“It is our turn” – Guyana’s Ambassador makes case for Latin America to lead UN GRA announces new customs exchange rates effective Aug 1
AK-47 assault rifle, 2 empty magazines found in Sophia Berbice fatal accident “I couldn’t believe what I saw” – mother of horse racing trainer
– AG on CCJ’s ruling
“This will be a life-changing
for you” –
…as new Peace Corps volunteers sworn in to serve in
Anew cohort of Peace Corps volunteers is gearing up to commence their service in communities across Guyana – something that United States Ambassador Nicole Theriot says will be a “life-changing” experience.
“This will be a life-changing experience for you. You will have hard days, where nothing seems to go as planned and I can tell you, here in Guyana, that happens. It happens everywhere, but you have to just pick yourself up and keep moving. And you will also have those days that will remind you exactly why you’re here. You need to hold on to both of those. They are both part of
your Peace Corps experience,” the Ambassador stated.
She made these remarks during the swearing in of the 37th group of Peace Corps volunteers, comprising some 28 members, on Wednesday in Georgetown. Since the establishment of the Peace Corps
programme in 1961, some 1132 volunteers have come to Guyana, creating a legacy that spans generations.
In her charge to the volunteers, Ambassador Theriot told this new group that they would add to the work being done here and bring about changes.
“Peace Corps volunteers have co-taught more than 3000 science lessons alongside 168 teachers across the country. Those teachers are now more confident, better equipped and more inspired to keep teaching using those best practices. That is exactly how lasting change works,”
the US diplomat stated.
In the same breath, she added that the meaningful work done by the volunteers are sometimes difficult to measure such as a community-driven beautification project that was led by a member of the previous Peace Corps cohort.
Nevertheless, Ambassador Theriot told this new group of volunteers that unlike their predecessors, they were going to serve communities at a time when the country was reeling from the MV Barima tragedy.
Willingness to serve nering with the Education Ministry to bring libraries to primary schools across the country. They not only helped to establish libraries in schools, but also trained more than 200 teachers and students in library management so that the libraries can function properly even after their departure.
“In moments like this, what sustains a community is not any single institution or Government. It is its people. People who show up for one another. People who cross oceans or simply cross the street to say ‘I’m here and I’m with you’. That is the essence of Peace Corps… You have arrived at a very important moment. The bonds you will build with your communities will have an added resonance in this time of sadness,” the US diplomat stated.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily. Thursday, August 6 –09:35h-11:05h and Friday, August 7 – 11:05h–12:35h.
Sunny skies are expected during the day, interspersed with thundery to light rain showers in the morning hours. Clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 09:58h and 22:21h reaching maximum heights of 2.31 metres and 2.38 metres.
Low Tide: 15:49h reaching a minimum height of 0.94 metre.
“Very disappointed” in aviation sector as hinterland airfares soar – Pres Ali …proposes community-run cargo launch service to cut transport costs to Region 1
President Dr Irfaan Ali has expressed his disappointment in the local aviation sector as domestic airfares continue to remain high, further burdening citizens and businesses in hinterland locations.
“We are very disappointed in the aviation sector, because we have not been able to get the corresponding returns on the investments that we are making in prices [for domestic flights],” the Head of State posited on Wednesday during a public meeting at the Santa Rosa Secondary School in the Moruca sub-district, Region One (Barima-Waini).
Back in November 2025, President Ali had pointed out that the local aviation sector is financially capable of lowering domestic air transport fares to hinterland locations by as much as 15 per cent.
Last year, the Guyana Government invested billions of dollars to upgrade major hinterland airstrips to enhance travel to and from hinterland communities across the country. These include the $1.053 billion Karasabai Airstrip, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), which was opened in April this year. In January, a $920 million concrete airstrip at Aishalton, also in Region Nine, and the $800 million Paramakatoi Airstrip in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) were commissioned as well.
Moreover, another $4 billion was earmarked in Budget 2026 to build out 35 new airstrips across the country, including several other locations in Region Nine, several in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) and at least one in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).
With the opening up of these upgraded infrastructures earlier this year, near-
ly all the domestic airlines had announced a reduction in the rates for flights to those locations with new airstrips. However, the local operators increased their airfares back in April after aviation fuel prices skyrocketed in the global market due to the Middle East conflict.
According to President Ali during Wednesday’s public meeting, the high domestic airfares impact the prices of food items in riverine and hinterland communities, as he underscored the importance of addressing this transportation woe.
“Unfortunately, transportation has a direct impact on cost of living. So, when we examine the costs you are paying for chicken, beef, and other important food item, it is clear that you are paying far above the market price. And when we talk to your leaders and residents…[and] the shop owners, their primary reason is the cost of transportation,” he stated.
The Guyanese leader brought up some ideas to address this transportation challenge and its impact on food prices in the region.
“There are some opportunities for our young people. I was speaking to the Toshao, and we were talking about the possibility of having a goods launch from Charity, bringing only food items and cargo into the Moruca sub-district and Santa Rosa and these areas… You also need things to take back to Charity. Whether it’s ginger, whether it’s copper, whatever it is, we have to be able to create opportunities in the village.”
He noted that a group of people from the commu-
nity can form a consortium, and with financing through the Guyana Development Bank, they can operate this service and do so in a manner that not only brings profits but also serves as a social responsibility by offering fair transportation costs.
Another opportunity, the Head of State detailed, is that young people, especially women, from the region can tap into the Development Bank financing to undertake a poultry project to meet the demands of the sub-region.
“We can have the production of poultry, your chicken, right here in the sub-region. Because that is one of your major costs. So, in addressing the issue of cost of living, we have to address the issue of transportation. We have to address the issue of food production,” the President stated.
Moreover, Ali also spoke about plans to upgrade the road network, as well as other opportunities to increase food production in the region. “Not only upgrading the road network, [but] to see how we can then utilise
the land along the road to increase your food production. We have to be able to increase food production in the Moruca sub-district. That is the most definite way of reducing your cost of food. If we produce the food here, we will be able to minimise or take away that cost of transportation.”
But even as the Head of State spoke about infrastructure development, he assured his Government is committed to replacing ageing assets that service hinterland regions, such as ferries.
“I want to assure you that as we continue to develop, we are phasing out old infrastructure, but it takes time. We are phasing out old stellings, old wharves, old vessels, even in the military; old planes. But everything is incremental. With our Government, you can be assured of greater support. You can be assured of a listening Government. You can be assured of a Government that will continuously work towards your improvement,” President Ali emphasised at Wednesday’s meeting.
Editor: Tusika Martin
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President Dr Irfaan Ali’s response to protesters during his public meetings in Region One (Barima-Waini) on Wednesday provided a clear example of a leadership style rooted in dialogue and a nonconfrontational approach, rather than division.
At a time when emotions remain high following the tragic loss of lives in the MV Barima disaster, the President demonstrated that public concerns must be met with understanding and engagement. Instead of treating protest as confrontation, the Head of State created an opportunity for conversation, inviting those gathered outside his meeting to join the discussions and directly raise their concerns.
That decision reflected confidence in the Government’s willingness to face difficult issues and hear from citizens, regardless of their position. It was an important reminder that democratic governance is about engaging those who are critical.
The MV Barima tragedy has understandably left deep concerns among affected families and communities. The July 18 incident, which occurred while the vessel was travelling to Port Kaituma, Region One, resulted in significant loss of life and has prompted widespread calls for accountability, improved maritime safety, and greater protection for citizens who depend on river transportation.
The Government has since taken several steps in response, including establishing a Commission of Inquiry with international experts, launching a technical audit of the maritime sector, and providing support measures for survivors and families of victims. These actions demonstrate that addressing the tragedy requires both immediate assistance and longterm reforms.
President Ali’s decision to meet protesters face-to-face reinforced that concerns raised by citizens deserve attention and a respectful response.
The President’s invitation for protesters to participate in the Santa Rosa Secondary School meeting was a significant moment. It transformed what could have become a tense encounter into an opportunity for discussion. By encouraging residents to voice concerns respectfully, the President reinforced the principle that disagreements can be addressed through dialogue rather than conflict.
The same approach was evident at Matthews Ridge, where protesters were also encouraged to participate in the public engagement. The President’s willingness to personally greet those gathered and assure them that their concerns would be considered reflected a leadership style focused on accessibility and problem-solving.
The outcome of the Region One engagements showed the value of this approach. A protester later acknowledged that concerns regarding infrastructure improvements in the community were being addressed. This demonstrates that direct communication between Government and citizens can produce progress when both sides are willing to engage constructively.
Political disagreements will always exist in a democratic society. However, the manner in which disagreements are handled determines whether they contribute to progress or create further division. A responsible Government must not fear criticism, and responsible citizens must have opportunities to express concerns in ways that encourage solutions.
President Ali’s response stands as an example of how public frustration can be redirected into meaningful engagement. The choice to listen rather than confront, to invite discussion rather than dismiss criticism, reflects a statesmanlike approach to governance.
The focus of public leadership must ultimately remain on improving lives, resolving problems and ensuring that every community feels included in national development. Turning protest into conversation is not a sign of weakness; it is a demonstration of confidence, maturity and respect for the democratic process.
At a time when the nation continues to mourn and seek answers following the MV Barima tragedy, leadership that promotes unity and constructive engagement is essential. President Ali’s willingness to meet critics and create space for dialogue reinforces an important principle: a Government that listens is better positioned to serve.
Dear Editor,
As I travelled to Linden on Tuesday, August 4, I found myself wondering what the day would be like amid the Opposition’s planned protest. I asked myself, how would Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo respond? Would he meet with the protesters before his outreach began, or would he do what he has always done – smile, greet people, and continue with the work he came to do?
Before the Vice President arrived at Watooka Guest House that morning, hundreds of Region 10 residents had already gathered at the venue, patiently waiting to have their concerns addressed by staff and Ministers from various Government Ministries and agencies, as well as to meet personally with the Vice President.
Outside the entrance, Opposition supporters had assembled and appeared to be positioning themselves in an attempt to disrupt the Vice President’s arrival and, by extension, the day’s proceedings. However, when the Vice President and his entourage entered the compound, the shouting from the protesters was limited and did little to affect the atmosphere inside.
At this point, Vice President Jagdeo took the time to greet
Ministers, public servants, and staff from the various Ministries and agencies. He then interacted with the hundreds of residents before proceeding with one-on-one engagements with those who had come seeking assistance.
I must commend the people of Region 10 for their turnout. Hundreds endured the hot sun because they wanted their concerns heard and addressed. Their presence demonstrated a genuine desire for engagement and solutions, despite the protests taking place outside the venue.
As the outreach progressed smoothly, the protesters eventually made their way through the barriers and into the compound, chanting and demanding that the Vice President meet with them to hear the reasons for their protest.
To me, that was unnecessary. The Vice President and everyone present were already aware of the issues being raised. It appeared that the protest had shifted from expressing grievances to seeking publicity and attention.
However, to my surprise, the leader of PNC turned up with about 10 persons surrounding him; I don’t know for what. As always, in his serious face, talking to the media left those
protesting and even his MPs to wonder. I believe Mr Norton left because he realised that the entire protest is a fake and is not warranted, but just showed up for face’s sake so that the little support he has in Linden would say he is there.
