved living conditions. Nazir, who has been living with end-stage kidney disease, had been struggling to build a home on land allocated to him by the Government before reaching out to MoM for assistance. Expressing gratitude for the assistance, Nazir said the support had made a life-changing difference for him and his wife. “If it wasn’t for the Men on Mission, I would never own a home,” he said, thanking the initiative, the contractors, workers and everyone who contributed to the construction. At the handover ceremony at Providence on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), Labour and Manpower Planning Minister, Keoma Griffith said the handover demonstrated how the President’s vision of men playing a more active role in society was being translated into meaningful support for communities. He commended the men from the public and private sectors who volunteered their time and resources to improve the lives of vulnerable citizens, while encouraging other eligible families to

Seventy-five-year-old pensioner Abdool Nazir in tears after the handing over ceremony

seek assistance through the initiative. “We can continue to build bridges and schools and hospitals and infrastructure. But if we don’t work now on the people who will inherit the Guyana that we are building, we are preparing for an unfortunate future,” the Minister said. Griffith also stressed on the impact the MoM has had in the various communities across Guyana since its debut. He said, “I am extremely proud of the work that the Men on Mission has achieved so far. 161 homes within four years are no easy endeavor, there are Governments which are unable to achieve that. It represents the fam-

ilies who were impacted and their lives are forever changed.” National Coordinator Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting that the latest handover brings the number of homes delivered to approximately 161 since the programme began four years ago. Lt Col Murli also encouraged other vulnerable families who meet the eligibility criteria to seek assistance, emphasising that the initiative remains committed to supporting those in need. He described the newly constructed house as more than a physical structure, highlighting the security and

stability that homeownership provides. “This is more than a structure Mr Nazir. This is now your sanctuary. This is your place of refuge. This is your place of protection,” he said. Since its launch by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali in October 2022, MoM has expanded its work beyond mentoring boys and men to include house construction, repairs and the provision of building materials for vulnerable households. The initiative has constructed more than 170 homes, with approximately 161 handed over to beneficiaries. Further, MoM operates the Youth Empowerment Programmes (YEP) in Georgetown, Region Nine and Region Six, offering children meals, homework assistance, literacy and numeracy support, life skills training and sporting activities. The initiative is also advancing a Men Empowerment and Mentorship Programme (MEMP) targeting incarcerated men and their children, with the aim of strengthening family relationships, providing guidance and helping to break cycles of offending. MoM continues to assess applications for housing assistance, with priority given to vulnerable individuals and families who meet the programme’s eligibility criteria.

Work ongoing on the New West Demerara Regional Hospital

he new West Demerara Hospital is expected to open in late 2027, expanding access to advanced diagnostic and specialist healthcare services for residents of Region Three and surrounding communities. Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, provided the update in a recent post on his Facebook page, following a visit to the construction site, where he noted that work on the modern healthcare facility is progressing steadily. The new state-of-the-art hospital is expected to significantly improve healthcare delivery in Region Three by bringing advanced medical services closer to residents, reducing the

ed to mean greater convenience, improved access to specialised medical investigations and a more modern environment for receiving care. The hospital will also provide improved working conditions for healthcare professionals, supporting the delivery of quality patient care. This hospital will add to the list of regional facilities constructed by the Government, while advancing wider efforts to modernise Guyana’s healthcare sector by expanding infrastructure, strengthening diagnostic capacity and improving access to advanced medical services across the country. Through investments in

Minister Dr Frank Anthony inspecting works on the new hospital

need for patients to travel to Georgetown for certain diagnostic procedures and specialist care. The facility will be outfitted with advanced diagnostic technology, including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, as well as cardiac catheterisation capabilities. These services will strengthen the hospital’s capacity to diagnose and manage complex medical conditions, support timely treatment and improve patient outcomes. For residents, the expanded services are expect-

new hospitals, upgraded facilities and modern medical technology, the President Irfaan Ali-led Government is working towards its stated goal of establishing a world-class healthcare system that delivers accessible, efficient and quality care to all Guyanese. While construction work remains ongoing, the anticipated late-2027 opening of the new West Demerara Hospital represents a significant step towards strengthening healthcare services for Region Three and easing the pressure on other major public health facilities.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Regional Suspect killed after 13 kindergarteners No deaths reported after strong Panama taken hostage, beaten in Brazil

razilian Police have rescued 13 children who had been taken hostage at a kindergarten in the southern city of Curitiba after killing the suspect, who threatened to set fire to the building, according to officials. At least one of the children was wounded in Friday’s incident. The commander of the military Police special forces unit

in Parana state, Alexandre Lopes Dias, told reporters without elaborating on who or what injured the child. Parana Police spokesperson Leticia Martins told Journalists outside the kindergarten that the suspect jumped the gate on Friday, broke into a classroom and held 13 children hostage. He then spread a flammable substance in the room and held a lighter in

his hand. He was carrying a knife and also what was initially believed to be a firearm but later was found to be fake. Lopes Dias told reporters the suspect was identified as a man who suffered from schizophrenia, but he did not reveal the man’s identity or how he was killed. Talks lasted up to three hours. The children became

agitated, and the attacker started hitting them, Lopes Dias told reporters. “We entered the classroom using a very tactical approach with little risk for the children,” Lopes Dias added. Curitiba City Hall said in a statement that the children and school staffers would receive psychological support. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Chile declares part of Santiago disaster zone after heavy rains

hile on Friday declared part of the capital Santiago a disaster zone after torrential rains triggered flash floods and mudslides, leaving at least six injured and forcing evacuations, according to local media reports. The declaration for Las Condes, an affluent suburb of the capital, allows public agencies to adopt extraordinary measures to coordinate emergency assistance, assess damage, and support recovery efforts. Heavy rain on Thursday sent torrents of water and

Emergency workers clearing thick mud and debris around cars submerged in a parking lot in Las Condes, Chile

mud through streets, swept away vehicles, and inundated homes. At least six persons were reportedly injured, including a one-year-old who

suffered fractures. Firefighters rescued or evacuated more than 1000 persons as emergency teams worked to assist residents, clear debris, and re-

store access to affected areas. The National Disaster Prevention and Response Service also declared a red alert for 10 municipalities in mountainous and foothill areas of the Santiago Metropolitan Region due to the risk of additional landslides. The disaster comes during spring in the Southern Hemisphere, when intense rainfall can trigger flash floods and landslides, particularly in areas where the ground has become saturated. (Excerpt from A News)

