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Guided by touch, visually impaired P10 Mekyla Belgrave navigates skies with drones Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 6589 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

Gold boom, rising power demand renew focus on Amaila Falls hydro …proposals from 5 foreign companies being evaluated – Pres Ali See story on page 3

Guyana eyes central role in region’s …Pres Ali tells Private Sector to pay emerging energy hub attention to regional opportunities Page 7

PRICE $140 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Mechanic P19 jailed 2½ years for felonious wounding

3 gunpoint robberies P19 reported in 1 night

Ganja found by cops during Barica vehicle P19 search

28 Region 8 residents trained to operate heavy machinery P20

First Lady Arya Ali welcomed the 10 delegates of the Amerindian Heritage Month Pageant to State House for an afternoon tea, where the ladies shared their platforms, aspirations, and hopes for making a positive impact in their communities. With plenty of confidence, purpose, and pride in their heritage on display, the afternoon was a chance to celebrate the inspiring young women representing communities across Guyana. The First Lady wished all 10 delegates the very best as they prepare to take the stage on September 30 (First Lady Arya Ali/Facebook)

“I can use my Govt makes proposal knowledge for more efficient use of to serve my community” time, resources at PAC – new lawyer Page 22

Page 12

P24 Guyanese among 36 young professionals building leadership skills in India

…APNU welcomes plan, WIN shoots down plan prematurely …to practice in Lethem

digital push to Vape, alcohol sales to minors trigger AI,reshape Guyana’s tourism industry – Woolford Ave vending crackdown tourism officials Page 11

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Berbice – Sunday, September 27 – 13:30h–18:00h and Monday, September 28 – 05:10h–06:40h.

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 be interrupted by midday thundery showers during the day, followed by clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East-North-Easterly to East-South-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres. High Tide: 11:17h and 23:46h reaching maximum heights of 1.93 metres and 2.0 metres.

Low Tide: 10:34h and 22:53h reaching minimum heights of 0.44 metres and 0.32 metres.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2026

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14 18

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3 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

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Afternoon Draw

Evening Draw

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COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil

US$ $104.32/barrel

Rough Rice

$299.16/ton

London Sugar

$502.60/ton

Live Spot Gold

Change %

-2.14 +0.33 -1.43 USD Per Ounce

Low/High

$4284.20 $4254.40

$4286.20 $4315.60

Change

+10.40

+0.24%

Bid/Ask

Gold boom, rising power demand renew focus on Amaila Falls hydro …proposals from 5 foreign companies being evaluated – Pres Ali

s part of Guyana’s energy transition and sustainable development plans, the Government is looking to reduce the carbon footprint of the local mining industry and is hoping to use the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP) to do this. During a press conference earlier this month, President Dr Irfaan Ali disclosed that two largescale gold mining projects are scheduled to come into full operation as early as next year, taking the country’s annual gold production above one million ounces. However, these two mining projects alone would require approximately 85 megawatts (MW) of power each. Speaking about Guyana’s energy future in a recent interview, President

ect after responding to the Government’s call for proposals, which closed in May. A senior Government official had told Guyana Times last month that a technical team was being put together to review the bids received. But according to President Ali, that evaluation process has already commenced with a final decision expected soon. “As soon as that evaluation is completed, I have instructed that we move to negotiate with the best-ranked bidders who give us the best possibility… This is a design-build-finance [model] and a power purchase agreement. They have to agree to the terms – terms that make economic sense for us and will meet the energy costs that we want to deliver to the people of this

An initial artist impression of the 165-MW Amaila Falls Hydropower Project

Ali indicated that while these projects can self-generate the power they need, that would be done using heavy fuel or diesel – something which the country is trying to wean off from. The Head of State touted the possibility of the operations being powered by natural gas from the highly anticipated Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project or even the pending 165-MW Amaila Falls Hydropower initiative. “Gas gives an opportunity to reduce the carbon footprint on mining. So, that's an opportunity there. Now, that 160 MW can also be linked to the Amaila Falls project. But that is just two [projects], and we have other exploration that is going on. So, it tells you that even in the mining sector, the need for power is growing enormously,” the Guyanese leader stated. The Ali-led People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has been keen on reviving the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, which has been on the cards since 2011.

5 foreign companies in race

Some five foreign companies are in the race for the Amaila Falls Hydro proj-

country,” the Head of State emphasised during his recent interview. Among the bidders vying for the project is a joint venture (JV) between United States-based OEC USA and GE Vernova, and Worley out of Australia, which submitted the highest proposal to the tune of US$800,060,842. The OEC, GE Vernova and Worley grouping had previously tendered to be pre-qualified for this project in 2023 before the Government eventually decided to reissue the Request for Proposal (RFP) last year. Coming in second with a US$668,000,000 proposal is a consortium of CAMCECMEC out of China. China CAMC Engineering Co, Ltd (CAMCE) and China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) have individually done construction projects in Guyana’s public sector and have also bid for major gas-related projects here. Another Chinese company, China Gezhouba Group Company Limited-HYI, submitted a bid to the tune of US$432,338,377 – the third highest proposal. In addition, Chinese state-owned Sinohydro Corporation

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Limited came in fourth with a US$416,866,949.21 proposal. The fifth company that bid for the project was a JV comprising Indiabased Afcon Infrastructure Limited and Scandian Infrastructure AB from Sweden. However, no figure was listed for this JV in the tender document seen in this newspaper. Back in October 2025, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), which has responsibility for the energy sector, published the invite for the Amaila Falls Hydro project under a Build-OwnOperate-Transfer (BOOT) model. According to the RFP document, the project is expected to deliver a minimum installed capacity of 165MW, including the hydro dam, powerhouse, substation, and a 23-square-kilometre storage reservoir, consistent with environmental studies and permits. However, it was noted that the size of the hydro may be re-engineered to take into account changes in turbine technology, thus allowing more than 165MW to be generated and transmitted. Under the revised RFP, developers are required to assume all geotechnical risks associated with the project and must demonstrate proven capability and financial capacity to deliver

large-scale hydro projects. Only firms or consortia that have successfully built at least three hydro projects of 100MW or more in the last 10 years will be considered. The 165MW project was the flagship initiative of the Bharrat Jagdeo-crafted Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) but was blocked by the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition both in and out of office. At the time, the Government had a developer in the United Statesbased Sithe Global, which was backed by investment major Blackstone Inc. But in 2013, Sithe Global pulled out of the project, citing the lack of consensus in Guyana’s Parliament. Today, however, the AliAdministration has managed to secure the backing of major international partners, including Qatar and the United States ExportImport (EXIM) Bank. In fact, the US EXIM Bank, which is already funding the Gas-to-Energy Project, has signalled interest in financing the hydropower project – one of several major infrastructure initiatives discussed during a September 21 meeting between President Ali and the bank’s President and Chairman, John Jovanovic, in New York.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 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

Diaspora Investment

ollowing up on his meeting with American business leaders at the Harvard Club and encouraging them to invest in Guyana, President Irfaan Ali later met with an enthusiastic gathering of Guyanese in Queens Village on Thursday. In addition to bringing them up to date on developments in their native land, President Ali promised a special vehicle through which the diaspora could invest in projects, such as a fertiliser plant and a gas bottling facility at the Wales GtE complex. He spoke of “Government-guaranteed returns", which is an attractive invitation. But the crucial details – what investors would own, how the returns would be paid and exactly what the Government would guarantee – have yet to be announced. India, with a large and well-heeled diaspora, is frequently cited as successfully attracting diaspora investment, and we can maybe learn from its experience. Through the State Bank of India, India raised about US$4.2 billion with “Resurgent India Bonds” in 1998 and US$5.5 billion with “India Millennium Deposits” in 2000. Both gave overseas Indians a defined five-year investment, denominated in foreign currency, with stated returns. The lesson is that attachment to home can draw investors’ attention, but clear terms and a credible institution persuade them to part with their money. India’s investors did not simply accept a low return out of patriotism. Israel also is in the game much earlier, and Israeli Bonds reports raising more than US$54 billion worldwide since 1951. Guyana could improve on that model in promoting President Ali’s proposal, which is project-specific and transparent. An investor should be able to see, for instance, the fertiliser plant’s estimated cost, its other financiers, expected customers, risks and timetable before subscribing. The gas bottling facility should have its own accounts. An independently managed vehicle could then offer modestsized investments alongside larger subscriptions, with audited annual statements showing precisely where the money went. Above all, “guaranteed returns” needs a definition. Does the Government guarantee the interest or rate of return, repayment of the principal, or both? Will repayment be in US dollars or Guyanese dollars? If a plant earns less than forecast, which public account covers the shortfall? These are practical questions for a pensioner in Queens considering an investment – and for a taxpayer in Guyana who may ultimately stand behind the guarantee. India’s bonds were chiefly a way to bring foreign currency into the country at particular moments. Pres Ali’s proposal could do something more lasting – give overseas Guyanese a measured stake in productive businesses at home. To achieve that, the Government should publish the full terms before taking accepting investments, price the guarantee openly, and report each project’s performance. Diaspora loyalty may bring people through the door, but sound projects and dependable accounts will keep them invested in the long haul. Ethiopia offers the closest Government example in diaspora investment when it marketed bonds to Ethiopians abroad to help finance the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a named hydroelectric project. The Development Bank of Ethiopia describes the bond as financing that dam, and the US Securities and Exchange Commission confirms that Ethiopian Electric Power offered and sold the bonds to US residents of Ethiopian descent. The example also carries a caution for Guyana: the SEC found that the US sales had not been registered as required. In light of the foregoing, the key design choice to be made by the Government is whether each investor will be buying a claim on a particular plant’s earnings or buying a Governmentguaranteed bond whose proceeds are allocated to that plant. Those are different promises: if the plant underperforms, the first puts project risk on investors, which the Government will have to backstop since it is guaranteeing a fixed rate of return and may put the repayment obligation on Guyanese taxpayers. This risk is also present with Government-issued bonds, but at least the exposure is known and limited. To summarise, we need to specify whether a covering bond will be issued, the rate of return guaranteed in either a direct investment or a bond, currency, duration, and whether the guarantee also protects the original investment.

Minister within the Housing Ministry, Vanessa Benn, joined residents and visitors at St Cuthbert’s Mission for the community’s annual Amerindian Heritage celebration, which showcased vibrant cultural presentations, traditional arts and crafts, and authentic Indigenous cuisine. Benn also joined in the festivities, participating in the cultural presentation and stepping into the dance alongside community members (Housing Ministry/Facebook)

The best way to silence your critics is not by arguing but by achieving more success Dear Editor, The Auditor General and the staff of the Audit Office deserve congratulations for presenting the Report of the Auditor General for the fiscal year 2025 before the statutory deadline. This marks the sixth consecutive year in which Auditor General Deodat Sharma, has presented his report to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) ahead of the September 30 deadline. What makes this record especially significant is the extraordinary conditions under which it was achieved. From the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic to the present, the Auditor General has not failed once to submit his report on time. During the pandemic, when most were compelled to retreat indoors and public services were disrupted, the Audit Office remained engaged in the demanding work of examining how public funds were spent. While others would have found convenient excuses for delay and non-performance, the Audit Office continued to review Government spending to determine whether public funds were utilised in a transparent and accountable manner. For the Audit Office, it appears as though accountability did not catch COVID. The scale of the challenge did not end with the pandemic but increased in line with the rapid expansion in Government spending since 2020. The fourfold increase in Government spending from $329.5 billion in 2020 to $1.382 trillion in 2025 virtually created more

projects, transactions and documents for the Auditor General and his staff to scrutinise. Instead of retreating from his responsibility and hiding behind excuses, the Auditor General shepherded his team to ensure compliance with the constitutional obligation of his office by submitting annual reports within nine months of the close of each fiscal year. This contrasts with the years 1982 to 1989, which is difficult to ignore because no audited financial statements were presented when the economy was virtually at a standstill and Government spending was flatlining. For almost an entire decade, no audit report was presented. During this period, the country’s public accounts appear to have taken an extended hiatus, without any approval from taxpayers. In other words, transparency and accountability were Absent Without Leave (AWOL) and probably disappeared into an administrative Bermuda Triangle. It is therefore a little remarkable that a former Auditor General associated with that era of prolonged darkness now appears deeply concerned about the current Auditor General's performance. The former officeholder has found considerable energy to criticise Mr Sharma and to advocate for his removal. This is certainly a refreshing display of concern for accountability, albeit one that seems to have arrived several decades after it was most urgently needed. One must therefore ask: where was this passion for

transparency when audited financial statements were not produced? Where was the outrage when taxpayers were literally left in the dark? Why only now is the Audit Office being attacked when it is complying with its constitutional mandate? I suspect the answer may be found in a famous African proverb, “It is only the tree loaded with fruit that people throw stones at,” which means that successful and productive people often face criticism, envy, and attacks from those who are not successful. In other words, only fruit-bearing trees are targeted because they have value worth trying to knock

down. Editor, I want to end by once again congratulating the Auditor General and his staff for their hard work and to encourage them to continue along this path so we can know whether our tax dollars are being spent in a transparent and accountable manner. I also wish to remind them that the best way to silence your critics is not by arguing with them but by achieving more success. Macte virtute et successeur, which means to go forward in courage and success! Kind regards, Kevin Persaud