Norton had to face turning up at the protest, but didn’t have the face to show up during the MV Barima tragedy to assist in finding our brothers and sisters and consoling the grieving families and relatives, and that alone shows that he and the Opposition don’t care for the people of Guyana, but just care for political power.
Despite the continued chanting and noise from the protesters, residents remained focused on having their matters addressed. Vice President Jagdeo remained completely unshaken and unmoved. He continued meeting with residents throughout the day, giving his full attention to the people who had come seeking assistance. That, in my view, deserves recognition. Leadership is tested not only in moments of calm, but also in moments of confrontation. The Vice President did not abandon the people of Linden, nor did he allow political theatre to derail the purpose of the outreach.
Dear Editor,
The decision to charge Captain Kevin Price, Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts, and Goods Superintendent Delon Granderson with 72 counts of murder in connection with the sinking of the MV Barima is legally sound and morally necessary. A tragedy like this demands more than our collective expressions of shock and horror; it demands accountability.
Some have argued that charging crew members before the Presidential Commission
of Inquiry completes its work is premature. But the scales of justice and a broader investigation are not mutually exclusive.
The Commission, wisely appointed by President Irfaan Ali, will examine systemic failures, the MV Barima’s seaworthiness, loading procedures, maintenance logs, and emergency response. But these things do not absolve individuals of personal responsibility when the evidence gathered so far by the Director of Public Prosecutions suggests their actions or
omissions directly endangered human life.
The 72 murder charges reflect a fundamental truth that we must never lose sight of – every life is a sacred trust. To treat the deaths as mere “accidents” without legal consequence sends a dangerous message.
Early signs suggest the MV Barima disaster is already reshaping safety culture on Guyana’s rivers. There are credible reports that the Captain of the ferry MV MA Lisha recently refused to sail
with only one engine working, choosing instead to ground the vessel until repairs were completed.
The Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, has repeatedly stressed that operators must not compromise on seaworthiness, even if it means delaying trips or losing income. His message: “If your boat isn’t safe, don’t sail.”
More visibly, river taxi operators, especially along the Essequibo and Mazaruni, are now insisting passengers wear their
lifejackets before departure. Some are even turning away riders who refuse. This is a direct shift from past practice, where vests were frequently treated as optional.
MARAD (Maritime Administration Department) and the Guyana Coast Guard have intensified spot checks, flagging vessels without proper documentation or safety gear. Operators found in breach are being fined and warned they’ll face prosecution.
There is no doubt in
I was particularly impressed by the conduct of Minister Zulfikar Mustapha. Although there appeared to be efforts by some protesters to target his booth, he remained seated in the open-air setting and continued serving members of the public without displaying fear or hesitation.
I must also commend Ministers Waldron and Ramson Jr for standing their ground and physically facing the protesters without any form of intimidation or throwing of slang, although the protesters were shouting out their names and throwing slang. This shows political maturity.
Perhaps the most revealing aspect of the day was that several individuals who had been protesting eventually entered the outreach and sought assistance from the Vice President, Ministers, and Government agencies. They were not turned away. Instead, they were heard, their concerns were addressed, and they were treated with respect.
That, to me, was one of the strongest statements made that day.
I was also surprised by the presence of former APNU+AFC Minister Ms Valerie Patterson, who visited the Vice President during the out-
reach and publicly acknowledged the development taking place across Region 10 and Guyana as a whole. She commended the Government for its efforts and for the positive changes she has observed.
The outreach was undeniably productive. Hundreds of residents had their concerns addressed, with many matters resolved immediately and others referred for further action. The appreciation expressed by residents was evident throughout the day.
As the Vice President concluded the outreach and prepared to leave, the protesters mounted
another demonstration. In a moment that reflected both humour and composure, he waved to them and remarked, “Y’all had a hard day in the sun, right?” before departing.
So, yes, what they were waiting for all day did happen, and the Vice President did acknowledge their presence by saying that.
The events in Linden demonstrated that Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo is not easily intimidated by protests or political pressure. He did not retreat, he did not panic, and he did not allow disruption to prevent him from engaging with the people of Region 10.
“This will be a life-changing...
In fact, the Peace Corps volunteers were commended for their willingness to serve the Guyanese people and communities, especially in the area of educational development.
According to Senior Education Officer (Literacy Department) at the Education Ministry, Donella Shamsudeen, their work affirms a shared commitment to service, education, cultural exchange and community development. In addition to the library initiative, the volunteers also work alongside community leaders to sup-
port literacy, numeracy, youth development, classroom engagement, reading clubs, and school learning support systems.
Currently, the Peace Corps is assisting with early language development, play-based learning and early literacy habits at the nursery level. At the primary level, volunteers are expected to support reading, writing and numeracy, while contributing to youth development, functional literacy, communication skills, leadership, and learner motivation. Moreover, at the com-
munity level, the Peace Corps members will help to build bridges between schools, families, and communities by encouraging participating, volunteer work and the culture for learning.
National priorities
Shamsudeen said these efforts closely align with Guyana’s national priorities, on which the Peace Corps volunteers are important partners.
“You are entering schools and communities, not as replacement for our teachers, but as partners to work for the betterment of education. You
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will support, collaborate, encourage and contribute. You will bring new perspectives, but you will also learn from the professional knowledge, the cultural understanding, and the lived experiences of our Guyanese educators, learners, and their families,” the Education Ministry official noted.
Ahead of their deployment, the 37th Peace Corps volunteer cohort had undergone a 10week training, which, according to the Country Director Christie Scott, prepares them to integrate into local communities.
my mind that charging these men sends a powerful message to every public servant and private operator: your licence to serve comes with a sacred obligation. Fail that obligation, and you will answer to the courts and to the families who will never see their loved ones again.
Justice is not revenge. Rather, it is respect for the dead, for the living, and for the rule of law that binds us all.
Yours sincerely, H Bacchus
Whether one agrees with his politics or not, his conduct on that day reflected confidence, composure, and a willingness to remain focused on the task at hand.
As I always say, there is one Bharrat Jagdeo, never two.
Keep up the good work, VP. Let Guyana continue to progress positively under your strong and committed leadership.
Guyana’s democracy allows for protest, and that right must always be respected. But public protests should not become an obstacle to citizens receiving Government services and having their concerns addressed.
Kind regards, Abel Seetaram
Adding and subtracting in standard form works in a similar way to adding and subtracting ordinary numbers. There are two methods we can use.
We can either convert standard form to ordinary numbers then use the column method for addition or subtraction, or we can adjust the numbers so that they have the same power of ten and then use addition or subtraction.
Example 1: Adding numbers in standard form
Method 1: Converting to ordinary numbers
While it works, this method is not very efficient for very large or very small numbers.
Method 2: Convert the numbers so that they have the same power of ten.
Example 2: Subtracting numbers using standard form Method 1: Converting to ordinary numbers
Much like with addition, subtracting numbers this way may not be efficient for very large or very small numbers.
Method 2: Convert the numbers so that they have the same power of ten.
Look: no one ever promised for sure that we would sing. We have decided to moan. In a strange dance that we don’t understand till we do it, we have to carry on.
Just as in sleep you have to dream the exact dream to round out your life, so we have to live that dream into stories and hold them close at the edge, close at the edge we share, to be right.
We find it an awful thing to meet people, serious or not, who have turned into vacant effective people, so far lost that they won’t believe their own feelings enough to follow them out. The authentic is a line from one thing along to the next; it interests us. Strangely, it relates to what works, but is not quite the same. It never swerves for revenge. Or profit or fame: it holds together something more than the world, this line. And we are your wavery efforts at following it. Are you coming? Good: now it is time.
Source: Poetry ([March 1968])
Imagine a world where every person’s shadow has a life of its own. What adventures does your shadow embark on?
Demonstrating his Government’s commitment to engaging all sections of society, President Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday engaged a group of protestors gathered outside of one of his public meetings held in Region One (Barima-Waini).
These public meetings come weeks after the MV Barima tragedy. The vessel had capsized on July 18 while en route to Prot Kaituma, Region One, with 179 persons onboard, as well as cargo. While 76 persons survived the horrific boat accident, 73 persons have been confirmed dead, and another 30 are still missing.
The Government has since launched a Commission of Inquiry with international experts to probe the ferry accident, set up a technical audit of the local maritime sector, and roll out a series of other welfare initiatives to support the survivors and families of
the victims of this tragedy.
“With our Government you can be assured of greater support. You can be assured of a listening Government. You can be assured of a Government that will continuously work towards your improvement,” President Ali emphasised during a meeting held at the Santa Rosa Secondary School in the Moruca sub-district, Region One.
In fact, this was demonstrated by the Guyanese leader at the beginning of his address, when he invited protesters to join the engagement and air their
concerns. A handful of persons had gathered outside the Santa Rosa Secondary School to protest for justice following the MV Barima tragedy as well as other issues.
“As a Government, we want to listen to every citizen. Every citizen has a right to be heard with this Government –in a respectful way, in a respectful manner. So, even we have five persons outside today who may want to voice a concern, I invite them to join this meeting in a respectful manner, and they will have every opportunity to raise their concern, because this Government is always about listening to people and putting people first,” the President noted.
Similarly, persons were also protesting another meeting the Head of State had on Wednesday at Matthews Ridge, Region One. They too were invited by President Ali to participate in the public engagement.
The Guyanese leader went over to greet the protestors and assure them that their issues would be addressed.
One of the protestors, at the end of the meeting, expressed his satisfaction that his concerns for infrastructure upgrades in his community were being addressed by the Government. “The others also attended the meeting and had their concerns addressed,” President Ali said subsequently in a social media post.
Wednesday’s protest
comes on the heels of similar actions taken during another Government engagement in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), on Tuesday.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who led the Public Day outreach, said the protest by the combined parliamentary opposition led by United States-sanctioned and indicted Opposition leader Azruddin Mohamed was a failed attempt to disrupt the meeting, which saw residents turning out in large numbers to engage Government ministers and other senior officials.
“I heard some people were making noise in the compound. It did not distract the large [number] from what was happening here, and it didn’t deter the large number of people who showed up here today. They were hoping that people would boycott coming to this activity. They failed miserably. They failed miserably. People just ignored all that they had to say,” Jagdeo said from the
Watooka Guest House in Linden.
Throughout the day, Linden residents continued to turn out in large numbers for the Public Day, where they engaged officials on matters involving housing, education, agriculture, the National Insurance Scheme, and other sectors.
But even as the Opposition had claimed that the protest would be peaceful, protesters later breached Police barricades by pulling them apart, despite present Officers’ efforts to prevent them, and moved onto the stairs of the guest house.
Your Eyewitness thinks President Irfaan Ali’s “Model Village” initiative deserves loud applause!! From the griping he encounters, everybody wants cleaner roads, prettier villages, proper drains, attractive parks, and communities that inspire pride rather than apologies!! But before the Government starts planting palm trees, painting fences, and constructing archways, it might consider launching another project first – a Model Citizen campaign!!