Hurricane Simon strengthens to Category 4 off Mexico’s Pacific coast

Hurricane Simon has strengthened into a powerful Category Four storm off Mexico’s Pacific coast, packing winds of up to 241km/h as it threatens to bring destructive winds, storm surges and life-threatening flooding to southwestern Mexico. The US National Hurricane Center said that Simon was expected to approach or move just inland of Mexico’s west-central coast

late on Saturday or early Sunday. The storm was about 185 km south-southwest of Manzanillo, with further strengthening possible before landfall. The hurricane could bring 10 to 20 inches of rain to parts of southwestern Mexico through Sunday. Authorities issued a hurricane warning for parts of the Pacific coast south of the resort city of Puerto

Vallarta, including the area around Manzanillo, the country’s largest Pacific port. A tropical storm watch was in effect farther south towards Lazaro Cardenas. Jalisco suspended classes on Friday and Monday in 22 coastal municipalities and began evacuating people from at-risk areas. Officials also urged hotels and other tourism businesses in Puerto Vallarta to en-

sure workers and visitors had access to shelters or safe locations. Businesses in the popular tourist destination boarded up windows and placed sandbags at entrances as the storm approached. The hurricane centre also warned of a dangerous storm surge and large and destructive waves near where Simon makes landfall. (Al Jazeera)

3 men found guilty of killing American, Australian brothers on surfing trip in Mexico

Mexican Judge on Friday found three men guilty of the murders of two Australian brothers and their American friend in April 2024 in the Mexican state of Baja California. The trial for the triple homicide that shocked Mexico and drew international attention concluded Friday after Judge Raúl Hernández in the coastal city of Ensenada ruled that Jesús Gerardo García, alias “El Kekas”; Irineo Francisco; and Ángel Jesús were responsible for the murders of Australians Callum and Jake Robinson and American Carter Redd Rhoad. The defendants, who had been in custody for more than two years, were also found guilty of armed rob-

Photos of the surfers were placed on the beach in Ensenada, Mexico, on May 5, 2024

bery and armed carjacking. The three friends travelled to Baja California in April 2024 to surf, but shortly after arriving in the town of Punta San Jose, about 50 miles from Ensenada, they were reported missing. Their bodies were found on May 3

in a well. García, identified as the perpetrator of the murders, was arrested in May 2024 in connection to the case, along with his ex-partners Ary Gisell Silva Raya, Francisco, and Jesús. Silva Raya testified last

month during a hearing that García confessed to her that he arrived at the tent where the foreigners were staying with a .9mm pistol. The woman, who was found in possession of one of the victims’ cell phones, was sentenced in November 2025 to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to “aggravated robbery with violence” and “vehicle theft with violence” in an expedited proceeding. However, García and his two accomplices decided to go to trial. The Judge will announce the final sentence on October 16. The Baja California State Attorney General’s Office requested for each defendant the “exemplary sentence” of 210 years in prison. (Excerpt from CBS News)

quake

The damaged Governor’s Palace, after an earthquake struck near the southern coast of Panama

magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck southern Panama on Friday, damaging buildings and sending thousands into the streets, but the country appeared to escape widespread destruction or deaths. The US Geological Survey said the earthquake hit at ‌a depth of 12.6 kilometres (km), with an epicentre in a sparsely populated area about 200 km from the capital, and that some casualties were possible. In the following hours, even as more than 40 aftershocks rattled the isthmus nation, the Panama Canal and Cobre Panama copper mine reported normal operations, and the Tocumen International Airport lifted a suspension on flights. Despite the force of Friday’s tremor, the country appeared to have been spared the destruction of oth-

er recent powerful quakes in the region, with no deaths or injuries immediately reported. An exposure report by the USGS estimated about 43,000 Panamanians lived in areas with at least severe exposure to the quake. This compares to nearly 1.4 million in the area of the twin quakes in Venezuela and over 1.6 million in the quake-hit zone of western Colombia. The USGS estimated economic losses could amount to one to 10 per cent of Panama’s gross domestic ⁠product, and electricity provider Naturgy reported power outages in six provinces. Panama was due to hold a national evacuation d rill on Monday of next week to test the country’s emergency response. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Report offers new insight into Haitian gangs as general election looms

report published Wednesday offers new insight into how gangs in Haiti backed by political and economic actors operate in a country preparing for its first general elections in more than 10 years. The 94-page report was compiled from October 2025 to July 2026 by experts appointed by the UN Secretary General. They travelled to Haiti, meeting with dozens of people, including confidential sources whose information they say was corroborated by independent sources. The experts noted there are now “violent fractures” within a powerful gang alliance known as Viv Ansanm. The alliance, formed in 2023, launched attacks in 2024 on key state infrastructure. Romain Le Cour, head of the Haiti Observatory at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime, said that in the leadup to elections, relationships

between criminal leaders, brokers, and political and economic figures are re-activating. The report noted that gangs remain resilient despite two UN-backed missions aimed at quelling violence, warning that “targeting gang leaders without addressing the networks that sustain them will inevitably fall short.” The report asserted that gangs remain strong thanks to “political, economic and security actors who back gangs when it serves their interests.” It warned that ties between some local authorities and gangs are aimed “at consolidating territorial control and influencing upcoming elections.” It noted that in late May, a new municipal commission was established in the Portau-Prince community of Cite Soleil, and that at least one commissioner is an active gang member. (Excerpt from The Haitian Times)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Around the World

India detains thousands, locks down “Time for Ukraine to get a new President,” – Trump after Zelenskyy Delhi to foil Election Chief protest condemns US-Russia diesel deal

S President Donald Trump has said he thinks “it’s time for Ukraine to get a new President” as he responded to Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s criticism of the US diesel deal with Russia. The Ukrainian President warned a new deal to release millions of tonnes of Russian diesel into the US would provide Moscow with money to continue its war against his nation, calling it a gift to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump told reporters outside the White House on Saturday that Zelenskyy

