“Scandalous” question sparks outrage from prosecution during crossexamination
Businessman to stand trial for attempted murder of Berbice woman
Motorists fined for dangerous driving: SRIS-backed enforcement continues GCAA engages stakeholders to shape NGAP+ Aviation Training Programme
Ataxi driver lost his life on Tuesday evening after he reportedly lost control of the car he was driving and crashed into a utility pole and ultimately a tree along the Cullen Public Road on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon–Supenaam).
The deceased man has been identified as 33-yearold Floyd Ricardo Mal of Huis’t Dieren, Essequibo Coast.
Based on reports, the accident occurred at about 21:30h and involved a mo tor car bearing registration number HD 8678, which was at the time being driven by the now-deceased man.
Enquiries disclosed that the motor car was proceed ing along the Cullen Public Road at a fast rate of speed when the driver lost control while negotiating a right bend.
As a result, he reported
ly drove off the road, collided with a lamp post, and then crashed into a tree where the vehicle came to a halt.
Mal was pulled from the wreckage in an unconscious state by public-spirited citizens and was taken to
the Suddie Public Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.
At the home of the dead man on Wednesday, his family told reporters that they need time to mourn
and would not offer any comments at this time.
Guyana Times understands that the man’s 11-year-old son is scheduled to sit the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) on Wednesday and Thursday.
A22-year-old Disc Jockey (DJ) from Kuru Kururu, Linden–Soesdyke Highway, has been awarded $8 million in damages after the High Court ruled that he was un lawfully arrested, wrongful ly imprisoned for 80 days, and subjected to malicious prosecution by members of the Guyana Police Force.
The decision was re cently handed down by Madam Justice Sherdel Issacs-Marcus following civ il proceedings brought by Terrence Sandy against the State.
According to the evidence presented, Sandy was arrested on June 10, 2023, while walking home in his village. He was picked up by Police Officers in a patrol vehicle and taken to the Timehri Police Station, after
which he was transferred to the Madawini Police Station, where he was held without explanation or a recorded statement being taken. He was later charged with breaking-and-entering and larceny, and
brought before the Diamond Magistrates’ Court, where he was unrepresented and subsequently remanded on June 13, 2023. Sandy was then incarcerated at the Lusignan penitentiary. Court documents revealed that after legal representation was secured by his family, disclosure materials received on July 7, 2023, showed no evidence linking Sandy to the offence. There was no identification, no witness statement naming him, and no indication that any complainant had implicated him in the alleged robbery.
His attorneys later wrote Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on July 18, 2023, requesting a review of the case and withdrawal of the charges.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, April 30 –15:35h–17:05h and Friday, May 1 – 16:10h–17:40h.
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Light showers are expected during the day, gradually easing in the evening to clear skies overnight. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East-North-Easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres.
High Tide: 15:52h reaching a maximum height of 2.58 metres.
Low Tide: 09:27h and 21:38h reaching minimum heights of 0.56 metre and 0.66 metre.
ollowing the recent damage to a transmission line by heavy-duty machinery conducting road works in Sophia, Greater Georgetown, which caused a near-10-hour power outage across Demerara last Sunday, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) is seeking more than $30 million in repair costs from the construction company –China Railway First Group (Guyana) Incorporated.
GPL had reported that Sunday’s service interruption was caused by heavy-duty machinery operated by China Railway First Group, which was conducting road works along Dennis Street, Sophia, in Georgetown.
GPL’s investigations confirmed that the equipment came into direct contact with the L10 Transmission Line linking the New Georgetown and Sophia Substations, resulting in a significant disruption of electricity supply to tens of thousands of customers across multiple communities. The damage caused considerable inconvenience to GPL’s valued customers, disrupting households, businesses, and essential services, the state-owned power company noted in a statement on Wednesday.
Against this backdrop, GPL has issued a strongly-worded letter to the Project Manager of China Railway First Group (Guyana) Incorporated, Ma Qiang, and is seeking to recover $30,645,189 for losses incurred.
The power company added, “The contractor has been given fourteen days to settle the full amount, failing which GPL will pursue legal action.” In light of the damage to the transmission line and consequent service disruptions, GPL had called in the Guyana Police Force and arrested the engineer on duty at the construction site on Sunday.
According to GPL, this latest incident represents a serious breach of safety and operational requirements while reiterating that any works conducted in proximity to electrical infrastructure must be executed in strict compliance with established safety standards, including required clearance distances and proper coordination with GPL.
Moreover, GPL further
underscored that contact with electrical infrastructure presents a grave and immediate danger to life, with the potential for severe injury or fatality, in addition to widespread outages and damage to critical systems.
“GPL is therefore reminding all contractors and equipment operators that strict adherence to all safety protocols when working near electrical lines is mandatory. Any breach will attract decisive action, including financial recovery and legal proceedings,” the power company stated.
Meanwhile, the arrest of the site engineer comes as GPL intensifies efforts to hold persons accountable for damaging its infrastructure. In recent years, there have been mounting concerns about the repeated damage to utility infrastructure, especially by road construction works as well as by vehicular accidents.
Just last month, during a hearing before the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Chairman Dr Nanda Gopaul had called for those responsible to be held financially accountable for the damages they caused.
In response, GPL’s team leader, Kesh Nandlall, had explained that the power company has been working with the Police Force to ensure those offenders face legal action.
“There were a lot of charges being meted out to these contractors... We have a team of guys that are working very closely with the Police.
So, when we have these incidents, we act immediately,” Nandlall had told the Commission.
Sunday’s power outage saw several areas across
Demerara (Georgetown, East Bank, East Coast, West Bank, and West Coast) experiencing a service interruption.
While some areas in Georgetown and West Demerara were repowered just after midday, other locations, such as communities along the East Bank corridor, were affected until almost 17:00h when the power was finally restored. Many frustrated citizens took to social media throughout the day to vent their anger about the situation.
Editor: Tusika Martin
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It has become apparent, and recently more glaring, that we have become increasingly irresponsible in disposing of our trash, which eventually ends up in our drains and waterways. The voluminous build-up of garbage in communities across the country speaks of a society that is yet to be trained in proper waste disposal. We are guilty of indiscriminate dumping of garbage.
A casual drive around many communities would reveal the shocking truth: in many areas, there are mounds of garbage strewn across the reserves and roadways. As an attempt to conceal the act of indiscriminate dumping, some perpetrators dispose of their trash at night and would go so far as to travel to neighbouring communities and villages to commit the act.
How sad that we have become so callously abusive of our environment. We only think of Mother Nature when calamity or disaster strikes. Every human being should go the extra mile in caring for our one and only Mother Earth.
Many of the smaller communities do not have regular garbage disposal services, and most private collectors service these areas at least once a week; does this then excuse the action of residents taking their waste elsewhere? There are so many other options for solid waste disposal.
In most developed and developing countries, like Guyana, with increasing population, prosperity, and urbanisation, it remains a major challenge for municipalities to collect, recycle, treat, and dispose of increasing quantities of solid waste, especially in a changing climate. Everyone is aware of the issues we are facing with solid waste management.
Isn’t it high time we participated in making our society garbage-free? Communities cannot rely solely on our Government to clean up the environment. A concerted effort is highly needed.
A cornerstone of sustainable development is the establishment of affordable, effective, and truly sustainable waste management practices; we should, therefore, make it a daily habit to help control the floods and other problems caused by the mountains of garbage we throw away. What is lacking is discipline in disposing of our garbage properly.
It was reported that the carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels in the Earth’s atmosphere have surged past an important threshold and may not dip below it for “many generations”. The 400 parts per million (ppm) benchmark was broken globally in recorded history in 2015.
The high levels can be partially attributed to a strong El Niño event, while it was reported that human emissions have remained fairly static. What is alarming is that experts say the last time CO₂ was above 400 ppm was three to five million years ago!
It is time to consider the reality facing the world today, and it is even more crucial to take stock of the individual responsibility for this global situation. It is highly improbable that citizens do not yet know the impacts of climate change and are unaware of current challenges across the globe with regard to access to potable water, arable lands, and, in some severe cases, access to food.
The time has long since passed for affirmative action, and the hour of reckoning is upon us; the Earth itself is sending a message, and it behoves us to change our attitudes and behaviours. It is time we see the importance of becoming waste-wise and take the pledge to make a concerted effort to recycle more and reduce the waste sent to the landfills.
If not today, when would be the perfect time for action? All citizens should pledge to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle when possible and Rejoice in the wonderful creation we’ve been given.
The pupils of Kamwatta Primary School, Moruca, Region One (Barima–Waini), who are writing the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), were on Wednesday encouraged to do their best in a show of support from their parents and members of the community. Over 15,000 children from across the country are expected to write the four-subject assessment
The Ministry of Health notes with alarming concern the statement recently made by the President of the Amerindian Peoples Association, Mr Lemmel Thomas, at the recently concluded United Nations meeting.
The Health Ministry viewed the statement as most unfortunate, disin -
to further modernise the health care system in the hinterland was actually prevented by Mr Thomas and his agency, the Amerindian Peoples Association, who discouraged the community leadership of Kanarang, Upper Mazaruni, from approving to construct a modern hospital in the communi -
generated much-needed revenue, and would have improved the livelihood of the Amerindian people in the upper Mazaruni region.
Here is an overview of the current healthcare system in the Indigenous communities. In 2010, a sub-programme was created within the Ministry
residents of the villages and are supported by other skilled personnel from the coastland, where applicable.
Improved infrastructure and diagnostics
From 2020 to 2026, the Ministry of Health has retrofitted, renovated and modernised all 172 of its
formation, misleading and disappointing.
Mr Thomas is aware and has ready access to information from the Ministry of Health, which will prove that the Government of Guyana has made significant strides and progress in improving health for all persons in Guyana, including its First People, the Indigenous population.
One of the most recent efforts by the Government
ty, which would have created access to specialised surgical and specialist care, reducing referral of Indigenous patients to the city of Georgetown, creating at least four hundred additional jobs for young Amerindian youths, and improving patients’ outcomes.
That stalled project would have required community participation and materials from the communities, which would have
to coordinate health in the hinterland regions, which are predominantly inhabited by the country’s Indigenous population.
There are a total of 106 Amerindian villages, 64 satellite communities and several Community Development Councils, and the Ministry has a health facility in each Amerindian village and satellite community. These health facilities are staffed and managed by
existing health facilities across the regions, including those in the hinterland regions. Investment in infrastructure upgrades in the hinterland regions alone was done at an approximate cost of GY$21,210,754,476.
Several facilities were upgraded from Level Two to Level Three, while others were upgraded from Level One to Level Two.
Dear Editor, There comes a point where patience, though virtuous, must give way to clarity.
The ongoing inconsistencies displayed by some leaders within the Caribbean Community (Caricom) regarding the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy have become not only noticeable but deeply troubling. For our fellow Guyanese, this is not an abstract diplomatic issue; it is a matter of our sovereignty, identity, and national survival.
Our country has chosen the path of law. Under the leadership of former President David Granger and its continuation under President Irfaan Ali, our country has demonstrated maturity, restraint, and an
unshakeable belief in international legal order by placing the matter before the International Court of Justice. This decision reflects not weakness, but strength; strength rooted in confidence that justice must be determined by law, not by military might, provocation, symbolism, or force.
President Ali’s stewardship on this issue has been clear, consistent, and resolute. At every juncture, he has affirmed Guyana’s sovereignty, defended its territorial integrity, and engaged the international community with dignity and purpose. His leadership has ensured that Guyana speaks with one voice – calm, firm, and grounded in principle –even in the face of actions
designed to provoke or undermine.
Yet, even as Guyana maintains this principled posture, we are confronted with developments close to home that raise legitimate concern. The open engagement with Venezuelan leadership, particularly when accompanied by symbolic displays provocatively asserting claims over the Essequibo region of our country, cannot be dismissed as trivial.
Symbols matter. Silence, too, carries meaning and, quite frankly, speaks loudly. It is within this context that the posture of some Caricom leaders, “friends and family”, must be examined – not out of hostility, but out of a necessary commitment to principle.
We have long been told that Caricom stands as a family, united by shared values: respect for sovereignty, adherence to international law, and commitment to peace. But family, if it is to mean anything, must be consistent. A principle cannot be situational. It cannot shift depending on who is being engaged or what interests are at stake.
As the well-respected Nelson Mandela wisely reminded us, “We cannot change our principles depending on who we are dealing with.” This is not merely a moral observation; it is a standard by which leadership must be judged, especially within a community that prides itself on shared values.
