Guyana Times - Thursday, February 19, 2026

Make compassion a national habit – Pres Ali urges all Guyanese

Man jailed for 3 years for smuggling narcotics into Lusignan Prison

man deported from Guyana slapped with rape, kidnapping charges

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENING

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, February 19 –05:20h–06:50h, and Friday, February 20 – 05:50h–07:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Morning sunshine will cloud over before turning to brief rainfall by afternoon, followed by the return of sunny skies. Clear skies are expected overnight. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 06:06h reaching a maximum height of 2.82 metres.

Low Tide: 11:40h and 23:59h reaching minimum heights of 0.42 metre and 0.44 metre.

Make compassion a national habit – Pres Ali urges all Guyanese in Ramadan message

President Dr Irfaan Ali is urging Guyanese to make compassion a defining national value as Muslims observe Ramadan 2026, calling on citizens to ensure that the nation’s growing wealth translates into care for the vulnerable and opportunities for those left behind, in a message marking the start of the holy month.

Ramadan 2026 (1447 AH) commenced following confirmation of the crescent moon. The holy month will last either 29 or 30 days, depending on the next moon sighting, and is therefore expected to conclude around March 18 or 19. Eid ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal, is anticipated to be observed around March 19 or 20, subject to official confir -

us? We are our brothers’ keepers. We are our sisters’ keepers,” he stated.

Ali called on every sector of society to ensure that success is defined not only by profit margins but by the opportunities created for the less fortunate and those left behind, encouraging generosity in the giving of zakat and other forms of charity.

The President also appealed to every citizen, regardless of faith, to examine their own capacity for giving. Not everyone can contribute large sums, he noted, but everyone can give something: time, attention, advocacy for fair treatment, presence beside someone suffering, or a refusal to ignore injustice.

“These, too, are forms of wealth. These, too, are righteousness,” he said.

intentions, and realign our

mation.

In his message titled “Let compassion become a national habit,” the President extended greetings of peace to the Muslim community and the wider nation, noting that Ramadan carries “a message meant for us all.” He described the month as one of fasting, prayer, and spiritual renewal, but also as a period that demands deep reflection on collective responsibility. “What do we owe one another?” he asked, framing the observance as both a spiritual and national moment of reckoning.

Citing the teachings of the Holy Qur’aan, President Ali reminded citizens that true righteousness is demonstrated through action, giving of one’s wealth despite love for it, supporting relatives, orphans, the needy, and travellers, showing patience in hardship, and remaining faithful to promises. He urged Guyanese to measure national progress not by the height of buildings or the volume of exports, but by “the depth of our compassion” and “the reach of our care.”

Highlighting Guyana’s rapid economic transformation, the Head of State said the country is experiencing unprecedented growth and opportunity.

“And yet, even as we ascend, we must ask ourselves: Who ascends with

CIOG

Echoing similar themes, the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) extended Ramadan greetings to the Muslim community and the nation, describing the month as “a divine invitation to refine our character, purify our

lives with the pleasure of Allah.”

In a message signed by its President, Shahabudeen Ahmad, the organisation highlighted three defining qualities of the fasting believer: Taqwa (Godconsciousness), Sabr (patience), and Rahmah (mercy).

Quoting from Surah Al-Baqarah, the CIOG reminded believers that fasting is prescribed so that they may attain Taqwa, a constant awareness of God that shapes conduct in public and private. The organisation said Ramadan trains Muslims not only to abstain from food and drink but also from dishonesty, injustice, and arrogance, fostering integrity and emotional discipline. It further emphasised that fasting should awaken compassion for those who suffer hunger and hardship daily, encouraging charity, forgiveness, and service to others.

The CIOG also pointed to the global trials facing the Muslim Ummah, urging believers to stand firmly for justice, mercy, and truth, and to ensure that Ramadan becomes a period of genuine transformation rather than ritual observance alone.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Sacred seasons & shared values

In a nation defined by its rich tapestry of faiths, cultures and traditions, the concurrent observance of Ash Wednesday, the holy month of Ramadan, and the just-concluded Hindu observance Maha Shivrati, offers a reminder of the moral foundations that underpin Guyanese society. The messages marking these sacred periods underscore a common call to humility, repentance, renewal and, above all, compassion. At a time of rapid national transformation, such values are neither ceremonial nor symbolic, as they are essential to shaping a just and cohesive society.

Ash Wednesday signals the beginning of Lent, the 40-day Christian journey of prayer, fasting and reflection leading to Easter. The imposition of ashes serves as a solemn reminder of human mortality and shared responsibility. It calls believers to examine their lives, to turn away from excess and indifference, and to embrace humility and compassion. Lent is not merely a ritual observance but a disciplined period of introspection, urging individuals to align conduct with conscience and faith with action.

Similarly, Ramadan stands as one of the most sacred periods in the Islamic calendar. Marked by fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection, it is also a month deeply rooted in charity, empathy and self-restraint. The fast is not simply abstention from food and drink; it is an exercise in solidarity with the vulnerable and a reminder of the moral obligations owed to others. Through zakat and voluntary charity, Muslims are called to ensure that prosperity circulates and that no one is forgotten.

The resonance between these observances is striking, as both traditions emphasise self-discipline, sacrifice and renewed commitment to higher principles. Both encourage adherents to pause amid daily demands and reassess priorities. Both insist that authentic faith must be expressed in tangible care for the less fortunate. In this convergence lies a profound lesson for a multi-religious and multi-cultural society such as Guyana.

National development is often measured in statistics, economic growth rates, infrastructure projects, investment inflows, and export volumes. Guyana’s economic expansion in recent years has been historic, ushering in new opportunities and raising expectations across sectors. Yet spiritual seasons such as Lent and Ramadan prompt a broader measure of progress. They challenge society to consider whether material advancement is matched by moral advancement, whether prosperity translates into inclusion, and whether growth uplifts the most vulnerable.

Compassion, when elevated from sentiment to practice, becomes a stabilising force in times of change. It fosters social trust, reduces resentment, and builds bridges across differences. In a country where Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and other faiths coexist alongside diverse ethnic and cultural communities, shared ethical values provide common ground. The virtues of humility, generosity, and service are universal principles that strengthen national unity.

The call by President Dr Irfaan Ali to make compassion a defining national value is particularly relevant in an era of transformation.

Importantly, both Lent and Ramadan stress personal responsibility, and not every contribution must be grand to be meaningful. Time offered to community service, advocacy for fairness, support for neighbours in hardship, and simple acts of kindness all constitute forms of wealth. These gestures, multiplied across communities, cultivate a culture in which care for others becomes habitual rather than exceptional.

Guyana’s strength has always rested in its pluralism; from churches and mosques to mandirs and temples, the nation’s spiritual landscape reflects a history of migration and coexistence. Observances such as Ash Wednesday and Ramadan invite citizens of every belief to recognise the common threads that bind diverse traditions together.

As Guyana continues its ascent on the global stage, the moral compass provided by its faith communities remains indispensable. A society that measures its success by the depth of its compassion and the reach of its care secures not only economic prosperity but also social harmony. In this sacred season, the shared call to reflection and generosity stands as both spiritual guidance and national imperative.

The future doesn’t wait for islands to recover

By AntheA McLAughLin

The Caribbean is often described as resilient, but resilience has become a polite word for endurance without repair. Every hurricane season the region is asked, implicitly and explicitly, to bounce back; to rebuild homes, livelihoods, and ecosystems with fewer resources, more debt, and rising global expectations. What is rarely acknowledged is this: The Caribbean is not failing to adapt. The systems meant to finance adaptation are failing the Caribbean.