‘Cause the biggest obstacle to beautiful villages ain’t the lack of money no mo – it’s the abundance of bad habits!! We Guyanese, egged on by the Opposition, have become experts at blaming “the Government” for conditions we create with our own hands and habits!! Somebody tosses a KFC box and soda bottles into the drains, another dumps an old mattress behind the playground, and your neighbour burns garbage into the night!! Meanwhile, the village shops quietly convert the roadside into a mini landfill. Then, when the rains come (inevitably) and the drains back up, everybody declares that “de Government nah clean de drains”. As if the plastic bottles marched there by themselves!!
Give us a freshly-cleaned parapet, and somebody’s gonna park an abandoned minibus on it!! Install shiny benches in the playground, and within a month they’re tottering near the ground!! In Guyana, we’ve elevated public spaces to a curious status: everybody owns them, which somehow means nobody’s responsible for them!!
Perhaps the President should spice up the programme with a “National Beautiful Village Competition”! Not one judged by the size of the ceremonial arch or the loudness of the Tassa band, but by the things that actually matter: clean drains, tidy verges, flower gardens, functioning community spaces, well-kept playgrounds, and residents who believe that throwing rubbish out of moving vehicles ain’t a constitutional right!!
Offer a million-dollar prize and publicise winners!. Let the losers endure twelve months of good-natured embarrassment. Nothing motivates us Guyanese quite like not wanting the neighbouring village to boast that “we beat allyuh again”. Village councils might suddenly become energetic. Churches, masjids, and mandirs might organise clean-up days. Even the chronic litterbugs might think twice if they knew Auntie Datalene next door was watching from her veranda!!
The truth is simple. The Government can build drains, but it can’t stop people from filling them with bottles; it can install garbage bins, but it can’t force people to use them. Our oil wealth can buy concrete, asphalt, and streetlights, but can’t purchase civic responsibility. The real transformation of Guyana ain’t gonna come when every village gets a facelift. It’s gonna be created when every resident stops treating the village like somebody else’s problem!!
Till then, the Govt can spend billions creating model villages –while we continue behaving like model litterbugs.
And that’s one competition no village is gonna want to win!! …and clear thuggery
As the Opposition parties continue to duke it out in the face of the disappearing relevance of the PNC, they continue an inexorable descent into political thuggery – evoking the “sharper steel” challenge of Burnham’s PNC!! Look at their latest creation of mayhem – when VP Jagdeo went down to Linden to listen to the concerns of the residents of Region 10 – which the Opposition constantly carps is being “neglected”!!
Both WIN and their bête noire PNC – with Sanction Man and Norton in attendance – rushed down to the bauxite town and besieged Watooka House, in which the VP was listening to the people!! Hundreds of them were willing to brave the mob –who called them “traitors” – for exercising their democratic right to inform the Government of their concerns!! They refused to picket peacefully and violently breached the security barricades to intimidate and threaten the VP’s safety!!
That gentleman, however, held his ground!! What next?? A repetition of the Father Darke murder?? This Opposition wants democracy or fascism??
After beating up on the PPP Government for donkey years over allegations of self-interested awards of contracts, the Opposition’s now demanding the Govt solely sources the salvaging of the MV Barima!!
So they could claim “evidence” was destroyed??!!
After weeks of being critical of the maritime administration and its handling of safety on Guyana’s waterways following the MV Barima tragedy on July 18, United Statessanctioned and indicted Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his team were caught travelling to Region One (Barima-Waini) on Wednesday om a vessel without proper licences and certification.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has since confirmed that Coast Guard ranks stationed at the Pomeroon Floating Base stopped and inspected a vessel transporting Mohamed along with others, noting that it is part of routine operations.
The GDF also explained that the vessel’s captain failed to produce required licences and certification for its voyage to Region One.
However, despite knowing why he was stopped and the failure to produce the licence, Mohamed released a video on his Team Mohamed’s Facebook page on Wednesday, complaining of being stopped by Coast Guard ranks while on route to Region One where he planned to engage in protests.
United States-sanctioned Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed alongside parliamentarians Tabitha Sarabo Halley and Dawn Hastings on the vessel stopped by the GDF Coast Guard
Accompanying him on the boat were Members of Parliament (MPs) Tabitha Sarabo-Halley and Dawn Hastings. GDF, however, confirmed that the passenger vessel destined for Moruca, Region One was stopped and inspected in accordance with established procedures, which
require all vessel operators to register their journey with the Floating Base and present a valid Boat Master’s Licence, Vessel Licence, and Certificate of Inspection before proceeding.
According to the GDF, the vessel’s captain was unable to produce the required licences and certi-
The Police have launched a probe into the discovery of an AK-47 rifle and magazines, which were found on Wednesday at C Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown.
fication. As a result, the vessel was directed to return to Charity to obtain the relevant documentation before resuming its voyage.
The GDF noted that these routine inspections
are part of the Coast Guard’s efforts to promote compliance with maritime regulations, enhance vessel safety, and strengthen security along Guyana’s waterways.
In this regard, the GDF encouraged all boat operators to ensure their documentation is valid and that all passengers are provided with and properly fitted with lifejackets throughout their journey.
Based on reports received, Police, acting on information, went to the area in the wee hours of Wednesday, where an empty plot of land was searched. During the search, one AK assault rifle with its serial number filed off, along with two AK magazines, was found inside a bag lying in a drain. No ammunition was found. The firearm and magazines were seized and taken to the Turkeyen Police Station as investigations continue. At the time, no arrests were made.
The AK-47 and magazines found in Sophia
(GDF) was placed under close arrest following the disappearance of an AK-47 assault rifle and matching ammunition.
Only a few days ago, a corporal attached to the Guyana Defence Force
Meanwhile, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) did not say whether the discovery is connected to the missing GDF arms.
Two days after a crash along the West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) Public Road left him critically injured, 42-year-old horse racing trainer Carlton Pluck has died, leaving behind a grieving family, who is now calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Pluck succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday after being hospitalised in critical condition following Sunday’s crash.
According to the Police, the crash occurred on Sunday about 11:00h on the No 22 Bel Air Public Road, West Coast Berbice, involving motor cars PJJ 94 and PAP 2877.
Police said preliminary investigations revealed that Pluck was driving motor car PJJ 94 east along the northern drive lane of the public road at an allegedly fast pace when the accident occurred.
While negotiating a right bend, he reportedly attempted to overtake a line of traffic and collided head-on with motor car
PAP 2877, which was travelling west along the southern drive lane.
Motor car PAP 2877 was being driven by a 33-year-old of Bermine Scheme, New Amsterdam, Berbice. Two other passengers, a 37-year-old of the Glasgow Housing Scheme, New Amsterdam, and a 33-year-old, also of New Amsterdam, were in the vehicle at the time. Both vehicles were extensively damaged in the collision, resulting in injuries also to the driver of PAP 2877 and his passengers.
Pluck was initially taken to the Bath Regional Hospital before being transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he remained unconscious while being treated for his injuries.
The driver of the other car was taken to the Bath Regional Hospital by public-spirited citizens, treated and discharged. One of the passengers was later transferred to the GPHC for further medical attention, while the other, who sustained multiple injuries, remained under observation. Their conditions were listed as stable.
Police said a breathalyser test conducted on the driver of PAP 2877 recorded a reading of 17 micrograms.
“I couldn’t believe what I saw”
Speaking with Guyana Times on Wednesday, Pluck’s mother, Lilia Ramkissoon, said the severity of her son’s injuries became clear from the moment she first saw him in hospital.
She recalled that despite emergency surgery and the
efforts of medical personnel, his condition continued to deteriorate until he eventually succumbed.
“From Sunday when I went to see my son at the hospital, I couldn’t believe what I saw…I spoke to my son, but he didn’t respond,” Ramkissoon said.
She explained that Pluck underwent surgery after the crash, during which one of his kidneys was removed. He also suffered multiple broken ribs, a serious head injury and other traumatic injuries.
For Ramkissoon, one
of the hardest memories to revisit is the final conversation she shared with her son just hours before the collision.
“Saturday afternoon I told my son to take care, and he told me, ‘Yes Mommy, I will,’” she recalled.
Describing him as a caring and hardworking son, Ramkissoon said Pluck had devoted much of his life to the horse racing industry, working with horses for many years before returning to Guyana and continuing in the profession.
While the family is
mourning his death, they are also questioning early accounts surrounding the collision.
His sister, Caroline Pluck, said relatives have been hearing conflicting reports about how the crash occurred and believe investigators should carefully examine all of the available evidence before reaching conclusions.
The family is disputing Police reports that Pluck was speeding. Police investigations into the fatal crash are continuing.
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has published new exchange rates to be used for customs purposes, effective August 1, 2026.
The rates, issued under Section 22(1)(a) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, will apply for the valuation of imported goods and the collection of customs duties and other related charges.
According to the notice, the United States dollar remains valued at GY$208.50,
while the Canadian dollar is listed at GY$148.63.
The United Kingdom pound sterling is set at GY$280.58, the European Union euro at GY$239.90, and the Swiss franc at GY$257.69.
Other listed rates include the Chinese yuan at GY$30.90, Indian rupee at GY$2.19, Brazilian real at GY$41.04, Trinidad and Tobago dollar at GY$31.05, and Suriname dollar at GY$5.49.
The GRA noted that the new rates supersede the no-
tification previously published by the Commissioner General under Section 22(2) (c) of the Customs Act in the Official Gazette.
The authority also clarified that the published rates are intended solely for customs collection purposes and may differ from exchange rates used by commercial banks in their transactions.
The notice was issued by GRA Commissioner General Godfrey Statia.
Carl Williams is once again facing the painful task of rebuilding his life after an early morning fire destroyed his home at Lochador, West Canje, leaving him homeless again.
The fire broke out shortly after 03:00h on Wednesday at Lot 39 Lochador, West Canje, while Williams was asleep
Investigators are continuing to examine the cause of the blaze, although the Fire Service has indicated that it may have been started by a lighted cigarette.
“…early last night I go to bed with a cigarette. After the cigarette, I threw the cigarette through the window because the window was right by my head... and then I dropped to sleep. I couldn’t remember that,” Williams responded when asked about it.
For Williams, however, the moments after he awoke remain a blur.
He recalled opening his eyes to find flames already spreading through the kitchen area as thick smoke filled the small house. Realising the danger, he initially tried to save the building before accepting that the fire had already gained the upper hand.
“I wake up, and there
inside the modest one-flat wooden house, claiming everything he owned, including what he says was close to $2 million in savings.
According to the Guyana Fire Service, firefighters responded after receiving reports of the blaze. However, by the time they arrived, the building was fully engulfed in flames.
Despite their efforts to extinguish the fire, the house and all of its contents were destroyed.
Meanwhile, Williams said the fire could not have been started from a lighted stove, nor could it have been electrical since he had turned off the stove before going to bed and the house was powered by small solar panels.
Williams said the fire also destroyed his furniture, gas stove, beds, clothing and other household items, leaving him with virtually nothing except the clothes he escaped in.
The tragedy is made even more painful by the fact that this is not the first time fire has turned his life upside down.
Years ago, another house he owned was also destroyed by fire. Since then, he had worked steadily to rebuild, only to suffer another devastating setback. “It’s not the first time it burn down... the first house
burned down too. Now it happened again,” he said.
Now homeless for a sec-
ond time, Williams said his immediate concern is simply finding somewhere to stay while he begins the difficult process of rebuilding his life once again.