This is why clarity of leadership matters. In this
There are currently four modern Level 4 facilities being constructed in Regions Two, Seven, Eight, and Nine. While the Government looks at other options to build a similar facility in the upper Mazaruni district, an initiative in which the Amerindian Peoples Association discouraged the community from approving the land for construction – stalling the entire process and depriving the Amerindian communities in that area of access to higher-level health care.
Cross-border/frontline health care
Guyana shares borders with Suriname to the east, Venezuela to the west, and Brazil to the south, and we do provide border/frontline health services to all nationals without exception.
Over the past five years, the Ministry has intensified community participation by decentralising its training programme to attract more Indigenous persons (especially youths) to participate in the delivery of healthcare to their communities. This strategy provides a better opportunity for Indigenous people to participate in managing health in the hinterland, creating more space for a greater number of persons to be trained at any given time and reducing the need for Indigenous youths to leave their homes to travel to the city of Georgetown to acquire a health education, while providing a fully paid scholarship to each person in any of the training programmes, along with a stipend and a guaranteed opportunity of employment upon the successful comple-
tion of the programme.
A total of 840 persons trained over the past five years, from Regions One, Seven, Eight, and Nine, have been deployed to their respective regions and are serving the people of their communities. Speaking their native language where applicable, reintegrating with their community without any difficulty, and the Ministry are satisfied that they continue to learn on the job, through the process of continuing medical education, and as seen on the table included, there has been an increasing number of persons being trained each year, and this trend will continue.
There are also efforts being made to have Indigenous people trained at the level of medical doctors, and doctors who would have been serving well are also allowed to specialise and return to their respective regions to serve subsequently.
In 2026, there will be an additional 434 persons enrolled in various programmes and deployed to their respective regions upon the successful completion of their courses.
Innovation and technology
The Ministry has introduced telemedicine in the hinterland regions. From December 2022 to date, the Ministry has installed 130 telemedicine systems in Indigenous community health facilities, bridging the gap in access to specialised consultation and general care. Through this medium, patients also have access to telepsychology and psychosocial support ser-
vices.
The Ministry is also initiating the process to further expand the telemedicine access to the hinterland communities/Indigenous communities to an additional 100 sites. If we do a simple comparison between the number of health facilities in Amerindian communities and the number of telemedicine sites after the installation in 2026, it tells a clear story of the status of access to health care by the Amerindian community in Guyana.
This will set Guyana apart as the leader in improving access to health care through telemedicine in this part of the world. This technology is predominantly available to Amerindian staff in remote communities, who provide health care for their people.
Referral of patients
Guyana’s health care system has a clearly defined hierarchical model of health care delivery. It consists of five levels, with One being the lowest level at which comprehensive primary care is delivered and Five being the highest level where tertiary health care is delivered.
Because of the closeness of the State of Roraima in Brazil to some of our border areas and the interrelationship of families on both sides of the border, between Guyana and Brazil, some patients will choose to ask for a referral to Brazil instead of being referred to our premier health facility, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.
Notwithstanding that
fact, when time is of the essence, the hospital in Lethem, Region Nine, will refer a patient to Brazil for a higher than a Level Four type of care, such as a CT scan, an MRI, or a neurosurgeon consultation or intervention. Once time permits and a patient is not critical, the system would refer that patient to Georgetown.
regard, the position taken by Kamla Persad-Bissessar stands out. At a time when ambiguity seemed convenient, she chose instead to be bold and unequivocal, publicly affirming support for Guyana’s sovereignty, not merely through collective statements but through her own voice. That level of forthrightness is not divisive; it is principled.
It also lends weight to her earlier assertion that Caricom is, at times, “factional”. Whether one agrees entirely or not, recent developments suggest that the observation warrants serious reflection. Caricom must not fail.
Let us also be honest with ourselves. Friendship among nations is not measured by eloquence, nor by the ease with which leaders invoke shared cultural icons. It is measured by consistency, especially when principles are tested. Those who speak well and boldly are not always those who stand firm when it matters.
tions of proximity, particularly when partners engage closely with those who openly challenge our sovereignty.
This is not a call for division. It is a call for coherence. Guyana’s position, as consistently articulated by President Ali, remains unwavering. We respect the sovereignty of all nations. We respect the right of our Caribbean brothers and sisters to engage whom they choose. But we also expect that the principles we collectively proclaim –sovereignty, law, and mutual respect – are not diluted by contradiction or convenience.
And let there be no misunderstanding: Guyana will never, never compromise on its Essequibo. This is not rhetoric. It is reality. At this defining moment, the credibility of Caricom will not be measured by its communiqués but by the consistency of its conduct. For small States like ours, principle is not a luxury; it is our shield.
Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira Former Member of Parliament FROM PAGE 4
Medical evacuation
Guyana has a medical evacuation programme which is accessible to all patients in the hinterland. Once the medical personnel have determined that a patient is critical and needs a specialised intervention to save that life, a request is made through the established health system, and the Ministry of Health would charter and dispatch an aircraft along with appropriate medical personnel/teams to extract that patient. This is a programme specifically designed to help patients in the hinterland regions. At no time does any patient in need of specialised care, even in an emergency, have to travel over any border or walk for miles without being able to access care or get a referral to higher care.
The Ministry has an annual allocation of GY$220,000,000 to support Amerindian emergency evacuation services.
The Government of Guyana will continue to engage in consultation with our Amerindian communities in relation to all projects and initiatives to benefit the people of Guyana, and especially those being designed for Amerindian population benefit.
Guyana understands that every State must pursue its own interests. That is the nature of international relations. However, we must also be clear-eyed in assessing the implica-
The time has come for clarity.
Good luck to all NGSA students today! Now it’s CXC season – here are some questions to get you ready!
1. Using a calculator, or otherwise, calculate the EXACT value of
2. The diagram below, not drawn to scale, shows two jars of peanut butter of the same brand.
Which of the jars shown above is the BETTER buy?
3. Thomas invested $1,498 at 6% simple interest per annum. Calculate:
i. The interest, in dollars, earned after six months
ii. The TOTAL amount of money in his account after 3 years
iii. How long it will be before his investment earns $449.40
4. Solve for x, where x is a real number.
i. 8 – x ≤ 5x + 2
ii. Show your solution to (a) (i) on the number line below.
5. Expand and simplify 2x (x + 5) − 3(x – 4).
6. Simplify 3x2 × 4x3 2x .
7. Write as a single fraction in its lowest terms
8. Factorise completely 4x2 – 4.
9. The Venn diagram below shows the number of students in Form 5A who have visited Canada (C) or Dominica (D).
i. How many students have visited Dominica ONLY?
ii. Write an expression, in terms of x, to represent the TOTAL number of students who have visited Canada.
iii. Given that there are 25 students in Form 5A, calculate the value of x.
iv. Hence, write down the number of students in each of the following subsets:
• C U D
• C ∩ D
• (C U D)′
By Hazel SimmonS-mcDonalD
I leave this house
box pieces of the five-week life I’ve gathered. I’ll send them on to fill spaces in my future life. One thing is left a spray of orchids someone gave from a bouquet one who makes a ritual of flower-giving sent. The orchids have no fragrance but purple petals draw you to look at the purple heart. I watered them once when the blossoms were full blown like polished poems. I was sure they’d wilt and I would toss them out with the five-week litter. They were stubborn. I starved them. They would not die. This morning the bud at the stalk’s tip unfurled. I think I’ll pluck the full-blown blooms press them between pages of memory. Perhaps in their thin dried transparency I’ll discover their peculiar poetry.
1. What is the main theme of the poem? Support your answer with evidence from the poem.
2. Identify TWO literary devices used in the poem and explain their effectiveness.
3. What is the tone of the poem, and how does the poet create this tone?
4. Do you find the poem effective? Give reasons for your answer, referring to the poem.
Write a story in which something intangible (eg, memory, grief, time, love, or joy) becomes a real object.
The Government’s aggressive digitisation drive is being used to advance human rights and governance issues in Guyana.
This is according to Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira during a National Stakeholders Forum hosted by her Ministry on Tuesday under the theme “Strengthening Access and Accountability through Digital Platforms”.
Currently, there are digital platforms such as Citizens Connect, which facilitates feedback and complaints from the public; Gov Connect, which can be used to access key Government services and set appointments; and Skills Connect, which links persons with job opportunities.
Minister Teixeira explained that online platforms like these are intrinsically linked to two key issues under her Ministry –governance structures that are based on democracy and human rights.
Citing Article 13 of Guyana’s Constitution, which speaks to citizen participation in the decision-making process, Teixeira pointed out that the Citizens Connect platform allows for that ‘inclusionary democracy’.
“Under Article 30, the whole issue of participation, consultation, and inclusion is a critical component... The more the citizens of our country can participate through the use and with the assistance of digital platforms, that is in fact enhancing our democracy and our human
“Scandalous”
rights platforms and our human rights generally in the country. So, this is a very tangible, practical way to be able to strengthen the human rights and governance structures of Guyana,” she stated.
The Minister further noted that Guyana is now better positioned to benefit from digital governance with more than 900,000 cell phone owners in the country. This, she added, coupled with other interventions by the Government to improve connectivity, especially in the hinterland regions through the WiFiGY programme and the ICT hubs, is also geared towards enhancing the human rights of the country’s Indigenous peoples.
“These platforms are based on the premise that
we have connectivity. If we didn’t have connectivity, we wouldn’t be able to have these platforms... It is only within the last five years that we became a connected country... The fact that people can connect with each other and connect with Government is important,” Teixeira underscored.
She added that these platforms not only strengthen accessibility but also remove structural and geographical hurdles that citizens encounter when accessing various Government services – something that she says will be further expanded in the future.
“As these programmes develop [and] as we diversify more, we’ll come to a stage where you’ll be able to apply online for your passport and for access to different services... Some of them are partially there, while some of them are not fully there as yet. And so, this is reducing the barriers that people have faced, which are economic or geographic, to be able to access some of the services in a timely way,” the Minister noted.
In addition to enhancing accessibility, Teixeira outlined that these digital platforms also provide data that would inform critical decision-making by the Government. For instance, she noted that in the past,
many persons, especially those in rural areas and hinterland locations, did not register for birth certificates due to various issues, but now with easier access to registration, the Government has a truer picture of the population.
“These innovations help us to bring more and more people into the realm of what is our society and to become more engaged... When we do these programmes, how does it help the Government?... It provides us with a wealth of data that allows us in real time to analyse and to see where issues are...and it allows the Government to respond.”
“A lot of talk goes on about access to information, but it’s amazing what you can get online, on websites, regarding what the Government is doing and what programmes or pol-
icies are available... And so, the issue of the population – you know, a well-informed population is one of the biggest and most important guardians of democracy and democratic governance in any country. A population that is not well-informed is one that can be misinformed and could feel isolated and divorced from the Government and all the processes through which they can access services,” the Minister stressed.
Meanwhile, as the Government continues to roll out a number of online platforms as part of its digitisation drive, other key deliverables of these initiatives include the ability to remove human biases from the process and cut out corruption, as well as enhance compliance with local laws and regulations by educating citizens.
The 2020 elections fraud trial continued on Wednesday with former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) elections agent Bibi Anieshaw Mohamed being cross-examined before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty. Mohamed was questioned by Attorneys-at-Law Nigel Hughes and Ronald J Daniels, with much of the session marked by objections and interventions from the court.
During questioning, Daniels asked Mohamed about her appointment as Director of the Guyana Learning Channel, including whether she had any relevant experience in that field or was aware of anyone else being considered for the position.
Mohamed responded that she was not aware and indicated that she had been invited to serve in the role by former Education Minister
Priya Manickchand: Tensions rose in the courtroom when Daniels asked Mohamed whether she was related to Manickchand.
“Were you aware of any public assertion that you were related to Minister Manickchand? Yes, thank you ever so much. And are you aware of Minister Manickchand inviting anyone else to fill the role of the director of the Learning
Channel?”
Mohamed responded, saying that she was aware of the assertion but was unaware if anyone else was invited to fill the role.
However, the question drew an immediate objection from Special Prosecutor Dharshan Ramdhani, who told the court, “This is a scandalous question, and I object to the question being posed. It’s not relevant at all
to this case.”
Magistrate McGusty subsequently instructed that the question be clarified. Daniels later asked Mohamed whether she believed Guyana to be a democratic state, to which she responded, “In its current state, yes.”
When it was suggested that she was referring to governance under the PPP/C Administration, Mohamed clarified that her view was based on the outcome of the 2020 elections, stating that democracy was restored following the recount process.
Further objections arose when Daniels questioned Mohamed about her views on the justice system. Prosecutor Ramdhani again objected and argued that the line of questioning was irrelevant and cautioned that it sought to elicit opinion-based responses from the witness.