The Future Forward Forum and the Caribbean Climate Funders Commitment (CCFC) were born out of that truth. They exist because the old models of philanthropy — slow, extractive, externally designed, and risk averse — are no longer fit for a world shaped by climate volatility, gender inequality, and widening economic gaps.

And nowhere is that mismatch more visible than in small island developing states.

Climate crisis meets funding failure

The Caribbean contributes a fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet absorbs some of the most severe climate impacts, such as stronger storms, rising seas, food insecurity, disrupted education, and fragile health systems. At the same time, Caribbean organisations face systemic barriers to funding — limited access to global capital, compliance hurdles, under-representation in decision-making spaces, and

a chronic lack of long-term, flexible finance.

This is not a capacity problem; it is an access problem. The CCFC directly addresses this gap by aligning Caribbean and global funders around a shared commitment to integrate climate action into philanthropy — intentionally, measurably, and equitably. Not as a side project. Not as a one-off grant. But as a core responsibility.

Through CCFC, funders are supported to move from intention to implementation using structured frameworks, shared learning, and accountability tools that allow climate action to be embedded across portfolios, regardless of fund size. This is how philanthropy stops reacting and starts leading.

Why Future Forward exists

The Future Forward Forum took place across Kingston from February 9 to 12. It was not intended to be a conference for conversation’s sake. It is a working platform designed to solve a specific problem: How to move capital faster, smarter, and more equitably into Caribbean-led solutions. It brought together philanthropists, development partners, Diaspora leaders, policymakers, and civil society not to replicate global models, but to co-create funding approaches rooted in Caribbean realities.

The vision is simple, but ambitious:

• funding that is attentive to the ways in which race, gender, class, (dis) ability, among other factors, are interconnected and shape experiences of disadvantage;

• climate action that includes women as architects, not afterthoughts;

• food security strategies shaped by local knowledge;

• philanthropy that strengthens systems, not dependencies.

Future Forward recognises that climate resilience cannot be separated from gender equity, economic justice, or food systems. When a storm hits, it does not discriminate by sector. Neither should funding.

Women at the centre, not the margins

One of the clearest signals of systemic failure is how consistently women, especially black and Caribbean women, are excluded from climate finance, despite being on the front lines of response and recovery.

Through the WomenLed Climate Philanthropy Initiative, the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance (CARIPHIL) and its partners have committed to changing that equation –not symbolically, but structurally by mobilising capital, visibility, and capacity for women-led organisations addressing climate resilience, livelihoods, education, and community health. This is not charity. It is a smart investment. Evidence shows that when women lead, outcomes improve across food security, climate adaptation, and economic stability. Ignoring this is not neutral. It is inefficient.

Intermediary philanthropy as infrastructure

CARIPHIL’s role is often misunderstood. It is not simply a convener or

a grant-maker. It is infrastructure. As an intermediary philanthropy organisation, CARIPHIL absorbs complexity so that funders can deploy resources with confidence and local organisations can focus on impact. It provides governance assurance, regional insight, capacity strengthening, and trusted pipelines to grass roots and national actors across more than 20 Caribbean countries.

This matters because donors increasingly want impact, but without navigating fragmented systems alone. CARIPHIL makes equitable funding possible at scale, while reducing risk for all parties involved. This is how good intentions become durable outcomes.

The Caribbean does not need more sympathy after disasters, it needs partners before them. The Caribbean Climate Funders Commitment and Future Forward Forum represent a shift from reactive giving to proactive investment, from isolated grants to coordinated systems change, from external solutions to Caribbean-led brilliance. The question for funders is no longer whether the Caribbean is resilient enough. The real question is whether global philanthropy is brave enough to change, to fund differently, to listen longer, to invest earlier. The fact is that the future is already arriving in the Caribbean. And it will move forward with or without the systems meant to support it. The choice is ours. (Jamaica Observer) (Anthea McLaughlin is CEO of the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance.)

Geneva Agreement does not extinguish 1899 Arbitral Award – Guyana reaffirms

…rejects Venezuelan claims

…says will continue to defend sovereignty, territorial integrity

In commemorating the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Geneva Agreement, Guyana is underscoring the immense legal and diplomatic significance of this treaty, reminding that it is not a replacement for the 1899 Arbitral Award, which establishes the boundary with neighbouring Venezuela.

The Geneva Agreement was a response to Venezuela’s change of position in 1962 when, after 60 years of recognising the validity of the 1899 Award and the international boundary it established, it suddenly adopted a contrary position, claiming the Award was invalid.

Great Britain and then British Guiana, now Guyana, had rejected Venezuela’s abrupt turnabout, holding fast to their firm position on the legal validity and binding nature of the Award. Negotiations led to an agreement at Geneva on a peaceful procedure for resolving the controversy over the validity of the award.

The Geneva Agreement was signed between the United Kingdom and Venezuela on February 17, 1966, and subsequently acceded to by the independent State of Guyana on May 26, 1966. It is a binding international instrument deposited with the United Nations and grounded firmly in the principles of the United Nations Charter and the rule of international law.

Against this backdrop, Guyana, via a statement from the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry on Wednesday, firmly rejected assertions and misrepresentations that continue to emanate from official Venezuelan pronouncements which seek to distort the purpose and legal effect of the Geneva Agreement, deny the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), or assert unfounded claims to Guyana’s sovereign territory.

“The Geneva Agreement does not extinguish the 1899 Arbitral Award, nor does it confer upon Venezuela the right to unilaterally determine the status of Guyana’s Essequibo region. Rather, it provides a clear and lawful pathway, before the International Court of

Justice, for the definitive resolution of the controversy,” the Ministry stated.

Pursuant to Articles I to IV of the Geneva Agreement, successive mechanisms were put in place until a final resolution was achieved, including diplomatic negotiation by a Mixed Commission for four years, followed by recourse to the Secretary General of the United Nations to choose the next means of dispute settlement.

The Secretary-General initially chose mediation under his “good offices”, which endured from 1990 to 2017 without progress toward a resolution. In January 2018, the Secretary-General concluded that the “good offices” approach had failed to resolve the controversy, and, in accordance with Article IV (2) of the Geneva Agreement, he chose adjudication by the ICJ as the next, and final, means of resolution. Both Guyana and Venezuela were bound by this decision.

Guyana accordingly instituted proceedings before the ICJ in March 2018, seeking a final and binding determination that the 1899 Arbitral Award is valid and that the land boundary established thereby remains legally binding on both Guyana and Venezuela.

Rejected Venezuela’s objection

Venezuela objected to the ICJ’s jurisdiction, but in a December 18, 2020 decision, the Court rejected Venezuela’s objection and affirmed that it has jurisdiction to entertain the case, finding that by conferring on the Secretary General the authority to choose the means of settlement, the parties had consented to judicial resolution by the Court. The World Court subsequently reaffirmed its competence to resolve the controversy in its 2023 Judgement on preliminary objections raised by Venezuela and has continued to exercise its judicial function in accordance with international law and the requisite rules of the Court.

According to the Foreign Ministry, Venezuela’s claims that the judicial process before the ICJ is inconsistent with the Geneva Agreement are equally untenable.

Guyana contends that “…as the Court expressly determined in rejecting Venezuela’s arguments, recourse to the Court flows directly from the express provisions of Article IV (2) of the said Agreement and from the decision of the United Nations Secretary General acting within the authority conferred upon him by both Parties pursuant to the provisions of that Agreement. The Court has thus found that it is the proper and lawful forum for the settlement of the controversy, and its eventual judgement will be final and binding upon both parties under international law.”