“wants to make problems for the world” by continuing to authorise attacks on Russian refineries. “He’d better damn well stop,” Trump said, before suggesting Ukraine should “get a new leader who can make a deal”. Global fuel supplies, including diesel, have been severely limited by the war against Iran launched by the US and Israel, which led to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil products usually flows. Russia - a major producer - and Ukraine have

recently intensified their strikes on each other’s energy infrastructure and transport facilities, further straining energy markets. “We said, ‘You can do whatever you want to Russia; don’t hit the refineries,’ because that’s a world problem that’s caused,” Trump continued. Putin’s envoy Kirill Dmitriev described Trump’s intervention as “iconic and historic”, saying that Ukraine “needs leadership actually focused on peace”. (Excerpt from BBC News)

olice detained more than 2000 protesters and the founder of the “Cockroach” youth movement in Delhi on Saturday as security forces locked down parts of the capital to thwart a rally demanding the resignation of India’s election chief. Thousands of Police and paramilitary personnel were deployed across the city, mo-

bile internet services were suspended in the central business district, and dozens of metro stations and markets were shut as authorities moved to stop a demonstration organised by the Cockroach movement. The protest was aimed at Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over a revision of voter lists that critics say

disproportionately benefits Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The movement had planned to gather thousands of people at Jantar Mantar in central Delhi, but the area was sealed off by security forces before the demonstration began. A Home Ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters more than 2000 persons were detained in Delhi. Local media said about 400 protesters were held in India’s financial hub, Mumbai. There was no immediate comment from Police on the detentions. The United Nations human rights office expressed concerns over mass detentions before and during the protests. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Controversial vaccine trial touted by RFK Jr gets go-ahead in Guinea-Bissau Child among 8 killed by Israel on Gaza “ceasefire” anniversary

controversial research trial that will withhold hepatitis B vaccines from some African newborns was given approval to move forward this week. It is a central part of the vaccine vision for Robert F Kennedy Jr, the secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and a longtime vaccine opponent. Kennedy “wants to make it so we don’t use a birth dose here in this country,” said Paul Offit, an infectious disease physician at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

“That’s the goal.” “He’s taking advantage of a developing country … Is it because children in Africa are more expendable than children here?” Danish researchers plan to enrol 14,000 infants in Guinea-Bissau in the trial, giving the hepatitis B vaccine to half of the babies at birth and withholding it from the others for the first six weeks of life. Stig Børsen Hansen, a founding member who was one of two reviewers who presented the study to the Danish committee, re-

signed from the group in protest on Friday, citing major ethical issues with the study. “You are now enrolling newborns in a lottery to test a hypothesis,” Hansen said. The children who are randomly selected not to receive the birth dose of the vaccine, those who “lost the lottery”, face in their earliest days the risk of contracting hepatitis B, which can cause irreversible lifelong damage. Three other members of the committee have also resigned in protest. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

t least eight persons, including an eightyear-old girl, have been killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza, according to medical sources, a year after the United States-backed “ceasefire” came into effect – “in name only”. Eight-year-old Shahd Abdul-Razzaq al-Najjar was killed on Saturday by an Israeli quadcopter drone in the al-Jawazat area of western Gaza City, according to a source in ambulance and emergencies speaking to Al Jazeera. In the same part of Gaza City, four persons were killed and several injured in a separate Israeli bomb

The Yorkshire Ambulance Service said it dispatched two ambulances, an air ambulance and a doctor to attend the scene. Authorities didn’t immediately release information about the victim’s injuries. “We are working closely with the authorities to ascertain exactly what happened,’’ the wildlife park said in a statement posted on its website. Yorkshire Wildlife Park began operations in 2009,

with its “Land of the Tigers” attraction opening in 2011. The attraction is a purpose-built two-acre reserve for endangered Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers. The enclosure includes a 300-metre raised walkway that allows visitors to watch the big cats roam through woodlands and grasslands or play in a waterfall pool, the park says on its website. It is unclear how the man got into the enclosure. (Excerpt from CBS News)

10 last year. Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza has killed at least 74,370 persons and injured 175,371 since October 7, 2023, the Ministry added. Between Friday and Saturday up to press time, Israeli attacks killed at least nine persons and injured 65, the Ministry said, adding that one more person succumbed to injuries sustained in previous Israeli aggression. On Friday, more than 100 humanitarian, human rights and civil society organisations said in a joint statement that the ceasefire in Gaza exists only in name. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

At least 12 killed, over 300 injured in strike at Riyadh airport, Saudi officials say

Man attacked by tiger in England after entering enclosure at wildlife park man sustained serious injuries Saturday after entering the tiger enclosure at a wildlife park in northern England, Police said. The incident occurred at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park near the city of Doncaster at about 1:35 p.m., South Yorkshire Police said in a statement. The tigers remained inside the enclosure, and there was no danger to the wider public, the force said.

attack near Haider Abdel Shafi roundabout, the city’s al-Shifa Hospital said. One more Palestinian was killed in an Israeli drone attack in the Tuffah neighbourhood of north eastern Gaza City, the hospital said. One more person was killed in the northern Gaza Strip, and in the southern city of Khan Younis, a woman succumbed to injuries sustained in an Israeli attack earlier on Saturday. Also on Saturday, the enclave’s Ministry of Health said at least 1481 Palestinians have been killed and 5254 injured since the so-called ceasefire came into effect on October

A screengrab from a circulating video shows thick black smoke and flames rising from a fire at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

t least 12 persons, including one American, were killed and 309 others in-

jured in a strike Saturday at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, according to Saudi officials. Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation said those killed included four Saudi citizens, two Bangladeshis and one person each from Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Palestine, and Sudan. Those injured were receiving treatment at several hospitals, officials said in a social media post. Several people were in critical condition. The Saudi kingdom has faced an extraordinary series of assaults on the new front in the Iran war. President Trump said he was evaluating whether the US should join Saudi strikes against the Tehranbacked Houthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen.

A US State Department spokesperson on Saturday condemned “Houthi terrorist attacks against civilian infrastructure and airports”. The Iran-backed Houthis have not yet claimed responsibility for Saturday’s strike. The surge in attacks, including against other Saudi airports, military facilities and oil infrastructure, has come in the week since a Saudi-led coalition launched a major military offensive against the Houthis. There was no immediate statement from the rebels, who earlier Saturday accused Saudi Arabia of striking Sanaa International Airport in the Houthi-held Yemeni capital. (Excerpt from CBS News)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

ARCHIE

ARIES

Arguments will not solve issues. Solutions that are well thought out and accommodate all (March 21- concerned who are willing to compromise will help April 19) you reach your objective. When met with opposition, retreat, take care of yourself and be willing to walk away. Don’t hesitate to set boundaries that offer peace of mind. Choose passion and romance over discord and betrayal.