Well, here it is; one of our annual rituals – our 15,000 little (11+) darlings writing what in your Eyewitness’s (bygone) days used to be called “Common Entrance” exams! Just as de rigueur were the little tykes’ parents – mostly mothers – fussing and wishing them luck and all that!! That the name of the exam is now NGSA – the National Grade Six Assessment – Is supposed to be significant. The “Common Entrance” signalled the colonial-era exam that was open to all the “Standard 4” children competing for “entrance” to a few spots at Queen’s or Bishops’ in “town”.
In 2003, the “exam” was adjudged by the Ministry of Education – to put too much pressure on the little ragamuffins at such an early age. So instead, they instituted not one but THREE “ASSESSMENTS” – at Grades 2, 4 and 6!! They’re not REALLY “exams” – the tykes were now assured from age seven!! So, what is different!?! The results of the 2nd and 4th Grade “assessments” are factored into the NGSA – promising that the students’ strengths and weaknesses were monitored over a larger span!! So, when they enter High School’s 7th Grade, the teachers would have a good assessment of the raw material they’re being handed to mould into the new Guyana citizen!!
Have you ever heard such crock? Your Eyewitness would like to know of a SINGLE instance where this kiddie utopian paradise was achieved!! The bottom line is there’s been ABSOLUTELY no change in whatever pressures the Common Entrance exam brought on and the present NGSA. It does what was always the case – it determines whether the kid will enter one of the 5 or so “elite” schools in GT or whether they’ll be schlepping over to their local “Secondary School”. Where, in addition to not having the posh facilities of the “town school” bears the “familiarity breeds contempt” burden!!
And the pressure?? Since it’ll pretty much determine the “life chances” of the kids’ success or failure, why’d you think?? Of course, there’s gonna be exceptions, but by and large the race is gonna be won by the “bright”. So over in the land of Carnival and Calypso, THEIR powers-that-be have decided to quit publicly releasing their Common Entrance Exam results which had been dubbed SEA – Secondary Entrance Assessment – and have them only available on a portal!!
Each kid can now check his or her score personally. So what’ll happen when the same old “high flyer” cohort show up at the Premier High Schools?? Won’t the regular students know THEY didn’t get in – and feel inferior?? When are we gonna give all secondary schools equal facilities – and kids just graduate from primary schools to secondary schools in their neck of the woods??
…our Uranium?
Once again Kurupung – out in Reg 7 – is in the news!! Way back in the day it was a famous gold-mining district that drew the famous pork-knockers – who literally burnt money when they returned from the “bush”!! It led to one of our most famous folk songs – “Manin’ neighba, manin’, ah don’ want yuh conniving ma- nin’/When yuh been ah Kurupung, Yuh na bin tell me manin’/ Now because yuh money done, yuh come wid conniving mannin/”!!
Well, for over five decades we’ve been assured by various (scientific) prospectors that Kurupung also has reserves of Uranium ore!! While not as “dear” as gold, it’s right up there on the exploration radar – with countries looking to turn to uranium to supply nuclear power as an alternative to fossil fuels. There are also nuclear bombs that’s now in the news!!
Anyhow, we have a Canadian company U92 drilling for uranium out there! The last one – U308 – gave up back in 2012!!
Hope this one strikes uranium!!
…brooch warfare??
Our old people say, “All skin teeth na laff”!! It depends on the context. Caricom finally roused itself to remind its members they can’t skin their teeth with Devious Delcy – when her brooch declares ownership of Guyana’s Essequibo!!
The Government is moving to strengthen the oversight of public spending across Guyana with the rollout of a centralised monitoring dashboard designed to track national projects in real time, reducing the need for costly field inspections while improving accountability in remote and hard-to-reach regions.
This was according to Public Service Government Efficiency and Implementation Minister Zulfikar Ally on Tuesday during the National Stakeholders Forum hosted by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance under the theme “Strengthening Access and Accountability through Digital Platforms”, held at the World Trade Centre, Kingston, Georgetown.
Speaking on the ini-
tiative, the Minister explained that the digital platform – developed with the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) – forms part of a broader push to modernise governance and ensure that public funds are properly monitored across all 10 administrative regions.
He noted that with infrastructure and development projects spread nationwide, including in outlying communities that are expensive and difficult to access, the dashboard allows Government agencies to efficiently oversee works without incurring additional travel and operational costs.
“I want to spend some time speaking about the Oversight Monitoring Dashboard because this was one of the very first initiatives we worked on. As a Government, it is very dif-
ficult – our country is very large. We have projects in all 10 regions, some in very remote and outlying communities that are difficult to access. Not only are they difficult to reach, but it is also
very expensive to get there,” he said.
He added, “However, public funds are being spent in every region in Guyana, no matter where it is. President Ali felt that we needed to im-
prove how we monitor what is happening and how we are spending money, and we needed to do it in a way that does not require us to spend more money just to track our own work. So, we developed a dashboard with the help of the very good people at the NDMA, whom I must congratulate, along with his team, for all the excellent work they have done.”
He emphasised that it is important to note that many of the systems being implemented were developed locally by Guyanese, working alongside the NDMA. He stated that these locally developed systems eliminate the need for expensive licensing fees, as they are designed and built within the country.
He further explained that the Oversight Monitoring Dashboard provides a comprehensive view of Government projects across all sectors, including agriculture, housing, and tourism. According to him, the system allows officials to monitor projects in any region using devices such as mobile phones, iPads, computers, and smart boards within Ministries, enabling real-time oversight of all ongoing initiatives.
Ally noted that previously, officials relied on spreadsheets and paper-based reports to track project progress, which was often time-consuming.
“Previously, if you asked what was happening with or what the status was of the road being built in various regions, you would be given an Excel document or spreadsheet showing how many kilometres of road had been completed, how much money had been spent, and the contractor involved. You would be looking at it on paper. That is not what we have now.”
He related that at the Ministerial level, the dashboard now allows officials
to access detailed, real-time information on every project, including photographs and videos uploaded weekly to show progress. He added that this applies to every capital project across the country – amounting to thousands of projects across all sectors.
The Minister further explained that the digital platform now allows Government stakeholders to access real-time updates through a centralised system, improving efficiency, reducing operational costs, and strengthening transparency in public administration.
The system, Ally noted, also enhances accountability among public officers, as project updates must be consistently recorded on the dashboard, while adding that failure to do so becomes immediately visible within the system, helping to identify gaps in performance and ensuring greater diligence in reporting.
He added that the initiative forms part of a broader Government agenda aimed at decentralising services and improving public administration across all regions.
“You have heard the story; many of you have probably had the experience of travelling long hours, depending on where you live, to get your passport or birth certificate or to renew it, or you have had to spend long hours in line at 4am at the passport office,” he said.
The Minister said that the Government’s digital transformation and wider public service reform initiatives are being driven by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration’s broader goal of ensuring that no Guyanese is left behind in national development.
He stated that the Government cannot afford a situation where citizens are excluded from opportunities, adding that a range of programmes have been introduced to support education, skills development, and access to training at all levels.
Among these initiatives, he highlighted the GOAL scholarship programme, which currently has over 54,000 Guyanese enrolled in studies across various disciplines, including Information and Communications Technology (ICT), at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels. He also pointed to the Coursera partnership, noting that while the platform is normally fee-based globally, it is fully funded by the Government of Guyana, allowing citizens free access to international courses.
The United Kingdom’s newly-appointed High Commissioner to Guyana, Joseph Fisher, has signalled a strong intent to advance bilateral relations, stating that he is “committed to further strengthening the modern partnership between the United Kingdom and Guyana”.
Fisher made the remarks shortly after arriving in Georgetown, where he has already begun official engagements. “I’m delighted to be here in Georgetown,” he said, while expressing gratitude to those he encountered “over these first few days for their warm welcome to this beautiful country.”
The British envoy confirmed that he has pre-
sented his credentials to President Irfaan Ali and is eager to begin active work in the post. “Now it’s time to hit the ground running,” he noted, indicating that he has already started interacting with stakeholders connected to UK-supported initiatives.
As part of his early engagements, Fisher disclosed that he has been “meeting UK companies delivering key infrastructure projects in partnership with the Government of Guyana and supported by UK Export Finance”, pointing to ongoing collaboration in national development projects. These engagements, he suggested, are part of broader efforts to expand economic cooperation and investment ties be-
tween the two countries.
Beyond official meetings, the newly accredited High Commissioner has also begun acquainting himself with Guyana’s environment and culture and spoke of a visit along the Mahaica River, where he observed the country’s rich ecosystem.
“I’ve also had my first glimpse of Guyana’s extraordinary biodiversity... where I had my first encounter with Guyana’s national bird,” he said. Fisher also highlighted his early exposure to local cuisine, noting that he has sampled traditional dishes and beverages, including “fish choka, beef soup, boulanger, and mauby juice”, and expressed enthusiasm about continuing to explore the country in the coming weeks.
He succeeds Jane Miller, who previously served as the UK’s top diplomatic representative in Georgetown. Guyana and the UK established diplomatic relations in 1966 following Guyana’s independence, and their partnership has since expanded across several areas, including trade, security, governance, and sustainable development.
Fisher assumed the office of British High Commissioner in April
2026. In addition to his role in Guyana, he also serves as non-resident ambassador-designate to Suriname and ambassador-designate to the Caribbean Community, reflecting a wider regional diplomatic portfolio.
Prior to his appointment, Fisher served at 10 Downing Street as Private Secretary to the National Security Adviser from 2024 to 2025. Between 2022 and 2024, he held the position of Deputy Principal Private Secretary to the Foreign Secretary and earlier worked within the Cabinet Office National
Security Secretariat from 2020 to 2022.
His diplomatic career also includes several international postings under the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, including roles in the Europe Directorate in London, at the British Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar, and with the NATO Provincial Reconstruction Team in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Outside of Government service, Fisher worked as an international development liaison officer in the office of Aung San Suu Kyi
between 2014 and 2017. He later served as policy director at the conflict resolution organisation Inter Mediate, where he was involved in peacebuilding and mediation initiatives.
Fisher holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in geography from the University of Cambridge. He later attended Harvard University as a Herchel Smith Fellow and held an honorary research fellowship at Imperial College London. He is also a graduate of the UK Defence Academy’s Higher Command and Staff Course.
Khemadatt Persaud, a businessman accused of chopping a woman multiple times about her body during a violent confrontation at a Berbice wash bay, is to stand trial in the Berbice High Court soon for attempted murder, following a ruling at the Whim Magistrate’s Court.
The ruling was handed down on Monday by Magistrate Tuanna Hardy, who committed the accused to stand trial after determining that sufficient evidence was presented during the Preliminary Inquiry (PI).
The victim, 39-year-old Marcia Badal, was represented by attorney-at-law Joel Edmond. The court was told that another attorney has since assumed responsibility for Persaud. A date for the commencement of the High Court trial has not yet been set.
The charge stems from a January 30, 2023, incident at a car wash in Rose Hall Town, Corentyne Berbice, where Badal was severely injured after being attacked with a cutlass.
It was reported that the accused allegedly confronted the woman and dealt her several chops about the body, particularly to the head. A Police Officer who was present reportedly intervened and rushed the injured woman to the hospital.
Initial Police reports described the woman as the accused’s ex-wife and suggested the attack stemmed from a domestic dispute. However, the victim, in a subsequent interview with Guyana Times denied that claim, stating that she was never married to the accused and was not in a romantic relationship with him.
Badal explained that she had business arrangements
with Persaud and that he was expected to be her first client. “My aunt and I started a business together, and he was supposed to be my first client... we were doing business,” she said.
She further alleged that the accused became obsessive and increasingly aggressive prior to the attack, making repeated calls, tracking her movements, and issuing threats to her life, including contacting her parents and telling them he would “destroy” their daughter.
Recounting the day of the attack, the woman said she
was on her way to an automated teller machine when the accused intercepted her along the roadway.
“I saw him come out with a large cutlass in his hand... I reversed and drove off,” she said, adding that he pursued her and damaged her vehicle by chopping it and striking the windscreen.
The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has expressed dissatisfaction with Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) overall performance for 2025 and urged the company to strengthen infrastructure maintenance and operational efficiency for reliable and quality service to consumers.
This determination follows a public hearing that was held on March 27, 2026, where GPL presented its performance against the established targets and standards, and stakeholders were afforded the opportunity to participate.
In light of this finding, the PUC has informed electricity consumers and other interested parties that it has issued an order. The Commission noted that only 2.5 of the eight targets were achieved.
While there were areas of success, including im-
provements in generation availability, voltage regulation on selected feeders, and partial achievement in the issuance of bills to non-maximum demand customers, the deficiencies
in reliability and financial performance remain a significant concern.