Both Guyana and Venezuela have already filed written pleadings on the merits of the case, and the ICJ has set May 4 for the commencement of oral arguments on the merits. It is anticipated that the World Court will rule on the matter sometime this year, and Guyana is confident in a “favourable” ruling.

Aggressive tactics

For decades, the

Spanish-speaking nation has deployed a number of aggressive tactics against Guyana as it continues to lay spurious claims to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass – the entire Essequibo region and a portion of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), where successful oil operations are ongoing offshore.

The World Court has twice ordered, at Guyana’s request, provisional measures to preserve the status quo and ensure that neither party undertakes actions which might aggravate or extend the dispute pending its final judgement. Guyana has consistently complied with these orders and has called upon Venezuela to

do likewise, in strict observance of its international obligations.

Nevertheless, Guyana has reiterated its commitment to the judicial process before the ICJ and to the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.

“Guyana remains steadfast in its adherence to the principles of international law, the sanctity of treaties, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. For nearly six decades, Guyana has acted in good faith, respecting both the letter and spirit of the Geneva Agreement, while maintaining full compliance with its international obligations. Guyana will continue to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity through lawful and peaceful means and

with full confidence in the impartial adjudication of the International Court of Justice,” the missive outlined.

Meanwhile, Guyana used the opportunity to call on Venezuela to recommit itself to the rule of international law, to respect the ongoing judicial process before the ICJ, and to refrain from actions or statements which may undermine peace and stability in the region.

It said, “The Government of Guyana reaffirms its enduring commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect among nations, and the definitive judicial resolution of this controversy by the International Court of Justice in accordance with the 1966 Geneva Agreement and the Charter of the United Nations.”

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2026

Page Foundation

Dividing Decimals

To divide decimals we can use a variety of division methods. We will use short division for our examples, but the use of long division or equivalent fractions are also appropriate methods. If we are dividing a decimal by an integer, we can use short division method to obtain the answer.

If we are dividing a number by a decimal, we can adjust the division problem to make the decimal an integer.

We can treat the division like a fraction and find an equivalent fraction which has an integer denominator.

The easiest way to do this is to multiply both the numerator and denominator by the same power of ten

This equivalent division will have the same answer as our original problem.

Example 1: dividing a decimal by an integer

Instructions

Cut up the egg carton. Each egg container area is going to be a flower bud. Cut right down the middle and remove the excess areas. Trim to create petals.

3. Paint the egg carton "flowers" with the paint colours of your choice. Give them several coats and let dry.

5.

to

6.

(Adapted from modpodgerocksblog.com)

By Carl Dennis

This summer I didn’t find time

To make my trip, long promised, to the Grand Canyon, But next summer will be different And I’ll ride the burros down And camp out with blankets on the stone floor

Under the stars.

This is an example of hope without evidence,

Which seems a cousin to delusion, I admit, Delusion about the future

That the Greeks and Romans were free of.

Impressive how Horace considers fortune generous

For giving him only a small farm

And a mind not insensitive to Grecian poetry.

I wonder why I hear in his genial voice

A gloomy undertone

If I don’t believe in Eden

If I don’t compare his cheerful light of reason

To the flames of the bush I don’t believe in Though maybe Moses one minute is a murderer

Running for his life, while the next

He thinks he’s ready to deliver Israel.

The same man in the same forsaken place, But different.

Do the stars that shine in the Empire

Oblivious to any plans but their own Shine here as numberless, patient worlds

Who’ve waited for my own star-gazing kind, Waited to comfort me on my pilgrimage

As I near the garden promised the Pilgrim’s sons?

“Enjoy the moment before it goes,

This moment no different from the others.”

That’s what Horace advises

As he motions me to the supper table

And pours the wine, while I try to explain How the years are waiting at the end of the tunnel

To link us with supper music we can’t imagine Though by now the musicians must be warming up.

United States “100% committed” to extradition of Azruddin, Nazar Mohamed – Amb Theriot

US Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot on Wednesday said that the United States is “100 per cent committed” to securing the extradition of US-indicted Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, despite months of adjournments and delays in the ongoing court proceedings in Guyana.

Ambassador Theriot, in an interview with News Room, stated that Washington remains firmly invested in seeing the matter brought to a conclusion.

Extradition proceedings against the two men have been adjourned on several occasions in the Magistrates’ Courts, with delays stemming from defence-filed constitutional challenges, applications for stays, appeals to the

High Court, issues surrounding prosecutorial disclosures and at least two illness-related postponements. Although several attempts were made to halt the process, the High Court has rejected bids to stop the committal hearings at the Magistrates’ Courts.

Against that backdrop, Ambassador Theriot told News Room that “the US is 100 per cent committed to seeing this through”, emphasising that it is “incredibly important to us that these proceedings continue and that a decision is ultimately made.”

Acknowledging the drawn-out nature of the case, she noted that “there have been a lot of delays, including today [Wednesday],” but added that the United States remains hopeful that the matter will advance.

District of Florida, which charged the father and son with conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering and customs-related offences linked to an alleged largescale gold export and tax evasion scheme. US prosecutors have alleged that more than 10,000 kilograms of gold were unlawfully exported, resulting in an estimated US$50 million in lost tax and duty revenues to the Government of Guyana. Prior to the indictment, the duo were sanctioned in June 2024 by the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) over allegations of trade-based money laundering and related financial offences.

Underscoring Washington’s seriousness, the Ambassador said, “The US Government does not

spend tens of thousands of US taxpayer dollars to request extradition if we’re not serious. We want to see justice served, both for the Guyanese and the US people,” the ambassador said in the interview.

Theriot stressed that the United States respects Guyana’s legal process.

“We have to be respectful of the Guyanese judicial system; the ball is in your court, as they say… We are watching from afar. We are not interfering, but we are very, very interested in the outcome, and we are fully committed to seeing this through,” she stated.

On Wednesday when the case was called, it was once again adjourned after the court was informed by the defence team that the elder Mohamed continues to struggle with health issues.

US extradition request for Mohameds Case delayed yet again over health claims; legal dispute arises over paper-committal request

The United States extradition case involving sanctioned Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, was once again adjourned on Wednesday after the court was informed that the elder Mohamed continues to struggle with health issues.

The proceedings, being heard in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, have been ongoing for more than three months. When the matter was called on February 9, it was adjourned to February 16 after the court was told that Nazar Mohamed was unwell. On that February 16 hearing, an arrest warrant was issued for Azruddin Mohamed when he failed to appear at the scheduled 09:00h session, but the warrant was withdrawn after the defence provided an explanation for his absence. Nazar Mohamed did not attend that hearing.

On Wednesday, both father and son were present, although no updated medical report was presented for the elder Mohamed. Defence attorneys told the court that his cardiologist is currently on leave and that his recovery remains incomplete. The court agreed to set the next hearing for February 26, allowing time for additional medical documentation to be prepared.

During Wednesday’s

proceedings, the prosecution proposed that the extradition process move forward via paper committal rather than the traditional Preliminary Inquiry (PI). The suggestion was initially put forward by Attorney Glen Hanoman and supported by lead prosecutor, Jamaican Attorney-at-Law Terrence Williams.

The defence objected to the proposal, arguing that the Fugitive Offenders Act does not allow extradition matters to be processed through paper committal.

Attorney Siand Dhurjon said that moving the case in this manner would bypass cross-examination and deny the defendants their right to test evidence orally.