Exceptional address at United Nations General Assembly

Dear Editor, I write to commend His Excellency President Irfaan Ali for delivering an exceptional address at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. It was a speech that reflected Guyana at its best and underscored our nation's steadfast commitment to principled multilateralism. President Ali struck a careful balance between realism and hope. He candidly acknowledged the grave challenges of our time (climate change, conflict, food insecurity, inequality, and the erosion of multilateralism), yet reminded us that humanity has always found the means

to rise above its difficulties. His call for a "new and invigorated multilateralism" was both timely and necessary. I was proud to see Guyana's consistent advocacy for the peaceful resolution of disputes, respect for international law, and the legitimate rights of all peoples. Our reaffirmation of commitment to the International Court of Justice in the border controversy with Venezuela demonstrated a continuity of policy across all Guyanese Governments. Guyana will remain principled, patient, and peace-loving on this matter, even amid repeated provocations. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate, Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Court must not be the vehicle for Mohameds’ Getting Enough ZZZs 5-year delay plan for extradition By Ryhaan Shah

hile we have been looking at the many benefits of movement and exercise, getting enough sleep is just as important. It is a necessity not a luxury and, more so, as we grow older. We all probably note that our sleep patterns have changed with age. Some of us might be waking up earlier or having difficulty falling asleep. As we age, sleep naturally becomes lighter, more fragmented, and shifts to an earlier schedule, causing us to feel tired earlier in the evening and to wake up earlier in the morning. It is recommended, however, that we still get seven to eight hours of good sleep each day. Too little sleep can jeopardise our long-term health and wellbeing. One of the most critical roles of sleep is that it “cleanses” our brain. During sleep, our brain activates a system that flushes cellular waste and toxins from our body. Any severe sleep deprivation disrupts this process. For us older adults, chronic lack of sleep has been linked to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Adequate sleep is essential for consolidating memories and maintaining focus. Many of us, from time to time, whether from worry or stress, have a restless night when we find it difficult to fall asleep; and we know how we feel the next day: tired and groggy with brain fog that makes us unable to do much. Having one bad night now and then might not cause much damage but know that our heart also relies heavily on the downtime provided by sleep. During deep sleep, our blood pressure naturally drops giving our heart and blood vessels a much-needed break. Having nights with little sleep consistently places more pressure on our cardiac system and raises our risk of developing high blood pressure, or even getting a heart attack or stroke. Lack of sleep has also been linked to weight gain. A well-rested body is a resilient body. Sleep strengthens our immune system helping us ward off viruses and chronic infections, and deep sleep triggers growth hormones that repair cells and maintain muscle strength. Without this nightly recovery, muscle weakness can set in, increasing the risk of falls and physical instability. Insomnia is the most common sleep problem for many of us age 60 and older. We could have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at least three nights a week. Short term insomnia can be caused by stress or changes to routine but chronic or long-term insomnia lasts more than three months and can’t be fully explained by any medical cause. While this could be a time to talk to your doctor about possibly taking sleep medications, consider making adjustments to your sleep routine to see if these could help: keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool; limit your caffeine intake, heavy meals, and your TV or cell phone screen time before bed; and try to develop a routine of waking up and going to sleep at the same time every day. Going for an evening walk after dinner, listening to calming music, or reading a book at bedtime could also help us to fall asleep easier and to stay asleep longer. Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, who is 65 years old, recently made headlines across the world with a surprising admission. Last July, she posted on social media that sleeping zero to three hours a night had become her regular routine since taking office, boasting that she had completely abandoned the concept of work-life balance. The late Prime Minister of Britain, Margaret Thatcher, also boasted of sleeping just four hours on weeknights while she was in office. Researchers have studied these rare “efficient sleepers” who have a specific gene variant that allows them to function normally on minimal sleep. They often refer to it as the “Thatcher gene”. Sleep experts, however, call this idea that anyone can thrive on four hours of sleep a dangerous myth and emphasise that for most of us to function well during the day we need to get enough rest at night. They maintain that sleeping five hours or less consistently is a health risk that is linked to cardiovascular disease and a shorter life expectancy. Medical doctors also agree that sleep is a biological requirement for most of us and it should not be viewed as a flexible habit. It is an important cornerstone of healthy ageing. Ensuring that we get a good night’s rest is one of the most powerful things we can do to protect our mind, our heart, and our overall health and wellbeing. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Dear Editor, When Azruddin Mohamed declared in November 2025 that his extradition proceedings would take another five years, many Guyanese were alarmed by the confidence with which he appeared to predict the course of a case that had barely begun. His reported words were chilling: “It will take another five years and four other Magistrates.” Many questioned how Mohamed could speak with such certainty about a matter controlled by the courts, asking why he ap-

peared to believe he was “in charge of the court.” Months later, the country must confront an uncomfortable question: has Azruddin Mohamed found a willing participant in his publicly declared plan to frustrate the extradition proceedings for five years? The United States is seeking the extradition of Azruddin and his father, Nazar, to face an 11-count federal indictment in the Southern District of Florida. The charges include allegations of conspiracy, mail and wire fraud, money laundering and customs-relat-

Exceptional address at United Nations...

The President's emphasis on sustainable development, biodiversity leadership through the Global Biodiversity Alliance, and our Low Carbon Development Strategy further showcased Guyana as a responsible global citizen. These are commitments backed by action, including our stewardship of our parts of the Amazonia Basin, one of the world's last remaining lungs. Most significantly, I fully support President Ali's nomination of Her Excellency Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett for

ed offences arising from an alleged international gold-export scheme. These are grave allegations involving Guyana’s gold resources, public revenue, state institutions and international reputation. The seriousness of the case demands an efficient and disciplined judicial process. Through its continued delays, the court risks being viewed as a willing participant in the very strategy Mohamed openly announced. That perception is damaging, corrosive and dangerous to public confidence in the adminis-

tration of justice. This matter has already travelled through the Magistrates’ Court, the High Court, the Court of Appeal and the Caribbean Court of Justice. On July 29, 2026, the CCJ dismissed the Mohameds’ challenge to the Authority to Proceed and cleared the way for the extradition hearing to continue. The CCJ confirmed that ruling in its official release. The entire judiciary is now under the microscope. reach. Yours truly, Ayinde Sampson

FROM PAGE 4

Secretary General of the United Nations. Her remarkable journey embodies the very best of Guyana and the Caribbean, and CARICOM's endorsement of her candidature speaks volumes. I commend President Ali for a speech well done, and I respectfully urge the international community to give serious consideration to Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett's candidacy. Yours sincerely, Sasenarine Singh Ambassador

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

00:00 Sign Off 06:00 TVG Devotional Hour 07:00 Documentary: Nat Geo Animals 08:00 Cartoons 09:00 David Persaud Religious Program 09:30 Cartoon Musical 10:30 Movie - Aankhen (1993) 13:30 Movie - Baazigar (1993) 16:30 Movie - Haunted Harmony Mysteries: Murder in G Major (2023) 18:00 TVG Music Break 18:30 Week-in-Review 19:00 Supergirl S6 E20 20:00 The Flash S3 E16 21:00 Heartland S4 E17 22:00 Movie - The High Note (2020)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

Page

Foundation

How can there be oxygen in the deep sea without light? ry on our research ship. Oxygen was still produced when we added poison to our samples. We saw more oxygen in the water above the seafloor than in the sediment. We did find support for one hypothesis. We saw more oxygen production when there was more surface area of polymetallic nodules. We also found high voltage differences on the surfaces of the polymetallic nodules.

Researchers: Andrew Sweetman and others

eople say we know more about the surface of the moon than we do about the seafloor. The deep ocean is a hard environment to study. It is cold and dark. It is also under a lot of pressure. This means we need lots of technology to help us take samples. One thing that we have found on the seafloor is polymetallic nodules. They contain layers of minerals and grow very slowly. They look like rocks, but they also have valuable metals in them like copper, nickel, and cobalt. These metals are used to make useful things like batteries. Large areas of the seafloor called the abyssal plains are covered with these nodules. But we don’t know much about the animals that live there or the chemical processes that happen. We do know that these ecosystems don’t have as much oxygen as surface environments. Animals use oxygen when they respire. Bacteria also use up oxygen when dead things decay. Usually plants produce more oxygen using photosynthesis. But this process needs light, which is not present deep on the seafloor. We can understand more about this environment by studying respiration. So, we did some experiments to measure oxygen consumption under different conditions. Surprisingly, our team detected oxygen production near the seafloor! We didn’t think this was possible. At first we thought something was wrong with our equipment. But we confirmed everything was working correctly. So, we wanted to know where the oxygen was coming from. This could give us more information about the availability of oxygen in the deep ocean.

We made our original measurements using a benthic chamber lander. This has a collection of chambers that are lowered to the seafloor. They can be pushed into the sediment to create sealed environments. Each chamber has an oxygen sensor, a stirrer, and a way to inject fluids. We injected things like algae, nutrients, and seawater. We left them on the seafloor for 48 hours and measured oxygen concentrations several times. We used the chambers a total of 16 times from May 2021 through September 2022. Our sample sites were in the ClarionClipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean. We had a few hypotheses to test about where this oxygen was coming from.

We accidentally added oxygen to our experiment.

We tested the benthic chamber lander in situ without injecting anything. We also took sealed samples from the seafloor. We looked at them back in the laboratory on our research ship. We checked to see if injecting fluids added oxygen or caused any leaks.

Organisms produced the oxygen.

We injected poison into three samples in the laboratory on our research ship. This would kill most organisms. Some microbes might have been able to make the poison safe for themselves, though. Then we measured oxygen in the samples.

Oxygen moved into the water from the sediment.

We made a profile of oxygen concentration right above and into the seafloor sediment. Oxygen should move from higher to lower concentrations.

Polymetallic nodules created oxygen.

We thought the nodules might produce enough voltage to break apart water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This process is called electrolysis. We measured the surface area of the nodules in our samples. We also measured the voltage at 153 sites on the surfaces of 12 nodules. Our tests didn’t show support for three hypotheses. We did not see any oxygen leaking into the benthic chamber lander. This was true at the seafloor and in the laborato-

Our results suggest that polymetallic nodules may produce oxygen. We think the nodules may act as a type of "geo-battery". Electrolysis might be how this happens. Oxygen production is just a side effect! We need to do more tests to investigate. Normally oxygen in the deep ocean originally comes from the surface ocean. This is where organisms use sunlight to make oxygen. Photosynthesis doesn’t happen in the darkness of the deep ocean. So, we use the nickname “dark oxygen production” for our findings. Our results suggest that dark oxygen production could provide additional oxygen for animals that live near the seafloor. We need to do more testing to know for sure. It also means that polymetallic nodules could be more important than we thought! We set out to measure oxygen consumption on the abyssal plains. But we found oxygen production instead! Our results disagree with all other studies on oxygen in these areas of the ocean. We have many questions left to answer. Is dark oxygen produced in other areas of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone? Does dark oxygen production change based on environmental conditions? How exactly are polymetallic nodules creating electricity? We need more information to understand the impact dark oxygen production could have on deep ocean ecosystems. Fortunately, we will be returning to run more tests! When you discover something that doesn’t make sense, like we did, it is important to return to the scientific method. You can use it to help understand your world. Here are some places to start: • Talk ideas over with a friend or your family. • Come up with some hypotheses to explain what you see. • Design some experiments to test your hypotheses. • Make sure to keep an open mind about what you find! (sciencejournalforkids.org)

NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana eyes central role in region’s emerging energy hub …Pres Ali tells Private Sector to pay attention to regional opportunities

s Guyana continues to build its energy sector, President Dr Irfaan Ali has underscored the importance of the country being positioned as a central hub given the competitive nature of the industry within the region. “It’s a very active energy landscape in the region, and it will be competitive. It will require a lot of negotiations and integration, but definitely, Guyana, we must position ourselves centrally to this hub that is being created across the region,” the Head of State noted. He made these remarks during a recent interview on Guyana’s energy future, where he discussed a wide range of issues from electricity supply and its growing demand locally to oil and gas, renewables, energy security and long-term development. According to President Ali, his view for the country is to eventually become a net producer of energy, not only for domestic use but to also supply neighbouring countries. For years, the Government has been eyeing the largely untapped Northern Brazil market, which will open up a host of opportunities across multiple sectors, including transport, logistics, and energy. Guyana has already been driving the development of a regional energy corridor that would connect northern South America and the wider Caribbean to link offshore gas resources, pool markets and build shared infrastructure.