“I have nothing to cook with. Tonight, I might be in the hammock,” he said.
The Guyana Fire Service on Wednesday said investigations into the cause of the blaze are continuing.
Anyone wishing to assist Williams with building materials, household items or other donations can contact him by telephone at (592) 660-9963.
was fire. When I opened my eyes, the kitchen area was already burning. I tried to throw water on it, but the fire was too much,” Williams recalled.
Although he escaped, Williams suffered minor burns and was forced to watch helplessly as years of hard work disappeared within minutes.
Among the losses he said he suffered was a substantial amount of cash he had saved while working as a linesman. According to Williams, the money was being kept inside a mattress as he prepared to build another home.
“I was saving money in a mattress... close to $2M in cash, and everything burn up,” he said.
One (Barima-Waini) Cabinet
on Wednesday
“It is our
Guyana’s candidate for the position of United Nations Secretary General (UNSG), Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has outlined a vision centred on strengthening multilateralism, modernising the UN’s peace and security architecture, advancing climate justice and increasing youth engagement as she participated in the first regional dialogue featuring Latin American and Caribbean candidates seeking the organisation’s top post.
The Regional Dialogue on the Future Leadership of the UN, hosted on Monday by Uruguay in its capacity as Pro Tempore President, brought together three of the seven officially declared candidates for the position, Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana, María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés of Ecuador and Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica.
The next UNSG will assume office on January 1, 2027, succeeding António Guterres.
Responding to questions on why the region should produce the next SG, Rodrigues-Birkett said the time had come for Latin America and the Caribbean to lead the organisation.
“Why is it important for Latin America and the Caribbean for a national from our region to take this position? The answer is simple. It is our turn, and we have largely upheld this rotation. Secondly, we do not lack the competence or leadership skills. Five of us have been nominated, and I’m pleased that I received the nomination of my president and my Government and also the endorsement of Caricom,” Rodrigues-Birkett noted.
“Latin America and the Caribbean face a number of challenges that require global decisions to address them. This includes the threats to peace and security, in-
cluding transnational organised crime and climate change. It is multilateralism that will enable us all to address these global challenges. As Secretary General, this is what I will do: work to strengthen multilateralism, to bridge divides, and to ensure that the United Nations works for everyone.”
Addressing the evolving nature of global security threats, RodriguesBirkett argued that the UN must adapt to changing realities, including the rise of internal conflicts and emerging technologies.
“If there is one region that knows the full spectrum of threats to our individual and collective peace and security, it’s the Latin American and Caribbean region. But one thing is clear: we cannot overcome them alone.
Regional and international cooperation are vital,” Rodrigues-Birkett noted.
“Second, the United Nations must adapt its peace and security operations and assistance to Member States to adequately respond to the challenges we face today. While there remain a high number of interstate conflicts, internal conflicts are on the rise, and, with the use of technology including social media, AI, drones and 3D printing of weapons, the picture is becoming increasingly complex. So our views and
response to international peace and security must fit these various contexts. Finally, the United Nations plays an important role in strengthening public institutions through policy guidance, capacity building and technical assistance, and as Secretary General I would ensure that the staff and the resources of the United Nations system are geared to the needs of Member States.”
On rebuilding confidence among young people in the UN, RodriguesBirkett highlighted the importance of greater youth participation and clear communication.
“I also encourage my Government to include young people in their delegation to meetings at the United Nations, and I’m very happy to say that one of those young people came back this year to the United Nations as a Government Minister in President Ali’s cabinet.
“As Secretary General, I will continue to engage young people. I would communicate clearly about the good work and the impact of the United Nations and the role that young people can play in strengthening multilateralism and human rights, including by leveraging the digital space for good,” Rodrigues-Birkett said.
Speaking on human rights and the rules-
based international order, Rodrigues-Birkett pointed to the region’s long-standing commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes.
“Our region of Latin America and the Caribbean is as diverse and beautiful as it is complex. But the contribution that I would like to underscore for the purposes of this discussion is the region’s leadership and tradition of the peaceful resolution of disputes,” Rodrigues-Birkett said.
“By and large, the region has adhered to the UN Charter when it comes to the peaceful resolution of disputes. And even if some of those disputes continue, we have an understanding that we will not resort to conflict. If appointed Secretary General, I would take that with me from my region, and I will utilise all the tools at the disposal of the Secretary General to end and to prevent conflicts.”
Rodrigues-Birkett vowed to ensure that human rights are upheld across all the operations of the UN.
“In discussions with Member States from across the world, what I’ve heard is that we must pay equal attention to all three pillars of the United Nations, peace and security, development and human rights. This would be emphasised should I be appointed Secretary General, while catering to the different situations and contexts and applying the tools available to me,” Rodrigues-Birkett said.
On climate change and sustainable development, Rodrigues-Birkett said balancing development needs with climate action would remain one of the defining challenges for the international community.
“As emissions increase and adverse climate im-
pacts also increase, we still have over 650 million people without electricity. More than 500 million of those live in sub-Saharan Africa. If I’m appointed Secretary General, I will continue to advocate for the commitments made under the Paris Agreement to be met, including on climate finance, especially for the most vulnerable. Many countries in the world, including in our region, face high indebtedness but also difficulties in terms of access to concessional financing,” RodriguesBirkett said.
“We must recognise that fossil fuels, given where we are with the transition to clean energy, will continue to be used for some time. It is important for all of us, member states, UN agencies and industry, to engage meaningfully and to find the right balance to protect both people and planet while achieving our development aspirations and while not stifling creativity and innovation in technology.”
Guyana is proud of Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett
Meanwhile, Guyana’s Ambassador to Caricom, George Talbot, delivered remarks at the event on behalf of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd, expressing Guyana’s confidence in Rodrigues-Birkett’s candidacy.
Talbot said the next SG would assume office during one of the most challenging periods in the organisation’s history.
“The next Secretary General will face a plethora of complex challenges, currently the highest number of conflict situations since World War II, geopolitical tensions on the rise and multilateralism under stress. We are falling behind on the SDGs. The existential climate crisis remains unmitigated. Human rights and democratic values are threatened in many parts of the globe, and, in this scenario, the promise of the UN Charter and the imperative of international law have never been more urgent. The next Secretary General will be called upon to ensure that the UN remains relevant and integral to the global response to these challenges,” he said.
He noted that the region could take pride in the calibre of candidates seeking the post.
“As a region, we can take pride in the pool of candidates that have been nominated. We can also be encouraged by the initial indications coming out of the UN Security Council, which point in the direction of a female Secretary General from Latin America and the Caribbean. This is in keeping with the advocacy of our community,” Talbot said.
Expressing Guyana’s support for its nominee, Talbot said, “Guyana is especially proud to have nominated Ambassador Carolyn RodriguesBirkett, in whom Guyana and Caricom have the fullest confidence. Through her dynamic and distinguished career in public service at both the national and international levels, she has demonstrated her capacity to respond to a variety of challenges and situations.”
The Guyana Government has welcomed the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), a significant step that clears the way for the United States’ extradition proceedings involving sanctioned and indicted Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, to resume in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
“Of course, we welcome the decision of the CCJ,” Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall expressed during his programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday.
“All seven Judges who comprise that court sat in that case, and all seven of them rejected the submissions of the appellants and upheld the submissions of the Attorney General and the submissions made on behalf of Minister Oneidge Walrond,” he posited.
The extradition proceedings had been temporarily halted for about five months pending the outcome of the appeal before the CCJ. Following the regional court’s decision on July 29, Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman has scheduled the case for hearings on September 3, 4, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
Recalling that Mohamed once remarked that he had to cross the Caribbean Sea to get justice, Nandlall posited that, “well, he got justice. I hope he’s satisfied with the justice that he got.”
“Recall they were attacking the legal system of Guyana. They were attacking the courts in Guyana. They were saying that the extradition proceedings were politically inspired and in -
stituted, that they were being politically influenced… And that the courts in Guyana were being politically influenced. They made all those remarks, all those allegations in the public domain… So, I hope that the appellants are satisfied that they have received the justice that they were seeking,” Nandlall expressed.
Back in March, the Mohameds approached the CCJ, seeking special leave to appeal the decisions of the High Court and Appeal Court of Guyana – both of which had previously dismissed legal proceedings to halt their extradition to the US, where they are indicted on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering.
The appeal sought to challenge aspects of the extradition process initiated against the father and son. The CCJ had decided to hear the application for special leave and the substantive appeal at the same time during the April 21 session.
During that hearing, the Mohameds had told the CCJ that they are not opposed to the extradition itself but are asking the court to overturn the “Authority to Proceed” (ATP) issued under Guyana’s Fugitive Offenders Act by Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond, arguing that the Minister’s decision was legally flawed and politically biased.
The defence had noted that the speed at which the ATP was issued, shortly after the request was received, created an appearance of predetermined approval, and raised questions about fairness at the earliest stage of the process.
But Nandlall and Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes, representing Guyana’s Government, defended the issuance of the ATP, contending that the Minister’s role at this stage is administrative and not adjudicative. He rejected the suggestion that the timing of the decision indicated bias, stating instead that any delay could have equally been criticised as a failure to act.
In its ruling, the CCJ unanimously dismissed the appeal being sought by the Mohameds.
“Don’t know; I’m not biased”
The AG acknowledged that while the seven Judges delivered three separate Judgements, all came to the same conclusion that the ATP was valid and “there was no finding of bias required by the law to invalidate the ATP”.
Justices Maureen Rajnauth-Lee, Peter Jamadar, and Arif Bulkan, though agreeing that the case should be dismissed, found that there was a possibility of bias displayed by the attorney general. But the Judges ruled that this did not influence the home affairs Minister’s decision.
Commenting on this
decision, Nandlall said, “Well, I don’t know that I am not biased”; however, he maintained that his contention has always been “that my bias doesn’t have the legal impact required to invalidate any process”.
“Four out of the seven Judges said that whatever bias I may possess had no connection to the case. And that my involvement was minimal. All I did was to advise the Minister on elementary principles of law,” he highlighted.
The AG also defended his right to comment on political litigations, especially in defence of the judicial system.
“When persons of political leanings are involved in litigation of a political type or non-political type, and they make statements in the public domain seeking to politicise litigation involving the state and the Attorney General, and they make those statements outside of court, the Attorney General will respond. The Attorney General has a duty to respond and will do so in due deference to the established and requisite legal principles,” Nandlall asserted.
“When litigants, whether they are politi -
cians or not, subject the legal system to unfair and baseless attacks or subject the administration of justice to scurrilous and scandalising attacks, the Minister with responsibility for justice doesn’t have the luxury of remaining quiet. It is the duty of the Minister of justice in those circumstances to defend the legal system and the administration of justice. And this Minister of Justice will not resile or derogate from that duty and solemn responsibility,” he added. Nonetheless, Nandlall affirmed that any such comments have been and will continue to be done in due compliance with and in due observance of the relevant legal principles regarding pending litigation.
Moreover, the AG highlighted a fundamental point in the regional court’s decision dealing with collateral challenges. He recalled that five of the seven Judges found that “in extradition proceedings, satellite challenges or collateral challenges must await the determination of the committal proceedings”.