Magistrate Latchman questioned the prosecution on the legal basis for applying the new paper committal legislation to extradition proceedings. She noted that extradition cases under the Fugitive Offenders Act are distinct from indictable criminal matters and require preliminary inquiry procedures to ensure fairness.

“What would be the criminal offence in this matter? That’s one… and paper committal applies where there is a criminal offence. When a Magistrate conducts a paper committal, there is absolutely no cross-examination,” she said.

“Cross-examination

takes place in the High Court before a Judge and a jury, once you are committed. But isn’t the path to justice lined with examination in chief, cross-examination, and re-examination? Isn’t the path to justice lined?” Magistrate Latchman asked.

Prosecutor Williams argued that, in extradition cases, the requesting state, in this case, the United States, tests the evidence. When pressed, he acknowledged that the requested state, Guyana, could also review the evidence but maintained that cross-examination is not strictly required in such proceedings.

The court directed the prosecution to submit written arguments on the paper committal proposal by February 26.

During the hearing on Wednesday, US-indicted Nazar Mohamed addressed the court regarding his condition. “I’m really not well; tightness in my chest, breathing [problems], but the cramps are under control, and the pressure is still up. I’m just here because the counsel told me I have to come,” Mohamed told the court.

Attorney-at-law Charrandass Persaud, former High Commissioner to India, was also present in

the courtroom and was seen seated with the defence attorneys. However, Persaud later said outside the court that he is not formally part of the legal team but was just observing.

In December 2018, Persaud, an MP for the then David Granger-led Administration, had voted against the APNU/AFC Government in a no confidence motion.

The extradition against sanctioned Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed is being pursued under the Guyana-United Kingdom Extradition Treaty, retained under Section 4(1)(a) of the Fugitive Offenders

Act, Cap. 10:04, as updated by Act No. 10 of 2024. The formal extradition request from the United States was submitted on October 30, 2025.

The father-son duo, along with their business interests, were sanctioned by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on June 11, 2024, for alleged largescale corruption, including gold smuggling, money laundering, and bribery. Investigations indicate attempts to evade more than US$50 million in taxes owed to the Guyanese Government.

In addition, a grand jury in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida has indicted Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed on 11 criminal counts, including wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering, primarily linked to the export of gold by Mohamed’s Enterprises to the United States. Convictions on most counts carry maximum penalties of 20 years in prison and fines of up to US$250,000. The money laundering charge carries a potential fine of US$500,000 or the value of the laundered assets.

Both father and son are out on $150,000 bail each as the extradition proceedings continue. The next hearing is scheduled for February 26.

Vision…

…for the country

It’s said if you don’t know where you’re going, you ain’t never gonna get there!! And it’s as true for countries as for people. But for countries, while it ultimately depends on everybody putting their shoulders to the (developmental) wheel, it’s up to the Government we’ve elected to chart a course and steer the wheel towards it. It’s a vision thing – what do we want for ourselves writ large – and as such, our country. Having just had Budget 2026 debated and passed in the National Assembly, we should have a very clear idea about where we’re gonna place the next (developmental) step. But where are we headed??

Well, Pressie took the opportunity to tell us exactly that when he launched – under the theme “Building Tomorrow’s Future Today” – the 5th Annual Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo at the Marriott. Basically, he plans to use our oil revenues and the associated gas that’s gonna be brought ashore to do a number of things – diversifying the economy so that we don’t remain a one-trick (oil) pony. We don’t have to look elsewhere for the dangers of that strategy – if one can call it a “strategy”!! We experienced it with sugar – which once carried the entire country on its back!! And now that its back is broken – look at how the ungrateful are insisting it be left to rot and die!!

He answered the critics who complain they “can’t eat roads” – as if that’s a criticism of development that’ll leave our people right where they are. He pointed out that if we really want to – say – feed ourselves and eliminate hunger –we gotta open up mega farms like the ones now producing soya and sweet corn to feed cattle!! And it takes ROADS to bring those products to markets on the coast!! And so on and so forth with everything we intend to produce. Like that gas-to-shore project in Wales that ain’t just gonna produce electricity to power our national grid but will also be used as feedstock to manufacture fertilisers and methanol, etc. Not to mention bottling natural gas for us to use in our kitchens. Berbice’s now gonna have its own gas pipeline to catalyse development there.

To lead the world in sustainable development, Pressie also mentioned we’re gonna revive the Amaila Hydro project – which the APNU/AFC Government spitefully torpedoed!! And not only use AI to improve delivery of all services – but also host a US$500M data centre!!

Your Eyewitness can’t regurgitate the entire vision here to give it justice!! Suffice it to say it knocked the socks off the quite economically savvy audience!! Imagine Chevron’s head saying that Ali’s vision won’t only change Guyana – but the world!!

…and lack thereof

You just can’t please some people. One local wailing Jeremiah’s been screaming “corruption!!!” for years, which the Government admits is a problem which they’re working to reduce!! The fella just couldn’t swallow Transparency International’s announcement that in their worldwide “Corruption Index” – Guyana improved by one point!! This was “inconsequential”, he bleated!! And how’d he know?? Through the “lived experience” of ordinary folks – even though he didn’t even conduct a survey!!

The fact is, Transparency International gets the data to put out its report from a local affiliate – which has shown it’s no friend of the Government! And as such wouldn’t have pulled any punches!! In any third-world economy expanding as fast as ours – without the guardrails that took centuries to build by the developed economies but still have corruption – the best the Government can do is establish institutions – setting rules of the game – and then monitor the gatekeepers who’re gonna be inevitably tempted with bribes!!

It’ll take time, but TI says we’re heading in the right direction!!

…dimmed

The Stabber’s closure is fundamentally due – as they’ve reiterated – to folks not only choosing to get their info from social media but also, because they’re increasingly becoming functionally illiterate, they can’t do otherwise!!

It’s now communication by grunts!!

Police reviewing CCTV footage, driver in custody

Police have provided new details as investigations continue into the fatal collision that claimed the life of a 64-year-old man along the Cornelia Ida Public Road, West Coast Demerara, on Tuesday afternoon.

The accident occurred at about 13:56h and involved a motor lorry, GAD 7032, driven by a 42-year-old man from Friendship, East Bank Demerara, and an electric cycle ridden by Roy Chanka of Cornelia Ida.

According to investigators,

cate that the lorry was travelling west along the southern side of the roadway and was in the process of turning into the Cornelia Ida Access Road when its left front wheel

preliminary enquiries indi-

struck the electric cycle, which was also heading in the same

direction. The impact caused Chanka to fall onto the roadway and come into contact with the vehicle, resulting in severe injuries.

He was rushed to West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His body was later taken to Ezekiel Funeral Home, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Police have since reviewed and secured CCTV footage from the area as the investigation continues. A breathalyser test conducted on the lorry driver showed no trace of alcohol in his system, Police said.

The driver remains in Police custody as enquiries continue. Authorities have indicated that further action will depend on the outcome of the investigation and additional evidence gathered.

Police have reiterated their appeal to road users to exercise caution, particularly at intersections and access roads, as investigations into the fatal incident remain ongoing.

Man jailed for 3 years for smuggling narcotics into Lusignan Prison

Alabourer, Timothy Mc Garrell, of Timehri Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, was sentenced to three years in prison after being charged with attempting to introduce narcotics into a correctional facility, following his guilty plea.

The 24-year-old man was charged with introducing narcotics into prison, contrary to Section 7(1) (a)(i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Chapter 10:10. The offence was committed on Tuesday at Lusignan Prison.

He appeared on Wednesday before Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him. After pleading guilty, he was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment and fined $30,000.