In fact, in 2025, GPL had established a target of 85 customer interruptions, but this was exceeded by
listed above for the long hours of blackouts.
On this note, GPL indicated that it would address the issues and improve system reliability by implementing several corrective measures in 2026, including the integration of advanced technologies such as drones and smart monitoring systems to enhance detection capabilities.
Further, GPL stated that it intends to intensify its maintenance programmes, deploy alternative pole structures such as fibreglass, metal, and concrete, and continue coordination protection across the network to incorporate greater redundancy within the system.
one at the end of the reporting year. Compromised transmission pole structures due to soil erosion, feeder trips, internal faults, generating power shutdowns, vehicular accidents, and external interferences from contractors’ equipment were cited as causes for the service interruptions.
In addition, in 2025, GPL was required to maintain a target of 80 hours, but at the end of the year, consumers faced 84 hours of power failure. Again, GPL blamed the factors as
However, with respect to meter reading, the PUC finds that the company fell short of meter reading for the year 2025. The company reported that it achieved 93 per cent for MD customers – a drop of four per cent from the target. For nonMD customers, the target for 2025 was set at 95 per cent, but at the end of the year, the company only managed to reach 85 per cent of those customers.
The company added that it had replaced 12,000 meters with AMI-compatible meters, thus enabling remote reading. For 2026,
GPL plans to install another 20,000 AMI-compatible meters.
GPL was also flagged for not issuing customers their respective electricity bills within the stipulated seven-day period. In its explanation for the non-compliance, GPL stated that it had conducted meter rereads, which extended beyond the billing cycle by a number of days, but added that it had developed a better system to improve its timeframe.
Meanwhile, in outlining their approaches for 2026, GPL advocated improvements in key areas, including the integration of advanced technologies, skilled labour optimisation, and cash flow and time management. While GPL did not fully meet its obligations, the Commission acknowledged some improvement in customer experience and considered mitigating factors, including labour shortages and ongoing infrastructure projects. As such, regulatory leniency was applied. The Commission expects that, with the completion of ongoing projects, GPL will achieve full compliance with its performance targets in 2026 and beyond.
During a court hearing on July 27, 2023, it was disclosed that the case file had not been submitted to the DPP for legal advice prior to the laying of charges. Sandy was eventually granted bail on August 28, 2023, in the sum of $150,000 with reporting conditions.
On September 26, 2023, the DPP advised that the matter should be withdrawn, and the charges were formally dismissed on October 5, 2023, at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court.
However, Sandy’s legal team, led by Dexter Todd and Associates, subsequent-
ly filed constitutional proceedings alleging unlawful arrest, false imprisonment, inhumane treatment, and malicious prosecution.
In its ruling, the High Court found that Sandy’s constitutional rights had been breached, specifically citing violations of Articles 139(1) and 141 of the Constitution, which protect personal liberty and prohibit inhuman and degrading treatment.
The court issued several declarations in Sandy’s favour, including findings that his arrest and detention were unlawful, that he was subjected to degrading
treatment while in custody, and that he was maliciously prosecuted without proper legal guidance or procedural compliance.
Justice Issacs-Marcus also awarded damages totalling $8 million, broken down as follows: $3 million for unlawful arrest and detention, $2 million for inhuman treatment, $2 million in exemplary damages, and $600,000 in special damages for loss of income, along with $400,000 in costs.
Interest was also ordered at six per cent per annum until judgement and four per cent thereafter until payment.
She said that she eventually drove into a nearby wash bay in an attempt to seek safety, but the accused allegedly followed her and carried out the attack.
“I came out of the car; I didn’t even stop the car; the car drove into another vehicle, and that was when he was able to corner me and chop me,” she said.
The woman sustained multiple chop wounds to the head, including injuries severe enough to fracture her skull and affect her brain. She said she was hospitalised for over a month, from late January to the third week of March in the year
the incident occurred, and at one point suffered paralysis on the right side of her body and was unable to speak.
“I couldn’t even speak... I was paralysed on my entire right side,” she said.
Reflecting on the long-term impact of the attack, she added: “I’m not 100 per cent okay, and I will have to live with that for the rest of my life.”
She also claimed that despite the evidence, the accused has continued to deny the charge.
“He kept pleading not guilty when he admitted in his statement... that he committed the crime. There are
videos, medical reports, and eyewitnesses at the scene,” she said.
Following her discharge from hospital, the woman said she remained fearful for her life and eventually left Guyana to continue medical treatment in the United States.
The accused had previously applied for bail on two occasions, first at the Magistrate’s Court and later at the High Court, but both applications were denied. He remains on remand pending the commencement of his trial in the High Court, where a Judge and jury will determine his fate.
Over 6000 persons have utilised the Housing Ministry’s Single Window System since the programme was launched, but there have been challenges with digital literacy – both among applicants and key agencies – which continue to hinder the system’s full potential.
Housing Minister Collin Croal made this revelation during his presentation at the National Stakeholders Forum on Tuesday.
The Electronic Planning and Development Single Window System in Guyana was officially launched on June 19, 2024. As of late April 2026, the system has been in operation for roughly 22 months, following the passage of its enabling legislation on July 20, 2023.
Primarily used for planning/development approvals by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) or international trade (customs/ports), the system replaces multiple submissions by connecting different agencies to improve transparency and speed.
“So, since our implementation of the single window up to last month, we have had over 6200 persons registering on the single window system and over 7000
submissions. On the application side, over 63 per cent of those are single-family or what you call residential,” the Minister revealed.
Amid these developments, he pointed to what he described as a growing synergy, noting that as more individuals gain access to land and move to develop their properties, an inherent relationship drives increased activity. He highlighted a significant rise in commercial applications, adding that this trend demonstrates that the system is functioning effectively.
Statistics on Single Window project applications completed
Providing an update on overall performance, he stated that more than 2700 of these applications have been completed, with the average processing time now just over one month. He emphasised that this marks a major improvement compared to previous periods when processing times were significantly longer.
Further, the Minister outlines a few discrepancies where challenges exist. “From launching until maybe a month ago, on average, although we’ve implemented the system, the average for non-residential
applications is still over two months. We’ve put a number of measures in place, and the challenges are that we must be realistic in the way we act. We are still a country where many of our users are not necessarily tech-savvy.”
This challenge manifests in that the persons using the system still have a gap – a challenge of digital literacy... We have gaps that exist from persons applying... We also encounter situations with the agencies involved.”
He explained that there
are two aspects to the challenge. On one hand, some applicants may not be technologically savvy, while others submit applications through representatives who may not properly review or verify the information before submission, creating a gap at the applicant level.
On the other hand, he noted that there is also a digital gap among relevant agencies, including local authorities and other entities responsible for providing input or issuing no-objection approvals through
the system. He added that these issues represent some of the key challenges being addressed.
The challenges of incomplete or incorrect submissions were also outlined during his address, and according to the Minister, there have always been delays in payments because persons made their initial applications. When they are required to make their payment, delays occur.
He noted that there are capacity constraints at the local democratic level, emphasising that while the CHPA often receives the blame, the majority of delays are not necessarily system-related or directly attributable to the agency. He explained that many of the delays occur during the document validation stage, which takes place when applications are initially submitted.
He added that the CHPA is continuing its public relations efforts to highlight the need for better application support from applicants, as well as increased education and awareness among users.
While giving more stats, he stated that they have introduced several measures to reduce the backlog.
“As a result, I can safe-
ly say we have reduced our backlog by 99 per cent. We still have what we call a ‘legacy backlog’. These are cases that have been in the system many times since last year or longer periods. Some of those were in the system prior to the introduction of the single window system as part of the transition. We are seeing, however, because we must ensure things follow the law, an increase in the residential applications.”
Meanwhile, he posited that despite efforts to clear the backlog and improve users’ understanding of the system, there has been a parallel increase in the number of applications being submitted.
As a result, the residential backlog has recorded an overall increase of three per cent.
However, he noted that the document validation stage has improved by six per cent, while the final decision-making stage has been reduced by over seven per cent.
With regard to non-residential applications, he stated that the backlog has seen an overall increase of 11 per cent, alongside a significant rise of more than 237 per cent in the document validation stage.
Atotal of 15,938 pupils across Guyana are writing the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) over two days, and after the first day, the candi-
explained, while another added that although “some questions were challenging”, the overall paper was not difficult.
Several students credited
particularly in science. Despite this, confidence remained high, with many students already setting their sights on top secondary schools such as Queen’s
dates have expressed confidence having completed the English and Science papers.
In Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), several pupils described the examinations as manageable, with some admitting that initial anxiety quickly gave way to relief once they began writing. “The exam was lovely... I feel like I passed,” one student said, while another noted, “I have confidence in myself... it was amazing.”
Others shared similar
their performance to months of preparation, including extra lessons, online classes, and support from parents and teachers. “I had many nights doing homework and extra classes... I would like to thank my parents and my aunt for assisting me,” one pupil said.
For others, the experience was a mix of nerves and relief. “Before the exam started, I thought it was hard... but when I went inside, a lot of weight came off
College, The Bishop’s High School, President’s College, and Berbice High School.
However, Education Minister Sonia Parag, who visited the Diamond/Grove Primary School along the East Bank Demerara (EBD), expressed confidence that students will perform well, pointing to a range of interventions implemented by the Government in the leadup to this year’s exams.
She highlighted both short-term and long-term
sentiments, particularly regarding the science paper, which many initially feared would be difficult. “Science was actually pretty good... it was easy,” one candidate
my shoulders,” another student shared.
While most described the exams as “easy” or “mild”, a few acknowledged encountering challenging sections,
initiatives, including targeted revision programmes, the establishment of NGSA “tents” to support students in key subject areas, and expanded access to learning
materials such as textbooks and past papers.
According to the Minister, these measures were designed to strengthen students’ understanding of specific topics while also improving overall teaching delivery through enhanced
Social Studies scheduled for today, Thursday, students will complete the two-day assessment before turning their attention to results, which will determine placement in secondary schools across the country.
For now, many remain
2023), rebounded strongly in 2025. This year, 63.7 per cent of students passed the subject, surpassing the 50 per cent benchmark.
Mathematics, traditionally one of the more challenging subjects, also showed encouraging prog-
teacher training and curriculum reform.
“We have no doubt that our Grade Six students will perform well... given the interventions, the investment, and the resources that have been provided,” she said.
She also pointed to ongoing reforms, including literacy assessments at the Grades Two and Four levels, aimed at improving comprehension and reading skills, with a numeracy assessment expected to be introduced in 2027.
Acknowledging the pressure associated with the examinations, the Minister urged parents to support their children while allowing them time to decompress after each paper. “Sometimes when they come out of exams, they don’t want to talk immediately... exhaustion takes over. Give them space and continue to support them,” she advised.
Meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali also extended best wishes to candidates via social media, encouraging them to remain calm and focused while trusting in their preparation.
With Mathematics and
hopeful that months of preparation will translate into strong performances.
Statistics from the 2025 assessment showed that English recorded its stron-
ress. For the first time in the country’s history, more than half of the students – 55.51 per cent – passed the exam. In 2025, some 15,813 students were registered to
gest performance in the past five years, with a pass rate of 69.25 per cent. Social studies also showed notable improvement, with 64.77 per cent of candidates scoring 50 per cent or higher.
Science, which had seen a slight decline last year with a 54 per cent pass rate (down from 55.11 per cent in
write the two-day national examinations, and of that number, 15,497 turned up for the assessment. Among those sitting the exams were 115 students with Special Education Needs (SEND), and, notably, 91 students wrote the assessments in Spanish – a historic first, introduced back in 2024.
The Government of Guyana, through the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry, on Tuesday distributed 10 garbage compactor trucks to Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) along the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara, Region Four (Demerara–Mahaica).
This forms part of the ongoing nationwide rollout to strengthen solid waste management systems. The NDCs benefiting from this distribution are Soesdyke/Te Huis Te Coverden; Caledonia/Good Success; Golden Grove/ Diamond Place; Herstelling/ Little Diamond; Mocha/ Arcadia; Mon Repos/La Reconnaissance; Buxton/ Foulis; Better Hope/ La Bonne Intention; Industry/Plaisance; and Beterverwagting/Triumph.
Subject Minister Priya Manickchand emphasised that the rollout remains ongoing. “This is not the end of the distribution of garbage trucks. More trucks are expected in May [and] June.” She further underscored the need for improved sanitation standards, noting that communities should no longer have schools, health centres, or streets with overflowing bins.
Region Four Vice Chairman Deoraj Nauth noted that the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) will ensure that the trucks are utilised effectively. He urged collaboration and stated that the RDC will support NDCs where necessary so that residents can benefit from a cleaner, healthier environment, supported by regular waste collection.