Observation is necessary. If temper and

TAURUS stubbornness set in, you’ll face domestic (April 20- situations and partnership problems that leave May 20) you exhausted and in limbo. Be smart, say and

do little, and protect your heart, reputation, and physical and mental wellness. Time is on your side; walk away from confrontations. Peace of mind will come from enjoying your own company. Enhancing your skills will pay off. Attend GEMINI an event that offers insight into something you (MAY 21might enjoy doing for a living. Don’t shy away June 20) from influencing others. Your ability to share your thoughts creatively will help you attract the support and confidence you need to get ahead. Expand your interests, friendships and resources. Use your energy to shine, not to annoy

Pickles

CANCER someone looking for an argument. Distance (June 21- yourself from people you have trouble getting July 22) along with, and gravitate toward those who

inspire you to be active, fit and healthy. Social events are encouraged, and sharing a moment with someone you feel akin to will promote interesting propositions. Romance is favored.

Keep your thoughts and opinions to yourself. Don’t start something you can’t finish. Your (July 23- efforts are best reserved for personal pampering Aug. 22) and learning how to manage your time and money better. Learn something new, and it will lead to greater stability. Change begins with you. Make moves with confidence, concern for loved ones and willingness to compromise when necessary.

LEO

Tune in to the conversation. Stay aware of situations and how others perceive what’s (Aug. 23- happening and the outcome that follows. Be Sept. 22) open, willing to work alongside those who share your concerns and ready to volunteer time, money and skills that can help make a difference. Avoid protests and risky situations that can lead to injury or illness.

VIRGO

Lending a helping hand will lead to

Peanuts

LIBRA greater awareness, purpose and ways you can (Sept. 23- contribute. The people you encounter and the Oct. 23) dedication you show will make a difference. Home improvements may cost, but the rewards and value you get back will be worthwhile. Your perspective will change due to someone’s response. Be kind, but set boundaries.

Don’t apply pressure when a kind gesture or word will suffice. Sit back and be attentive (Oct. 24- and curious about what’s happening. By Nov. 22) sitting back, you will get a broader view of what’s possible, allowing you to be more effective in finding solutions and resolving issues. Choose to be the quiet crusader with a big heart. Love conquers all.

SCORPIO

Take control, and start projects that SAGITTARIUS encourage a better lifestyle. Don’t let (Nov. 23- frustration and anger set in if someone Dec. 21) doesn’t agree with you. It’s OK to do things your way. Sidestep interference and head down the path that feeds your curiosity and soothes your soul. Home improvements that encourage lowering your overhead or supplementing your income are favored.

Calvin and Hobbes

Focus on what’s possible, not what others

CAPRICORN want you to do for them. Offer suggestions, but (Dec. 22- don’t own mistakes that don’t belong to you. Jan. 19) Use your intelligence and physical attributes to carry out the duties that belong to you. Walk away from discord and emotionally debilitating situations. Protect your reputation and your heart from users and manipulators.

Keep tabs on your money, overhead and AQUARIUS subscriptions. Choose to downsize where possible, (Jan. 20- and implement more time and cash to what brings Feb. 19) you joy. Distance yourself from controversy and conversations that put you in a defensive position. Opportunities come to those who know what they want and make it happen. Follow your heart’s desire, not someone else’s ambition.

Set yourself up for success. Put a

PISCES budget and a plan in place, and do what (Feb. 20- you do best. Stop wasting time on what Mar. 20) others choose to do, and focus on satisfying your needs. Personal growth comes from taking responsibility for your financial wellbeing and putting a lifestyle in place that encourages healthy living and peace of mind.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Renshaw’s 190 lifts Australia to 390 before Hazlewood strikes

Matt Renshaw got out for 190 after tea. (AFP/Getty Images)

att Renshaw produced a herculean 190 and powered Australia to an unlikely first-innings total before Josh Hazlewood dismissed South Africa opener Ryan Rickelton for a duck late on day two of the first Test in Durban. Australia had

their backs to the wall at 124 for six in familiar batting woes, but Renshaw rescued the innings with his 397-ball marathon effort. Renshaw fell short of what would have been a maiden double tonne after being dismissed two balls into the final session, caught at slip off the bowling of off-spinner Simon Harmer. His only other Test century was against Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground in January 2017, when he made 184. After 137.2 overs in the field, South Africa openers Rickelton and Aiden Markram faced a tough challenge under increasingly gloomy skies. A weary Rickelton did not fare well after edging Hazlewood to third slip in the second over, having attempted a lavish drive to a full delivery. But Markram and new No. 3

David Bedingham were unruffled and hit several attractive boundaries before bad light ended the day’s play just 8.4 overs into South Africa’s innings. Having been on the back foot for much of the opening day, Australia were on top after day two as Renshaw produced the fourth-highest score by an Australian in South Africa. Remarkably, he scored 174 of his runs with the last four batters, the most anyone has scored in a Test innings while batting with the tail since 2002. Renshaw received strong support from the lower order, marked by an 86-run seventhwicket partnership with Pat Cummins and a 134-run stand with Nathan Lyon, the secondmost for the ninth wicket for Australia in their Test history. Cummins and Lyon faced a combined 190 deliveries - that was 27 more than Australia’s top

Persaud targets title defence as Lusignan sends 36 golfers to Suriname

A 36-member Lusignan Golf Club contingent is heading to the 2026 DSB Suriname Invitational Golf Championship in Paramaribo later this month

efending champion Avinash Persaud will lead a 36-member Lusignan Golf Club contingent to the 2026 DSB Suriname Invitational Golf Championship in Paramaribo later this month, as the Guyanese golfers seek honours across several divisions. Persaud, a 14-time Guyana Open champion, won the overall title at the 2025 tournament. Having also captured the 2026 SBM Offshore Championship, he heads back to Suriname with another major victory behind him. Lusignan’s challenge includes several other past winners, with Patanjilee “Pur” Persaud, Patrick Prashad and Brian Hackett bringing championship experience to the delegation.