“If, for example, one wishes to make an allegation of bias, then that allegation ought to be made before the committal proceedings and recorded, but… a challenge regarding that bias should await the conclusion of the committal proceedings. And five of the seven Judges wrote at length on that particular issue,” Nandlall noted.
In this regard, the AG said, “We are therefore of the considered view that it should be-
come the practice in our courts, except where it is manifestly clear that the extradition proceedings must fail, that any and all challenges to the issuance of the ATP may be brought at any time but should only be heard after the completion of the committal proceedings.”
“This practice would be consistent with the international framework for extradition, encourage prompt performance of extradition treaty obligations, and provide a reasonable balance between the interest of the person whose extradition is requested and that of the state. And that’s the point that we have been making.”
Prior to the CCJ stay, the extradition proceedings had already faced extensive delays due to constitutional and legal challenges, health claims and lateness from parties involved. In fact, the last hearing on March 24 had to be adjourned after Azruddin Mohamed did not show up and the Magistrate’s court was told that he had suffered from dengue. His diagnosis and laboratory results were submitted to the court, and his doctor was called to give evidence on his condition.
Back in October 2025, the US Government had requested the extradition of the Mohameds to face charges regarding the alleged smuggling of more than 10,000 kilograms of gold through the United States and evading over US$50 million in taxes.
The father-andson duo has been out on $150,000 bail each, pending the outcome of the extradition committal proceedings.
The US Southern Command on Monday activated a Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere (JTF-WHEM) headquarters that will synchronise US military operations with allies and partners – including Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) – to counter threats, strengthen regional security, and respond rapidly to crises across the Western Hemisphere.
The new entity, which is structured to maintain sustained pressure on drug-trafficking networks and other groups that undermine regional security, is also expected to "improve coordination with allied Governments, accelerate decision-making and increase the tempo of multinational operations against criminal organisations operating regionally".
As SouthComm's operational headquarters for executing missions across the region, JTF-WHEM integrates intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, operational planning and multinational coordination "to increase pressure on nefarious organisations operating throughout the Western Hemisphere.
The JTF-WHEM will operate with the 18-nation Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (ACCC –or Shield of the Americas –launched by US President
Donald Trump in March in Florida. It includes T&T, Guyana, and certain South/Central American states.
The ACCC's aim is to strengthen intelligence sharing and co-ordinate regional operations against organised crime and drug cartels. T&T Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar was among leaders at the Florida launch.
(Excerpt from Trinidad and Tobago Guardian)
Fear grips Maryland’s Haitian community as TPS protections end
In Salisbury, the Eastern Shore’s biggest city, about 10 per cent of the 33,000 residents are Haitian, many of them employed under TPS as farmworkers, carers and in the poultry plants that are the region’s economic backbone.
Like other Haitians losing TPS, they now face an agonising choice: Try to stay in the US and find underground work, constantly fearful of being caught by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Or return to a nation so overwhelmed by gang violence and poverty that some feel deportation is tantamount to a death sentence.
The TPS termination affecting Haitians was challenged in district courts. On June 25, the US Supreme Court sided with the Government, allowing the TPS programme to
end while triggering weeks of confusion as to the timetable for enforcement.
On July 27, the work permits were not extended, and fear mounted in Haitian communities –not only due to the loss of jobs but also because it exposed them to deportation.
Throughout last week, news spread on social media about arrests by immigration authorities at gas stations and outside supermarkets. Asked
forcement activities in Salisbury, the Department of Homeland Security said via email that DHS “does not discuss ongoing or future operations".
“Temporary Protected Status is exactly that –temporary,” the email said.
“For too long, TPS has been allowed to function as a de facto amnesty programme despite Congress never intending it to be permanent.” (Excerpt from The Haitian Times)
El Niño may increase dengue, malaria, waterborne diseases, PAHO says
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has published a new Public Health Situation Analysis on the El Niño climate event (2026–2027), which examines the potential health risks associated with its likely development during 2026 and early 2027. The document analyses how different climate scenarios related to El Niño could affect population health, health services, and other determinants of health in the Americas and provides recommendations to
support country preparedness.
The analysis addresses communicable diseases, identified among the main public health risks associated with certain climate scenarios. These include cholera and other waterborne diseases, as well as vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.
Second, with regard to noncommunicable diseases, the document examines the potential impacts of heat stress and increases in respiratory conditions associated with wild-
fires and deteriorating air quality.
Finally, in the area of mental health, the document notes that displacement, loss of livelihoods, and other impacts related to climate emergencies can increase the need for mental health and psychosocial support.
The document also highlights the importance of ensuring access to safe water and sanitation services, particularly in areas exposed to flooding or prolonged periods of drought.
(Excerpt from Antigua Newsroom)
Pope Leo XIV to visit Peru,
Pope Leo XIV will return to the region that shaped much of his Ministry, making his first trip to Latin America as head of the Catholic Church in November.
The Vatican announced on Wednesday that Leo will travel to the three South American countries – Uruguay, Argentina and Peru –from November 6 to 17.
Pope Leo’s stop in Peru is especially significant. He spent decades, on and
off, in the Andean country, first as a missionary and later as a bishop for the Diocese of Chiclayo in northern Peru.
The trip will also mark the first papal visit to Argentina and Uruguay in nearly 40 years.
The itinerary includes stops in the cities of Montevideo, Paysandu and Florida in Uruguay from November 6 to 8; Buenos Aires, Cordoba and Lujan in Argentina from November 8 to 11;
and Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco and Pucallpa in Peru from November 11 to 17. More details about the pope’s itinerary will be released closer to the trip.
Pope Leo’s return to Chiclayo is likely to be one of the most emotional moments of the tour.
In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him to the Diocese of Chiclayo. He became a Peruvian citizen the following year and led the diocese until 2023. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
The University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) has been ordered to pay millions in damages after the Supreme Court found that the facility “fell below the standard of care” expected of it and also “breached the duty of care” provided to a 16-year-old girl, who died six days after being admitted to the hospital in March 2018.
Her mother said the ordeal began on March 27, 2018, when her daughter complained of what had become a persistent headache. When that headache persisted three days later, along with weakness, the parents – who said they began to “suspect that their daughter
was suffering from another bout of meningitis, an illness with which she had been diagnosed at the age of eight years” – decided to take her to the UHWI.
Once there, they said they informed medical staff of her symptoms and history of meningitis as well as their suspicions. The parents said on March 31, after blood samples, a CT scan and an unsuccessful lumbar puncture procedure (which was to be done over), they were informed that their daughter was suffering from hemiplegic migraine. After some 18 seizures and two heart attacks, the teen who had also been placed on life
support was pronounced dead on April 5, 2018.
The court said there were “aspects of negligence on the part of the UHWI, which are of great concern”.
In additional findings, the court said based on the evidence of the expert witness, an accurate diagnosis could have been arrived at had a lumbar puncture been performed.
The court on Friday awarded J$9,007,081.30 in damages for pain and suffering, loss of expectation of life, loss of future earnings and special damages. An additional US$8000 was awarded for an expert witness report. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
Oil prices were mixed on Wednesday, with Brent settling up slightly but the US contract edging lower, as investors weighed revived expectations of a de-escalation in US-Iran hostilities that could restore shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and oil flows in the Middle East.
Brent crude futures settled up nine cents, or 0.11 per cent, at USUS$79.45 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate futures fell 55 cents, or 0.73 per cent, to USUS$75.22.
US President Donald Trump said there was an "all-day negotiation" on Tuesday with Iran, characterising the talks positively while also threatening to hit Tehran "really hard" if a deal were not reached.
Iran denied that peace talks were under way. Its Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that Iran and Oman have reached an understanding on how to manage the Strait of Hormuz, and a joint announcement is being finalised.
Before the war started at the end of February, about 20 per cent of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas passed through the strait. The market remained optimistic but cautious, said Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group. "This agreement seems as tenuous as past agreements, and as we know, none of those have held up for very long." (Excerpt from Reuters)
The White House and Pentagon have pushed back on a slate of recent reports indicating that supplies of both offensive and defensive weapons have dropped dangerously low after five months of war on Iran.
Experts have said that low supplies of air defence interceptors, particularly those used in Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) air defence systems, may pose a particular threat to US forces, with knock-on effects for allies in the region and beyond.
But in a statement provided to Al Jazeera on Tuesday by the White House, President Donald Trump pushed back on claims the US faced deficiencies in its current supply.
“We have far more munitions than anyone in the world and far more than we need, despite the fact that an unprecedented amount was given away by Crooked Joe Biden and the Biden administration
Iran says it has reached an agreement with Oman on a route for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei did not give any further details on the agreement, which he said was "in the final stages".
Baqaei warned, however, that a deal with Oman would not guarantee safe navigation through the strait on its own, arguing that security remains impacted by the US
blockade of Iran's ports. The US and Oman have not commented on the proposal.
Since the US and Israel attacked Iran in late February, Tehran has largely blocked the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas usually passes. Since then, global oil prices have fluctuated wildly.
On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump warned that Iran would be "hit very hard"
if the strait did not open "very soon".
His comments came after senior US officials said talks had progressed to allow shipments to potentially resume later this week, though Iran has maintained that it is not negotiating with the US and has no plans to do so.
Reopening of the strait has been a key point in discussions between the two countries and mediators. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Germany’s Interior Minister has warned that the discovery of a drone carrying explosives at Leipzig airport marks “a new level of danger” for the country, as authorities examine whether the thwarted attack could have been planned by a foreign power.
Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, said the incident did not appear to be the work of amateurs and that investigators were treating it as part of a “professional hybrid threat scenario”.
to Ukraine and Europe at no cost, in one of many of their extremely dumb moves,” Trump said. He was referencing the Patriot interceptor transfers to Ukraine under former President Joe Biden following Russia’s invasion.
Trump pointed to new efforts to scale up weapons production, although experts have questioned whether supplies of air defence missiles could indeed be scaled up in a timely fashion.
“And as we build up, we will start issuing more to our allies in Europe and elsewhere,” Trump said.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell also maintained that the US was not in dire straits on the issue.
“America’s military is the most powerful in the world and has everything it needs to execute at the time and place of the president's choosing,”
Parnell said in a statement to Al Jazeera. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
The discovery of a small drone carrying explosives at Leipzig airport, a leading shipping and military hub, set off alarms and caused flight diversions on Wednesday morning. German police deployed a bomb disposal robot to defuse and destroy the explosive device.
In public remarks on Wednesday evening, the
A cargo plane that had been forced to abort its landing at the airport then collided with an unknown object in mid-air as it was climbing away from the airport. It later landed safely elsewhere.
Dobrindt and other German officials did not explicitly mention Russia as a potential suspect in their remarks. But the airport’s status as a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and German military logistics hub, as well as the
base for Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines in Europe, has directed suspicion toward Russia, which has previously been accused of carrying out sabotage attacks in Europe.
Security experts said the incident could amount to a serious escalation in tensions with Russia if it was determined the Kremlin played a role.
A NATO official said: “We are aware of the incident, which the German authorities continue to investigate.”
The drone, a quadcopter that was fitted with an explosive device, was found near a Ukrainian Antonov cargo plane, according to media reports. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Iran has warned Gulf States that any new US attack on its territory would trigger retaliation against critical energy infrastructure across the region, according to five sources, as Tehran seeks to raise the cost of military action by threatening Washington's closest regional allies.