Also in attendance was the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administration) of the Local Government
and Regional Development Ministry, Dr Josh Kanhai, and several representatives
from the receiving NDCs. To date, the Government
has handed over two similar trucks to Port Kaituma and Mabaruma in Region One; 10 to Region Two; 14 to Region Three; 10 to Region Four; and 22 to Region Six, with 19 allocated to NDCs and three to municipalities.
Region Nine has since received two trucks – one for an NDC and one for a municipality – while Region Eight now has one truck for the township of Mahdia, and Region 10 has one for the township of Linden. This brings the distribution to 59 NDCs and seven municipalities equipped with garbage compactor trucks. The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to maintaining cleaner, healthier communities and ensuring that development is reflected in the everyday lives of citizens across Guyana.
The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Wednesday met with key stakeholders to shape the structure and strategic direction of the recently launched Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Plus (NGAP+) Programme.
The NGAP+ Programme aims to inspire and equip youths aged 12 to 24 with the knowledge, skills, and prac-
tical experience required for dynamic careers in the aviation sector.
Programme development consultant of the UK International Air Cadet Training (i.ACT), Malcolm Evans, addressed the stakeholders, emphasising that the programme’s ultimate goal is to prepare young Guyanese to fill a broad spectrum of roles within the avi-
ation industry – ensuring a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.
The stakeholders’ meeting marked a significant step forward, as participants collaborated on finalising the programme’s structure and clarifying the responsibilities of each partner. A governing board will be established to oversee the implementation and ensure the
NGAP+ Programme fulfils its mandate to deliver worldclass aviation training and mentorship.
Present at the meeting were representatives from the Art Williams and Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School, the Civil Aviation Training School, the University of Guyana, the Guyana Digital School, the Guyana Defence
Force, Guy Drones, the Ministry of Education, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), and the Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana.
Director General of GCAA, Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Egbert Field, related, “The NGAP+ Programme is the result of an ICAO Resolution A39-29, which will address the shortag-
es of personnel in the aviation sector. The UK i.ACT is working with Guyana to develop a comprehensive curriculum, including technical training.”
Further details regarding application procedures and programme timelines will be announced in the coming months. The GCAA launched the NGAP+ programme in December 2025.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Guyana have received more than $2.3 billion in financial support since 2020 through a combination of Governmentbacked loan guarantees and grant funding as efforts intensify to strengthen entrepreneurship and expand the non-oil economy.
This is according to the 2025 Annual Report of the Guyana Manufacturing and Service Association (GMSA), which notes that “approximately $1.3 billion in loan guarantees and over $1 billion in grants have been disbursed to support SMEs since 2020”.
The report highlights the significant scale of financial intervention aimed at boosting small business development, while also pointing to persistent structural challenges that continue to limit the sector’s full growth potential.
According to the report, the financing forms part of
broader efforts to stimulate business activity, encourage innovation, and support job creation across various sectors. SMEs are widely regarded as a critical component of Guyana’s economic framework, particularly as the country seeks to diversify beyond oil and gas and build resilience within traditional and emerging industries.
The report notes that these funding initiatives have helped to increase access to capital for small businesses, many of which previously faced difficulties securing financing through traditional banking channels.
Despite the injection of billions of dollars into the sector, the report makes it clear that financial support alone is not sufficient to drive sustained growth. It points out that SMEs continue to face “constraints related to infrastructure, limited capacity, and challenges in scaling operations”, which
hinder their ability to expand and compete effectively.
Additionally, gaps in technical expertise, business development support, and access to markets remain ongoing concerns for small business operators. These challenges, the report suggests, must be addressed alongside financing in order to unlock the full potential of the SME sector. In response to these issues, the
Several motorists were fined for dangerous driving, as the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues its enforcement efforts targeting unsafe practices on the country’s roadways.
The Police reported that on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, several drivers appeared before Magistrate Shivani Lalaram at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court for dangerous driving offences.
Vivian Paul was charged and fined $30,000 or, in default, six weeks’ imprisonment, while Leslie Wood, Mohamed Adouhedia, and Allison James will return to court on June 10, 2026, for the continuation of their matters.
However, over at the
Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, Jamal Grant appeared before Magistrate Abigail Gibbs and was fined $50,000 for driving his motor car in a dangerous manner.
The GPF reiterated that dangerous driving cases continue to be identified and advanced through the courts, supported by the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS), a joint initiative between the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) and the Guyana Police Force.
The SRIS enables evidence-based enforcement by capturing high-definition video footage of traffic violations, which is reviewed by trained personnel and presented before the courts. These offences are not ticketable and must be prose-
cuted before a Magistrate.
Since its introduction, the system has significantly strengthened the GPF’s ability to detect, document, and prosecute dangerous driving, with additional matters currently at various stages of review and preparation for court.
Dangerous driving, which is a serious traffic offence, occurs when a motorist operates a vehicle in a manner that endangers other road users, pedestrians, or property.
The GPF continues to emphasise that dangerous driving will be met with firm and consistent enforcement. Motorists are urged to exercise caution, adhere to traffic regulations, and prioritise the safety of all road users.
report highlights a plan for additional institutional support, including the establishment of a dedicated financial institution for small businesses.
It notes that “the establishment of an SME Development Bank is expected to further improve access to financing and support the growth of small businesses.”
Such an institution is anticipated to provide more
tailored financial products and services, better aligned with the needs of SMEs. The report also outlines a proposal by the GMSA to develop a business incubation and administrative complex aimed at supporting small enterprises.
The planned facility, estimated to cost approximately $600 million, would provide space for start-ups, training opportunities, and business development support services. According to the report, the initiative is intended to address some of the capacity and infrastructure gaps currently affecting SMEs while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
The expansion of SMEs is seen as central to Guyana’s broader economic strategy, particularly in light of rapid growth driven by the oil sector. The report emphasises that strengthening small businesses will be key to ensuring that economic benefits are widely distributed
and that growth is sustained across multiple industries.
It further notes that SMEs play an important role in job creation, value-added production, and the development of local supply chains. While acknowledging the progress made through financial support programmes, the report stresses the importance of a more comprehensive approach to SME development.
“Access to financing must be complemented by improvements in infrastructure, training, and market access,” the report indicates, highlighting the need for coordinated policy measures. Without such measures, it warns, the impact of financial support may be limited in driving long-term business expansion.
As Guyana’s economy continues to expand, the report suggests that strengthening the SME sector will remain a priority for policymakers and industry stakeholders.
“Scandalous” question sparks outrage from prosecution...
The defence also turned to Mohamed’s social media activity, suggesting she may have made a post calling for those involved in the 2020 elections to be held accountable.
Mohamed acknowledged making a post stating, “Let’s quit the delay tactics and proceed with holding people accountable for what occurred in the 2020 General and Regional Election,” but denied that it was a call for the conviction of the defendants, telling the court, “No, I did not.”
At one point, Magistrate McGusty urged the witness to respond more directly after a delay in answering.
In the second half of the proceedings, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony was also cross-examined by Attorney Eusi Anderson, maintaining that his evidence was confined to what he personally observed during the national recount at the tabulation centre.
Pressed on whether he had witnessed any of the defendants conspiring to rig the March 2020 General and Regional Elections, Dr Anthony gave a direct denial, stating, “No.” He further told the court that he did not hear any discussions or actions suggestive of conspiracy during the period he was stationed in the tabulation room, saying: “For the period that I was in the tabulation room, I did not hear.” He maintained throughout that his testimony was limited strictly to the recount process
and what transpired within that environment.
Meanwhile, the trial for the disputed 2020 General and Regional Elections is expected to shift from the courtroom setting today, Thursday, April 30, 2026, to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) headquarters at High Street, Kingston, Georgetown, where the court will carry out a scheduled inspection of key locations linked to the case.
The exercise, set for 10:00h, follows earlier judicial visits to sites referenced in the proceedings, including the Ashmins Building, which previously served as the GECOM command centre during the electoral process.
The headquarters has been identified in evidence as a central “locus” in the matter, with multiple witnesses having referred to its layout and operational functions during testimony. The visit comes after confirmation from GECOM Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh, that the premises will be accessible to the court on the agreed date.
The inspection is intended to allow the magistrate, prosecution, and defence teams to physically examine and better understand the environment described by witnesses throughout the trial.
Attorneys, defendants, and relevant witnesses are expected to be in attendance.
Witnesses who have already completed their testimony, including Rosalinda Rasul and Jonathan
Yearwood, are also expected to be present, alongside all nine defendants in the matter.
Acting Chief Magistrate McGusty has indicated that any issues arising from the site visit may, if necessary, be the subject of further cross-examination upon application, despite the completion of witness testimony.
During the exercise, the court will undertake pointing out, marking, measuring, and recording significant areas connected to the electoral operations.
Meanwhile, proceedings continued on Wednesday with Mohamed and Anthony returning to the witness box for further cross-examination by defence counsel before concluding their evidence.
Nine persons are currently on trial, accused of conspiring to manipulate the outcome of the March 2020 elections in favour of the APNU+AFC coalition, allegedly in an effort to prevent a victory by the PPP/C.
Among the accused are former Minister Volda Lawrence, former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, and former Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Myers.
The election controversy resulted in a prolonged delay in the declaration of results, which eventually saw PPP/C candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali sworn in as President on August 2, 2020.
The United States Senate has blocked a resolution that would have prevented President Donald Trump from ordering military action against Cuba without congressional approval.
The Republican-led Senate voted 51 to 47 on Tuesday, almost entirely along party lines, on a procedural measure that blocked a Democratic-led war powers resolution, as members of Trump’s party argued that there are no active US hostilities against Cuba and curbing the pres-
ident’s powers was not necessary.
Republican Senator Rick Scott of Florida, who introduced the point of order that stopped the resolution, said a war powers vote was not appropriate because Trump has not deployed troops against Havana.
In a later post on social media, Scott said: “If we want REAL reform in Cuba, the illegitimate Castro/ Diaz-Canel regime must fall.”
“I am glad that under [President Trump]’s leadership, there is actual hope for
a new day of freedom, prosperity and Patria y Vida (homeland and life),” he said.
Trump has threatened the Cuban leadership several times in recent months and has warned that “Cuba is next”.
The warnings come amid Washington’s war on Iran and following US forces abducting Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro and his wife in early January – military operations that did not receive authorisation from Congress. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
President Trump’s past derogatory statements calling Haiti a “s**hole” country and blaming Black and brown immigrants for “poisoning the blood of America” and having “bad genes” came back to haunt Government lawyers on Wednesday as they defended the Administration’s efforts to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians and Syrians.
Meanwhile, scores of immigrants, their advocates and other supporters held a pro-TPS rally outside of the country’s highest court as the justices heard arguments from the Government defending the Department of Homeland Security’s controversial decision to end TPS.
The main issue is where DHS, under then-Secretary Kristi Noem, followed the legal procedures to determine whether Haiti and Syria were still facing the disastrous conditions that qualified immigrants from those countries to receive TPS. The court’s decision is expected by late June or early July.
Wednesday’s rally is
part of a coordinated campaign that includes an array of groups filing amicus briefs to support keeping TPS in place and introducing a bill in Congress to keep the programme active through 2027.
The Trump Administration appealed to the high court after Judges in New York and Washington, DC, agreed to delay the end of protections. One found that “hos -
tility to non-white immigrants” likely played a role in the decision to end protections for Haitians.
Since Trump’s second administration began, DHS has ended the protections for 13 countries. Some people who have lived and worked in the US legally for more than a decade have lost jobs and housing in a matter of weeks, Attorneys said. (Excerpt from The Haitian Times)
Tech Analytica has officially rebranded as CariGenetics Saint Lucia, representing a key step in advancing Caribbeanled genomics, precision medicine, and health innovation in Saint Lucia and the wider Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) region.
CariGenetics, headquartered in Bermuda, is a genomics organisation dedicated to improving health outcomes in the Caribbean through research, education, and precision medicine. The company addresses global health data gaps by generating genomic data from historically under-represented Caribbean populations.
The rebranding follows 18 months of collaboration between GenTech Analytica and CariGenetics, during which both teams expanded access to genetic education, testing, research, and regional health engagement. This partnership led to initiatives such as Saint Lucia’s first prostate cancer genetic study and the introduction of genetic testing services to improve access to personalised health insights.
This change unifies Caribbean genetic research under one brand, strengthening regional identity. The teams have presented key genomic and health statistics to the OECS, demonstrating how genetic insights can in-
form targeted approaches to cancer, non-communicable diseases, medication safety and long-term public health planning. They also proposed ways to integrate genomics into regional health systems responsibly and in ways relevant to local needs.