Patanjilee Persaud will defend the B Flight title he secured in 2025. He also won the inaugural National Top Flight Golf League championship in 2026, adding to his achievements ahead of the trip. Prashad, the 2024 DSB Suriname Invitational champion, enters after winning Tour No. 2 of the National Top Flight Golf League this year. Hackett, who claimed the Suriname tournament’s B Flight crown in 2023, won Tour No. 1 of the same league in 2026. Chet Bowling will also look to build on a successful season. After finishing second in the B Flight at last year’s Suriname Invitational, he won Tour No. 3 of the National Top Flight Golf League and the inaugural

President’s Cup in 2026. Carlos Adams adds further experience, having placed third in the Senior Flight at the 2025 tournament. He previously finished third in the C-Flight in 2022. Multiple-time ladies’ champion Dr Joaan Deo is also included, giving Lusignan an experienced contender in the women’s competition. The delegation combines established tournament players with golfers seeking to turn their local performances into success against international opposition. Ian Gouveia is among those making the journey and will return to compete in Suriname after several years away. While the players will pursue individual results, the visit also provides an opportunity to represent Lusignan and Guyana collectively. Competition against Surinamese and other international golfers will test the club’s depth and help strengthen ties between the neighbouring countries’ golfing communities. The full contingent comprises Carlos Adams, Rohan Albert, Kishan Bacchus, Feroze Barakat, Alista Bishop, Dusty Bledsoe, Chet Bowling, Troy Cadogan, Joaan Deo, Maurice Deo, Vishal Dhanai, Roy Dhori, Sabi Dhori, Mohanlall Dinanauth, Orson Ferguson, Marlon George, Paton George, and Alan Glyn-Cuthbert. Completing the group are Ian Gouveia, Brian Hackett, Fazil Hanif, Rakesh Harry, Roy Harry, Dharmdat Heerlall, Oliver Kassam, Chandra Lakeraj, JJ Madud, Mike Mangal, Maxim Mangra, Avinash Persaud, Karamchand Persaud, Patanjilee Persaud, Avinash Prashad, Patrick Prashad, Maurice Solomon, and Princessa Wilkie.

four batters - although batting became easier on a surface that on day one produced steep bounce and seam movement. It has been a tough journey for Renshaw, who might have resurrected his Test career after providing a major tonic for Australia’s reshuffled batting order. He reached his century just before the lunch break with a boundary through the leg side and raised his arms in delight and took off his helmet, showing off a beaming smile. Highly disciplined but also showing a knack for going through the gears, Renshaw became the first Australian batter to face 300 balls in a Test innings since Usman Khawaja scored 232 against Sri Lanka in Galle in early 2025. Renshaw has relished moving down to No. 5 after Nic Maddinson’s surprise selection as an opener, along with Cameron Green missing the match through injury. He had only filled the position four times previously – thrice during the 2023 tour of India and once on the 2017 tour – with modest results, although he has enjoyed success with Queensland there. Renshaw had returned to Test cricket after three-and-ahalf years as an opener against Bangladesh in August. While Maddinson’s selection has initially backfired, Renshaw looked at ease in the middle order and equally untroubled against the seamers and spinners. Having dominated much of the shortened first day, South Africa were left frustrated with their attack blunted by Renshaw. Seamers Wiaan Mulder, Marco

Jansen and Anrich Nortje took nine wickets between them but struggled to consistently threaten on day two. Spin duo Harmer and Keshav Maharaj claimed just one wicket from 48.2 overs, with Renshaw negating their influence, although the surface is expected to spin significantly later in the match. It was a disappointment for the sparse crowd in Durban, with the atmosphere rather subdued for Australia’s first Test series in South Africa since the 2018 sandpaper scandal. Earlier on day two, Australia resumed their first innings on 187 for six after just 65.2 overs were bowled on a truncated opening day due to bad light. Renshaw and Cummins aimed to build on their unbeaten 63-run partnership from overnight. It did not take Renshaw long to reach his fourth Test half-century after edging Nortje through third slip and gully as he celebrated the milestone for the first time since March 2017. Nortje, who played a starring role on day one after a three-anda-half year exile from Test cricket, once again unfurled vicious short deliveries but occasionally tried to outfox Cummins by pitching up. A focused Cummins was unfazed and pounced on a rare overpitched delivery with a beautiful square drive to the boundary. He had a fourth Test half-century in his sights - and the first since January 2024 – until, on 43, he edged a good-length delivery from Mulder to second slip. Renshaw, meanwhile, showcased his much-improved play against spin, reverse-

sweeping Maharaj with good effect to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Much like Cummins, Mitchell Starc was intent on solid defence and had a slice of luck when he edged Harmer through the hands of Markram at first slip as the ball flew to the boundary. South Africa had no hesitation in taking the second new ball, and Mulder capitalised when he clean bowled Starc with a cracker of a delivery that pitched on middle before crashing into the off stump. But Renshaw kept South Africa at bay and put the foot down in the back end of the elongated session. He hogged the strike after lunch as South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma deployed Maharaj and Harmer in tandem. The game went through a lull until the reintroduction of Nortje, who delivered a 143kph thunderbolt that whacked Renshaw on the grill of the helmet. But Renshaw gave an immediate thumbs up and continued with his indefatigable effort after receiving medical attention. He reached 150 with a reverse sweep off Maharaj – and quite fittingly so, given his mastery of the stroke through the innings. Lyon appeared set to bat through the entire second session before being trapped plumb lbw by a full delivery from Jansen, who was rewarded for a hostile spell before tea. The session was extended, but Hazlewood held firm with the bat before making an impact with the ball before stumps. (ESPNcricinfo)