Private Sector opportunities

But while conversations

President Dr Irfaan Ali, aong with Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations in New York, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd, and other Government officals

have begun with Suriname to potentially pool natural gas resources and further expand ties with Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago, the Guyanese leader highlighted the recent developments in the energy around the region – something which he says the Guyanese business community should keep an eye on. “The region is getting very active when it comes to the energy sector, and I hope our local Private Sector and Guyanese are paying attention. You have new exploration going on in Trinidad and Tobago. You have the possibility of a large-scale gas project at Dragonfield between Venezuela and Trinidad. You have an agreement that has been signed, apparently – I’ve not seen it – between Venezuela and Suriname.” “We are also discussing how the refinery can be integrated with investment from

the Dominican Republic [and] Barbados, having a play in it also for refined products and their own energy security, and wider integration with the rest of the Caribbean. We also have to look at where gas would play in all of this. The refuelling port for cruise ships, where a refuelling port is best positioned, how do we be part of that business opportunity that comes from that?” the President noted. He went on to underscore the importance of regional energy integration and the many possibilities for investments, especially in the maritime and shipping industry. The Guyanese leader added too that there are also interests for bilateral development. “These are all investors and investments that are available. People are ready to discuss with us, and we’re going to pursue as much of it as possible. And our ob-

jective is to create as many opportunities as we can for Guyanese,” he stated. Suriname cooperation Already, Guyana has a cooperation framework with Suriname that spans not just energy and natural resources but also environmental services, biodiversity services, bauxite, and infrastructure for connectivity. In fact, President Ali held a virtual meeting with his Surinamese counterpart, President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, back in May to advance bilateral cooperation, including in the oil and gas sector. Following an in-person meeting in Nickerie, Suriname, back in September 2026, the Guyanese Leader says a reciprocal meeting is expected to be held in Georgetown. He said a date will be final-

ised soon for that follow-up meeting in order to advance cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. While Suriname is gearing up for its first offshore production in 2028, Guyana started producing light

sweet crude in the offshore Stabroek Block in 2019. United States-based ExxonMobil, along with its coventurers, currently has Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels operating in the Stabroek Block: Liza Destiny (Liza Phase One Project), Liza Unity (Liza Phase Two), Prosperity (Payara Project), and One Guyana (Yellowtail Project), which together are producing approximately 900,000 barrels of oil per day. The US oil major is now preparing to fire up its fifth offshore project, the Uaru Development, later this year with the Errea Wittu FPSO, which will take the country’s output to more than one million barrels per day by year’s end. In the prolific Stabroek Block, ExxonMobil holds a 45 per cent interest, while co-venturers Chevron has a 30 per cent stake and CNOOC the remaining 25 per cent.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Working… T

…New York

here’s an iconic chorus from that Frank Sinatra hit, “New York, New York", that came to your Eyewitness’ mind at the reports and videos on President Ali’s trip to NY – the city that’s so nice they had to name it twice! The chorus begins with the line that has entered the English language, “If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere!!” And continues, “It's up to you/New York, New York/ New York, New York/I want to wake up/In a city that never sleeps/And find I'm a number one/Top of the list/King of the hill/A number one”!!! What else can you say about making it big in New York when the President of a small country perched on the top of South America, previously only known for giving Kool-Aid a bad name (thanks, Jim Jones!!), can have the impact he had in the few days he dropped in to address the UNGA?? Yes, we just got oil – which puts us on a lot of radars – but all the other big hitters in oil who make us look like pipsqueaks were there!! Right after his breakfast (roti and bhagee sent over from Little Guyana!!), he met with the head of the US-EXIM Bank, which had signed a US$2 billion MoU initial framework back in July 2022 to facilitate US exports and infrastructure development!! The fella was so smitten that he promised to backstop the entire development of the upcoming Berbice Gas to Shore project!! And you didn’t see the leaders who’d come to town for the UNGA meet at the swanky midtown EXCLUSIVE Harvard Club – addressing a collection of movers and shakers in the US corporate world!! By the time Pressie was done, he had them eating out of his hands – even standing in a line for a photo op!! That’s star power, baby!! He’d arranged for the money – the US EXIM Bank – and now he had the attention of the entrepreneurial class!! And he was just winding up for the big one – his meeting with President Trump and other Shield of the Americas leaders in New York!! While other leaders were quaking in their boots at the thought of running into Trump – Pressie Ali was his usual ebullient self!! No lack of self-confidence here!! And finally, there was the met and greet with the Guyanese Diaspora in the US – not just NY!! Anyone would be forgiven for thinking it was Michael Jackson reincarnated – with thousands of folks milling around hysterically outside the hall hoping for a glimpse – and perchance a smile – from the President!! And he then offered them a piece of the action in Guyana!! What a guy!! …at crying wolf!! For weeks Sanction Man and his Sissie were screaming bloody murder that the PPP was responsible for their Facebook page being suspended!! So not only was the PPP powerful enough to arrange for the US Government to have him and their Daady extradited, but now they were able to compel Zuckerberg – who owns Meta/Facebook – to yank their account!! And that, of course, was while they also had the Yanks yank a Judge’s visa!! Well, Sanction Man just confessed that because they’d violated copyright laws, Facebook had no other option than to throw the book at them and sanction Sanction Man’s page!! He’s lucky Facebook don’t suspend people for having bots create "followers" – 500,000 of them!! One of the characteristics of little children is they think they’re the centre of the universe – even to the point if they close their eyes, they’re convinced the world disappears!! This is ONE of Sanction Man’s problems!! Let’s see him disappear that orange jumpsuit coming up!!! …the UN Those who think we’re reflexively supporting the US should consider the positions we’ve taken at the US – a two-state solution and genocide in Gaza!! While seeking to expand the exclusive Security Council by including Africa, LA, and the Caribbean!! 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, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 FEATURE

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

t 22, Mekyla Belgrave is challenging perceptions of what visually impaired persons can achieve, using technology, determination and the guidance of her hands to venture into the world of drone flying. Visually impaired since she was an infant, Belgrave cannot watch a drone take off or follow its path across the sky, but that has not stopped her from taking control of one and sending it soaring. Belgrave, who participated in Phase six of the Inclusive Innovators Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Life Skills Programme, which is being implemented by the Guyana Council of

Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), with support from ExxonMobil Guyana. The seventh phase of the initiative was launched on Friday and is expected to be implemented in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice). Drone flying is the ability to safely, precisely and legally operate an unmanned aerial vehicle using coordi-

nated stick movements, spatial awareness and regulatory knowledge. According to Belgrave, who was visually impaired since she was about 10 months old, she relayed that she was fortunate to participate in the STEM Club through the Unit for the Blind and Visually Impaired, which she attended. She also participated in the programme alongside her sighted brother and fellow students and friends. With a white cane in hand, Mekyla Belgrave had no signs of uncertainty in her voice about where she is heading. In an interview with this publication, the 22-yearold spoke candidly

about h e r journey, t h e h a s o n

heights she set her sights and the milestones she is to have already

grateful reached. “Yes, the programme was really exciting and fun, and I learned a lot. I learnt a lot about coding. My favourite part was when I had to write a story because I like

writing in general, and it was really fun. I also got the opportunity to build a robot, and it was really fun and challenging.” She added, “I remember I would put the screws into different holes that I was not supposed to. I got to touch a drone and [I would even fly it] even fly it. And the best part was that we got to compete in a competition, and we were able to win. The programme was really rewarding, and I was happy to be given the opportunity to be a part of something like that.” She explained that she entered the programme through the Unit for the Blind, a special education school and the Guyana Council of

Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD). She said the programme began with virtual classes, which were held before the COVID-19 pandemic, where participants were introduced to coding and provided with kits to complete practical exercises. She received assistance from her parents and her sighted

Makeyla Belgrave

brother, who was also enrolled in the programme. As the programme eventually transitioned to faceto-face sessions, she gained more handson experience with STEM activities, including learning how to use robotic kits and build robots. She also had the opportunity to operate a drone using a remote control, an experience she described as part of her practical training.

Technology and creative opportunities

Asked about her enthusiasm for STEM education and what continues to fascinate her about the field, Belgrave pointed to the technology and creative opportunities it provides.

“So the technology aspect of it is definitely one where I can learn, where I can do coding and also create a story. This app that they had could use songs that had different sound effects and stuff, so it was like a movie kind of story. You got to hear the sound, and there were voices and different voices you could choose from, like different characters. And also, building the robot was fun. Getting the opportunity to touch the different parts and then putting it together was absolutely remarkable.” For many, the question may arise in their heads as to how she was able to accomplish all of this while being visually impaired. Belgrave explained that guidance and hands-on assistance played an important role in helping her navi-

gate the practical aspects of the programme. “Through guidance and, you know, I had people helping me. First, they would show me the different parts and tell me how this part fit with that part. They would guide my hands, and I would feel around and try to see which part fits where. Also, my brother helped me a lot, explaining things. When you say which part fits with that, like building robots, I built – I think it was a helicopter. There was a part where you had to attach the wings, put on the wheels and then put the thing on top of the wheels to screw it in. You had to build the body of the helicopter and stuff.” Belgrave did not stop there. She sought to turn her journey into a blueprint of encouragement for other persons with visual impairments who may be hesitant to venture into STEM. Asked what advice she would give to visually impaired persons interested in STEM but afraid to take the first step, she said, “I would tell them that I, too, was first nervous. I didn’t know that it was a programme that people who are blind and visually impaired could participate in, but doing it was definitely wonderful. It is a really fun programme. It teaches you a lot. You get to use your hands, and as someone who can’t see, our hands can also be our guide, right? So you get to use your hands, and also you get to use technology and whatnot.”

NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Vape, alcohol sales to minors trigger Woolford Ave vending crackdown

Logie housing W

hen Rambishoon had signed on to the indentureship contract in India, one of the Arcati’s enthusiastic inducements was that he would be given “free housing”. At the start of Indian indentureship in 1838, the assurance of “lodging” had been given, but the 1939 report investigating the fate of the inaugural Whitby and Hesperus labourers found the labourers had simply been moved into the mud huts and logies – vacated by freed slaves. At Bell Vue a Ravi Dev large logie – 100 by 24 feet – was built purposely for its quota of 80 indentureds – including two with families. These accommodations would have been on dirt floors and, at best, raised a foot above the ground and surrounded by stagnant drains. In 1869, the Inquiry into worker’s protests at Leonora found great variation in accommodation – some was “serviceable”, but other ranges were overcrowded, poorly ventilated, damp, inadequately drained and too close to stagnant trenches. The standard logie would be either 50’ x 2’4, containing five rooms, or 100’ x 24’, containing 10 rooms, each that would house either three bachelors or one family. The roof was of corrugated metal sheets that ensured the rooms were veritable ovens. Each room was entered from a door into a 10’ open space that ran the entire length of the logie. Here each family would create a kitchen with a mud “fireside” or “chulha” for cooking on one side of their ten feet along with their few utensils and use the other side for storage. From the kitchen one would enter the 14’ x 10’ bedroom, which had a single window at the back wall. The walls between bedrooms, which had to function as apartments, were very thin and did not reach the top of the “V”-shaped roof, ensuring there was absolutely no privacy. The Commission’s recommendations contributed to the Immigration Ordinance of 1873 calling for “suitable housing” with closer inspections and clearer estate obligations concerning housing, sanitation, hospitals and water. Clearly, nothing drastically had changed in housing after slavery and the initial “experiment” – save the floors of some logies, which were now made of wood, a foot over the ground. In 1891, three years after Rambishoon arrived, another inquiry found basically the same abysmal conditions as 1871 and made the same recommendations. Subsequently, some logies were raised about three feet above the ground, and Rambishoon would have arrived at Plantation De Willem with the “suitable housing” consisting of a mixture of logies – some with mud floors, others with one-foot or three-foot raised floors. He had initially been assigned to a mud-floored room along with two other bachelors. In his nostalgic moods he would wistfully describe the family housing at Ishmailpur. It was a mudwalled compound that guaranteed privacy from neighbours. Along the perimeter were several separate huts for his parents and the families of his brothers and himself – plus one open one acting as a byre for the bulls that did their ploughing. The huts were framed with timber, and walls were made of intertwined “wattle” with mud plastered from both sides a foot thick and with the roof thatched with grass, ensuring it was always cool. There was invariably an open “overhang/shed” in front of the huts all facing the courtyard, or “aangan”, which functioned as “sitting rooms” for interacting with family and friends. Starting in the depot at Calcutta – where hundreds of prospective migrants were huddled under a single thatched roof – and then on the Allan Shaw with everyone sleeping on the floor of the lower deck, Rambishoon was taken aback that De Willem’s “suitable housing” continued the absolute lack of privacy in the communal logies. It was only decades later he saw two-family cottages built, four feet off the ground with stairs and doors front and back and a dividing wall all the way to the ceiling. It was one more instance of the planters’ conviction that the immigrants were lesser beings, bereft of sense or sensibilities. Unlike in his village, where the women were sequestered behind their mud walls, in De Willem, the almost enforced interaction due to proximity made young bachelors like Rambishoon soon succumb to hormonal urges. He had a liaison with a young lady who bore him a child, Rambharose, but whose father married her off to another, “more suitable” man. The lack of privacy and the scarcity of women led to many such liaisons, for which the women were blamed as being “immoral”. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

he Local Government and Regional Development Ministry has uncovered a series of concerns involving vendors operating along Woolford Avenue, including reports of inappropriate interactions with students, the sale of vapes and alcohol to minors, following consultations with more than 10 learning institutions. This was revealed by Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand in a social media post, where she expressed concern over the situation surrounding vending along Woolford Avenue. According to Manickchand, she met with vendors who previously operated along the street, some of whom were seriously impeding traffic flow and access to the more than 10 learning institutions on the Avenue. She said the meeting was part of a continuing engagement, noting that previous meetings were held with school administrations, teaching staff, boards where applicable, Parent-Teacher

Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Priya Manickchand

Associations (PTAs) and vendors. Manickchand said some of the issues uncovered during the engagements were particularly unsettling. “We learnt some unsettling things, including that some vendors were inappropriately speaking to and touching students, that illicit items like vapes and alcohol were being sold to minors, and that abusive behaviour was directed towards school staff when rules, such as no selling during instructional hours, were being enforced.”