For GenTech Analytica, this marks the next chapter in a journey that began two years ago with a clear vision: to ensure the Caribbean is included in the future of genetics and precision medicine. Since then, GenTech Analytica has evolved from an early-stage idea into a platform for scientific communication, regional engagement, and health innovation.
(Excerpt from St Lucia Times)
AHigh Court has ordered a former store clerk to repay EC$6000 after she admitted using her employer’s debit card to fund a string of unauthorised online purchases.
Jamila Edwards pleaded guilty to fraud and must pay EC$3000 immediately, with the remaining balance to be settled in EC$500
monthly instalments.
The court heard that in 2023, while employed at Super Power, Edwards was asked to assist her employer in obtaining and setting up an Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank (ECAB) debit card. She instead used the card details to make purchases on Shein without permission.
The scheme came to light when the employer, travelling in Miami, was unable to use the card. A review of the account revealed unauthorised transactions between September 12 and October 20 totalling EC$5797.53.
The matter was reported to Police, resulting in Edwards’ arrest and conviction. (Antigua Newsroom)
J’ca: “Raising age of consent does not address teen pregnancy” – FWCF
The Fi We Children Foundation (FWCF) says raising Jamaica’s age of consent will not deter teenage pregnancy, noting that the issue requires providing young people with comprehensive sex education.
This follows a call by opposition spokesman on education, Damion Crawford, to increase the age of consent in Jamaica from 16 to 18 years to tackle the rate of teenage pregnancy in the country. He was speaking on Tuesday
during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.
“Given the realities of adolescent sexual behaviour in Jamaica, raising the age of consent may risk unnecessarily drawing more young people into the criminal justice system rather than protecting them. Any policy discussion must be grounded in practicality, evidence and the lived experiences of Jamaican youth, not moral panic,” said Africka Stephens, executive founder of FWCF, in a press
release on Wednesday.
“What can significantly reduce teen pregnancy is access to comprehensive sex education, adolescent reproductive health centres across the island, family planning resources, and stronger collaboration between schools, families and healthcare professionals, particularly in rural communities where access remains limited. Initiatives such as UNICEF Teen Hubs have already demonstrated the importance of youth-friendly reproductive health services,” it continued. It added that findings consistently showed that young people are not asking for stricter punishment; they are asking for stigma-free, comprehensive sexual education that addresses their real concerns.
ABarrackpore man who killed his estranged common-law wife and their 14-month-old daughter has been sentenced to death.
Rishi Motilal, also known as “Cook Meat”, was convicted on Monday at the end of his Judge-alone trial before Justice Nalini Singh. Motilal was found guilty of murdering 34-year-old Tara Ramsaroop and their daughter, Shermaya Jada Motilal, on October 8, 2024.
The mother and child were found dead at Motilal’s home. Ramsaroop had been chopped multiple times, while the baby’s throat had been slit.
The killings happened weeks after Ramsaroop obtained a protection order against Motilal.
Before his arrest, Motilal contacted relatives and confessed to the murders. He later admitted the killings to Police, claiming he became
enraged after Ramsaroop told him about a new relationship and said he would no longer have access to their children.
During the trial, Motilal admitted killing both victims but claimed he had been provoked and later “blacked out”.
Justice Singh rejected the defence, ruling Motilal remained in control of his actions throughout the attack. She also rejected any sug-
gestion of provocation in the killing of the child.
“Shermaya Motilal was a 14-month-old child. She said and did nothing provocative,” the Judge said.
Motilal had also pleaded guilty to malicious damage after setting fire to a vehicle linked to the mother of Ramsaroop’s new boyfriend.
The Judge ruled he had already served that sentence while on remand. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
According to FWCF, teen pregnancy is influenced not only by age but also by poverty, social inequities, weak governance structures, limited access to healthcare, and insufficient support systems. Addressing these root causes must be the priority, it said.
The foundation further urged policymakers to focus on evidence-based interventions rather than symbolic legal changes that fail to address the root causes of teenage pregnancy. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
Israeli military forc-
es have intercepted Global Sumud boats using jamming technology and armed boarding teams to halt the humanitarian fleet in the middle of the Mediterranean, according to organisers and Israeli media.
“Our boats were approached by military speedboats, self-identified as ‘Israel’, pointing lasers and semi-automatic assault weapons, ordering participants to the front of
the boats and to get on their hands and knees,” said the Global Sumud Flotilla aid mission on Thursday.
“Boat communications are being jammed, and an SOS was issued.”
Israel Army Radio cited an Israeli source as saying it began seizing control of aid ships heading towards Gaza, far from Israeli shores. It added that naval forces had captured seven of 58 vessels in the Global Sumud Flotilla near the Greek island of Crete.
A spokesperson for the Global Sumud Flotilla has described Israel’s boarding of its vessels as “a straightup attack on unarmed civilian boats in international waters”.
Press officer Gur Tsabar, speaking to Al Jazeera from Toronto, Canada, said the sea assault was taking place “hundreds of miles from Israel”, with the flotilla being “surrounded and threatened at gunpoint”.
“This is illegal under in-
ternational law. Israel has no jurisdiction in these waters. Boarding these boats amounts to illegal detention – potentially kidnapping on the high seas,” said Tsabar.
“It’s critical that all Governments act now. Every Government has an obligation to protect the over 400 civilians on board and to uphold international law. Silence in this moment is absolute complicity.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Former FBI Director James Comey surrendered to authorities to face charges alleging that an image he briefly shared on social media posed a threat to the life of US President Donald Trump.
The case stems from a 2025 Instagram post shared by Comey, which contained a photo of seashells on a beach arranged to read “86 47”. “Eighty-six” is a slang term for “get rid of”, and prosecutors allege it encourages violence against Trump, the 47th President.
“Cool shell formation,” James Comey commented in a post on Instagram that included this picture. He later deleted the post
speaking out against Trump. Judge William Fitzpatrick read the charges against Comey. He nodded as he was read his rights and later smiled back at his family when he was leaving, the BBC’s US partner CBS News reported.
Oil prices surged over six per cent on Wednesday to settle at their highest in weeks, as deadlocked US-Iran negotiations made investors more concerned about prolonged disruptions to Middle Eastern supply.
US Government data showed a bigger weekly draw in crude and fuel inventories than expected, which also put upward pressure on oil prices.
Brent crude futures for June rose for the eighth consecutive session and settled up US$6.77, or 6.1 per cent, at US$118.03 a barrel, the highest since March 31. The global benchmark climbed further in post-settlement trade to hit US$120 a barrel for the first time since June 2022.
US West Texas Intermediate futures for June rose US$6.95, or seven per cent, to US$106.88 a barrel, the highest since April 7.
A White House official said that President Donald Trump had asked US oil companies about ways to mitigate the impact of a potentially months-long US blockade of Iranian ports, adding to concerns that disruptions to Middle Eastern oil supply could be prolonged.
Over US$50 billion worth of crude oil supply had been lost since the start of the Iran war, according to Reuters calculations as of mid-April.
“If Trump is prepared to extend the blockade, supply disruptions would worsen further and continue to push oil prices higher,” Haitong Futures analyst Yang An said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
This marks the second time the justice department has brought criminal charges against Comey, a long-time critic of Trump.
Comey denied any wrongdoing, saying he did not know what the numbers meant, and accused the prosecution of political motivation.
Comey did not enter a plea or speak during his brief appearance at a Virginia court on Wednesday afternoon.
His attorney, Patrick Fitzgerald, said the former director would seek dismissal on grounds of selective and vindictive prosecution –arguing he was targeted for
Prosecutors have charged Comey with knowingly and wilfully making a threat to take the life of – and to inflict bodily harm on – the President and also knowingly transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to kill him.
Each charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Deep below the surface of the Mediterranean Sea off the French coast, the pincer of a remotely guided underwater robot delicately closes around a centuries-old jug lying near a 16th-century shipwreck.
A routine army survey of the seabed uncovered the 16th-century merchant ship by chance last year in waters off the coast of Ramatuelle, close to Saint-Tropez.
“You have to be extremely precise so as not to damage the site, so as not to stir up sediment,” says navy officer Sebastien, who cannot give his second name for security reasons.
The remains of a 16th-century merchant ship more than 1.5 miles underwater off southern France
A two-hour journey from the French Riviera, Sebastien is overseeing the first of several archaeological missions on the deepest shipwreck in French territorial waters.
Archaeologists believe the ship was sailing from northern Italy loaded with ceramics and metal bars before it sank. Now the French navy and
the Culture Ministry’s underwater archaeology department are back to inspect the surviving artefacts lost more than 1.5 miles below sea level.
The robot captures footage of a cannon, as well as hundreds of pitchers and plates, decorated with floral motifs, crosses and fish.
Experts identified two cauldrons, an anchor and six cannons at the shipwreck.
The robot shoots eight pictures per second for three hours, grabbing more than 86,000 images that will then be used to create a 3D model of the site. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Donald Trump discussed how to mitigate the impact of a possible months-long US blockade of Iran’s ports with oil companies, a White House official said on Wednesday, as the US President urged Tehran to “get smart soon” and sign a deal.
Tuesday’s talks with oil executives followed a dead-
lock in efforts to resolve the conflict, which has led the United States to try to squeeze Iran’s oil exports with a naval blockade aimed at forcing it to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping.
While Washington and Tehran traded public threats, mediator Pakistan was trying to avoid esca-
lation while the two sides continued to exchange messages on a potential deal, a Pakistani source told Reuters on Wednesday.
Trump has said Iran can call if it wants to talk and, in a post on Truth Social earlier on Wednesday, said Tehran “couldn’t get its act together”.
The President and the
oil executives “discussed the steps President Trump has taken to alleviate global oil markets and steps we could take to continue the current blockade for months if needed and minimise impact on American consumers,” the White House official said.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Sri Lankan Police arrest 22 Buddhist monks after 110kg of cannabis found in luggage
It was the largest single detection of kush at the South Asian country’s main international airport, according to officials, with the haul valued at 1.1 billion rupees
Twenty-two Buddhist monks are in Sri Lankan Police custody after customs officials found 110 kilograms of high-grade cannabis concealed in their luggage, the largest ever drug bust at Colombo’s main international airport.
The group, mostly junior monks in training from temples across Sri Lanka, were alleged to have “carried about five kilos of the narcotic concealed within false walls in their luggage”, according to a Sri Lanka customs spokesperson.
The monks had spent four days on holiday in Bangkok and had “kush”, a potent strain of cannabis, hidden in their luggage when returning to Bandaranaike Airport on Saturday, the spokesperson said. Video footage posted on social media showed
monks at the airport hiding their faces with their robes. The men were handed over to Police and were taken before a magistrate on Sunday.
The local Daily News reported that the monks’ trip had been sponsored, and their phones contained photos of the group enjoying the holiday in “lay clothing”.
A 23rd monk, believed to have organised the trip, was arrested in a suburb of Colombo, Police told the BBC World Service’s Sinhalese station.
According to the Police spokesperson, the monk, who was not on the trip, told the other monks, “These parcels are a donation,” and that a van would come to collect the packages, reports say. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Choose your words wisely and you’ll dazzle those you encounter. How you treat and respond to others will have an impact on you and how you feel about yourself. Maintaining perspective will be difficult if embellishment on your part or someone else’s surfaces. A frank question and answer scenario will offer the quickest and safest path forward.
Be open to suggestions, but only do what’s affordable and feasible. You have plenty to gain by setting boundaries and options that suit your needs instead of trying to please others or buy favors. Set high standards and make a name for yourself. Now is not the time to be a martyr. Choose your battles wisely.
Gossip, exaggeration, and emotional manipulation will lead to trouble. Pay more attention to helping, volunteering, and having a positive impact. Take better care of yourself and make lifestyle changes that encourage updating your appearance and appeal. Choose to be kind and considerate, and to offer love, not friction, to those you encounter, and opportunity will eliminate challenges.
Refrain from letting negativity preside when patience, understanding, and positive input are what’s necessary. If you speak from the heart without being critical, you will make life easier for yourself and whoever you deal with. Overreacting, taking on too much, and letting temptation lead you down the wrong path will lead to emotional regrets. Silence is golden.
Sidestep anyone who gets in your way. You’ll gain momentum if you concentrate on what you want and do best. If you can express yourself colorfully without embellishing the truth, you’ll gain support and respect from those who can offer a unique way to use your skills and attributes to advance. Love and romance are in the stars.
Examine situations thoroughly before you offer to help. Balance is necessary if you want to maintain good relationships. If you give too much, you’ll get taken advantage of emotionally, physically, or financially. Be on guard and ready to walk away from unstable, costly environments. Focus on stability, not disruption, and you’ll eliminate worry and stress.