The charge arose from an incident on Tuesday when prison officers intercepted McGarrell during routine security checks at the Lusignan facility. During a search, ranks discovered a quantity of cannabis concealed beneath the soles of his slippers. The narcotics were immediately seized, and McGarrell was

taken into custody before being handed over to the police.

Officials from the Guyana Prison Service reported that the discovery was made during standard checkpoint procedures, which are part of the Service’s enhanced internal security measures. Authorities noted that the successful interception reflected increased vigilance among prison ranks.

The incident occurred just days after a similar smuggling attempt was thwarted at the New Amsterdam Prison, where an 18-year-old woman was arrested after can-

nabis was found hidden inside deodorant containers in her handbag during a routine search.

Prison officials have since reiterated that members of the public should avoid accepting packages from third parties for delivery to inmates and should ensure they are fully aware of the contents of any items brought to correctional institutions. They warned that individuals who facilitate or participate in such activities risk facing criminal charges and imprisonment.

The matter was also addressed recently during the Prisons in Focus, where senior officers highlighted the growing number of persons claiming ignorance after being caught with contraband. Officials stressed that multiple layers of security screening are in place at prison facilities and that prohibited items are likely to be detected.

The Guyana Prison Service has maintained that it will continue strengthening its security systems and enforcement measures to prevent the trafficking of illegal substances and other prohibited items into correctional institutions.

Rupununi tour guide’s death

Community relations officer slapped with murder charge

A49-year-old com -

munity relations officer has been formally charged in connection with the murder of popular Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) tour guide

Leon Baird, whose burnt body was discovered inside his vehicle earlier this year.

Ken Faria of Culvert City, Central Rupununi, was on Wednesday charged with the offence of murder, con -

trary to common law, in relation to the killing of Baird, also known as “Rasta”. The alleged offence is said to have occurred between January 23 and January 25, at Wichabai.

Faria appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where the charge was read to him. He was not required to enter a plea and was remanded to prison. The mat -

Wanted miner charged in alleged stabbing of wife, granted bail

Aman who was previously listed as wanted in connection with stabbing his wife has now been arrested, charged, and granted bail by the court.

Mahendra Rampersaud, also known as “Kacey”, a 34-yearold miner of Mon Repos School Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was recently taken into custody by ranks of the Guyana Police Force after a wanted bulletin was issued.

He was apprehended during an early-morning operation on February 14 at the Lusignan Grass Field by officers from the Vigilance Police Station.

The suspect was wanted in relation to an incident that occurred on May 16, 2025, at Bladen Hall/ Strathspey, ECD, during which a 32-year-old housewife sustained injuries.

According to reports, the victim, 31-year-old Felicia Dharamjeet, was allegedly attacked and stabbed by her husband, Mahendra Rampersaud, at her parents’ home in Bladen Hall, ECD.

The couple had been married for about 14 years but separated three months prior to the attack, when the woman left their Mon Repos residence with their two sons, aged 11 and nine.

According to the woman, her husband went to the home around 15:00h after picking the children up from school, and accused her of infidelity and spreading false information about him. She denied the allegations and alleged that he became enraged, forced his way inside, attacking her with a knife.

During the incident, their older son sustained cuts to his hand while

On bail: Mahendra Rampersaud

trying to intervene. The woman was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital with two stab wounds to her neck and injuries to her hand. Her son was treated at the Nabaclis Health Centre and later discharged. The matter was later reported to the Vigilance Police Station.

She had also disclosed that there had been previous issues in the marriage, including repeated arguments and accusations. She had also previously obtained restraining orders against her husband, withdrawing the first in an effort to reconcile.

Since the incident, the man had been in hiding. He was recently arrested and charged with the offence of felonious wounding, contrary to Section 56(a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. The charge was formally laid in connection with the 2025 incident.

Rampersaud appeared on Tuesday before Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty and was granted $200,000 bail.

The matter has been adjourned to March 26.

Remanded: Ken Faria

Dead: Leon Baird, known as “Rasta” ter has been adjourned to March 31.

The charge follows weeks of investigations

into the death of Baird, whose body was found on January 29 inside his burnt vehicle in an area between Wichabai and Sand Creek, Region Nine.

The Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority had described Baird as an exceptional tour guide who played a vital role in promoting Guyana’s natural beauty and enhancing visi -

tors’ experiences in the Rupununi.

Tourism advocacy group Visit Rupununi also paid tribute, remembering Baird as a gentle and caring individual who was deeply committed to learning and conservation. The group highlighted his passion for studying plants, birds, and wildlife, as well as his dedication to supporting family, friends, and visitors to the region.

115 dangerous drivers fined, licences suspended

Fines have been imposed and drivers’ licences suspended in at least 115 completed dangerous driving cases prosecuted through the courts after being captured by the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS), the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has reported.

According to the GPF, hundreds of additional matters detected by SRIS cameras remain at various stages of review and prosecution as en -

forcement efforts continue to intensify.

Dangerous driving offences arise when a motorist operates a vehicle in a manner that endangers the public, other road users, or property. Police said such conduct not only places lives at risk but also disrupts traffic flow and increases the likelihood of preventable collisions. These offences are not ticketable and must instead be heard before a magistrate.

According to the GPF, each case recorded by the SRIS undergoes a detailed review by trained Police ranks, and the footage is analysed, compiled into evidence, and formally presented before the court as part of the prosecution process. Recent matters heard at the Sparendaam and Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts involved drivers including Kwande Pellew, Wahid Prasad, Narendra Persaud, Brandt Ally, and Kimeon

The individuals were fined between $25,000 and $50,000, with some also facing suspension of their licences.

The Police have indicated that officers utilise electronic tablets to show motorists the recorded footage during the verification and charge preparation process prior to court proceedings. The Force is also strengthening its prosecutorial capacity to accelerate the preparation and advancement of SRIS-related cases as the programme expands nationwide.

Just last month, the

GPF reported that more than 6500 illegal thirdlane violations have been detected along monitored roadways through SRIS surveillance.

An illegal third-lane violation occurs when a driver unlawfully uses the roadway shoulder or outer lane as an additional traffic lane outside what is legally designated for traffic flow.

Police warn that this behaviour undermines road discipline, creates congestion, and significantly heightens the risk of avoidable accidents.

Like dangerous driving offences, these violations are not ticketable and

must be addressed before a magistrate.

To date, 585 thirdlane cases have already been heard and processed in court, resulting in fines and, in some instances, suspension of drivers’ licences. The remaining matters are progressing through the judicial system.

The SRIS system is a national initiative led by the Government of Guyana and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) to modernise traffic management through data-driven enforcement.

T&T man deported from Guyana slapped with rape, kidnapping charges

A32-year-old man who was deported from Guyana about a week ago is now behind bars in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) after being charged with multiple serious criminal offences, including rape, kidnapping, and assault.

Gabriel “Batman” Harrigin, of Bombay Street, St James, T&T, appeared before a High Court Judge on Wednesday, where bail was denied, and he was remanded to prison.

The charges relate to a report filed with police on January 19, following an incident on January 18. Court documents stated that the complainant went out with Harrigin to a bar on Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook, and later alleged that she was forced into his vehicle and taken to his residence in St James.

At the home, she reportedly was prevented from leaving and assaulted, and she alleged that Harrigin forced her into a bedroom, committing sexual assault on two occasions.

Police allegedly executed a search warrant at Harrigin’s residence on February 10, seizing electronic devices that were forwarded to the Cyber Crime Unit for forensic analysis. The charges brought against him include kidnapping, false imprisonment, two counts of rape, grievous sexual assault, and assault by beating.