The warning was delivered through a flurry of high-level diplomatic contacts after President Donald Trump threatened on July 28 to strike Iran's energy network and infrastructure, the sources said.
Two senior Iranian officials, two Gulf sources and a
senior regional diplomat with knowledge of the discussions said Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke with his Saudi, Turkish and Qatari counterparts, as well as Pakistan's army chief. All spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensi-
tivity of the matter.
Araqchi urged Washington's Gulf allies to use their influence with Trump to dissuade him from launching renewed strikes, the senior diplomat said, warning that any attack on Iran would prompt retaliation against US assets and energy facilities across the Gulf.
His message was consistent in every conversation. The diplomat said, "We're ready to retaliate, but finding a diplomatic solution is the best way to avoid wider escalation and destruction across the region." (Excerpt from Reuters)
Take a deep dive into your creative psyche and see what transpires. Reinventing yourself or trying something new will inspire you to be good to yourself and make a difference. Don’t let life pass you by when a shake-up can help you fulfill your purpose. Choose to be passionate about life, love and your happiness, and see what unfolds.
Make your space comfortable and convenient. An opportunity to bring in extra cash from a homebased business doing something you enjoy will be uplifting and help with confidence and personal growth. Set a budget and a reasonable plan, and leave nothing to chance. The safe route may take a little longer, but it also offers peace of mind.
If you don’t like something, change it. Look over your personal preferences and put a to-do list together. Take control of your life, and put what you need to reach your goal in place. Personal gain comes from doing what’s right and best for you. Don’t get bitter or angry; get moving. Become the maker of your destiny.
Gravitate toward those who are transparent. Take a unique approach to producing authentic answers to solutions. Specialize in being yourself and offering others your very best. Being an open book will build trust and loyalty among your peers. Don’t trust those asking you to buy into something that doesn’t represent who you are. Understanding builds trust. Balance is what’s important, and learning and living life happily requires equality and the ability to live up to your expectations, not what others want from you. Be brave, and shape what you want with patience and integrity. Being fair will win you a place at the table and help you improve your lifestyle and personal growth.
Plans to look and feel your best will be met with people who have their own ideas of how you should proceed. Don’t trust those who paint a pretty picture with no rhyme or reason behind their promises. Rely on yourself, your intuition and your ability to do for yourself, and discard what others try to sell you.
Ditch replaying things in your head; move on. It’s time to cut your losses and to make your way in a direction you truly believe in. Entertain the thought of immersing yourself in something that fascinates you while enhancing your need for change. Standing in the shadows of others doesn’t help you build confidence or reach your full potential.
(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) (June 21-July 22) (July 23-Aug. 22) (March 21-April 19) (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) (May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20) (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Reduce, simplify, declutter and free your body, mind and soul of all that torments you. Your energy needs to be strategically aimed at a purpose or what matters to you. Dig deep. Consider what motivates your emotions and causes concern, and rectify what’s missing in your life. Less can be more when the outcome fills the gaps.
Throw your energy in a direction that lightens your heart, fills your home with happiness and allows you to let your creative spirit take over. Trial and error is a healthy way to discover your purpose and to find out how best to satiate the passion within. The more you follow your heart, the higher the returns. Love looms.
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Speak on behalf of those who can’t. Wrap your mind around how and what to enforce to make a difference in how you live, think and move forward. Don’t wait until it’s too little, too late. You owe it to yourself to satisfy your soul and to take responsibility for your happiness.
(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)
Get the facts before you act. Overthinking or overdoing will lead to mistakes. Put your emotions and ego aside and do what’s best for everyone, and you’ll fulfill your desire to make peace with yourself and those you care about. A positive lifestyle change comes from taking responsibility for yourself and your happiness.
Trust your instincts. Take your time and use your intelligence to sort through your options and consider the consequences. Don’t make a ruckus unnecessarily. Time has a way of healing what is meant as a lesson, not a life sentence. Put your time and effort into selfimprovements that make you proud and give you hope for a brighter future.
Danellie Manns will captain Guyana’s 14-member squad at the 2026 Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Women’s Under-19 Championship, the Guyana Cricket Board announced on Wednesday.
Akeela Stephens has been named Vice Captain, while Rickesha Kisten will take responsibility behind the stumps as the team’s wicketkeeper.
The squad will be coached by former
West Indies cricketer Tremayne Smartt, with Clive Grimmond serving as manager during the regional tournament.
The championship will give Guyana’s leading young female cricketers an opportunity to compete against some of the best Under-19 players from across the Caribbean. It will also provide them with valuable match experience and a chance to showcase their talent on the regional stage.
Abram Zuil Secondary was crowned Zone One champions of the 2026 Beharry Secondary Schools Under-19 T20 tournament after completing a dominant 131-run victory over Charity Secondary at the new Anna Regina Stadium on Tuesday.
Opener Ravid Fredricks produced a match-winning innings of 92 before Abram Zuil’s bowlers dismissed Charity for just 31 in 10 overs. Fredricks was named Player of the Match for his decisive contribution in the final.
Batting first, Abram Zuil posted 162 for four from their allotted 20 overs. Fredricks narrowly missed a century during his 68-ball innings, which included 13 fours and two sixes.
He received valuable support from Eshwar Tilak, who struck two fours in his 28 from 36 deliveries. Their efforts formed the foundation of Abram Zuil’s challenging total.
Charity used six bowlers, but only three managed to claim a wicket.
Jeral Gildharie, one of the team’s leading performers during the tournament, finished with one for 21. Abram Zuil then produced a clinical bowling display to end the contest quickly. Rhonel Nurse returned outstanding figures of three wickets for two runs, while Shivesh Bridgemohan took three for 11. Tilak completed a strong all-round performance with two for 12.
Gildharie was the only Charity
double figures, scoring 13, as the remainder of the batting order struggled against Abram Zuil’s disciplined attack.
The victory completed an impressive campaign for Abram Zuil, who had dominated several rounds leading into the Zone One final.
Fredricks also ended the zonal competition as its leading run-scorer and wicket-taker. He accumulated 113 runs and claimed seven wickets during the tournament.
Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) President Bissoondyal Singh expressed confidence in the selected players, and said the tournament forms part of the board’s continued investment in women’s cricket.
“This championship represents an important opportunity for our young female cricketers to gain valuable regional experience, develop
their skills and proudly represent Guyana,” Singh said.
He added that the board remained committed to creating pathways for talented players to advance to the senior national and West Indies levels.
“We are confident that this squad will compete with determination, discipline and pride,” Singh said.
The GCB also extended
best wishes to the players, Smartt, Grimmond, and the rest of the management team ahead of the tournament.
The full squad is Danellie Manns, Akeela Stephens, Rickesha Kisten, Jada Fraser, Sarah Bheir, Jaraya Rodrigues, Shenesa Thomas, Briana Samaroo, Allia Henry, Sowanna Booker, Kainana Leitch, Rosanna Patterson, Athalia Simmons, and Christina Jackson.
Guyana’s FIFA Futsal Referee Colin Abel has been appointed to officiate at the third Puerto Rico International Futsal Championship, which is currently underway from August 4 to 9, at the Dr Pedro J Roselló Convention Center in San Juan.
The Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Refereeing Department congratulated Abel on his selection, describing the appointment as recognition of his professionalism, commitment and consistently high standard of officiating.
Abel recently officiated in the Keep Your Five Alive futsal tournament, where he continued to demonstrate his ability to manage matches at a high level.
The GFF said the international assignment also reflects the continued development of Guyanese match officials and their growing presence at regional and international competitions.
Now in its third edition, the Puerto Rico International Futsal Championship has developed into one of the Caribbean’s leading futsal tournaments. More than 300 teams from across the region are expected to participate in boys, girls, youth, and senior divisions.
The tournament will provide a competitive environment for players, coaches and officials while offering Abel another opportunity to gain valuable
Guyana’s FIFA Futsal Referee Colin Abel has been appointed to officiate at the third Puerto Rico International Futsal Championship
international experience.
The GFF Refereeing Department said assignments of this nature help to strengthen the reputation of Guyanese officials within the Confederation and beyond.
It wished Abel success as he represents Guyana during the six-day championship.
In a landmark convergence of Guyana’s most passionate sporting cultures, horse racing and grassroots cricket have officially joined forces.
The organisers of the marquee Guyana Cup, powered by the Jumbo Jet Auto Sales and AJM brand, have thrown their formidable weight behind the fourth Lotto/Let's Bet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast, establishing a cross-sport alliance designed to elevate community engagement and reward local talent across the country.
The collaboration brings immediate tangible benefits to the tournament’s competitive framework.
Jumbo Jet and AJM have stepped in to directly sponsor the zonal rewards structure, funding the GY$200,000 prize for zonal runners-up along with GY$50,000 pay-outs for each losing semi-finalist in the Berbice zone.
The first-place prize –GY$500,000 – is sponsored by Sawa Investment Inc, and four losing quarter-finalists' prizes of GY$25,000 each are sponsored by Scoop Ride.
Beyond the action on the pitch, spectators attending the tapeball fixtures stand a chance to drive away in a brand-new 4x4 pickup truck by participating in the official Guyana Cup raffle, with complimentary ticket giveaways available at match
venues throughout the tournament.
Speaking on the strategic tie-up, Andre Rochford, Operations Manager for the Guyana Cup, emphasised that AJM and Jumbo Jet have long served as champions for local sports and cultural development.
Rochford noted that with the One Guyana T10 Tapeball widely regarded as the premier tapeball spectacle in the Caribbean, aligning it with the nation's biggest horse racing event creates a powerful nationwide synergy, adding that Jumbo Jet is already looking toward expanding the
Tfirst delivery as teams target the GY$500,000 zonal crown and a coveted place in the GY$2,000,000 national grand finale.
Opening day features a packed schedule across the county. At the No. 70 Ground, Match One pits No. 70 Village Spartans against Grillmaster Avengers CWC at 10:00h, followed by Match Two between Champ XI and No. 73 Young Warriors at 12:00h, before the respective winners clash in Match Three at 15:00h for a semi-final spot.
The drama culminates on Sunday, August 9, as action shifts exclusively under the lights at the Albion Sports Complex.
Semi-Final One ignites at 14:00h between the winners of Matches Three and Six, followed immediately by SemiFinal Two at 16:00h between the winners of Matches Nine and 12.
The two surviving titans will then clash in the grand Berbice zonal final at 19:30h to decide who claims the regional crown.
organising committee, Yusuf Ali expressed deep appreciation for the boost, highlighting the transformational impact of corporate support on grassroots sport.
Ali praised the partnership as a massive win for local athletes and fans alike, stating that the commitments from Jumbo Jet and AJM not only validates the dedication of the competing teams but also injects fresh energy into community sports, setting a new benchmark for corporate collaboration in Guyanese sport.
The high-stakes alliance comes at a crucial moment, as the throne stands vacant and sixteen hungry teams
prepare to battle for regional supremacy in the Berbice Zone leg starting Saturday, August 8.
The blockbuster straightknockout tournament features last year’s runnersup Corriverton Spartan alongside proven zonal contenders Grillmasters, Sip N Play All Stars, and Cotton Tree Die Hard. Action bowls off at 10:00h with free public admission across four simultaneous venues: the Albion Sports Complex, No. 70 Ground, Port Mourant Ground, and the Welfare Ground in Canje.