Be direct, thorough, and passionate, and you’ll resolve sensitive issues. Control the rhetoric with compassion and compromise, and you’ll avoid anger and resentment. Teach others by setting a good example and offering kindness and consideration. Don’t cross a line that leads to no return. Only agree to what’s feasible and offer what’s practical. Choose peace and hope.
Don’t fold under pressure. Know what you want and focus on reaching your destination. Avoid volatile situations and people eager to argue instead of meeting you halfway. Compromise is the best way forward, but it only works if everyone is willing to do their part. Choose your battles wisely and know when to cut your losses and walk away.
A change will be uplifting. Rearranging your space, lending a helping hand, or insight to someone who needs reassurance will be gratifying and change how you feel about relationships, lifestyle, and how you want to make improvements to yourself and your life. A joint venture looks inviting and is something you should consider. Romance is in the stars.
Meditation, deep breathing, and silence will do you a world of good. Refuse to let what others do get to you, or take on responsibilities that don’t belong to you. Emotions will be close to the surface, and tempers will grow quickly if you engage in no-win situations or discussions. Protect yourself and your possessions from scammers.
Less talk and more action will pay off. Home improvements and lifestyle changes are in your best interest. Shared expenses will require patience and compromise. Refuse to let emotions and ego lead to trouble instead of resolutions. Be smart, take an intelligent approach to ensure good results. A change of heart will carry you in a new direction.
Update time-sensitive documents, subscriptions, and investments. When in doubt, discuss your options with an expert. Recognize and address how others react and respond to you before it’s too late. Problems with joint ventures will surface if you have ignored the signs. Turn a negative into a positive and look for opportunities to socialize and network.
Ryan Rickelton played one of the innings of IPL 2026, an unbeaten 123 off 55 balls, the highest-ever score by a Mumbai Indians (MI) batter in the tournament’s history. But it still wasn’t enough against the batting might of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in another run-fest at Wankhede Stadium. MI went against the grain and batted first for the first time in 22 games at Wankhede Stadium. Led by Rickeltonne’s sensational tonne, they amassed 243 for five, their highest first-innings score in the Indian Premier League (IPL). SRH hardly broke a sweat in chasing it down by six wickets and eight balls to spare.
Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head added 129 runs
for the opening wicket, with 92 coming in the powerplay. Heinrich Klaasen thrashed an unbeaten 65 off 30, while Salil Arora smoked 30 not out off of ten balls to hand SRH the fourth-highest successful chase in the IPL and their fifth straight
win of the season.
MI’s power-packed powerplay
Just eight games into the season, MI were already into the fourth opening partnership, this time with Will Jacks and Rickelton. Their powerplay run rate of 8.55 coming into this game was the fourth-worst of the season. But it was fourthtime lucky for MI.
The two immediately found the pace of the surface, matching each other shot for shot. Jacks ended the first six overs on 38 off 18 with five fours and two sixes; Rickelton ended with 37 off 18 with three fours and three sixes. MI amassed 78 in the powerplay, their second-highest score this season in this phase.
Royal Rickel-tonne
MI raced to 93 in just seven overs, but Nitish Kumar Reddy struck a timely blow, getting Jacks to edge a fuller ball to the wicketkeeper. Suryakumar Yadav’s rotten season continued as he top-edged an Eshan Malinga bouncer to deep backward square leg, but Rickelton wasn’t relenting. He began his IPL 2026 with an 81 against Kolkata Knight Riders, but three single-digit scores in the next four games and Quinton de Kock’s surge in form forced him to spend time on the sidelines. But with de Kock injured, Rickelton was back, and how.
When Reddy dismissed Jacks, Rickelton struck him for a four and six in the same over to reach a 23-ball half-century, his quickest in the IPL. Pat Cummins and Sakib Hussain were both
over, but Rickelton ended the innings on a high with a six and four. Despite that, MI added just 41 in the last four overs.
nings began, the win proba bility was 77.60 per cent in MI’s favour; by the end of the powerplay, it had ticked to 58 per cent in SRH’s favour. It was ruth less hitting from Head and Abhishek, who spared no one, not even Jasprit Bumrah. Head rode his luck. No one appealed when he edged Boult to the keeper in the third over. He was dropped twice, too.
the MI bowlers around. Abhishek smoked Boult for a six over extra cover, the second ball, before taking Bumrah downtown. Head
picked for boundaries before Harsh Dubey was thumped for back-to-back sixes. Rickeltonne raced through the nineties by thumping Reddy for a four and a six in the 15th over and then reached a maiden IPL tonne in 44 balls, the quickest by an MI batter ever. He struck at 300 against Reddy [24 off eight], 314.28 against Dubey [22 off seven] and 270 against Hinge [27 off ten]. At the other end, Hardik Pandya also found form, as MI raced to 202 for three after 16.
But SRH made a fine comeback in the death overs, led by Malinga, who finished with one for 29, an economy of just 7.25. Cummins also bowled a boundary-less 17th
thrashed Boult for three sixes, and the duo then took 19 off a Will Jacks over. By the time the powerplay was done, Bumrah had gone for 28 off his first two overs, Boult 29 off two, and SRH were going at 15.33 an over. The dew had now taken full effect, and MI had few answers.
MI strike back Head raced to his fifty off 20 balls, but Ghazanfar struck to give MI hope. He first had Abhishek miscue to backward point and then had the in-form Ishan Kishan chop back on the first ball. And when Hardik had Head mistiming to extra cover, SRH had lost three wickets in two overs to
go from 129 for 0 to 133 for three.
Klaasen = Consistency
With the required rate of 11 an over, Klaasen broke free. He first took on Ghazanfar, thrashing him for a four and six, peppering the deep-midwicket fence. Then he crashed four fours in an Ashwani Kumar over to bring the required rate to 9.50 an over. He didn’t spare Bumrah either, sending him over extra cover for a sumptuous six, and soon raised a 22-ball fifty by doing the same to Ghazanfar two overs later.
By the start of the 17th over, SRH’s required rate
Mumbai Indians (20 ovs maximum) Will Jacks c †Ishan Kishan b Nitish Kumar Reddy 46 Ryan Rickelton † not out 123 Suryakumar Yadav c Abhishek Sharma b Malinga 5 Naman Dhir c Dubey
b Hinge 22
Hardik Pandya (c) c Klaasen
b Sakib Hussain 31
Tilak Varma c Klaasen
b Hinge 7
Robin Minz not out 1 Extras (lb 1, w 7) 8
Total 20 Ov (RR: 12.15) 243/5
Did not bat: Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, AM Ghazanfar, Ashwani Kumar
Fall of wickets: 1-93 (Will Jacks, 7.1 ov), 2-110 (Suryakumar Yadav, 8.3 ov), 3-165 (Naman Dhir, 13.4 ov), 4-221 (Hardik Pandya, 18.1 ov), 5-232 (Tilak Varma, 19.3 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Pat Cummins 4-0-39-0
was just 8 runs an over. Reddy fell to Boult, but Arora showed his big-hitting prowess. He caressed Boult past the backward point’s first ball, but the standout was a no-look straight six against Bumrah, who finished with figures of 4-0-540. He then went for four, six, dot, six against Hardik, finishing with a cross-batted swipe over deep midwicket. This was the highest-ever successful run chase at Wankhede at the IPL and MI’s fourth loss at the venue this season.
With the win, SRH have moved to third on the points table, while MI remain ninth. (ESPNcricinfo)
Arematch of the 2023 Massy Distribution Under-18 Football final is set to take centre stage this Saturday at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue, offering an enticing glimpse of the current “top dogs” in youth football.
2024 champions and 2025 runners-up, Chase’s Academic Foundation will take on Santa Rosa Secondary, who won their first title back in 2023.
The teams’ ascension to the final came in contrasting fashion as Chase pulled off a 7–0 mauling of Charlestown Secondary while Santa Rosa was made to toil in a tense penalty shootout against West Ruimveldt Secondary.
Quizzed on the semi-final round, Captains Shaquan David and Dane Phillips recounted their team’s progression to the final.
Chase’s Shaquan David shared, “Well, the opposition, they come out and play,
but at the end of the day, we are the better team, and we play, and we got the victory.”
“Yeah, they come out and they put up a fight, especially in the first half; they had we a bit shaky, but in the second half, we catch ourselves and we start getting more goals in the second half,” David went on to admit.
“I know I had confidence in my team; I talked to them. I just want to give a big shout out to my coach; he really motivated us, and I just hope he comes back with us at the finals, and I know we got this in the finals too,”
Santa Rosa’s Phillips noted. The defender said about the penalty shootout, “For me, I was very nervous. It’s my first time meeting in a penalty shootout like this in a semi-final. Well, I talked to my players, I motivate them and we did well.”
In interviews with this publication, the respective
captains went on to share what they will be working on ahead of the big game.
Chase’s midfielder related, “I personally think we should work on playing the ball more, keeping it more, letting the opposition work for it more.”
“I think we will go back home, do more running; we need more stamina, and we need more communication,” Phillips shared.
Both having the 2023 final at the back of their minds, where Santa Rosa got the better of Chase on penalty kicks, David insisted that his team has a point to prove, while Phillips believed they could pull off the heist again.
“I prefer nobody. Anybody we’ll play. Whoever wins, win,” David had said prior to knowing their opposition in the final. He later expressed to this publication, “Yeah, we have a point to prove, a big point.”
Phillips shared, “It’s not my first time, and I think we got the potential to do it again and to carry home this trophy. I got confidence in my players, and I know we gonna go, work twice as hard as we normally do, and we gonna come back better.”
The Massy Distribution U18 final is scheduled for Saturday, May 2 at 18:00h. Prior to that, West Ruimveldt and Charlestown Secondary will meet in the third-place playoff at 16:00h.
Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), Troy Yhip has died, prompting an outpouring of condolences and tributes from the local rugby fraternity and the sports sector.
In an emotional statement via social media, the GRFU said,
ongstanding rugby enthusiast, former player, Youth Development Officer, Coach, and former Treasurer of the
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Troy Yhip, a former player, Youth Development Officer, coach, and former Treasurer of the Guyana Rugby Union.”
“Troy played an integral role in the growth and development of rugby in Guyana
over many years. His dedication, commitment, and passion for the sport left a lasting impact on players, administrators, and the wider rugby community. His service to the Guyana Rugby Union will always be remembered and appreciated.”
“We extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and colleagues during this difficult time. May they find strength and comfort in the many lives he touched and the positive legacy he leaves behind,” the statement concluded.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport successfully rolled out the 11th edition of the Janet and Cheddi Jagan Windball Cricket Championship in Region Seven, Bartica. The tournament was organised by Sports Officer Allister Munroe and played at Dagg Point Ground on the outskirts of Bartica.
Defending champions experienced mixed fortunes on a day that was constantly interrupted by rain.
Addressing the players and teachers, Candia Paul, a teacher of Bartica Secondary School and
former player who had the opportunity to represent Guyana and the West Indies at the Women’s Windball Cricket Tournament, shared her experiences with the participating schools. Paul mentioned that she was part of the AL Sport & Tour Promotions Windball Development Programme, which hosted weekend live-in camps at the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) in Georgetown. These camps involved students from various schools, including participants from Berbice.
“I learned a lot from those days, and I was happy to be given the chance to work with my girls,”
Paul stated. Region Seven Sports Organiser Mark Ambrose, in his remarks, thanked the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission for once again providing students with the opportunity to compete in Windball Cricket. He emphasised that his department remains committed to supporting sports development within the region.
Also present at the day’s programme were NSC Sports Organiser Deon Carew and AL Sport & Tour Promotions officials Julius David and Clavern Monchior.
Janet Jagan Girls’ Final
Defending champions Three Miles Secondary School chose to bat first and scored 73–3. Latifa Konet top-scored with 39, while
Vaninah Daniels contributed 20. Shenally Russell took two wickets.
In reply, Bartica Secondary School made 74–0, with Althlia Simmons scoring 37 and Rosanna Patterson adding 28, securing the victory.
Cheddi Jagan Boys’ Final Bartica Secondary School batted first and posted 78–3, with Dale Moses scoring 31, including five sixes.
Defending champions Three Miles Secondary School responded strongly, reaching 82–4 in 4.4 overs to claim victory.
Special thanks were extended to the Region Seven’s Education Department, the participating schools, the parents who came out in support, and everyone in Bartica who worked to ensure another successful programme.
“Because of Excel, Ken Harvey and other boxers will excel.” Those were the words of Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) President Steve Ninvalle during a simple presentation ceremony on Wednesday that
saw teenaged pugilist Ken Harvey being rewarded by Excel Guyana. Harvey returned home with a bronze medal from the South American Youth Games, competing in the 60kg category.