Harrigin had been deported from Guyana on February 10 in what was initially reported as an

immigration matter. He was taken into custody by immigration authorities after being instructed to report to the Criminal Investigation Department in Guyana and placed on a flight to T&T, arriving at Piarco International Airport shortly thereafter.

Sources indicated that Harrigin had been in Guyana seeking employment prior to his deportation.

The deportation followed previous cybercrime complaints filed in Guyana by multiple young women who alleged that intimate photos and videos had been shared online without their consent. Harrigin denied responsibility for the online postings, claiming that his mobile phone had been stolen and the material was leaked without his knowledge.

Law enforcement officials in Trinidad have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and Harrigin is expected to return to court on March 20 for a further bail hearing.

President Ali calls for reflection, humility, kindness as Lent begins

President Dr Irfaan Ali extended greetings to all Christians observing Ash Wednesday, marking the start of the Lenten season.

In a statement on Wednesday, the president highlighted the significance of the occasion as a period of humility, repentance, and spiritual renewal. “Ash Wednesday reminds us of humility, repentance, and

renewal. The ashes placed upon the forehead symbolise mortality and our shared responsibility to live with purpose, faith, and compassion,” he said.

The Head of State emphasised that Lent is a time for prayer, fasting, and self-reflection, encouraging citizens to pause from the demands of daily life to examine their actions and responsibilities to others. He noted that the season calls

for virtues such as humility, sacrifice, and compassion, which can strengthen both faith and the nation as a whole.

“May this season inspire deeper reflection and a renewed spirit of strength. Let us use these forty days to build bridges of understand-

ing and extend kindness to those in need,” the president added.

Lent is a 40-day period in the Christian calendar that commemorates the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness. It begins on Ash Wednesday and concludes on Holy Saturday, the day be-

fore Easter Sunday. In 2026, Lent began on Wednesday (February 18) and will end on April 4. During this sea-

son, Christians are called to prayer, reflection, and acts of penance in preparation for Easter.

“We must equip citizens to lead energy transition” – PM Phillips …highlights green jobs as Guyana expands solar, hydro capacity

As part of efforts to transition to clean and renewable energy sources, the Guyana Government is building out the workforce that is needed to lead this transformation.

This is according to Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips during a presentation on Wednesday at the 2026 edition of the Guyana Energy Conference being held in Georgetown under the theme “Building Tomorrow’s Future Today.”

According to Phillips, clean and renewable energy development goes far beyond technology and infrastructure but includes ensuring equity and opportunity for every citizen. This, he noted, requires creating opportunities through green education and training in renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies in order to equip a new workforce to lead innovation and progress amid an evolving energy landscape.

“Our Government has been advancing initiatives with the University of Guyana and through the GOAL – Guyana Online Academy of Learning – platform to develop the skilled labour force needed to drive this clean energy transition.

From engineers and technicians to environmental scientists and policy experts, we must equip our citizens with the skills needed to lead this transformation,” the PM stated.

The Guyana Government has been pursuing a clean and just energy transition through a diverse energy mix that includes natural gas and other renewable energy sources such as solar and hydropower, with potential also for wind and biomass – resulting in over 500 megawatts (MW) of newly installed capacity.

Against this backdrop, PM Phillips underscored the importance of the international community supporting energy transition, especially among developing countries like Guyana.

“No country can navigate the energy transition alone. Global cooperation is essential. Climate change is a shared challenge, and sustainable solutions require shared responsibility. Developing countries like Guyana must be supported with access to financing, technology transfer, and technical expertise to accelerate the transition to clean energy.”

“We call on our international partners to continue

strengthening collaboration in these areas. Investments in renewable and clean energy, climate adaptation, and sustainable infrastructure are investments in global stability and shared response and shared prosperity,” he posited.

In the same breath, PM Phillips, in recognising that the private sector plays a critical role in driving innovation and scaling solutions, welcomes responsible investment that aligns with its national priorities and supports sustainable development.

“We believe in partnerships that are transparent, mutually beneficial, and grounded in long-term vision. To investors and partners gathered here today, I wish to declare that Guyana is open for sustainable business. We are actively building a future where energy development is guided by responsibility, innovation, and environmental respect,” he asserted.

Already, the local private sector has been demonstrating this shared commitment to push renewable energy in the country. In Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), Bosai Minerals Group (Guyana) Inc will be con-

structing a 10-MW solar farm to support its bauxite operations there. That solar farm project is set to become operational by the end of 2027.

Similarly, Aurora Gold Mines (AGM) is also slated to complete the construction of its own solar farm at its Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) mines by the end of March, generating some four to five megawatts of clean energy at that location.

These will complement solar farms constructed by the Government across the country at Onderneeming, Charity, Leguan, Wakenaam, Trafalgar, Prospect, Hampshire, Bartica, Mahdia, and Lethem.

Moreover, some 46 solar mini-grids in the hinterland, mainly Amerindian, communities were installed.

A further 7,250 solar-powered home systems have been distributed, resulting in the addition of over 40 MW of renewable energy, mainly in the hinterland area, benefiting over 120 Guyanese.

In 2026, the installation of 10 new solar mini-grids will be completed, benefiting over 6200 households in hinterland and riverain

communities. The distribution network in Maburuma, Mathews Ridge and Port Kaituma will continue to be upgraded to benefit over 2600 households and businesses in those communities, while the ongoing construction of a 15-MW solar farm in Linden will be completed in 2027.

Additionally, mini-hydro power plants were constructed at Moco Moco, Kumu, and Kato.

PM Phillips says that this year, the Government plans to install an additional 100 MW of solar power, while at the same time advancing the 165-MW Amaila Falls Hydropower Project and upgrading the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Transmission and Distribution Network.

Since August 2020, the Guyana Government has added over 186 MW of new generating capacity to the GPL integrated system and commenced upgrading its transmission and distribution network.

This year, some $119.4 billion was allocated in the national budget for the continued implementation of Guyana’s energy strategy with the aim of providing adequate electricity to meet the rapidly growing

energy needs, addressing affordability and reliability concerns, developing a diversified energy mix, and fostering energy security and resilience.

Driving this vision is the construction of natural gasfired power plants, totalling 600 MW under Phase I and Phase II of the Gasto-Energy (GtE) Project at Wales, West Bank Demerara, which will significantly reduce emissions from the power sector and lower electricity costs for consumers by at least half. The first 300 MW of natural gas plants will be commissioned in the last quarter of this year.

T&T regrets missed opportunities with Guyana – Energy Minister

…now ready to share expertise as Guyana pushes regional, int’l partnerships

Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal says it is regrettable that his country did not do more to strengthen collaboration with Guyana on the energy sector – something he says they are keen on fixing.

Minister Moonilal made these remarks on Wednesday at the Guyana Energy Conference in Georgetown, where he joined Guyana’s Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat and Suriname’s Minister of Oil, Gas and Environment Patrick Brunings on a Ministerial panel to discuss regional energy security.

In a presentation prior to the panel, the Trinidadian Minister marvelled at Guyana’s unparalleled and unprecedented economic transformation in recent years as he declared his administration’s commitment to working with Guyana in the energy sector.

“It is with a sense of regret I address you with the belief that over the recent past, we have not been able to conduct business, to integrate our strategies to work with the Government and people of Guyana in a way that our Prime Minister, the Honourable Kamla PersadBissessar, has now mandated… We were disappointed that over the years, a former [Trinidadian] administration may not have taken advantage and worked closely with the Government of Guyana to advance both our mutual benefit,” he posited.