Max Verstappen claims sprint victory at Singapore Grand Prix

Verstappen wins the sprint race for the first time this season (Photo by Mark Sutton – Formula One/Formula One via Getty Images)

ed Bull’s Max Verstappen converted pole position into a sprint race victory at the Singapore Grand Prix. The Dutchman was beaten to the first corner by George Russell on a wet track before the Mercedes driver crashed out on the second lap. Verstappen controlled the race from there around the Marina Bay Circuit and crossed the line 2.591 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton to take his first sprint race win of the season. Hamilton’s teammate Charles Leclerc was third fastest, with Kimi Antonelli behind in the

upgraded Mercedes. Liam Lawson rounded out the top five in the Racing Bulls. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris were looking in contention to finish fourth and finish before colliding on the final lap. Piastri was then out of the race, while Norris grabbed the final point and finished down in eighth. Both drivers were summoned to the stewards, but there was no further action. Russell’s crash was another major blow to his title hopes, and he arrived to the weekend starting from the back of the grid for Sunday’s race due to

an engine penalty. Antonelli is leading the title championship by 89 points from Russell. Oliver Bearman finished in sixth in the Haas, with Audi’s Nico Hülkenberg in seventh. Six days on from the shambolic scenes in Malaysia – where drivers were left effectively unable to power their cars on the formation lap in the wet due to a “software bug” which led to a 53-minute delay, by which time the track had significantly dried – the start of the sprint was halted by the weather. As the F1 circus assembled on the grid, a torrential downpour broke out, causing pandemonium among the teams. Again, race officials waited for the surface to partially dry before the race could begin, with marshals brushing water away in the opening turns – but remarkably large chunks of the street circuit appeared to have escaped the rain altogether. After a 30-minute delay and two formation laps behind the safety car, the sprint began.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Imlach’s unbeaten 186 powers DCC into 1st Division 50-over final

Tevin Imlach showed his class under pressure

est Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Tevin Imlach produced a mag-

nificent unbeaten 186 to lead Deme-rara Cricket Club (DCC) to a commanding 115-run victo-

ry over the Guyana Police Force (GPF) cricket team in the Dave’s West Indian Inc First Division 50-over competition semi-final at the DCC Ground, Lance Gibbs Street, Queenstown. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, GPF made an encouraging start, reducing the home side to 50 for four in 9.3 overs. However, Imlach and West Indies Under-19 player Johnathan Van Lange turned the contest around with a remarkable 201-run fifth-wicket partnership. Van Lange contributed a well-constructed 84 from 82 balls, striking five fours and six sixes, while Im-lach dominated the innings with an unbeaten 186 from just 115 deliveries. His explosive knock includ-ed 16 fours and 11 sixes, propelling DCC to an imposing 344 for nine in their allotted 45 overs. For GPF, Kemol

Savoury was the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets for 49 runs. In reply, GPF struggled to keep pace with the required run rate and were eventually dismissed for 229 in 32.5 overs, handing DCC a convincing victory and securing their place in the final. Savory made 44 from 40 balls, including four fours and three sixes, while Dwayne Dick provided some resistance with a blistering 67 off just 33 deliveries, striking six fours and six sixes. Despite their efforts, Police could not overcome DCC's imposing total. Jaden Dowlin, Sachin Singh, Ashmead Nedd and Van Lange claimed two wickets apiece to ensure the home side completed the emphatic win. DCC's victory was built around Imlach's outstanding century and the crucial fifth-wicket stand with

Johnathan Van Lange had a very good all-round game

Van Lange, which transformed a precarious position into a match-winning

total and booked their place in the competition's final.

GCC, Transport Generals, GNIC begin Guyana close tournament on GCA T20 campaign with victories

Yeudistir Persaud had a very good all-round game

he Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) Panther Security Inc Second Division T20 Competition 2026-2027 bowled off yesterday at various venues across Georgetown, with Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), Transport Generals, and Guyana National Industrial Company Incorporated (GNIC) recording victories. At the Queen’s College ground, GCC secured a three-wicket victory over Everest Cricket Club in a closely contested encounter, chasing down a target of 136 after winning the toss and electing to bowl. Everest posted 135-7 in their allotted 20 overs, with Nityanand Mathura leading the batting with 33 off 27 balls, including

four fours and two sixes. Varun Mangla contributed 25, while Joseph Perry added 24. Shadrach Bacon and Yeudistir Persaud claimed two wickets each for GCC. The chase proved challenging, but Yeudistir Persaud anchored the innings with an unbeaten 53 off 43 balls, striking four fours and three sixes. Dhanesh Persaud provided valuable support with 37 off 29 deliveries, as GCC reached 136-7 in 18.1 overs to seal the win. At the Transport Sports Club ground, home side Transport Generals cruised to an eight-wicket victory over Diplomats after winning the toss and opting to bowl. Diplomats were dismissed for 125 in 19.2 overs, despite a fighting

71 off 51 balls from Rayson Gill, who struck seven fours and four sixes. Adam Mohamed spearheaded the Transport Generals bowling attack with 3-17, while Dave Mohabir, Jamal Samuels, and Newrawl Nichols claimed two wickets apiece. Opener Joshua Daniels then produced a blistering innings of 85 off just 43 balls, including 12 fours and three sixes, to power the Transport Generals to 126-2 in 13.2 overs and complete a comfortable victory. Meanwhile, GNIC edged Bel Air Rubis by three wickets in another competitive encounter. After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, GNIC restricted Rubis to 130 all out in 18.5 overs. Lower-order batter Asif Singh top-scored with 30 off 17 balls, including two fours and three sixes. Lemuel Ross was the chief destroyer with an impressive 4-8, while Marcel Mentor and Jamain Grosvenor supported with two wickets each. In reply, Jevin Collins led the charge with 31 off 18 balls, while Grosvenor contributed 23 off 16 deliveries as GNIC reached 131-7 in 17.4 overs to secure the three-wicket win. The opening round provided an encouraging start to the competition, with the three victorious teams making their mark as the battle for Second Division T20 honours gets underway.

winning note against St Kitts

The Youth Basketball Guyana team finished fifth

uyana’s Under-15 Schoolboys Select Team finished fifth overall at the Paradise Showdown International Tournament in St Maarten, closing their campaign on a positive note with a convincing 52-16 victory over St Kitts. The Youth Basketball Guyana team endured a challenging opening before recovering with three wins in their remaining games, gaining valuable international experience throughout the competition. Guyana began the tournament with a 53-33 defeat against hosts St Maarten on Day One, as the young side faced an early test against the home team. However, the Guyanese responded emphatically on the second day, overwhelming Aruba 63-13 to register their first victory of the tournament. The commanding performance kept their

hopes of advancing to the semi-finals alive heading into their final group match. Guyana subsequently faced Anguilla in a crucial encounter, but despite a determined effort, they suffered a narrow 54-49 defeat. The five-point loss proved costly, as the team narrowly missed out on a semi-final berth and was instead scheduled to contest the fifth-place game against St Kitts. The young Guyanese regrouped for their final assignment, producing another dominant display to defeat St Kitts 5216 and secure fifth place in the tournament. Despite falling short of the semi-finals, the team demonstrated resilience in bouncing back from its opening defeat and responding positively to the chal-

lenges presented during the competition. Youth Basketball Guyana expressed pride in the players’ efforts, highlighting the pride, togetherness and willingness to learn they displayed while representing the country on the international stage. The tournament provided the young players with an opportunity to test themselves against regional opposition while gaining experience that could prove valuable in their continued development. Guyana’s fifthplace finish, capped by a strong performance against St Kitts, offered an encouraging conclusion to the team’s international campaign.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