The uncompromising single-elimination format guarantees intense competition from the very
Down in Port Mourant, 35 Xplosion face Grillmaster Sip N Play All Stars in Match Four at 10:00h, preceding a heavyhitting Match Five encounter between Line Path Raptors and Corriverton Spartan at 12:00h, with the victors squaring off in Match Six at 15:00h.
Over at the Albion Sports Complex, Match Seven sees Ethan XI contend with Royal Warriors at 10:00h, leading into Match Eight between Meera Warriors and Lusignan Bulls DTP at 12:00h, setting up a quarter-final Match Nine clash at 15:00h.
Meanwhile, at the Welfare Ground in Canje, host team Welfare XI will battle Blairmont Blazers in Match 10 at 10:00h, followed by Match 11 between The Mavericks and Cotton Tree Die Hard at 12:00h, before Match 12 decides the fourth semi-finalist at 15:00h.
he Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) is strengthening the technical foundation of local amateur boxing ahead of this month's Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships by hosting an international certification programme for referees and Judges, led by one of the region's most accomplished boxing officials, James Beckles of Trinidad and Tobago. Beckles, a three-star referee and referee assessor in amateur boxing, will conduct the certification course as part of preparations for the Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Championships, scheduled for August
Following the Berbice curtain-raiser, the tournament caravan heads to East Bank/ West Demerara on August 15–16, followed by the Essequibo Zone on August 22–23. The competition will take a brief pause to accommodate the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), before returning for the Georgetown/ East Coast Demerara leg on September 26–27 and October 3–4.
Organisers have urged remaining teams to complete registration via official social media channels or WhatsApp (+592 635-2235) before remaining slots are filled. Adding to the historic nature of this edition, the national grand finale on October 11, 2026, will be hosted at the Anna Regina National Stadium in Region Two.
World Boxing, it is imperative that our officials are certified using the rules and regulations of the new international federation, just as we previously did under the International Boxing Association," Ninvalle explained.
20-22 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Homestretch Avenue.
Widely regarded as one of, if not the Caribbean's foremost certified boxing officials, Beckles boasts an impressive resume that spans the Olympic Games, World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and numerous continental and regional tournaments, making him one of the most experienced technical officials in the hemisphere.
GBA President Steve Ninvalle said the programme is expected to attract close to 30 local referees and Judges as the association continues to ensure its officials remain aligned with international standards.
"With Guyana operating under
World Boxing was established in 2023 as a new international governing body for amateur boxing following governance concerns surrounding the International Boxing Association (IBA), which ultimately lost recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
World Boxing has since become the IOC-recognised body responsible for boxing's pathway to the Olympic Games, prompting national federations worldwide, including Guyana, to align themselves with the new organisation to safeguard their athletes' eligibility for future Olympic competitions.
Guyana formally became compliant with World Boxing as part of that transition, ensuring its
boxers remain eligible to compete in Olympic qualification events and other international competitions sanctioned by the new governing body.
According to Ninvalle, bringing in an instructor of Beckles' calibre demonstrates the association's commitment to raising officiating standards alongside athlete development.
"We wanted someone with unquestionable international credentials to lead this programme, and James Beckles was the obvious choice," Ninvalle said.
"He has officiated at the highest level of amateur boxing and understands exactly what is required under World Boxing. Our referees and Judges will benefit tremendously from his knowledge and experience, and ultimately our athletes will also benefit from having better-trained officials."
Ninvalle added that quality officiating is fundamental to the continued growth of the sport, stating,
"If we are serious about developing boxing in Guyana, we cannot focus only on the athletes. Coaches, referees, Judges, and administrators all have to develop together. This certification programme is another important investment in the future of Guyanese boxing."
The certification initiative forms part of the build-up to the Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships, an event conceptualised and first staged in Guyana in 2016.
The tournament is named in honour of Guyana's 1978 Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Winfield Braithwaite, and has since established itself as one of the Caribbean's premier developmental boxing competitions.
The tournament has also served as a launching pad for numerous Caribbean boxers who have gone on to compete at the Olympic Games and World Championships, reinforcing its status as a critical stepping stone on the international boxing pathway.
The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has confirmed a drone show will take place before the start of the fixtures on August 7 and 9 at the Arnos Vale Playing Field this month, adding a new spectacle to St Vincent and the Grenadines' first taste of CPL cricket.
The drone display will take place before the start of two Arnos Vale fixtures – the CPL 2026 season opener on Friday, August 7, between Jamaica Kingsmen and Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, and the Sunday, August 9 clash between Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and St Lucia Kings – marking the first time Arnos Vale has hosted Republic
On the heels of a dominant first round in the competition, Guyana’s boxing team at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, comprising Desmond Amsterdam, Colin Lewis and Terron Wintz, were all unable to advance to the next stage after competing in their respective weight class quarterfinals on Tuesday.
Amsterdam hit the ring first, taking on Venezuela’s Diego Pereyra in the men's 80kg class, where the latter won the Judges’ vote 4-1.
The scores went 30-27, 28-29, 2928, 30-27, and 29-28 in the Venezuelan’s favour to see the Amsterdam campaign at the regional showpiece end.
Colin Lewis took to the ring next, battling Suriname’s Domelzo Schet in an enthrallingly close encounter in the men's 65kg quarterfinal. Eventually, the Surinamese pugilist would prevail 3-2.
After three rounds, the five Judges scored the bout 28-29, 27-30, 29-28, 2730 and 29-28 in Schet’s favour.
Meanwhile, Wintz met a similar fate when he duked it out with Puerto Rico’s
Angel Llanos in the men’s 70kg quarterfinal.
Llanos brought up the win via the RSC (referee stopped contest) route, two minutes and 55 seconds into the first of three intended rounds.
As such, Guyana’s campaign in the boxing discipline has ended at the CAC Games.
Bank CPL matches. Both fixtures will now start at 19:15h local time.
St Vincent and the Grenadines joins the Republic Bank CPL's widest-ever footprint this season, with matches across eight nations. Arnos Vale – a venue with a proud cricket history, having previously staged 36 men's international matches, including fixtures at the 2024 International Cricket Council Men's T20 World Cup –will now add a new dimension to matchday entertainment as the league looks to build on the energy of a home crowd with a large-scale drone show before play gets underway.
The addition of the drone element is intended to give fans on the ground a matchday experience that extends beyond the cricket itself, with the display visible across the venue before the games get underway.
With the pre-match drone shows on August 7 and 9, marking some of the first CPL cricket St Vincent and the Grenadines has hosted, organisers say the drone displays are a signal of the league's ambition to elevate the fan experience at every venue on the 2026 calendar – a tournament that runs through to the playoffs at Kensington Oval, Barbados, from September 16 to 20.
Young Guyanese tennis player
Zion Hickerson produced an impressive run to the semi-finals of the United States Tennis Association Level Seven (USTA L7) August Championships Under-12 Boys tournament in Flushing, New York.
Hickerson topped his group with three victories, including a notable win over third seed William Lai, before narrowly losing to bighitting Siyan Ni in a closely contested semifinal.
Ni won the match 5-3, but Hickerson showed determination after falling behind 0-2. The Guyanese player responded by winning three consecutive games to take a 3-2 lead.
Ni then levelled the contest at 3-3 before securing the final two games to advance.
The USTA tournament formed part of Hickerson’s preparation for the All In by Tsonga by Ten-Pro competition, which will be held from August 10 to 16, at JoWilfried Tsonga’s tennis academy in Nice, France.
Hickerson is currently training with his childhood coach, Shelly Daly, at Prospect
Park in New York as he continues preparations for the international tournament. His development is supported by E-Networks, ACADO, Beacon Café, Marketing Plus Agencies, Corum Restaurant Group, Mike’s Pharmacy, Modern
Optical, Jai Signs, GuyOil, Guywill Shipping, C&L Construction, Demerara Mutual, BBS Coatings, Ramchand Auto Spares, Ruff Ltd, Caribbean Container Inc, Tri-Stone Auto Sales, Hamson, GT Eats, 4R, BK, Shi-Oil, FireSide, Smalta, and Toucan Industries.
In a step towards strengthening the development of the sport locally, the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) has welcomed internationally experienced Coach Kartikey Gund of India to the Land of Many Waters for a six-month stint. According to the GBA, Gund brings more than seven years of experience in developing junior and youth badminton athletes through some of India’s leading badminton academies in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi-NCR. He currently serves as a Coach at The Sports School in Bengaluru, under the mentorship of renowned Indian badminton Coach Pullela Gopichand. Prior to this, he spent two and a half years as an assistant Coach under Indonesian Coach Brahmastafany
Dhanu Utomo, where he was instrumental in delivering structured training programmes,
preparing athletes for competition, and fostering a high-performance training environment.
During his six-month assignment in Guyana, Gund will work closely with the country’s national players while also providing technical support to the
association's affiliated clubs. His role will focus on enhancing players’ technical and tactical abilities, mentoring local Coaches, and identifying promising young athletes for inclusion in the GBA’s High Performance and Development Programme.
The initiative forms part of the GBA’s longterm strategy to strengthen badminton at every level and provide greater opportunities for players throughout the country. In addition to national team training, the association will launch a comprehensive club development programme that will see affiliated clubs benefit from scheduled Coaching visits, technical guidance, and structured athlete development support.
GBA President Emelia Ramdhani expressed confidence that the programme will have a lasting impact on the sport.
“The arrival of Coach Kartikey Gund marks another important milestone in our efforts to raise the standard of badminton in Guyana. His international experience and technical expertise will greatly benefit our athletes, Coaches, and clubs as we continue to build a stronger pathway from grassroots
participation to elite competition,” Ramdhani shared.
On the other hand, Gund has expressed his eagerness to work with the Guyanese badminton fraternity.
“I accepted this opportunity because I wanted a new challenge and the chance to help badminton grow in Guyana. Development takes time, but with hard work and teamwork, I believe we can build a strong future. I am excited to work with the players and Coaches and would be happy to continue this journey if my contract is extended,” the Coach remarked.
He went on to state, “My Coaching philosophy is built on discipline, hard work and enjoyment of the game. I want to introduce modern training methods that develop technique, footwork, physical fitness, match strategy and mental strength.”
“I also want to work
The race for the Promotech and Danny Auto Sales National Top Flight Golf League (NTFGL) Tour Two title remains wide open after Andre Cummings secured an impressive victory in Round Five at the Lusignan Golf Club on Sunday last.
Cummings returned from the competition’s five-week weather break in excellent form, recording a net score of 70 to win the overall championship and collect 10 points. The victory moved him into fifth place in the overall standings with 10 points.
Anand Persaud continues to lead the championship with 18 points, but Maxim Mangra remains firmly in contention with 17. Joseph Szeplaki occupies third place with 14 points, while Videsh Persaud is fourth on 11.
Szeplaki boosted his title hopes by finishing third in Sunday’s round with a net 74, earning three points. Patrick Prashad placed second with a net 73 and collected five points, while Bala Vijimoor finished fourth with a net 75 for two points.
Videsh Persaud completed the
top five with a net 76 and earned one point. After a correction to the scores, he was also officially declared the Front Nine winner with a net 34.