Adding to the concerns, Manickchand said the engagements also revealed that some vendors had positively contributed to the school community. “We also learnt that some vendors added beautifully to the school community. They would help children cross the road, give credit to parents for snacks, wait until kids were picked up before they left for the day, sell cheaper than the canteen and otherwise meet a need that was not being met.” Manickchand also ex-

pressed concern after learning that some electricity meter connections used by the vendors had been sanctioned through official letters from the City Council. She called for the issuance of such letters to be stopped immediately. “In the end, some schools chose the vendors who were in the immediate past co-operative and had behaved in a manner that they believed they could be accommodated into the school compound, with a view to serving the best interest of the children. The others were invited to remove their caravans and carts, etc. There will be no vending on Woolford Avenue.” Earlier in September, Guyana Times reported that Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand had met with head teachers, school board chairpersons and heads of ParentTeacher Associations (PTAs) as consultations continued on the future of vending along Woolford Avenue, Georgetown. TURN TO PAGE 21

12 NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“I can use my knowledge to serve my community” – new lawyer …to practice in Lethem

ennata A Nickram left Lethem after Grade Six with a Hinterland Scholarship and a future still waiting to be written. Years later, she has returned not simply as a daughter of the community, but as a qualified attorney, admitted to the Bar of Guyana on Friday, ready to put her legal training to work on the ground she once called home. She plans to eventually return to her hometown and open her own law practice. Nickram, who is the first lawyer in her family, was admitted before Justice Fidela CorbinLincoln at the Supreme

Court of Judicature. During her secondary school years, she lived with a guardian in Lamaha Gardens and returned to Lethem for the Christmas, Easter and August holidays. She passed all 12 subjects she sat at the 2020 CSEC examinations. She then completed a year of International Relations at the University of Guyana (UG) before entering the Bachelor of Laws programme in 2021 and earning her LLB in 2024. At the Eugene Dupuch Law School, she earned her Legal Education Certificate this year. She also received

the Colin E. Callender Q.C. Memorial Prize for Best Performing Student in the Commercial and Financial Services Law Clinic. The prize recognised her work in the clinic and in the STEP Bahamas Moot Competition, which her team won under the coaching of McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes. It was her first time participating in a moot competition. Her petition was presented by Attorney-at-Law Sase Gunraj of Gunraj & Co. According to Nickram, returning home to Lethem is important to her because she does not want her pro-

Rennata A Nickram (centre) along with Justice Fidela CorbinLincoln and Attorney at Law, Sase Gunraj who presented her petition

fessional journey to disconnect her from her roots. She said the knowledge she has attained can be taken directly back to the soil from which she grew. “I hope that, as I grow within the profession, I can use my knowledge and experience to serve others and contribute to greater access to legal services within my community.” Nickram topped Region Nine at the 2015 National Grade Six Assessment, earning a place at The Bishops’ High School in Georgetown and a Hinterland Scholarship. TURN TO PAGE 21

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

found by cops 3 gunpoint robberies Ganja during Bartica reported in 1 night vehicle search

olice are investigating three separate robberies under arms incidents reported on Friday in Georgetown, West Bank Demerara (WBD) and East Bank Demerara (EBD). In the first incident, which occurred at about 20:30h at a bar on North Road, Georgetown, a 40-yearold security officer of East La Penitence was allegedly robbed of his service firearm. According to preliminary investigations, the security officer was on duty at the bar when he was approached by a male known to him. The suspect allegedly pointed a handgun at the security officer and demanded his firearm. The officer complied and handed over a 9mm pistol along with 10 rounds of matching ammunition. The suspect then reportedly left the premises on foot and proceeded south along Wellington Street. No ar-

rests have been made in connection with the incident and investigations are continuing. In a separate incident between 19:30h and 20:00h in the vicinity of Stanleytown, WBD, two Cuban nationals, were allegedly robbed while travelling to Wales. Police said the two men, both factory workers, had boarded a silver-grey motorcar, with one of the suspects seated in the front passenger seat. While in the Stanleytown area, the suspect allegedly pulled

out a handgun and demanded the victims’ belongings. The men were reportedly relieved of two cellular phones, a wristwatch, a wallet and $8000. The 41-year-old and 29-year-old victims were then instructed to exit the vehicle, after which the suspects drove away. Police observed CCTV cameras in the area and said the footage will be reviewed as part of the investigation. No arrests have been made in that matter. Meanwhile, Police have

arrested two men following an alleged robbery at Nandy Park, EBD, at about 20:20h on Friday. The incident involved a 35-year-old businessman of Peters Hall, EBD, who was reportedly walking along a street with a friend when they were approached by two males on a black motorcycle. According to police, the pillion rider dismounted, pointed what appeared to be a handgun at the businessman and relieved him of a dark blue iPhone 14 Plus and $10,000. The suspect then reportedly rejoined the motorcycle and both men fled the area. Police ranks conducted checks in the area, resulting in the arrest of two labourers, ages 24 and 22, both of Industrial Site, Ruimveldt. The men were escorted to Providence Police Station, where they remain in custody pending further investigations.

Mechanic jailed 2½ years for felonious wounding

42-year-old mechanic from Foulis Village, East Coast Demerara (ECD) has been sentenced to two years and six months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to a charge of felonious wounding. Orlando Simpson, also known as “Lepo”, was charged under Section 57(a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. Police said Simpson was arrested on Thursday,

September 24, 2026, in connection with an alleged felonious wounding. He was subsequently charged on Friday. Simpson appeared before Magistrate Caressa Henry at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded guilty to the offence. Magistrate Henry subsequently sentenced Simpson to two years and six months’ imprisonment.

Orlando Simpson, also known as “Lepo”

The ganja that was found by Police in Bartica

olice are investigating the discovery of 110.6 grams of suspected cannabis at Five Miles Junction, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Friday. The cannabis was discovered at about 16:30h during mobile patrol duties in the Five Miles area. According to preliminary investigations, Police ranks intercepted a motor vehicle at Five Miles Junction. The vehicle was occupied by a 32-year-old taxi driver and a 52-year-old gold miner. A search of the vehicle was

conducted, during which the 52-year-old passenger was allegedly found with a black bulky parcel containing three transparent parcels filled with leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. The man was arrested and taken to the Bartica Police Station along with the narcotic. The substance was weighed in his presence and amounted to 110.6 grams. The 52-year-old remains in Police custody as investigations continue.

20 NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

28 Region 8 residents trained to operate heavy machinery

The participants who have completed training and certification in skid steer and compactor operation

wenty-eight residents of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) have completed professional training and certification in skid steer and compactor operation. The train-

ing was conducted through MACORP under the Public Works Ministry’s Special Projects Unit Community Participation Model, according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo in a so-

cial media post. The programme is designed to equip residents with the skills needed to undertake village infrastructure projects supported by capital grants of up to $30

million. Participating community clusters are also being provided with heavy equipment, including excavators, motor graders, loaders, compactors and bulldozers. The equip-

ment will be used to undertake road construction and drainage works within the communities. Jagdeo in the post said preparations are currently underway for a second batch of residents to

undergo training. The programme, he said, is intended to strengthen the capacity of hinterland communities to carry out their own infrastructure projects.

NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

AI, digital push to reshape Guyana’s tourism industry – tourism officials

uyana’s tourism sector must embrace digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) while ensuring that people, communities and the country’s cultural and natural heritage remain at the centre of the industry, Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues said in her message for World Tourism Day 2026. World Tourism Day will be observed today, themed “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.” Rodrigues said the rapid development of AI and other emerging technologies is already changing the way travellers search for destinations, plan trips, make bookings and share their experiences. For destinations, she said, these technologies can improve understanding of visitors, enhance services, manage resources and make tourism more efficient, inclusive and sustainable. “For Guyana, this presents a significant opportunity to strengthen the growth and competitiveness of our tourism sector,” Rodrigues said. She said as Guyana continues to position itself as a tourism destination, technology must form part of efforts to modernise the sector. According to the Minister, digital tools can make it easier for visitors to discover attractions and tourism products, while AI-powered solutions can support businesses and improve the visitor experience. However, Rodrigues stressed that technological advancement must not come at the expense of the human element of tourism. “AI should enhance the creativity, knowledge and warmth of our tourism workers, entrepreneurs and communities, rather than diminish the human connection that remains central to the tourism experience,” she said. She also highlighted the need to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation extend to young innovators, small businesses and communities across Guyana. Rodrigues said Government has a responsibility to prepare people and businesses to participate in the chang-

Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues during a North Rupununi Familiarisation Trip in November 2025

ing tourism landscape by developing digital skills, encouraging businesses to embrace innovation and strengthening the environment for responsible use of technology. She also point-

already introduced several digital initiatives, including a tourism licensing portal intended to make the licensing process more accessible and efficient for tourism businesses. The Authority

complement rather than replace the qualities that distinguish Guyana as a destination, including its natural environment, culture, heritage and hospitality. He said continued investment in training, standards, product development and digital capacity will be necessary to ensure tourism businesses and communities can benefit from technological changes.

“We must embrace tech”

President of THAG Mitra Ramkumar

ed to the need for small and medium-sized tourism enterprises, community-based tourism operators and entrepreneurs to have access to the tools, knowledge and support required to benefit from digital developments.

Technology must support

Meanwhile, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh, said technology must support the people and businesses that form the foundation of Guyana’s tourism industry. Baksh said the sector continues to grow, with more visitors arriving, new experiences being developed and businesses investing in services and facilities. He said the GTA has

has also launched a destination booking engine, providing visitors with another avenue to discover and book tourism experiences in Guyana. Baksh said virtual tours available through the destination website also allow prospective visitors to explore selected attractions and experiences before travelling. “Visitors increasingly research destinations online, compare experiences, make decisions and complete bookings before they arrive,” he said, noting that tourism businesses must therefore be able to meet visitors through digital platforms and provide reliable information throughout that process. Baksh, however, said technology must

President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Mitra Ramkumar, also called for greater use of technology and AI, particularly among small and medium-sized tourism businesses. Ramkumar said Guyana recorded 453,489 visitor arrivals in 2025, describing the figure as evidence of the sector’s continued growth. She noted, however, that tourism success should also be measured by the opportunities created for Guyanese, businesses sustained, careers generated and communities empowered. According to Ramkumar, digital technology can help small tourism enterprises improve marketing, reservations and customer service, strengthen decision-making and reach international markets. He said a traveller may encounter Guyana through social media, videos, digital maps or AI-powered travel platforms before ever visiting the country. “The question, therefore, is no longer whether Guyana should em-

“I can use my knowledge...

“It meant adjusting to a completely different environment and being away from my family and the support system I had always known,” she said. Nickram said growing up in Lethem made her aware of how important access to professional services is for hinterland communities and that shaped her decision to study law.

“I was drawn to a profession that would challenge me intellectually while also giving me the opportunity to assist people, advocate for their interests and contribute positively to my community,” she said. In a statement ahead of the ceremony, her parents, Rubeina Khan-Nickram and Kenrick Nickram, said they were grateful to see

her reach the milestone. “Congratulations to our daughter Rennata on her admission to practice law in Guyana,” they said. “We give thanks to Almighty God for His grace, strength and favour throughout her journey to earn her LLB, LEC and now to take the oath as an Attorney-atLaw. “May she serve her cli-

FROM PAGE 12

ents and her country with wisdom, honesty and excellence.” Nickram also had a message for young people in Region Nine. “I would tell them to work hard, stay focused and make the most of every opportunity that comes their way. Don’t let where you come from limit what you believe you can achieve,” she said.

Director of GTA, Kamrul Baksh

brace digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence. We must,” Ramkumar said. At the same time, she stressed that technology should not replace the human experience. “Technology should help us take these stories to the world, but our people must remain at the heart of the story,” she said. Ramkumar also highlighted Guyana’s upcoming hosting of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), scheduled for October 5–9 under the theme “Tourism Futures: Smart, Sustainable and Inclusive.” She said the conference will provide opportunities for discussions on technology, innovation, tourism intelligence and data, while allowing Guyana to showcase its tourism products and the people and businesses behind them. THAG, she said, intends to work with the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, the GTA, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation and

private-sector partners to maximise the opportunities presented by the conference. Ramkumar further stressed the importance of preparing young Guyanese for an industry increasingly influenced by AI, data analytics, digital marketing, content creation, sustainability and experience design. “Our responsibility is not simply to prepare them to participate in that future. We must prepare them to lead it,” she said. The three tourism stakeholders agreed that while digital transformation will play an increasingly important role in the sector, Guyana’s competitiveness will also depend on customer service, infrastructure and connectivity, access to financing, skilled workers and partnerships. Rodrigues said Guyana’s tourism sector must ultimately remain rooted in its people, communities, national identity, culture, heritage and natural environment while using technology to expand opportunities and strengthen its competitiveness.

Vapes, alcohol sales...

FROM PAGE 11

The meeting, which was also attended by Permanent Secretary Miguel ChooKang and senior Ministry of Education officials led by Principal Education Officer Immanuel Bridgewater, followed a previous engagement between the Minister and vendors operating along the corridor. The consultations were aimed at developing an arrangement that would balance the interests of roadside vendors, school canteens, students and parents following infrastructure upgrades along Woolford Avenue. During the meetings, school administrators and canteen operators were given an opportunity to raise their concerns and provide recommendations before any final arrangements were made. The discussions also highlighted concerns from school officials about some

roadside vending operations, including reports of unlawful and disrespectful behaviour which they said could negatively affect children. Manickchand said these concerns, along with issues previously raised by vendors, would be considered as the Government worked towards a new system for vending along the upgraded corridor. She stressed that any new arrangement must be structured, with clear standards governing the operation of vendors, particularly because of their proximity to schools and children. The issue of vending along Woolford Avenue arose following the first phase of infrastructure upgrades, which included an expanded roadway and improved drainage. Vendors who were removed during the works had raised concerns about the impact on their livelihoods.