Reflecting on the Twin Island Republic’s previous role as the energy centre

in the Caribbean – something he admits is no longer the case given the recent changes in the region’s energy landscape –Moonilal has offered his country’s vast expertise not just to Guyana but to other Caribbean partners as well.

“We have extensive energy experience, infrastructure, and an industrial base. We’re prepared, and we were always prepared to share expertise and enter into meaningful collaboration in establishing a Caribbean petroleum market… We stand committed to working with the Governments of Guyana and Suriname in your petrochemical developments,” he stated.

Additionally, the T&T Minister also spoke about direct collaboration with Guyana on the revival of the Pointe-a-Pierre Refinery, also called the Petrotrin refinery, which was shut down in 2018.

“We are indeed encouraged to work with the Government of Guyana and other delegates and other entities present at this Energy Conference to advance the reopening of this refinery in Pointe-a-Pierre,” the Minister stated.

Deeper collaboration

Meanwhile, Bharrat also echoed similar support for deeper collaboration among Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago on energy development within the Caribbean and advancing renewables alongside responsibly managed fossil fuels.

“Partnership is key…

Trinidad, how do we collaborate more to ensure we bring greater benefits to our people… Partnership with Governments, [like] our partners from Trinidad and Suriname, is critical and important. International partnership is even more critical and important, especially at this juncture.”

“We expect that from this conference, that [you] will grow partnerships, that we will form joint ventures, that we will have a consortium… You invest in Guyana because there is predictability, there is stability, there is security for your investment, and more importantly, you have a Government that encourages and ensures that your investment is safe and worthwhile,” Bharrat emphasised.

On the other hand, Suriname’s Oil, Gas and Environment Minister has also highlighted the scope for potential collaboration among the three Caribbean nations in advancing the region’s energy transition.

Utilising earnings from fossil fuel operations, he noted that Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad can pool resources to tap into the abundant renewable energy opportunities in the region.

“We see it as an opportunity, the fast-growing oil and gas sector in Suriname and Guyana, teaming up with Trinidad. What can [this] mean for the greater Caribbean? Personally, I think that Trinidad, Suriname and Guyana can play a bigger role in supporting the [energy] transi-

tion for the greater region,” Minister Brunings stated. Guyana is keen on establishing a regional energy corridor, with President Dr Irfaan Ali declaring at the opening of the Energy Conference on Tuesday that his Government is eager to partner with Suriname on developing the neighbouring countries’ natural gas resources.

According to the Head of State, Guyana is looking for “like-minded partners” as he directly appealed to Suriname to join Guyana in scaling up the second Gas-to-Energy (GtE) initiative planned for Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

“If you look at what we are doing, you will see that we are on that path of integration… For the Berbice Gas Project, we want to do this with our friends

in Suriname, and we are hoping that our friends in Suriname can take the decision to join us by bringing their gas with our gas so we can move from a medium-sized project to a larger-scale project for both of our countries and for the region,” President Ali noted.

The Guyanese leader revealed that discussions with Suriname are already underway, emphasising the need for decisions to be made in a timely manner in order to lock in investors.

“We are hoping that very quickly we can have some decisions because our investors are waiting for those decisions, and those decisions are critical for your future and our future. We want this partnership. We want that, just like we are partnering with our friends in Roraima and Brazil on

transport and logistics and the food partnership, we want that partnership [with Suriname],” the Guyanese President stated.

United States energy firm Fulcrum LNG Inc has been selected to develop a potential gas project in a tripartite arrangement with the Guyana Government and United States oil major ExxonMobil, which is operating the prolific Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

Guyana has already touted large-scale industrial projects such as power plants, data centres and alumina plants, among other heavy industries, for the Berbice Gas Project – an initiative that will be separate from the highly anticipated Gas-to-Energy project that is currently underway at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

ExxonMobil to submit field development plan for Longtail Project soon – Routledge

In the coming weeks, ExxonMobil Guyana is slated to submit the Field Development Plans (FDP) to the Guyana Government for its eighth development project offshore Guyana, Longtail, which is the country’s first major non-associated gas and condensate production.

“We’re due to submit a Field Development Plan to the Ministry of Natural Resources in the coming weeks,” President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, said during a presentation on Wednesday at the Guyana Energy Conference being held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown.

According to Routledge, the project is targeting a Final Investment Decision (FID) later this year.

“We are reaching the conclusion of all the environmental and all the socio-economic studies that underpin the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) and, ultimately, the environment permitting process. And our aspiration is, working with the Government and the different agencies, that by the end of this year we should be able to sanction the Longtail Project,” he stated.

Targeting start-up in 2030, the proposed Longtail will be the first project to produce non-associated gas in the prolific Stabroek Block, offshore Guyana. Exxon anticipates approximately 1 to 1.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day and up to 290,000 barrels per day of condensate from the project.

Currently, ExxonMobil is operating four developments offshore Guyana –Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two, Payara, and Yellowtail – with approval already obtained for its fifth project, Uaru, to come onstream this year; its sixth, Whiptail, in 2027; and its seventh, Hammerhead, in 2029. All of these projects produce what has been described as

“black crude”.

However, the eighth development, Longtail, is expected to produce condensate, a lighter grade of petroleum oil that is higher in value.

With the development cost of the Longtail Project pegged at around US$12.5 billion, this development has a lifespan of 30 years –10 years more than the other black crude-producing projects.

Previously, Routledge had noted that once approved and operations start, Longtail will produce the country’s most premium oil to date. “Longtail will be a premium,” he had stated during the Starting Point Podcast back in October 2025.

Based on reports, the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel for this project will rely entirely on gas recycling instead of water injection, with twice the gas compression capacity of previous FPSO units.

Aggressive energy agenda

“In the initial phase, while we believe this is truly a gas project, it will produce a lot of liquids… It will be gas export ready from day one. We will have a gas export riser and the equipment on the FPSO in order to be able to deliver gas,” Routledge noted during Wednesday’s presentation.

He said Exxon is currently working with the Guyana Government on the timeline to deliver and other details to deliver the gas, including whether it would go to the other oil projects in the Stabroek Block to maximise recovery, or to the Wales Gas-to-Energy pipeline to ensure security of supply there, or to Berbice to support the future gas development there.

As part of its aggressive energy agenda and efforts to monetise the country’s natural gas resources, the Guyana Government is look-

FPSO

ing to establish a second gas project in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

This Berbice gas project will support large-scale industrial growth with power plants, data centres, fertiliser plants, and alumina plants, among other heavy industries – an initiative that will be separate from the highly anticipated GtE project at Wales in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara).

Already, the Guyana Government has selected United States energy firm Fulcrum LNG Inc to work in a tripartite arrangement with ExxonMobil to develop the Berbice gas project.

Routledge said that over the past year, Exxon has been working on progressing development concepts for that second gas development that will utilise resources from the south-east section of the prolific Stabroek Block. He said they are looking at the design-build model.

“We’re testing the market for surf and for the FPSO currently as we look towards the possibility of bringing a second gas development forward to the Government next year. So, for those that are out there and have received our request for a tender, I ask you to sharpen your pencils. This project will require the very best and most efficient bids that you can make…”

“As a signal that we are growing in confidence over that project, we anticipate

Mon Repos storage bond destroyed by fire

Firefighters on Wednesday afternoon contained a fire at Zhong Xin Hardware and Building Materials in Mon Repos North, East Coast Demerara.

The blaze, which started in a storage bond at the establishment located opposite Agriculture Road, was reported at about 15:00h. Fire crews responded and were able to cut off the fire at its source, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.