Harvey pulled off a win in the quarter-final against Paraguay’s Edgar Miranda but was unable to move on to the gold-medal fight after a narrow 3–2 loss on points to Brazil’s Maicon Dos Santos in the semis.
Nonetheless, Excel Guyana has rewarded Harvey for his efforts, with
Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) continued its roll-out of regional competitions with the Region Six Ancient Regional Tournament” tipping off on Tuesday afternoon at the New Amsterdam Hardcourt in Berbice.
In the Girls’ Division, Vryman’s Erven Secondary and Tutorial Academy played to a low-scoring but entertaining 16–16 draw. The highlight of that encounter was the sibling rivalry on display between Venicia Myers and Jelicia Myers. Despite playing on opposing teams, the sisters
featured in starring roles. Venicia scored all 16 of Vryman Erven’s points while Jelecia posted 14 points and grabbed four rebounds for Tutorial Academy in the stalemate.
Game two saw Skeldon Line Path ease to a 23–10 win over JC Chandisingh Secondary courtesy of a player of the match performance from Dequone Ross. He scored nine points and collected three rebounds, with Daniel Duke adding seven points and four rebounds in a supporting role.
JC Chandissingh’s Denaldo Henry had five points and
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kris Sammy expressing pride in his achievement.
“We’re very proud to recognise our esteemed boxer here for his good performance in the recent games and accomplishing the bronze medal, deservedly,” Sammy expressed.
The Excel Guyana CEO continued, “To achieve this level of boxing talent and bring home a medal is obviously very good for Guyanese and our Government, which has been really contributing to this sport and a number of other sports here in Guyana. We’d like to congratulate him.”
On the receiving end was a very grateful Ken Harvey. Ken Harvey shared, “For my first youth games, I gained a lot of experi
hailed the 18-year-old pugilist’s performance whilst highlighting the importance of Excel Guyana’s role.
Ninvalle told the small of boxing.
So, we’re very proud of him; of course, in the semi-final fight, we thought that he would’ve won; he did enough to win that fight. But it tells us that he is just up there with the best in South America and possibly the best in the world.”
five rebounds in a losing effort.
Berbice Educational Institute got off to a successful start, defeating Vryman’s Erven Secondary 16–8. Kirton Byron was the engineer of the win with nine points and three rebounds.
The most dominant performance of the day came from the Berbice High School team, who crushed New Amsterdam Secondary 54–11, saving the best for last.
Avion Kesney was in full flight, netting 21 points and snatching three rebounds while Shamron Jafer (12 points) and Gettson Matteson (eight points) provided reliable support. New Amsterdam’s best performer was Kyle Reid, who had five points.
The Region Six Ancient Regional Tournament will continue in the coming weeks with more matches scheduled for the Berbice region.
The Nalico/Nafico-sponsored Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Senior Men’s knockout competition continued on Tuesday night with a double header in group stage action at the Plaisance Community ground, as Beacon Football City (FC) and Vengy FC kicked off their respective campaigns with contrasting victories.
Playing in a Group C encounter, Beacon took on North Star FC in the opening match of the night and just held firm to walk away with a 2–1 win after a testing second half. With Beacon controlling the opening exchanges, they enjoyed the lion’s share of possession in the first half and duly used it to their advantage, scoring twice in 10 minutes to lead 2–0 heading into the halftime interval.
Winger Stayon Murray put them ahead in the 26th minute before Antwoine Vincent found the back of the net in the 35th to put daylight between his side and North Star. However, the second half was a much different ball game as North Star dug deep in both attack and defense; their hard work rewarded in the 83rd minute through substitute Yonick Norton, but it was too little too late as Beacon held on to seal a narrow win.
Meanwhile in Group D, Vengy emerged 1–0 winners over Black Pearl FC after a testing midfield battle which
saw both sides failing to unlock each other’s defence for a scoreless first half. It was more of the same in the second half, but substitute Francisco Hernandez would give Vengy the lead in the 68th minute. They would hold on to that lead to take maximum points by the final whistle.
The tournament is being played in a group stage format before heading to the knockout rounds.
Group A features Camptown, Eastveldt and Northern Rangers, while Group B is made up of Riddim Squad, Ordis and Genesis FC. Group C comprises Beacons FC, North Stars and Motherland, and Group D consists of Black Pearl, Vengy and Pele FC.
The competition continues today, Thursday, April 30, at the same venue with another double header. The night kicks off with a Group A fixture featuring Riddim Squad vs Genesis at 19:00h, while Camptown FC will face Northern Rangers FC at 21:00h in a Group A clash.
“The GBA would’ve bent backwards to make sure these guys had the sort of encampment that we would’ve wanted for them to participate at that level.”
“I would want to say to Excel and all others who would’ve supported Ken Harvey, heartfelt thank you. You see, the association cannot do it alone, so we need this sort of corporate push and sponsorship. It’s about making sure that he understands that with hard work, there are rewards,” the GBA boss went on to underscore. Harvey was amongst seven medallists for Guyana at the South American Youth Games and the only athlete to win a medal outside of the track and field arena.
Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) beat the Windward Islands Volcanoes by 93 runs on Wednesday at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua, dismissing them for 225 to seal automatic qualification for the CWI Regional 4-day final after the visitors resumed the fourth day on 17–1 in pursuit of 319.
Resuming with Stephan Pascal and Kavem Hodge unbeaten on four apiece and needing a further
302 runs for victory, the Volcanoes were unable to build the substantial partnerships required, despite a few pockets of resistance through the day. Pascal offered some early stability, scoring 12, but was trapped leg before wicket by Nial Smith with the score at 25–2.
Hodge, who made eight, was then removed with the total at 36–3, caught off Gudakesh Motie, as Guyana’s bowlers began to
apply sustained pressure. Johann Jeremiah attempted to anchor the innings with a patient 25, but he fell to Veerasammy Permaul, leaving the Volcanoes further adrift at 110–4.
Captain Alick Athanaze produced the most significant contribution of the innings, striking a composed 64. He shared in brief partnerships to keep the chase alive but lacked meaningful support as wickets continued to fall at regular in-
tervals. Shadrack Descarte (nine) and Noelle Leo (20) both got starts but were unable to convert, while Ryan John (11) and Kenneth Dember (21) added valuable lower-order runs.
Darel Cyrus chipped in with 24, but his dismissal effectively ended any lingering hopes of a late turnaround, as the Volcanoes slipped to 225 all out in 68 overs. Gilon Tyson remained unbeaten on one at the close.
Guyana’s bowling effort was led by Gudakesh Motie, who claimed 4–82 from 19 overs, adding to his 4–52 in the first innings, while Veerasammy Permaul supported with 3–41 from 18
overs. Shamar Joseph (2–26) and Nial Smith (1–35) also played key roles, with Keemo Paul maintaining control in his 11 overs, conceding just 25 runs.
From their overnight position, the Volcanoes lost their remaining nine wickets for 208 runs, never fully recovering after early setbacks. The disciplined and balanced bowling display from the defending champions ensured they maintained control throughout the day.
Earlier in the match, Guyana was sent into bat by the Volcanoes and made 242 all out, with Chanderpaul getting 69. In response, the Volcanoes made 223 all out,
conceding a 19-run first innings deficit despite an unbeaten 50 from Athanaze and 74 from Kavem Hodge. In their second turn with the bat, the Harpy Eagles required a rescue effort from Chanderpaul (117), who carried them from a precarious 129–6 to their eventual 299 all out, setting the Volcanoes an improbable 319 for victory.
The competition continues on Sunday, May 3, with the Harpy Eagles taking on the West Indies Academy in a veritable warm-up match at the Antigua Recreation Ground, while the playoff will be contested to see who joins the Guyanese in the final slated for May 17.
The fourth edition of Guyana’s premier tapeball tournament sees a massive spike in stakes with bespoke gold prizes and a restructured GY$2.5 million top pay-out.
L“It means everything” –Farrell on 200m South American youth record
ast Saturday, Guyana’s Deuquan Farrell pulled off the unthinkable, shattering the South American Youth Games 200m record on his way to a gold-medal finish in the event.
Farrell clocked 21.18s ahead of Ecuador’s Mateus Ledesma in 21.24s and Brazil’s Pedro de Araujo in 21.74s.
While the run has etched Farrell in the South American record books, replacing Argentina’s Tomas Mondhino’s 21.28s in 2022, it was an equally surreal moment for the teenaged athlete.
Earlier this week, Farrell recalled the emo-
tions he felt before, during and after that race, describing it as amazing.
“It means everything to me, yeah,” Farrell shared with fellow athletes and administrators at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) headquarters at Liliendaal.
The sprint athlete went on to recollect, “The night before, I didn’t getting to sleep properly and saying to myself, ‘Tomorrow I got to break this record’. And the day at the starting line, I was quite nervous at the same time, saying, ‘If I don’t break this record, if I ain’t medal, what will happen?’. When the gun went off and I started to run, came off the turn first, I said, ‘This is quite easy.’”
“After I crossed the finish line, I was in a rush to see the time, if I break the record, and I didn’t look back yet. My friend Gordon turned and said, ‘Deuquan, look, you break the record.’” Farrell said with a laugh, addressing the note that was hidden in his vest, “I wrote ‘One Guyana’, knowing, saying if I win this, I got to show Guyana what I wrote the night before. It was quite a great opportunity.”
In addition to the record, Farrell ended his campaign at the games with three medals, gold in the 200m and 4x400m relays and a bronze in the 4x400m relay, for an impressive haul.
In a move that adds significant glitter to the upcoming season, D&S Ramdeholl & Son Jewellery has officially partnered with the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast.
The local jewellers will award a bespoke “Gold Prize” – meticulously crafted from Guyana’s finest gold – to the batsman who clears the ropes the most times during the fourth edition of the tournament.
Proprietor Sachin Ramdeholl expressed that the decision to join the tournament’s sponsor portfolio was driven by the event’s rapid rise in the local sporting landscape.
Having observed the tournament’s evolution from a grassroots initiative to a national spectacle, Ramdeholl noted that the brand felt compelled to contribute to the high-octane atmosphere.
“We have been following the growth of this tournament for quite some time and were incredibly impressed by the level of talent and the community spirit it fosters,” Ramdeholl stated.
“We wanted to give back in a way that reflects the prestige of the event, and what better way to celebrate the power-hitters of Guyana than with a piece of our national heritage?”
The 2026 season, scheduled to run from early August through mid-October, is set to culminate under the lights of the brandnew Anna Regina National Stadium.
FL Sport is aiming to professionalise the format by introducing a quarter-final pay-out structure that
significantly increases the financial incentive for participating teams.
Under the new prize distribution, each zone winner will now pocket GY$500,000. By advancing to the National Finals, teams remain in the hunt for a GY$2 million first-place prize, GY$1 million for the runner-up, or GY$500,000 for each of the losing semi-finalists.
This revamped structure effectively increases the potential overall prize to GY$2.5 million, while the runner-up can walk away with GY$1.5 million.
In an effort to remain player-centred, FL Sport has expanded rewards for teams that fall short of the final stage.
The losing finalist at the zone level will receive GY$200,000, while losing semi-finalists will earn GY$50,000 each. For the first time in the tournament’s history, losing quarter-finalists will also be rewarded with GY$25,000 each, ensuring that more teams leave the competition with tangible returns on their efforts.
Individual excellence re-
mains a cornerstone of the tournament’s allure. A comprehensive suite of cash awards has been established, including GY$150,000 and a motorbike for the Most Valuable Player.
The top run-scorer and leading wicket-taker will each receive GY$100,000 plus a television, while the Player of the Final earns GY$75,000. Incentives for the Super Strike Rate and Best Economy Rate sit at GY$50,000 each, supplemented by non-monetary prizes for those recording the most dot balls, sixes, and fours.
Registration for the 80team knockout tournament is scheduled to open in early May with a GY$35,000 entry fee.
Teams are permitted to register for any of the four designated zones: Berbice, East Bank/West Demerara, Essequibo, and Georgetown/ East Coast Demerara.
Beyond the immediate financial rewards, the stakes are heightened by the announcement that zone winners will earn an automatic spot in the upcoming Global T10 Tapeball tournament.
10 sport tournaments in the disciplines of athletics, badminton, basketball, dominoes, hockey, softball, squash, lawn tennis, table tennis and volleyball will take centre stage in the month of May as part of Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee Independence celebrations. The tournaments were jointly launched at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on Wednesday evening, where Sport Ministers Charles Ramson Jr and Steven Jacobs were on hand for the momentous occasion