22 NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt makes proposal for more efficient use of time, resources at PAC …APNU welcomes plan, WIN shoots down plan prematurely

ith the aim of clearing the backlog at the Public Accounts Meetings (PAC), the Government will be bringing a proposal that will see better utilisation of time and resources when it comes to the parliamentary scrutiny of public funds. This is according to Public Works Minister and Government’s representative in the PAC, Juan Edghill. He made these remarks on Friday during the handing over of the 2025 Auditor General (AG) Report to the Speaker of the National Assembly for tabling in the House. The PAC is a bipartisan mechanism of the National Assembly that is responsible for scrutinising the audited accounts of the State, ensuring that public money is spent legally, efficiently and for authorised purposes. However, committee meetings over the years have been plagued with a myriad of issues that stalled its work, leading to a backlog of reports under examination. This year alone, the PAC was faced with frequent delays, boycotts and walkouts. But Edghill said that the Government has discussed this

issue at length and came up with a solution to bring the backlog to the current year’s report. “We intend to put forth a proposal of how we can get up to date… So, that when we get the next Auditor General’s Report of 2026 in 2027, we’ll be examining 2026,” he told the House Speaker and other Committee members on Friday. In the past, committee members from the parliamentary opposition have bemoaned the repeated delays of PAC meetings that have hindered the scrutiny of public spendings. Based on previous reports, the committee in the last parliament before the 2025 elections was only able to complete accountability checks up to the 2019 audit report, thus resulting now in a six-year backlog with the new report being handed over on Friday. According to Edghill, “We’ll be coming with a proposal of how we can make that backlog current. And I think that’s one of the important things that needs to be noted because we would like to ensure that the current accounting officers are sitting in the seat answering the questions. And we

want to ensure that our country continues to live up to the standards that we’ve pledged to the people of Guyana when we told them to elect us to office – that we would provide transparency, accountability and good governance.” While he opted not to divulge into the details of the planned proposal and did not say whether consolidating the reports was included in Government’s proposal, Edghill, who served in previous bipartisan parliamentary committees both as a member and chairman, subsequently told reporters that the intention is to make better use of the resources. “The utilising of time and personnel more effectively is something that we’ve been discussing. We don’t want to have a REO (Regional Executive Officer) come in March with a full team from Region One to deal with 2020 or 2021. Then he has to come back in August to deal with [another year], and then come back again [another time]. It’s costly and not the best utilising of time,” he asserted. The Minister ruled out having PAC meetings every day, but noted that having longer sessions could

ensure that more work gets done. “The members on our team are prepared to work whenever we sit. So, it’s not how often we meet, it’s what we do when we meet. We’ve said that before,” he declared.

APNU welcomes plan

Meanwhile, committee member from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) opposition party, Ganesh Mahipaul, welcomed the Government’s proposed plan to clear the public accounts backlog. “We want the backlog to be cleared. We’ve been championing that for the longest while – that there is need for us to be with current affairs and the current Auditor General’s report so that we can provide the necessary guidance to the accounting officers,” he told reporters following the Minister’s announcement. According to Mahipaul, APNU has always championed the need to merge the reports from 2020 to 2023 in order to fast-track the work of the PAC – something which the current PAC Chairman, Vishnu Panday of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, says

Public Works Minister member, Juan Edghill

and

PAC

might not work when it comes to properly scrutinising those reports.

Premature

“I find it virtually impossible to combine all the reports…and to have the same efficiency, and to the larger extent, to fulfil the expectation of the general public in Guyana. I doubt whether that can happen, and I am very strong in my doubts,” Panday related to reporters on Friday. But even as he is not in full support of consolidation, the PAC Chairman says he will allow the proposal to be presented to the committee for consideration.

Novelist accused of using AI to write book removed from French prize list Thélyson Orélien had been in the running to win a top literary prize before the AI claim emerged on social media

he organisers of France’s most prestigious literary prize said they had removed a critically acclaimed novel

whose central role is to promote and honour literature written by women and men”. The Haiti-born author’s book is a lyrical first-per-

The novel on display inside a bookstore in Paris. Photograph: Sarah Meyssonnier/Reuters

by a Canadian-Haitian writer from the longlist after an anonymous online account claimed the book was “almost entirely” written by AI. The Académie Goncourt, a Paris-based literary organisation, said on Friday its decision to withdraw Thélyson Orélien’s novel C’était ça ou mourir (It Was That or Die) was “driven by the desire to preserve the integrity of the Goncourt prize and the academy itself,

son account of how a history and geography teacher flees a home country mired in gang violence and embarks on a perilous journey across 12 countries before finding a haven in Canada. Published in France by Grasset in August, it has sold about 35,000 copies and won the Prix du roman Fnac, with translation rights sold to more than 20 countries. Allegations that the

book was written using AI emerged on X on 21 September, the same day It Was That or Die won the Fnac prize for best novel. An anonymous account called Balance ton Claude – a reference to Anthropic’s AI agent – said it had fed the novel into the AI detection software Pangram and found it to be “almost entirely” written by artificial intelligence. Questions have been raised over Pangram’s accuracy, and French media outlets have found other AI detection programmes that identified It Was That or Die as very probably written by a human. Orélien, 38, has denied the allegation, saying it was racially motivated. “I’ve always loved creating and writing,” he said. “I don’t see why I would use a machine.” He told the newspaper Libération that he used traditional language and rhythms that were Haitian and Caribbean. “The imagery, repetition and rhythm are a living language, they are mine.” The author of the anonymous X account was later identified on the pages of the centre-right newspaper Le Figaro as one of its own columnists, Samuel Fitoussi, the author of an essay against “wokeism” on film and TV. On his own X account, Fitoussi said he had initiated his campaign because even though he was “techno-optimistic”, he feared that “AI will cause the dis-

appearance of reading and writing”. On Wednesday Philippe Claudel, the Académie Goncourt’s president, had urged caution over the allegations. But separate accusations of plagiarism against Orélien published in French media appeared to have caused a change of heart. Libération alleged in an article that the author plagiarised an award-winning short story from the preface of the French journalist Louis Pauwels’ book The Morning of the Magicians, originally published in 1960. In its statement the academy referred to the “plagiarisms of which its author has been guilty over time and which have just been revealed, as well as the convergent result of several analyses by trustworthy researchers and journalists highlighting the fact that [the book] is in all likelihood very largely the product of artificial intelligence”. “The aim is to send a clear message,” it added, “to affirm that we neither endorse nor condone in any way the creation of texts generated with the help of AI.” In a statement shared with the Guardian, the novel’s original publisher, Le Éditions du Boréal, said: “Unfortunately, at this stage, we are unable to confirm or deny the allegations the author is facing.” The Canada-based publisher said it was important not tojump to conclusions,

The author Thélyson Orélien, whose book, C’était ça ou mourir, has sold about 35,000 copies. Photograph: Joel Saget/AFP/Getty Images

adding: “Without credible, concrete evidence, it is not our place to decide whether this book has a right to exist.” Boréal said it was “concerned” about the newer plagiarism allegations, but added it was important to remember there was a real person behind the book. “We unequivocally condemn the hateful messages and personal attacks of recent days, and we urge everyone to show restraint,” it said. Orélien has said he will not comment further

on the latest allegations. Speaking on Thursday at Les Correspondances literary festival in Manosque, southern France, he said: “There’s this desire not only to attack the book, but especially my voice … to silence me,” adding that he would therefore “take a step back and wait until things have calmed down”. The Académie Goncourt will publish its shortlist on 6 October and announce the winner of the prize on November 4. (The Guardian)

NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

growing voices

hree hundred and sixty-five days, hundreds of verses, dozens of voices amplified, and a poetry scene that has bubbled far beyond its initially imagined reach. Over the past year, Guyana’s spoken-word scene has refused to let the fire die, as those who are now part of the poetry scene are ready to celebrate in style. Month after month, poets have stepped up to the microphone at the KFC Poetry Slam, baring

Birthday surprises

Previously, judging was based on the “Poet of the Night” format, where the winning poet received prizes from various generous sponsors through audi-

their own original stories, sharpening their pencils, and captivating audiences, while videos of their performances have gone on to surpass hundreds of thousands of views across social media platforms. Held on the last Thursday of each month at Scotty’s Smokehouse and Chill, the Poetry Slam has become a recurring meeting point for Guyana’s spoken-word community – a space where established voices and emerging poets share the same stage, compete, collaborate and, perhaps most importantly, find an audience willing to listen. While some may view the initiative as a rejuvenation of a poetry scene that existed in Guyana before, others see something subtler taking shape: the steady growth of a larger creative community, one increasingly focused on giving poets the space and opportunity to showcase their work. Poetry Slam Guyana creates a platform for creatives within the performing arts to bring

their work to the public, with particular emphasis on the art of spoken word. Speaking with this publication, one of the event’s core organisers, Nathaniel Powers, said the initiative has helped foster a strong network and sense of family among the poets since its inception. He said the organisers have therefore chosen to host a Grand Slam, where poets will compete on a much more serious level to determine a yearly winner.

ence judging. However, for the anniversary showcase this month, the competition will be a test of endurance, with poets battling for bragging rights, among other attractive prizes, through judging by designated judges as well as audience votes. Powers noted that beyond the business aspect of the initiative, the organisers are focused on building a lasting poetic community, something he said has existed in Guyana in the past but was often short-lived. Powers said the organisers are now seeking to strengthen that community and maintain consistency among its members. He noted that even this month, when the focus shifted to competition, the usual rehearsals and workshops were paused. According to him, the regular gatherings had become such an important part of the poets’ experience that

participants were already expressing how much they missed meeting with one another. He said the goal is to continue nurturing that sense of community and strengthen the bond that has developed among the poets, which has transcended the realm of just business. “I think that’s worth more than any business out there. Poetry is a form of therapy; it is a form of building community, friendship and laughter. There’s so much humour and so much connection, and I can see people just waiting.”

Not only does spoken word cater to poetry enthusiasts, but it also opens the doors for persons who are celebrating special moments in their lives, including birthdays and other occasions. “And one of the things that happens is we actually give the birthday people gifts. Yeah, so we give away a lot of stuff, and every night, if there’s somebody’s birthday, they always end up going home with stuff.” In fact, couples are not left out of the action either. “The thing about it is couples, couples – so all the single people, that’s where they need to be. Indeed, quite a few people use Poetry Slam events to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and stuff like that. We haven’t got any wedding on the spot yet, but we’re hoping for that very soon. You know, Poetry Slam has so many spin-offs, because if I want to celebrate my birthday and my friends love a good laugh and stuff, they can connect with the Poetry Slam team; they can put your event together, man.”

T&T performer

In fact, to commemorate the Poetry Slam’s anniversary, the Board of Directors has taken things up a notch by inviting Trinidad and Tobago’s National Poetry Slam champion, Jochelle Johnson, to perform for patrons. Powers said Johnson’s participation represents a new regional chapter for the Poetry Slam, as the initiative seeks to expose Guyanese audiences to different approaches to spoken-word poetry across the Caribbean. “Well, something that is going to be quite different and quite amazing about this month is that we have invited Jochelle Johnson, t h e National P o e t r y Slam winner of Trinidad a n d Tobago, to come in the Slam. So now the Slam has opened that door on a regional level, where we have targeted, from a Guyanese perspective, we are bringing other forces along to show how big spoken-word poetry can be, as well as get a different look of spoken-word poetry in the other Caribbean countries.” Tickets for the Poetry Slam were available through members of GT Gimmicks and the 14 participating poets. On Saturday, 14 poets vied for various prizes, including trips to Kaieteur Falls, monetary prizes and other incentives.

24 NEWS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyanese among 36 young professionals building leadership skills in India A

Guyanese media and communications expert, Jainarine Deonauth, is among 36 young professionals from developing countries around the world who are currently participating in the International Management Development Programme on Effective Decisionmaking and Leadership in New Delhi, India. The course is being hosted by the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) and sponsored by the Indian Government through its flagship Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. It will run from September 22 to October 5. The management development programme is designed specifically for mid to senior level managers seeking to strengthen their leadership effectiveness in increasingly complex and dynamic organisational environments. The programme aims to enhance participants’ analytical capabilities, strategic thinking and problem-solving acumen by equipping them with structured frameworks, evidence-based tools and practical methodologies for informed decision-making. Through a blend of expert sessions, case studies, simulations, and interactive discussions, the programme enables participants to critically eval-

Guyanese Jainarine Deonauth, Communications Director at the University of Guyana, (first from left, in kneeling position) with other participants of the course at the Lotus Temple in New Delhi

uate information, manage uncertainty, balance competing priorities and make timely and sound decisions. By fostering both cognitive and behavioural competencies, the programme prepares managers to navigate organisational challenges, lead teams more effectively and contribute to improved governance, performance and long-term institutional resilience. Deonauth, who currently serves as Communications Director at the University of Guyana (UG), expressed his appreciation to the Government

of India for providing the opportunity to participants to pursue the course, noting that it will help to upgrade their professional skills and build institutional capacity. Eric Oppong Amankwah, a participant from Ghana, said that India has proven to be a leader amongst developing countries in various areas of development and expressed that the Government of India should be commended for their generosity and willingness to share their expertise to the benefit of other countries. The ITEC programme

is a premier bilateral capacity-building platform run by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Instituted in September 1964, ITEC is a demand-driven, response-oriented programme that shares India's developmental expertise and technological achievements with partner nations across Asia, Africa, Latin America, Central and Eastern Europe and the Pacific. Over the years, thousands of young professionals from around the world, including hundreds of Guyanese,

have benefitted from the ITEC programme. ITEC resources have also been used for cooperation programmes conceived in regional and inter-regional context such as Economic Commission for Africa, Commonwealth Secretariat, United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), Group of 77 and G-15. In more recent years, its activities have also been associated with regional and multilateral organisations and cooperation groupings like Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN),

Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), MekongGanga Cooperation (MGC), African Union (AU), AfroAsian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO), Pan African Parliament, Caribbean Community (CARICOM), World Trade Organisation (WTO) and Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC) and India-Africa Forum Summit. The ITEC programme has evolved and grown tremendously over the years. Under ITEC and its sister programme, the Special Commonwealth African Assistance Programme (SCAAP), 161 countries in Asia, Africa, East Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean (LAC) as well as Pacific and Small Island countries are invited to share in the Indian developmental experience acquired over six decades of India's existence as a free nation. As a result of different activities under this programme, there is now a visible and growing awareness among other countries about the competence of India as a provider of technical know-how and expertise as well as training opportunities, consultancy services and feasibility studies.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

Regional

Venezuelan President returns Trump Admin unwavering as US from US visit with no deals, strikes on Ecuadorian fishing boats raise humanitarian concerns no firm election date

enezuela's interim President, Delcy Rodriguez, arrived in New York this week for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) seeking business deals on debt, energy and mining to demonstrate the once-sanctioned country was open for business again after US forces removed her predecessor in January. She pledged in her speech before the UN that the South American Organization of ‌ the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) member would hold elections as part of a transition to "full democracy". She left with photographs of herself alongside

US President Donald Trump but obtained no concrete agreements. It was her first visit to the US since American forces captured then-President Nicolas Maduro in a January raid. It demonstrated Washington's deep control over her Administration and showed Venezuela's need for new alliances to align with Trump's aspirations, analysts said. "Rodriguez enjoyed a week of high visibility. Yet, when we make a list of concrete results, the outcome is modest. Where are the disbursements, the reconstruction package or the business deals? They did not materi-

alise on the scale that would have allowed New York to be portrayed as Venezuela's great financial comeback," said Washington-based analyst Antonio De La Cruz. For nine months, Rodriguez had avoided giving signals about an election, while US officials kept expectations at bay by saying it would take time to materialise. Analysts and Venezuelan opposition parties now say the clock is ticking to set a date, while experts estimate it will take at least 12 months to appoint reliable authorities and organise the voting. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Colombia extradites leader of armed group to US

he Colombian Government has extradited an alleged drug trafficking leader to the United States, part of a shift in the country’s security policy into greater alignment with Washington. President Abelardo de la Espriella announced on Friday the extradition of Geovany Andres Rojas, who is accused of leading an organisation formed by previous members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebel group. De la Espriella’s left-wing predecessor, Gustavo Petro, shielded Rojas from extradition in order to use him as a mediator in talks between the Government and armed and criminal groups, which Petro sought to rein in through negotiations rather

hile the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, was being decorated in Quito by Ecuador’s President for “helping to promote peace in the region”, 10 Ecuadorian fishers whose boat had been blown up by US forces were adrift in the eastern Pacific. On September 8, a day before Rubio arrived, a US patrol vessel intercepted the fishing boat Don Rufo in international waters near Ecuador. “They brought two huge bombs aboard, took us to their ship, handcuffed and blindfolded us, and blew our boat to pieces,” said the boat’s Captain, Mero Calderón, 50, who, along with five other fishers, was handed over to local authorities. But another 10 crew members were fishing farther out to sea in a smaller boat that was not equipped to make it back to shore. The

Crew members from the five skiffs belonging to the vessel Don Rufo after they were located and taken aboard the BAE Atahualpa

Ecuadorian navy only rescued them on September 10, when Rubio was already in Peru preparing to return to the US. US Southern Command posted an edited 14-second video of the operation and said “intelligence confirmed” that the vessel was being used by a gang as a “floating refuelling station” for speedboats allegedly carrying drugs – which the fish-

ers deny. It was one of eight operations involving Ecuadorian boats in just more than two weeks – the latest on September 16 – to follow the same pattern. Unlike the nearly 70 US airstrikes in the Pacific and Caribbean that have killed 234 people since last year, crews were removed before the vessels were sunk. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Brazil's Lula bans online gambling ahead of Presidential election

B Colombia's President Abelardo de la Espriella

than military confrontation. Rojas, also known as “the Spider”, was flown to California and placed in the custody of federal agents. He allegedly served as the commander and spokesperson of Comandos de la Frontera, a group associated with cocaine trafficking in the Colombian province of Putumayo that borders

Ecuador and Peru. He will face drug trafficking and terrorism charges in the US, which has sought to expand military operations across Latin America under the pretext of combating crime and drug trafficking during President Donald Trump’s second term in office. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

In a statement yesterday, Browne accused Persad-Bissessar of making a habit of publicly insulting and denigrating individuals who question Government decisions or propose changes to legislation. Browne also criticised the PM’s relationship with the media and levelled broader accusations against her administration, including claims that perceived political opponents have been targeted. He further alleged that Persad-Bissessar was using the Office of the PM to encourage supporters to disregard and disrespect constitutional and parliamentary institutions. “More and more, she has become not the leader of the nation but rather a tyrant leader of only those who support her blindly and

march along the path of viciousness,” Browne said. His remarks come amid mounting criticism of the PM’s response to the Independent bench. Independent Senators Anthony Vieira and Dr Marlene Attzs have also rejected Persad-Bissessar’s comments, with Vieira describing her decision to refuse future amendments from Independent Senators as “deeply regrettable". The Special Operations Bill was ultimately passed by the Senate with a 16-15 vote after Senate President Wade Mark exercised his casting vote to break a 1515 deadlock. Browne ended his statement by declaring, "This nation is far, far better than its current prime minister, and by God’s grace it will survive.” (T&T Guardian)

razilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has announced a ban on online gambling just days before an election in which he is seeking a fourth term as the country's leader. The left-wing leader, who is running against the son of the incarcerated former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, signed a provisional order on Friday that "prohibits all sports betting and online casinos". The online gambling in-

dustry in Brazil was legalised in 2018 and has since been blamed for widespread household income losses due to addiction. Flávio Bolsonaro accused his rival of playing politics, while Brazilian football teams said the ban could lose them income due to betting firms pulling their sponsorships. Lula described the industry as a "cancer" in his announcement, adding that "either we remove the tumour, or it kills us." The move comes just

over a week before the first round of Brazil's Presidential election. Recent polls have the 80-year-old leader almost neck-and-neck with the younger Bolsonaro. Punters and bookies will have until October 5 to withdraw any existing funds from online betting accounts, while new deposits have been barred. The new measures must receive congressional approval within 120 days to remain in force. (Excerpt from BBC News)

T&T Opposition Senator says PM a A&B proposes 7 US deportees “clear, present danger” to democracy per quarter instead of monthly

pposition Senator Dr Amery Browne has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister (PM) Kamla PersadBissessar, describing her as a “clear and present danger” to Trinidad and Tobago (T&T)’s democracy and accusing her of increasingly demonising those who challenge her Government. Browne’s comments came in response to PersadBissessar’s condemnation of Independent Senators who voted against the Special Operations Bill in the Senate. Following the vote, the Prime Minister labelled the Independent Senators "satanic", “demons” and "scumbags" and announced that her Government would no longer accept amendments from the Independent bench.

ntigua and Barbuda (A&B) has rejected a US proposal to accept seven third-country nationals each month, countering with a maximum of seven every three months as negotiations over the controversial arrangement continue. Prime Minister (PM) Gaston Browne disclosed the revised position Saturday, saying it emerged from the latest round of negotiations with Washington. “We heard from the US just over a week ago the proposal we take seven persons per month, and we said to them that it’s too much and we’ll take seven per quarter,” Browne said. That would place the proposed maximum at 28 people annually, although Browne stressed that negotiations are continuing. The PM said A&B has written back to the US with

Prime Minister Gaston Browne

its counterproposal and additional safeguards governing who could be transferred to the country. Browne said the Government is seeking an agreement that protects A&B’s interests while maintaining cooperation with Washington. “We’re cooperating, but we see this as a situation in which we’re trying to get the

best deal for Antigua in the circumstances,” he said. Browne said the proposal will now go back to the US Government for consideration. He also pledged that any final agreement reached with Washington would be taken to Parliament and made available for public scrutiny. (Antigua Newsroom)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

Around the World

Trump rejects Iran deal to reopen 6 killed in Athens apartment block explosion Strait of Hormuz in 7 days

S President Donald Trump has rejected an Iranian proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping within a week. He told reporters at the White House that Tehran “want to make a deal where they open the Strait immediately because they’re losing so badly”. On Friday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told reporters at the UN in New York that an agreement could

be reached “if the necessary conditions are met” and that these were contained in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the two countries in June. The vital waterway through which around a fifth of the world’s gas and oil supply usually flows has been effectively closed since the outbreak of war in February. “I’m rejecting their deal,” Trump said on Saturday, adding that the US already had “total control” of the strait,

with “massive amounts of oil” passing through it. “They want to make a deal, and I think that’s fine. I like making a deal, too. But that deal would not be acceptable,” he added. On Friday the Wall Street Journal cited officials as saying Trump was sceptical that Iran would meet his demands and had told his staff that he saw a renewed bombing campaign as probable. (Excerpt from BBC News)

China pushes back against US on Iran, Cuba in UN speech

China’s Vice President Han Zheng addresses the 81st UNGA

hina pushed back against the United States in its speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday, saying the sovereignty of countries in the Gulf should be respected and urging the “relevant country” to stop threatening Cuba and lift its blockade on it. Vice President Han Zheng did not mention the US by name in his remarks. The comments stood in sharp contrast to the bonhomie on display earlier this week at the White House, where President Donald Trump feted Chinese leader

Xi Jinping with military flyovers and at a lavish state dinner. “Major countries should have special responsibilities for safeguarding international peace and security, and they should take the lead in complying with the rules, upholding the rule of law, and doing what’s right,” Han said. “China holds that the sovereignty and security of countries in the Middle East, including the Gulf, should be respected.” Trump warned Xi against providing support to Iran during the Washington talks and received assur-

ances that China would not do so, the US ambassador to China said on Friday. The warning followed reports that Beijing had supplied Iran with shoulder-fired air-defence missile launchers and that Tehran had found ways to evade sanctions on its oil sales with Chinese help. In Cuba, Han said, “China urges the relevant country to immediately stop using threat of force against Cuba and immediately and completely lift the blockade and sanctions against Cuba.” Han also used the speech to portray China as a reliable partner on the global stage and a steadfast defender of developing nations. “China holds that all countries, big or small, are equal members of the international community and that world affairs should be handled by all through consultation,” said Han. (Excerpt from Reuters)

reek authorities say they are trying to discover what caused a two-storey apartment block in the heart of ancient Athens to collapse “in a matter of seconds”, killing six persons. Emergency teams found the victims, including four American tourists, on Saturday, more than 24 hours after the early morning explosion in the historic Plaka district. The fire service said the bodies of three women and three men had been found but stopped short of identifying them. A Briton and his Greek wife, 77 and 78, who lived in a flat on the building’s upper floor, were among those killed, the Guardian was told. Before the bodies were pulled from the ruins on Saturday, Police put the missing at six, saying four were Americans staying in a short-term rental on the building’s first floor. Two brothers and their wives, all four, were due to fly to the

leven people were killed and 30 injured in a blast in Dera Ismail Khan in north-western Pakistan on Saturday, emergency service Rescue 1122 said. Dera Ismail Khan, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province near Pakistan’s border regions with Afghanistan, has repeatedly been hit by Islamist militant violence, frequently targeting Police and security forces. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan claimed responsibility for Saturday’s attack. The blast occurred near Aman Mela in the Darazinda area of the district, Rescue 1122 said in a statement. Rescue teams from the Darazinda station reached the scene and began relief operations, providing medical assistance to the wounded and taking them to hospital, the service said. Police Chief Safdar Baloch said most of those killed and wounded were se-

US on Friday, just hours after the explosion. At least three people were known to have been injured when the explosion occurred at 07:30h, shattering the windows of nearby buildings and scattering debris far and wide. A motorist driving down Lysikratous described how his car was lifted into the air by the sheer force of a blast that

some in the neighbourhood likened to an earthquake, others to a bomb. Speculation is rife that a gas leak triggered the collapse, but officials said there were many “cogent theories” at play. Fears of the leak emanating from the firstfloor short-term rental were among them. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

South African Police discover body of 10th woman near Johannesburg

Forensic investigators work at the site where the body of a woman was discovered on the outskirts of Johannesburg

S Blast in Pakistan’s Dera Ismail Khan kills 11, injures 30

Emergency personnel search for survivors in the rubble of the partially collapsed building following the explosion

outh African Police have discovered the body of another woman east of the country’s commercial capital, Johannesburg, bringing the total number of female bodies found near the city since mid-July to 10. Police confirmed the discovery in Thembisa, Ekurhuleni, on Saturday

but have not provided any further information. The body was found in the morning, according to the daily newspaper, The Sowetan. The discovery adds to growing concern over violence against women in a country long plagued by violent crime. While Police work to establish whether the killings are connected,

there have been community concerns that the murders are being carried out by the same killer or killers. Provincial Police Chief Tommy Mthombeni said the latest victim appeared to have been stoned to death, and a post-mortem examination would be conducted to determine the cause of death. President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the latest discovery while on the campaign trail for upcoming local elections, broadcaster eNCA reported. South Africa has one of the highest femicide rates in the world, with an average of 15 women killed per day. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Russia accuses Europe of blocking Ukraine peace talks Volunteers transport an injured victim of a suicide attack on a roadside Police checkpoint upon his arrival at a hospital in Dera Ismail Khan

curity personnel and passersby. Officers, customs officials and members of the forest department were among the dead. Dera Ismail Khan sits at the crossroads of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces, and the heavy flow of goods means customs officials are deployed alongside Police to prevent smuggling, he said. Security incidents have

continued in the district this month, including attacks involving the Pakistani Taliban. The latest attack comes two days after fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan along their southwestern border killed at least 13 Afghan Taliban fighters, according to Pakistan’s Government. (Excerpt from Reuters, Al Jazeera)

ussia’s Foreign Minister used his address at the United Nations General Assembly to accuse Europe of blocking efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. Both Moscow and Kyiv have stepped up attacks after the deadliest summer since 2022 – the year Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. On Saturday, Russian attacks killed four people across Ukraine, officials said, while Kyiv continued to target Russian oil refineries and industrial sites with long-range drones.