Cummings took the Back Nine prize after matching Persaud’s net 34 before completing his winning overall score.
Brian Hackett provided another memorable moment by registering a hole-in-one on the 19th hole, one of the rarest achievements in the sport.
The tournament resumed after weeks of rainfall forced the suspension of play. Drainage improvements and desilting works
closely with the local Coaches and share my experience with them. When Coaches improve, players improve as well. My aim is to help establish a strong and sustainable Coaching system that will support the long-term growth of badminton in Guyana.”
As part of his immediate responsibilities, Coach Gund is currently working with and preparing a junior team that will represent Guyana at the Caribbean Regional Badminton Confederation (CAREBACO) Junior Championships 2026, scheduled for August 12–18, 2026, in Kingston, Jamaica. The tournament will provide an important opportunity for some of Guyana’s emerging junior athletes to gain international competitive experience and measure their development against some of the region’s best young players.
carried out by the Lusignan Golf Club grounds staff helped return the course to suitable playing conditions, with firmer fairways and improving greens welcoming the competitors.
Behind the leading five in the championship standings, Vijimoor holds sixth place with seven points.
Prashad and Santo Dinanauth are tied with six points, while Arnol Deo and Spencer Hutchings have five each.
Fazil Hanif has four points, followed by Mike Mangal with three. Hackett and Patanjilee Persaud have two points each, while Chet Bowling completes the standings with one point.
With only a few rounds remaining, the narrow margins among the leading players are expected to produce a competitive finish to the season.
The league expressed appreciation to Promotech Guyana Incorporated and Danny Auto Sales for their continued sponsorship and contribution to the development of competitive golf in Guyana.
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up Kemar Roach as he attempted a wild slog without the overnight score having moved.
Justin Greaves, who had battled without adding to the scoreboard, chopped on as soon as he tried to take Mohammad Ali on. With Brandon King unable to bat after the injury he picked up while running Babar out on Tuesday, it was
Pakistan made short work of West Indies on the fourth morning, cruising to an eight-wicket win with little drama. The West Indies' lower order were polished off inside half an hour by Ali Usman, setting Pakistan a relatively academic chase of 75. Pakistan have struggled with fourth innings of late, but even for them, this was unlosable. Though the hosts picked up a couple of wickets, Pakistan were not to be denied a first away Test win in
three years. It means the series ended 1-1, the third successive series between these sides to produce that scoreline, and got Babar Azam's second stint as Test captain up and running.
Pakistan's bowlers had done much of the hard work late last evening, but they came out this morning aware of the need to extinguish any hope the hosts may have harboured of posting a defendable total. They did not have to wait long for a breakthrough; Usman cleaned
nicked off to Jayden Seales early on. However, they ensured West Indies could never really burst through the floodgates as the runs kept ticking along, and even when Azan Awais edged onto his stumps, Babar and Abdullah Shafique, the batting heroes of the first innings, steadied the innings. After lunch, Babar danced down the
down to the last pair. Shamar Joseph rode his luck through a couple of boundaries, but that was all he managed before top-edging Usman.
Pakistan began the chase slightly tentatively, and Imam-ul-Haq
wicket to deposit Jomel Warrican for successive sixes to secure the win that broke their eightmatch losing streak away from home and sent them to England with a semblance of momentum.
(ESPNcricinfo)
West Indies 2nd Innings
Tagenarine Chanderpaul
lbw b Sajid Khan 17
Kavem Hodge lbw b Ali Usman 34
Amir Jangoo b Sajid Khan 13
Roston Chase (c) c & b
Ali Usman 17
Shai Hope † lbw b Sajid Khan 15
Jayden Seales lbw b Sajid Khan 0
Justin Greaves b Mohammad Ali 3
Kemar Roach b Ali Usman 0
Shamar Joseph c †Mohammad Rizwan b Ali Usman 9
Jomel Warrican not out 2
Brandon King absent hurt -
Extras (b 1, lb 1, w 5) 7
Total 46.1 Ov
(RR: 2.53, 202 Mins) 117
Fall of wickets: 1-40 (Tagenarine Chanderpaul, 9.2 ov), 2-62 (Amir Jangoo, 17.4 ov), 3-74 (Kavem Hodge, 20.6 ov), 4-99 (Shai Hope, 35.4 ov), 5-101 (Jayden Seales, 37.1 ov), 6-103 (Roston Chase, 40.5 ov), 7-103 (Kemar Roach, 42.5 ov), 8-115 (Justin Greaves, 45.4 ov), 9-117 (Shamar Joseph, 46.1 ov)
Pakistan 2nd Innings (T: 75 runs) Azan Awais b Joseph 18 Imam-ul-Haq c Greaves b Seales 9 Abdullah Shafique not out 24 Babar Azam (c) not out 24
Extras (nb 2) 2 Total 23.3 Ov (RR: 3.27, 104 Mins) 77/2 Did not bat: Mohammad Rizwan †, Salman Agha, Awais Zafar, Ali Usman, Sajid Khan, Ubaid Shah, Mohammad Ali Fall of wickets: 1-15 (Imam-ulHaq, 4.3 ov), 2-42 (Azan Awais, 14.3 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W Kemar Roach 2-0-11-0 Jomel Warrican 11.3-4-38-0 Jayden Seales 5-1-9-1 Shamar Joseph 4-1-17-1 Kavem Hodge 1-0-2-0
Guyana made a promising start to its World Under-20 Championships campaign on Wednesday in Oregon, US, with Onesi Dunn, Athaleyha Hinckson, and Olivia Solomon advancing from their respective opening-round events.
Dunn secured his place in the men’s 100 metres semi-finals after clocking 10.38 seconds to finish second in heat three. He crossed the line just one-hundredth of a second behind Brazil’s Michael Cruz, who won in 10.37s.
Botswana’s Wahza Matakule finished third in 10.39s to claim the final automatic qualifying position from the heat.
Guyana’s other representative in the men’s 100m, Gordon Thompson, did not progress after finishing eighth in heat two with a time of 10.77s.
Great Britain’s Jake
Odey-Jordan won that heat in 10.38s, while Nigeria’s Tejiri Godwin and Slovakia’s Richard Machata both recorded 10.39s to advance in second and third, respectively.
Hinckson also booked a spot in the women’s 100m semi-finals after producing a comfortable 11.31-second performance in heat two. She finished just behind St Lucia’s Jady Emmanuel, who record-
ed a personal best of 11.28s to win the race. Australia’s Maya Taber claimed the third automatic qualifying position in 11.39s.
Meanwhile, Solomon delivered a national record-breaking performance in the opening
round of the women’s 800m.
The Guyanese athlete clocked a new national under-20 record of two minutes, 6.55 seconds to finish sixth in heat three. Despite missing an automatic qualifying position, Solomon advanced to the semi-finals as one of the next-fastest competitors.
Greece’s Ioulianna Roussou won the heat in 2:04.47s, followed by Australia’s Ivy Boothroyd and the United States’ Paige Sheppard. Hinckson and Dunn were scheduled to contest their respective 100m semi-finals later on Wednesday night, with the results to be published in a subsequent report.
The Republic Bank
Caribbean Premier League (CPL) will pay tribute to Sir Garfield Sobers, widely regarded as the greatest all-rounder the game has ever produced, with a minute's applause ahead of the first match at each tournament location this season.
The gesture will be observed once in every host territory as CPL travels across the Caribbean, ensuring fans in each country the tournament visits have the opportunity to honour Sir Garfield's life and legacy. For many supporters, this will be the first chance to publicly show how much
Sir Garfield's contribution to Caribbean cricket meant to them, coming together as one to applaud a man who shaped the game they love.
Sir Garfield passed away on July 17, 2026, at his home in Saint Michael, Barbados, at the age of 89. Over a 20-year international career (1954–1974), he played 93 Test matches for the West Indies, scoring 8032 runs at an average of 57.78 with 26 centuries, and
took 235 wickets. His unbeaten 365 against Pakistan in 1958 stood as the highest individual score in Test cricket history for 36 years, and he remains the first player to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket, a feat achieved for Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan in 1968. He captained the West Indies from 1965 to 1972.
Pete Russell, Republic Bank CPL CEO, said, "Sir Garfield
Sobers did not just play cricket; he defined what was possible in the sport. He gave West Indies cricket its identity on the world stage and inspired generations of players across the region to believe in their own greatness. It is only fitting that every ground we play on this season pauses to honour him.”
CPL will continue to find further ways to honour Sir Garfield's contribution to West Indies and world cricket throughout the season, including at the tournament final, which returns to his home ground of Kensington Oval, Barbados, in 2026.
Sir Garfield Sobers will be honoured throughout the Republic Bank CPL
A20-member National Boys’ Under-14 team will soon jet off for Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, as they compete in Tier II of this year’s Caribbean Football Union (CFU) U14 Challenge series.
Guyana has been drawn in Group C of Tier II alongside Montserrat, Anguilla, and the Bahamas, as they make their way to the top spot in that tier.
As preparations continue at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC), Jamal Pedro, who will be making his maiden voyage as the team’s Head
Coach, discussed their groundwork thus far.
“So far, we’ve been progressing very well,” Pedro told this publication. “Several weeks we’ve been working on youth development, so basically, we’re just focusing on the basics and getting them familiar with the basic principles of football because we’re looking at the long haul, even though we’re preparing to travel for a tournament. We’re looking at this bunch and how we could help them to grow, develop and, in the long run, contribute to the national team.”
According to the Federation, the U14 preparation has fallen under the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS), on which Pedro offered some more insight.
Pedro divulged, “FIFA would’ve contributed to our preparation by providing a lot of information and insight as it relates to how to deal with youth development. Like I would’ve mentioned, we focused on the basics. It’s not just working on a team to go out there and win a tournament but to help them to grow and become better, not just football players but youngsters. As they grow to become adults, instil principles that will help them in life.”
“We’re looking at how we could help these players to become better players that could contribute to the Golden Jaguars,” he highlighted.
Breaking down some of the technical work that has been covered in the national camp, the renowned youth coach discussed
how the ongoing youth ensemble programme contributed.
“One of the things that have contributed to the success in this team is the youth ensemble that has been playing. That contributed to players having a lot of exposure playing in games and playing under various clubs,” Pedro admitted.
The U14 Head Coach went on to state, “Some of the things, though, that we would’ve had to instil are the basic understanding of their positions, what is required of them, and technique – passing, moving, and receiving on the back foot. Some of these things, we see an improvement in this group because of the games they would’ve played and what they’ve been exposed to.”
With the Girls' U14 National team making it to the semi-final stage of the same competition last year, Pedro shared how their success has impacted the Boys’ team.
“It’s evident that the work that we would’ve been doing thus far has continued to grow. You’re seeing it; it’s spiralling up,” he shared.
Pedro responded to enquiries about whether or not the girls’ performance has influenced their male colleagues: “And yes, we would’ve done some reflection on what we’ve done in the past and been making changes to contribute to things becoming better. So, yes.”
The Junior Jaguars will take on Montserrat on Sunday, August 16, in their first encounter of the competition, after which they will battle Anguilla and the Bahamas on Monday, August 17, and Wednesday, August 19, in order to make a case for the knockout stages.