John 6th, Newton 5th in Caribbean time trials

Guyana’s Briton John finished sixth in the Elite category

uyana’s Briton John finished sixth in the Elite category, and Aaron Newton placed fifth among the Under-23 riders in Saturday’s individual time trial at the Caribbean Cycling Union

(CCU) Elite and Under-23 Championships in the Dominican Republic. John completed the course in 46 minutes, 31.001 seconds, while Newton recorded 49 minutes, 9.792 seconds. Their performances

opened Guyana’s campaign ahead of Sunday’s road race, when all five members of the national team will compete. Ajani Cutting, Segun Hubbard and Andre Greene will join John and Newton for the road race today.

Bermuda’s Kaden Luke Hopkins won the elite time trial in 42 minutes, 3.239 seconds. His compatriot Nicholas Narraway took second in 43 minutes, 1.017 seconds, narrowly ahead of Puerto Rico’s Christopher Morales Fontán, who finished in 43 minutes, 1.956 seconds. John finished 4 minutes, 27.762 seconds behind Hopkins, while Newton secured fifth place among the 11 Under-23 finishers. Newton’s performance follows his silver medal in the Under-23 time trial at last year’s Caribbean Championships in Belize. Guyana will enter Sunday’s road race with its reigning national Elite roadrace champion, John, and national Under-23 road-race champion, Cutting, among its representatives. The five-man squad was finalised after the CCU ruled that Guyana could not use vacant female places to accommodate addition-

Aaron Newton placed fifth among the Under-23 riders in Saturday’s individual time trial at the CCU Elite and Under-23 Championships in the Dominican Republic

al male cyclists. The Guyana Cycling Federation had initially identified nine men, but the country’s allocation

provided for five male and five female competitors.

GFF Elite League U-17 Youth Ensemble: GDF blank More than 200 races Western Tigers as Santos overcome Police planned for Berbice Invasion

GDF’s goal-scorers in their 3–0 victory over Western Tigers: Daymetrian Budhan, Brandon Parks, and Ravon Vannooten

GMR&SC says preparations are in place for the Berbice Invasion Drag Meet, with qualifying scheduled to begin at 10:00h and elimination rounds set for 12:15h

Santos’ goal-scorers in their 4–2 win over Police: Aaron Vasconcellos, Alex Bentick, and Cosmic Thomas

uyana Defence Force (GDF) recorded a convincing 3–0 victory over Western Tigers, while Santos defeated Police 4–2 as the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League U17 Ensemble competition continued on Saturday at the Tucville Ground. Three different players found the net for GDF, while Aaron Vasconcellos scored twice to help Santos secure their victory in the October 10 fixtures. GDF established their advantage through two goals in five minutes. Daymetrian Budhan opened the scoring in

the 20th minute before Brandon Parks doubled the lead in the 25th, sending their team into halftime with a 2–0 cushion. Ravon Vannooten added the third in the 42nd minute, completing the scoring as GDF kept Western Tigers without a reply. Santos, meanwhile, scored all four of their goals before halftime to put themselves in control against Police. Alex Bentick struck in the second minute, and Vasconcellos made it 2–0 in the 13th. Tyree Johnson pulled one back for Police in the 22nd minute, but Santos responded with

two more goals before the break. Vasconcellos completed his double in the 31st minute, while Cosmic Thomas added another in the 36th to give Santos a 4–1 halftime lead. Johnson scored his second in the 51st minute to reduce the deficit, but Police could not close the gap further as Santos finished with a two-goal winning margin. The league continues next Saturday at the West Ruimveldt Ground, with Fruta Conquerors set to face Santos while Western Tigers take on Police at the same venue.

ore than 200 races are expected at the Rose Hall Canje Airstrip on Sunday, October 11, as the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) stages its Berbice Invasion Drag Race Meet. The club says preparations are in place for the event, with qualifying scheduled to begin at 10:00h and elimination rounds set for 12:15h. Organisers have also reported encouraging interest from fans across Berbice. A GMR&SC spokesman said a team had been working at the venue for three days, with installation of the timing system scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Preparations have involved coordination with the Guyana Fire Service, Guyana Police Force, sponsors and support staff. The spokesman explained that organisers had re-established contact with

some service providers to put the necessary support arrangements in place. He expressed confidence in the preparations and optimism about the turnout, pointing to interest from residents throughout the county. To accommodate spectators, organisers have identified four parking areas, which will have signs and directions to guide arriving motorists. Ticket booths will operate in each area, allowing patrons to purchase tickets before entering the venue. Shuttle buses will carry spectators from the parking areas to the airstrip, with return transport available after the event. General and VIP parking areas will be designated, while no-parking zones will be enforced. The club is asking patrons to follow directions from security personnel and parking attendants to help maintain order around the venue.

Firearms, other weapons, outside food and drinks, and unauthorised vending are prohibited. Organisers have also warned against reckless driving outside the drag strip and illegal parking. Spectators and their vehicles may be subject to security checks. The meet is organised by the GMR&SC, with support from sponsors including ENet, Tropical Shipping, Castrol, GuyOil, and KFC. Persons interested in VIP tickets or corporate suites can contact 632-4820.