Efforts led by the US have failed to produce a permanent ceasefire and peace deal, with President Trump saying on Saturday that he hoped Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would “settle” with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Europe of actively trying to block talks supported by the US Government. Before his speech, Lavrov met with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul – the first meeting between

Moscow and Berlin’s foreign Ministers since before the war. The talks took place as tensions between Berlin and Moscow intensified, with Germany accusing Russia of orchestrating an attempted drone attack on Leipzig airport and each country ordering the closure of the other’s consulate. European countries, including Germany, have sounded the alarm in recent days over what they say are increased Russian sabotage activities on their soil. (Excerpt from CBS News)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

ARCHIE

Take the reins and ride like the wind. You’ve got what it takes to run circles around anyone (March 21- who wants to compete with you. Your biggest April 19) regret will be not participating in something that can enrich your life. It’s not about money; it’s about following your heart, feeling grateful and satisfying your soul. Money and romance are highlighted.

ARIES

Tally up what you have, what you need and

TAURUS what you can live without. It’s time to do a sweep (April 20- of your surroundings and revisit your financial Put your energy into allowing yourself to May 20) plan. do as you please and live life your way. Get your paperwork up to date, and put your plans in motion. Romance is favored.

Turn your attention to something you enjoy GEMINI doing that gratifies you. Having a change of (MAY 21- heart will help you reinvent yourself and choose June 20) a lifestyle that brings you joy. Reaching out and helping a cause that concerns you will put you into contact with someone you want to spend time with. Choose to live life your way.

Take time to reflect. Facing the past will

CANCER free you of the emotional debt you’ve been (June 21- carrying, allowing you to rethink and rebuild the life you want. Address concerns, and implement July 22) a change that offers a lifeline. Nothing is impossible if you are true to yourself and you do what’s in your best interest. Personal growth and self-improvement are favored. Be open; reach out to those who can teach you something. A change will do you good, and getting a solid plan in place will result in greater clarity and peace of mind. Having an open dialogue with someone you love will help you find resolutions and a better understanding of how to move forward.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Pickles

Think twice before you donate or let anyone

VIRGO take advantage of you. Offer suggestions, but (Aug. 23- not your time or your money. You owe yourself to rejuvenate. Plan to do something Sept. 22) time relaxing. Curling up with a good book, listening

to music or soaking in a hot tub will give you a chance to rethink what’s next.

You know the protocol, and you have the charm and intellect to see matters through. Engage in talks, and then make commitments. Brush off what’s gone, and make room for the here and now. It’s up to you to make the first move, ask for what you want and take responsibility for your happiness.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Peanuts

Avoid overreacting or letting someone bait SCORPIO you into an argument. Patience will be necessary (Oct. 24- when dealing with opinionated people. Keep your thoughts and beliefs secret, and turn your Nov. 22) attention to taking care of yourself. Resting, receiving a little pampering and spending time with someone you love are recommended. Choose peace and love over discord and chaos.

Host an event or choose to refurbish your SAGITTARIUS surroundings. Whatever brings you joy or makes (Nov. 23- your life easier will be uplifting and encourage Dec. 21) you to expand your interests, friendships or start something new. A job posting looks promising. Update your resume to fit the criteria. Avoid joint ventures or sharing expenses. Pay your own way.

CAPRICORN Be careful when sharing information. (Dec. 22- Someone will take advantage of you if given the chance. Keep your personal data a secret and your Jan. 19) plans to yourself. Back away from situations that

Calvin and Hobbes

can compromise your position or reputation. Be a friendly observer and avoid drama. Put your energy into self-improvement and adding skills and titles to your resume.

An opportunity to make a professional move

AQUARIUS or invest more in yourself and your qualifications (Jan. 20- is favored. Check out the job market and adjust Feb. 19) your resume to suit any opportunities that grab your interest. If you let your wit, skills and experience come together, your credentials will stand out. Avoid disagreements by keeping your opinions to yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Pay attention to your health and lifestyle. Try to implement a routine that offers better eating habits and a regimented exercise routine. Do your research and find activities that are within your means, physically and financially, and will make it easier for you to make a long-term commitment to better health. Self-improvement and love are in the stars.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

Hope embraces India’s challenge as West Indies chase historic ODI series win W

West Indies Captain Shai Hope

Sammy banking on India series to sharpen West Indies

West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy

est Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy says the three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against India, which bowls off today at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram from 04:30h Guyana time, will provide an important opportunity to fine-tune several areas of the team ahead of next year’s World Cup Qualifiers. With the West Indies having missed out on automatic qualification, Sammy said the series could be particularly valuable given the likelihood that the team will have limited ODI cricket before the qualifiers in February. The Head Coach pointed to the continued development of the batting unit while highlighting the need to assess a number of players during the three matches. “Like you said, our batting has come a long way during this period. Shai Hope is not the only one scoring hundreds. We’ve gotten hundreds from different players,” Sammy said. He singled out the contributions of Keacy Carty and

Hope, as well as the partnership between the two, while also praising the manner in which wicket keeper-batter Shai Hope has performed. Sammy also wants to see more from Sherfane Rutherford, who enjoyed a productive period in 2024-25, while noting that fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has returned to form after helping Antigua secure the CPL title. “We want to give everybody an opportunity in those three games,” Sammy said. Youngster Jewel Andrew is also returning to the setup, while Keemo Paul is among those expected to receive an opportunity as the Coaching staff continues to assess the squad. “After that, I think this is probably our last ODI series. It is our last ODI series of the year,” Sammy said. “Looking at the schedule for going into the qualifiers, we may not have another ODI series. So this last test against India is very important in the general context of things.” Sammy also highlighted the development of wrist-spinner Vitel, who made his ODI debut against New Zealand

and has impressed since entering the international setup. “Vitel, to me, he’s a find for us,” Sammy said, explaining that the youngster’s introduction was part of a deliberate planning process. “He came in, and he immediately had an impact on the bowling unit. Still got a long way to go, but we will continue with his development through either playing games or the specific work we’ve put in place for him.” Sammy added that Vitel has worked closely with former West Indies players Nikita Miller and Ravi Rampaul during the tour as part of his continued development.

Keemo Paul is expected to be given an opportunity throughout the series

“A little bit fast-tracked, but we’re pleased with what he’s done so far,” Sammy said. For West Indies, today’s opener represents more than the beginning of another ODI series. It is an opportunity to test the progress made by the team against the number one side in the world while identifying the areas that still require attention before the crucial qualifiers.

est Indies whiteball Captain Shai Hope says his side is embracing the challenge of facing India in their own backyard as they seek to end a 20-year wait for a bilateral One-Day International (ODI) series victory over the world’s number-one team. The opening match of the three-match series is scheduled to bowl off today at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram from 04:30h Guyana time, with the West Indies also looking to end a 24-year wait for a bilateral ODI series win in India. Hope said playing against India in their home conditions provides the West Indies with an ideal opportunity to measure their progress. “Playing India in their backyard is always a challenge. It’s one that we definitely look to grasp and embrace,” Hope said. “Especially when you come here, you expect the best, so do the best. It’s a great indicator for us to see where we’re at as a team. Playing anyone in

their home conditions will always be challenging, but it’s something that we always look forward to.” For Hope, the series is also an opportunity for the current group to experience the demands of international cricket in unfamiliar conditions, particularly for those making their first tour of India. “When you’re playing international cricket, you want to play against the best, and why not do it in their home conditions? Then you get the real test,” he said. The Captain recalled looking forward to India tours earlier in his career as a personal benchmark and believes the current squad can use the series in much the same way. “Whenever you come to India, it’s one tour you look forward to coming to play. When I was younger in my career as well, it was a tour I was expecting a lot from myself. I wanted to see where I was at,” Hope said. With several players yet to experience Indian conditions, Hope said he will be closely watching how

quickly the group adapts and responds to pressure situations. “I want to see progression. I want to see how fast we can adapt against the best in the world and how we can compete,” he said. “And if we find ourselves in some crucial moments in the game, if we can grasp them, then I think we’ll find ourselves going in the right direction.” The West Indies will, however, be without middle-order batter Sherfane Rutherford for today’s opening match. Rutherford will miss the game due to a personal matter, but is expected to join the squad ahead of the second ODI. For Hope, the primary objective remains clear: compete strongly and give the West Indies an opportunity to produce the kind of result that has eluded them for more than two decades. “We want to win all the time. We want to make sure we get the best results from a team perspective,” he added.

Matthews backs Grimmond for special future

est Indies Women Captain Hayley Matthews has praised Guyanese opener Realeanna Grimmond for her growing consistency at the top of the order, backing the young batter to develop a productive partnership with her in the future. Matthews’ comments came after the West Indies opened their three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Zimbabwe with a commanding 99-run victory at Harare Sports Club on Thursday. The Captain produced a record-breaking 182, while Grimmond contributed a valuable 53 from 70 balls as the pair shared a 128-run opening stand that provided the foundation for the West Indies’ imposing 299 for six. Matthews said Grimmond, who is becoming a regular opener for the side, has shown encouraging signs during the recent series against Ireland and Zimbabwe.

“Grimmie obviously is new to being a consistent opener for the team, and she’s really shown a lot of big sparks during these last two series, obviously against Ireland, and she was able to go, especially in that first match, and once again started the series pretty strong,” Matthews said. The West Indies Captain believes Grimmond is continuing to develop her game and adapt to the demands of opening the innings at the international level. “She’s someone that’s certainly growing; she’s learning a lot, she’s adapting at the crease,” Matthews added. Matthews also highlighted the understanding developing between the two openers, saying they have been able to complement each other when batting together. “When we are all there batting together, we feed off of each other pretty well,” she said. “So it’s been good to be at the crease with her, and

Realeanna Grimmond continues to impress in her short international career

hopefully this is just the beginning of something special in the future as well.” For Grimmond, Thursday’s half-century continued her encouraging progress at the international level and provided further evidence of her ability to contribute at the top of the West Indies order. The West Indies lead the three-match series 1-0, with the second ODI scheduled for today at Harare Sports Club.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

Barrow handed 6-match Joseph to represent Guyana at ban over U17 misconduct Masters Track World Championships W

Western Tigers player Nyron Barrow has been suspended for six matches by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)

estern Tigers player Nyron Barrow has been suspended for six matches by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) following an incident during his club’s U17 Youth Ensemble Competition match against Fruta Conquerors on September 19. The GFF, which announced the sanctions on September 26, also fined Western Tigers GY$20,000 for failing to adequately restrain and control its player. Barrow’s suspension covers competitive fixtures across all competitions under the Federation’s jurisdiction and will remain in place until he has served the full six-match ban. According to the GFF, the incident involved dis-

sent towards match officials and reckless conduct after Barrow was dismissed. The Federation reviewed the referee’s official report and the circumstances surrounding the incident before reaching its decision. It determined that his behaviour represented a serious breach of the standards expected in GFFsanctioned competitions and was inconsistent with the discipline, respect and sporting conduct required of players. The Federation reminded clubs, players and team officials that respect for match officials, opponents and the rules of the game is essential to football’s integrity. It also urged everyone involved in its competitions to maintain appropriate standards of discipline and fair play. The GFF said it would continue enforcing its disciplinary regulations to support a safe, respectful and professionally managed football environment.

Veteran cyclist James “Joelyn” Joseph (right) will represent Guyana at the 2026 UCI Masters Track World Championships in London, United Kingdom

eteran cyclist James Joelyn Joseph will represent Guyana at the 2026 International Cycling Union (UCI) Masters Track World Championships in London, United Kingdom,

from October 5–11, the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) has announced. Joseph is completing his final preparations for another appearance on the international stage, with the federa-

tion expressing confidence in his ability to challenge for a world championship medal. The GCF praised his longstanding contribution to cycling, describing him as a dedicated ambassador whose consistent performances, determination and passion for the track have earned respect at home and abroad. His participation will see him once again carry the Golden Arrowhead into international competition, backed by the federation’s executive and local cycling supporters. A GCF representative said Joseph’s perseverance reflected the spirit of Guyanese cycling and noted that he had represented the country proudly over many years. The representative also expressed confidence that the veteran would give the nation another performance to be proud of in London. The federation extended its best wishes as Joseph prepares for the championships, saying the local cycling community would follow his campaign with excitement and hopes of a medal for Guyana.

Whim Cricket Club to host T10 competition

Whim will field an A and B team during the competition

xciting cricket action will take centre stage at the Whim Community Centre Ground on Sunday, September 27. Ten teams will be in action in the T10 competition, with the final match to be played under lights.

Whim B will commence the day from 09:00h against Number 35 Explosions, followed by Fyrish Cricket Club locking horns with Kildonan Cricket Club. East Bank Strikers will play Woodley Park Cricket

Club, while Whim A will meet Kennard’s Memorial. An Under-13 fixture is also on the fixture, with Port Mourant Under-13 playing Champ XI Under-13. Two semi-final matches will be played, with the winner of Game One play-

ing the winner of Game Two, and the winner of Game Three playing the winner of Game Four. A host of high-profile individuals are expected to be present to witness exciting and top-class local cricket.

There will also be a well-stocked bar, and the first 50 kids will have free ice cream. All the team will be playing for bragging rights, and cash and prizes will be for the taking. In recent years, Whim

Cricket Club has shown tremendous improvement, being one of the clubs to roll on with. They have also received great support from the Government and made full use of every opportunity granted.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

DCC, Lusignan set for Round of 16 blockbusters as Lotto/Let'sBet T10 heats up

With 16 teams eliminated and 16 survivors advancing, the stage is set for a thrilling Sunday, September 27, as the Round of 16 takes centre stage across two grounds

he Georgetown and East Coast Demerara zonal leg of the Lotto/ Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast exploded into action on Saturday, September 26, 2026, delivering high-stakes knockout cricket, ruthless boundary hitting, and clinical bowling performances across four premier venues. With a coveted berth in the national grand finale and the ultimate G$2 million top prize hanging in the balance, 32 teams produced non-stop drama across sixteen elimination fixtures hosted at Malteenoes Sports Club,

Ogle Ground, Better Hope Community Centre, and Lusignan Ground. At the Malteenoes Sports Club, the morning action opened with Pure Entertainment putting on a commanding all-round performance against MOPW – Marvels to secure the first round of 16 tickets of the day. In the 11:30h encounter, Intruders flexed their big-match muscle, overcoming the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Academy in a fastpaced chase driven by aggressive middle-order hitting. As the afternoon rolled

in at 13:30h, Phantom XI showed cool composure under pressure to knock out GPF. The venue's marquee match at 15:30h saw defending champions Titans Rams state their firm intention to retain the crown, dominating Kuru Kururu Top Strikers with an authoritative performance with both bat and ball to book their place in Sunday's knockout bracket. Over at Ogle Ground, the boundary ropes were tested early and often. At 09:30h, FC ER Gladiators set the early standard with a high-tempo victory over Strikers. Diamond Gunners

followed at 11:30h, producing a ruthless power-hitting display to surge past Vipers All-Stars. At 13:30h, a revamped Tourism Guyana Titans (TG Titans) squad dominated Parliament Rangers with clinical execution. Closing out the action at Ogle at 15:30h, tournament heavyweights SVC/AJM CC held their nerve in a fiercely contested clash against

Super Strikers, pulling away in the closing overs to complete the venue's qualification quota. The Better Hope Community Centre Ground witnessed intense battles throughout the day, when hosts of Better Hope CC delighted their home supporters with a decisive triumph over Team Dungeon. At 11:30h, VP XI came through a tight finish against Maverick All-Stars to keep their tournament hopes alive. Team Upsetterz then displayed sharp tactical intelligence at 13:30h, using disciplined bowling to restrict Fusion All-Stars and seal a crucial victory. The 15:30h finale at Better Hope featured star-studded Team Corruption going toe-to-toe with Young Rivals Sports Club, with Team Corruption unleashing an array of big hits to overpower their rivals and advance in style. At the Lusignan Community Centre Ground, Dream 11 All-Stars set an aggressive benchmark, comfortably outplaying GLC All Stars. Housing Warriors maintained the momentum at 11:30h, putting together a cohesive team performance to dispatch the Royal Raptors. In the 13:30h fixture, the Stripling Warriors execut-

ed well to eliminate Team RAP. Capping off Saturday's sixteen-match marathon at 15:30h, Avinash All-Stars produced a disciplined performance against Hope Estate CC, defending their total with precision to secure the final spot in Sunday's draw. With sixteen teams eliminated and sixteen survivors advancing, the stage is set for a thrilling Sunday, September 27, as the Round of 16 takes centre stage across two grounds. At the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) in Georgetown, action bowls off at 09:30h when Pure Entertainment faces Intruders. At 11:30h, defending champions Titans Rams take on Phantom XI, and the 13:30h fixture features FC ER Gladiators taking on Diamond Gunners, before SVC/AJM CC clash with TG Titans at 15:30h. Concurrently at Lusignan Ground, hosts Better Hope CC tackle VP XI at 09:30h, followed by a blockbuster clash between Team Upsetterz and Team Corruption at 11:30h. At 13:30h, Dream 11 All-Stars take on Housing Warriors before Stripling Warriors clash with Avinash All-Stars at 15:30h to determine who moves one step closer to national glory.

Vickery retires in bronze playoff; Guyana 5th in relay final

St Gabriel’s shine as wins flow in Courts G Optical Pee Wee U11 Championships

Action continued in the Courts Optical Pee Wee Under-11 School Championships on Saturday, with several schools collecting important wins

t Gabriel’s Primary produced the biggest victory of the day as action continued in the Courts Optical Pee Wee Under-11 School Championships on Saturday, with several schools collecting important wins. St Gabriel’s defeated Soesdyke Primary 4-0, led by a double from Nathelion, who found the net in the fifth and 27th minutes. Simon Scott added another in the eighth minute, before Xavier Montage completed the scoring in the 40th min-

ute. West Ruimveldt also enjoyed a convincing outing, defeating GIA 2 by a 3-0 margin. Jahmiel Favourite opened the scoring in the 18th minute before Malachi Murray struck twice, scoring in the 20th and 29th minutes. St Theressa’s Primary secured a 2-0 victory over Ann Grove Primary, with Brandon Henry accounting for both goals. Henry opened the scoring in the sixth minute before doubling his team’s advantage

in the 16th. St Pius Primary also recorded a 2-0 win after getting past St John the Baptist. Leviticus Linch handed St Pius the lead in the sixth minute, while Steve Fiedtkou sealed the result with a goal in the 40th. Tucville Primary defeated Potaro Primary 2-0, courtesy of goals from Devon Bapiste in the seventh minute and Roger Jason in the 22nd. Plaisance Orphanage recorded another 2-0 victory, this time against Genesis Primary. Keon Sthill struck in the ninth minute before Antwone Scott added the second in the 21st. Meanwhile, FE Pollard edged St Aloysius Primary 1-0, with Malik Thorington scoring the only goal of the contest in the 13th minute. Redeemer Primary also secured a narrow victory over Goed Fortuin, with Elijah Naughton finding the back of the net in the 38th minute. In another closely contested encounter, GIA 1 defeated St Stephens Primary 1-0 after Yoseph Rivers scored the decisive goal in the 40th minute.

uyana’s Sachia Vickery missed out on a women’s singles tennis bronze medal after retiring against Argentina’s Luciana Moyano on Saturday at the 2026 South American Games, a day after the country’s men finished fifth in the 4x400m relay final. Vickery, seeded seventh, trailed sixth-seeded Moyano 6-2, 2-0 when she withdrew from the bronze medal match on Court Two at Hipódromo Óvalo. The contest lasted 54 minutes, with the opening set taking 40 minutes and the unfinished second set lasting 14. Moyano built her victory around strong returning, breaking Vickery in all four of the Guyanese players' service games in the first set. Vickery secured two breaks of her own but struggled to hold serve, allowing the Argentine to take control. The final statistics showed Moyano landed 74 per cent of her first serves in the opening set and won 16 of 20 receiving points. She then won every point played in the second set before Vickery retired. No specific reason for the retirement was provided. Moyano finished with five breaks from six opportunities to secure the bronze medal. Men’s 4x400m relay On Friday, Guyana’s quartet of Jamal Clarke, Simeon Adams, Revon Williams and Akeem Stewart clocked 3:12.55 to finish fifth in the men’s 4x400m relay fi-

Guyana’s Sachia Vickery missed out on a women’s singles tennis bronze medal after retiring against Argentina’s Luciana Moyano on Saturday

nal. Venezuela won gold in a Games record of 3:03.38, lowering the previous mark of 3:03.94 set by Brazil in Santiago in 2014. Running from lane three, Kelvis Padrino, Jose Maita, Axel Gomez and Javier Gomez led at the halfway stage in 1:32.64, about a second ahead of Argentina. A 45.56-second third leg kept them comfortably in front before Javier Gomez brought the team home with a 45.19-second anchor leg. Argentina’s Bruno De Genaro, Juan Ciampitti, Agustín Pinti and Elian Larregina claimed silver in 3:06.29, finishing 2.91 seconds behind Venezuela. Colombia took bronze in 3:09.87 through Neiker Abello, Daniel Balanta, Deiner Guaitoto and

Jhonatan Julio. A 49.76-second third leg left them behind Argentina, but Julio’s 45.58-second anchor helped secure their podium place. Chile finished fourth in 3:10.91, ahead of Guyana. Martín Kouyoumdjian produced the fastest anchor leg in the field at 45.13 seconds, but Chile still finished 1.04 seconds short of Colombia.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

John claims double at inaugural Alanzo Greaves Memorial cycling meet

Jamual John (centre) used his experience and finishing strength to secure two victories at the inaugural Alanzo Greaves Memorial cycling meet on Saturday

amual John used his experience and finishing strength to secure two victories at the inaugural

Alanzo Greaves Memorial cycling meet on Saturday at the inner circuit of the National Park.

Competing in scorching sunshine, John won the 10lap Elite race before returning to capture the feature 20lap Open race with a powerful sprint to the finish line. Young Alexander Leung controlled much of the Open race and collected several sprint prizes after joining a five-man breakaway with John, Alex Mendes, Aaron Newton and Ajani Cutting. However, John remained composed in the middle of the group and conserved his energy for the closing laps. When the decisive sprint began, John produced the stronger finish to beat Leung into second place. Mendes secured third, while Newton and Cutting completed the top five.

The family of late cyclist Alanzo Greaves posed for a photo with the peloton ahead of the start of the Open race

John earlier won the Elite race ahead of Newton and Paul DeNobrega. Leung gained some consolation by winning the junior category. Tristan Jaichan placed second, while Kevon Stephens finished third. Roy Mangru led the Masters 35-plus field, beating Robin Persaud and Segun Hubbard. In the Masters 50plus division, Mark Spencer took first place ahead of Ray Haliquin and Deon David. Tandeia Noel won the female race, with Alicia Benjamin and Rebecca Damon placing second and third, respectively. Tyrone Hamilton claimed the Category Four title ahead of Leon Koulen and Carlos Mendonca. The meet also featured several BMX races for boys and girls. Cadeem Bascom won the Boys Under-8 contest ahead of Truman Adams and Kenson Bascom, while Arianna Johnson topped the Girls Under-8 category ahead of Jamilla Samuels. Delisa Luke won the Girls 9–12 race, followed by Jamelia Samuels and Denika Stephenson. Josiah Hoyte claimed the Boys 9–12 title ahead of Prince Johnson and Jaden Crawford. Joshua Holder finished first in the Boys 13–15 race, with Jamar Samuels second and Emboyo Crawford third.

Part of the action on Saturday

Shaniah Johnson won the Girls 13–15 category ahead of Brittany Crawford. More than 40 cyclists participated across the various

Alexander Leung (front right) controlled much of the open race and collected several sprint prizes after joining a five-man breakaway

categories during the inaugural event.

The BMX riders are under starting orders

Guyana women rebound; Open team edged by Jamaica at Chess Olympiad

Guyana’s women returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over San Marino

The Guyanese chess teams will wrap up their campaign today

uyana’s women returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over San Marino, while the Open team suffered a narrow 2½-1½ defeat to Caribbean rivals Jamaica in Round 10 of the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on Saturday. The women secured

three victories from four boards against San Marino. Kataleya Sam defeated Mariane Biordi on Board Two, Ciel Clement got past Cristina Giannini on Board Three, and Jessica Callender defeated Dorina Capicchioni on Board Four. Aditi Joshi, however, lost to Elena Krasnova on the top board.

The result improved Guyana’s women to eight match points ahead of Sunday’s 11th and final round. Joshi has four points from nine games, while Clement has also collected four points from eight outings. Sam and Callender have 3.5 points each, while Sasha Shariff has 2.5 points.

Guyana’s Open team, meanwhile, pushed Jamaica close but fell short despite a strong victory from Sachin Pitamber. Pitamber, playing on Board One, defeated Joshua Christie, rated 2216, while Anthony Drayton earned a draw against Raheem Glaves on Board Three. Taffin Khan

lost to Shreyas Smith, and Keron Sandiford went down to Jaden Shaw as Jamaica completed the narrow win. Pitamber has been one of Guyana’s leading performers in the Open section, collecting four points from eight games with a performance rating of 2155. Kyle Couchman, Drayton and Sandiford have each scored 3.5 points, while Khan has 2.5. Guyana also has eight match points after 10 rounds. The tournament concludes on Sunday with Guyana’s Open team facing Jersey, while the wom-

en will meet the Bahamas. In the Open matchup, Pitamber is paired with Jem Gurner, Couchman faces Paul Carpenter, Drayton meets Gary Clark and Sandiford will play James Auckland. For the women, Joshi will face Polina Karelina, Sam meets Nelissa Thomas, Shariff plays Daijah Johnson and Callender takes on Chika Pride. The 11-round Olympiad, organised by FIDE and Uzbekistan, runs from September 1627 in Samarkand.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

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

guyanatimesgy.com

John claims double at DCC, Lusignan set inaugural Alanzo Greaves for Round of 16 blockbusters as Lotto/ Memorial cycling meet Page 30

Page 31

Let’sBet T10 heats up

St Gabriel’s shine as wins Guyana women flow in Courts Optical Pee rebound; Open team Wee U11 Championships Page 31

Page 30

edged by Jamaica at Chess Olympiad

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