CLASSIFIED ADS PEN PAL 51 Year old man of African descent looking for a future partner between 40-50 years old. Call tel. No. 603-6400

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Courts Optical Pee Wee: Leonora keep title defence alive with quarter-final berth

St John the Baptist (orange/black) was defeated 0-1 by Georgetown International Academy

efending champions Leonora Primary secured their place in the Courts Optical Pee Wee Championship quarter-finals with a 2–0 victory over St Therese during Saturday’s round-of-16 action at the Ministry of Education Ground. Leonora joined Waramuri Primary, Tucville Primary, Potaro Primary, Santa Rosa,

biggest winning margin of the round, defeating GIA 2 by four unanswered goals. Riyad Peters struck in the seventh minute, but the remaining goals came late, with Lemar Matthias scoring in the 36th, Dwayne Williams in the 39th and Aaden Williams in the 40th. Roger Jason was responsible for all three Tucville goals in their 3–1 victory over Pakuri Primary. He scored in the sixth and 15th minutes before Miles Schuman pulled one back for Pakuri in the 18th. Jason completed his hat-trick in the 40th minute to seal Tucville’s passage. Santa Rosa needed extra time to overcome St Gabriel Primary 2–1, with Ethan

Marian Academy, West Ruimveldt, and GIA 1 in the last eight following the October 10 matches. Nerson Persaud opened Leonora’s account in the seventh minute before Johnathan Melville added a second in the 18th. The champions kept St Therese scoreless to continue their title defence. Waramuri recorded the

Waramuri (white/sky blue) recorded the biggest winning margin of the round, defeating GIA 2 by four unanswered goals

Richards gave Santa Rosa the lead in the 23rd minute, but Ayden Barran equalised in the 40th. Richards settled the contest with his second goal in the 50th minute during extra time. Potaro advanced with a 3–0 win against Redeemer Primary. Lamon Telemaque scored in the 13th and 49th minutes, while Ramiro Smith added the other goal in the 24th. Marian Academy also

progressed without conceding, beating St Pius 2–0 through goals from Elijah Jodhan in the 22nd minute and Miel Parks in the 28th. The other two matches were decided by single goals. Malachi Murray’s sixth-minute strike earned West Ruimveldt a 1–0 victory over Plaisance, while Joseph Rivers scored in the 39th minute to give GIA 1 a 1–0 win against St John the Baptist.

Dora overturns 2-goal deficit SHC teams sweep Under-17 titles to edge Covent Garden at national indoor championships Richards scoring both goals.

both of Plaisance’s goals, while Lamar Campbell and Keshawn Dennis contributed one each for Beterverwagting. Queen’s College enjoyed a successful day in Georgetown North, keeping clean sheets in both matches against Austin Castello Secondary.

goal performance from Angel Forde, who helped New Campbellville Secondary defeat North Georgetown Secondary 2–1 in their female fixture. Jaslyn Hinckson scored North Georgetown’s goal. In the other East Coast result, Annandale Secondary’s female team beat Bladen Hall Secondary 3–0. Jwan Allen netted twice, with an own goal completing the scoring. Lodge Secondary and East Ruimveldt Secondary shared the victories in their Georgetown South meetings. Ruth Wilkinson’s goal gave Lodge a 1–0 win in the female match, but East Ruimveldt won the male fixture 2–0, with Avishadi Waterman and Jahim Hart

Anika DeFratus scored both goals in the female team’s 2–0 victory, while Isa Bremner’s double and a goal from Jaren Boucher secured a 3–0 win in the male encounter. There was also a two-

each scoring once. Meanwhile, Charlestown Secondary’s male and female teams progressed to the second round owing to the unavailability of Tucville Secondary.

Part of the action during the East Ruimveldt (black/white) v Lodge Secondary boys encounter

ora Secondary scored three times after halftime to overturn a 2–0 deficit and defeat Covent Garden Secondary 3–2 in Friday’s ExxonMobil U18 Schools Football Tournament action on the East Bank of Demerara. Renaldo Mendonca, Simon Richard and Elon John each found the net for Dora, cancelling out Jermin Fraser’s two goals for Covent Garden in the Region Four encounter on October 9. The comeback was among the leading results in the tournament organised by the Vurlon Mills Football Academy, with Beterverwagting Secondary also securing a narrow victory and Queen’s College winning in both divisions. On the East Coast of Demerara, Beterverwagting needed a penalty shootout to get past Plaisance Secondary after the teams finished level at 2–2. Beterverwagting won the shootout 5–4. Ryan Sobers scored

Part of the action in the Boys U17 category at CASH

aints Hockey Club (SHC) Sensations and SHC Sigmas secured the Under-17 girls’ and boys’ titles, respectively, at the Guyana Hockey Board’s National Junior Indoor Championships 2026 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on Saturday. Sensations defeated Old Fort Hockey Club (OFHC) Phantom Troupe 3–1 in the girls’ final, while Sigmas edged GCC Outlaws 1–0 to claim the boys’ crown. Sensations’ success was complemented by Makaylah Poole being named the girls’ Player of the Tournament. Phantom Troupe’s Jazlyn Smith received the Best Goalkeeper award, while Angelique Smith of Multi Stars was recognised as the Most Promising Player.

In the boys’ division, Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Outlaws collected two individual honours, with Grant Fernandes named Player of the Tournament and Luc Scott receiving the Most Promising Player award. SHC Sigmas’ Clay Bobb was adjudged best goalkeeper. Sensations booked their place in the girls’ final with a 3–1 semi-final victory over the GCC Hurricanes. Phantom Troupe advanced with a commanding 9–0 win against Multi Stars but could not overcome Sensations in the championship match. The boys’ semi-finals saw Sigmas beat OFHC Predators 4–1, while Outlaws defeated Hikers Hatchets 4–2. Sigmas then secured the title in a closely

contested final decided by a single goal. Friday’s Under-21 matches produced victories for Saints and GCC Spartans in the girls’ division. Saints defeated OFHC Bomb Squad 3–1, while Spartans beat Hikers 5–2. Both under-21 boys’ encounters on Friday were settled by one-goal margins. OFHC Vipers overcame Hikers 4–3, while GCC Cowboys edged SHC S’Team 3–2. In the Under-17 girls’ group matches on Friday, Sensations defeated Multi Stars 3–0 in Group B, while Phantom Troupe beat Hikers Junior Jets 4–0 in Group A. Hikers Hatchets recorded an emphatic 11–0 victory over Multi Alumni in Under-17 Boys Group C. GCC Outlaws also enjoyed a comfortable outing, beating SJHS Warriors 6–0 in Group D before progressing to Saturday’s knockout stage. The championships began on Wednesday, October 7, and were scheduled to conclude on Saturday night, October 10, with competition in the Under-17 and Under-21 boys’ and girls’ divisions. Up to press time, the Under-17 finals had been completed. The remaining finals and results will be featured in a subsequent report.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

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Courts Optical Pee Wee: Leonora keep title defence alive with quarter-final berth Dora overturns SHC teams sweep 2-goal deficit Under-17 titles at to edge Covent national indoor championships Garden Page 31

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