There were no immediate reports of injuries. The building is owned by a Guyanese businessman and was rented by Chinese nationals. Investigations are ongo-

ing to determine the cause of the fire.

that in the coming weeks, the next couple of months, we will likely submit a request for an environmental authorisation for the second gas project in the southeast part of the Stabroek Block,” the Exxon President stated.

With Guyana keen on pushing gas development, President Dr Irfaan Ali, only on Tuesday, urged neighbouring Suriname to combine its gas resources in the proposed Berbice Gas Project.

“Like-minded partners”

During his address at the opening of the Energy Conference, the Guyanese Head of State emphasised that Guyana is looking for “like-minded partners” to scale up the second gas project.

“For the Berbice gas project, we want to do this with our friends in Suriname, and we are hoping that our friends in Suriname can take the decision to join us

by bringing their gas with our gas so we can move from a medium-sized project to a larger-scale project for both of our countries and for the region,” the President noted. While he noted that the discussions with Suriname are already underway, Dr Ali stated that “We are hoping that very quickly we can have some decisions because our investors are waiting for those decisions, and those decisions are critical for your future and our future. We want this partnership. We want that, just like we are partnering with our friends in Roraima and Brazil on transport and logistics and the food partnership, we want that partnership.”

2020 election fraud trial

Court sees videos from inside Ashmins building after tabulation was halted

The election fraud trial continued on Wednesday before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, with further testimony from People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) elections agent, Sasenarine Singh. The court viewed several videos Singh recorded of March 4, 2020, capturing the chaos at the Ashmins building when the tabulation of Statements of Poll (SOPs) was halted.

In the videos several persons involved in the elections could be seen, including the then Presidential candidate for the Liberty Justice Party (LJP), Lennox Shuman, a then APNU+AFC elections agent, and former Minister of Indigenous Affairs, Sydney Allicock. In another video, then Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield can also be seen.

At one point someone identified as a staff member of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) can be seen trying to hide behind a post in the room, the video shows.

In the video Singh was recording a table at the end of the room with documents on it, which in court he identified as the Statement of Polls (SOPs), which were being used to tabulate the Region Four results for the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections (GRE).

In the background of the video, persons can be heard shouting things such as “Not one box was verified,” while Singh has a conversation with someone about staying in the room to keep watch over the unprotected SOPs.

“Are you watching the Statement of Polls? Well, you and I have a common interest then; that means we’re brothers,” Singh notes

to someone off camera.

Giving testimony, Singh added that it was during this time that officials and stakeholders were simply standing around waiting.

“This was the waiting period after we were waiting for… we see several gentlemen just waiting around in the room; we were all just waiting. I don’t know the gentleman [GECOM staff] trying to hide behind the post,” Singh said.

Another video from March 4 shows the chaos that broke out after the then Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, fell ill and was hospitalised.

In the video, several election agents from various political parties can be seen arguing that the tabulation can continue with a Deputy RO; however, a GECOM staff member can be seen arguing against this. Lowenfield is seen among those in the crowd.

Following the smooth start to the tabulation of the Region Four results on March 3, 2020, on March 4, the situation took a turn for the worst when the tabulation was expected to continue. In his testimony earlier this week, Singh had given testimony noting that some 471 of the total 879 SOPs for Region Four had been tabulated without issue before

the situation broke down. At the resumption of the tabulation, attempts were made to have the tabulation done using a created spreadsheet, rather than the certified SOPs. This situation was later challenged in the High Court, where it was ordered that the official SOPs had to be used.

Mingo and Lowenfield are currently among nine persons jointly charged with conspiracy to commit electoral fraud in relation to the tabulation of votes for Region Four.

Collectively, the nine persons are currently facing 19 charges of conspiracy to commit electoral fraud for the events that occurred following the March 2, 2020, General Elections. Aside from Mingo and Lowefield, those charged include former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers, former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Minister Volda Lawrence, APNU+AFC Chief Scrutineer Carol Joseph, and former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) employees Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Michelle Miller, and Denise BobbCummings. The trial is set to continue today.

11 killed in multiple strikes on alleged drug boats, US military says

Eleven persons were killed in multiple strikes on three alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean, the US military says.

Officials said that of the 11 “male narco-terrorists” killed, four died on the first vessel in the Eastern Pacific, four on a second vessel also in the Eastern Pacific, and three on a third vessel in the Caribbean.

The Trump Administration has carried out more than 40 lethal strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean since

September.

“Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations,” the US Southern Command said in a social media post.

No US military personnel were injured in the operation conducted late on Monday night.

US forces have been targeting vessels they suspect of smuggling narcotics through the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since September.

But the frequency of the strikes has nota-

bly ebbed since US forces in early January captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro – who has been accused by the Trump administration of working with drug trafficking groups.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has said the overall operation is aimed at removing “narco-terrorists from our hemisphere” and securing the US from “the drugs that are killing our people”.

The US has provided no evidence to back up its allegations that the boats it has struck have been carrying drugs. (Excerpt from BBC News)

St Lucia: Central Bank targets 2027 for removal of British monarch from EC currency

Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), Timothy NJ Antoine, says the bank is “getting closer and closer” to replacing the likeness of the British monarch with regional figures on the EC dollar.

Speaking at the presentation of the communiqué following the 112th Meeting of the ECCB Monetary Council last week, Antoine explained that the transition will take place in phases rather than all at once.

“We expect in all likelihood that the first set of notes will be revealed and made available in 2027,”

the Governor said. For decades, the late Queen Elizabeth II’s image has appeared on the EC$5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes. The design reflects the Eastern Caribbean’s historical ties to Britain, similar to other Commonwealth nations that recognise the British monarch as head of state. However, change has been in motion for some time. During its 105th meeting in St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2023, the ECCB Monetary Council approved the replacement of the monarch’s image with the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) logo, subject to

public consultation.

Antoine hinted that the public may get an early glimpse of what to expect on the redesigned currency.

The Governor also clarified that the introduction of the new notes will not mean an immediate withdrawal of existing currency.

“…we did not want to simply just take them out of circulation,” Antoine explained. “…as they come in and they get retired because they’re mutilated and so on, then we will introduce the new notes with our regional heroes, our regional images.” (Excerpt from St Lucia Times)

J’ca: Manchester man charged with murder of 4-year-old

Head of the Manchester Police, Superintendent Carey Duncan, has said that a 25-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the murder of four-year-old Saniyah O’Brien after the child and her father were attacked by gunmen in Landsettlement, near Royal Flat in the parish. He has been identified as Oneish Copeland, otherwise known as “Dabba”, a labourer from New Wales, Manchester. Copeland has been slapped with several charges, including murder, wounding with intent, and conspiracy to commit murder.

“The suspect is now an accused, having been charged with the offences of murder, wounding with intent, two counts of shooting with intent, malicious destruction of property, conspiracy to commit murder, possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorised possession of ammunition, and using a firearm

Haitians in Mexico face longer, harder waits as asylum system buckles

At 05:00h every Friday, a weekly ritual begins in this city on the Mexico-Guatemala border. For Haitians, it’s the only chance each week to meet with immigration officials.

By the time dawn breaks, hundreds of Haitian migrants seeking asylum are already standing outside the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR). Many arrive the night before, sleeping on the sidewalks or taking turns resting against the building’s walls.

The asylum process is supposed to last 45 business days, however, with a recent decline in COMAR staff members, the wait can take more than one year.

Conditions worsened after the US cut its financial

contributions and asylum applications increased by 145 per cent.

An estimated 100,000 Haitians live in Mexico, Jesús Cisneros, Mexico’s ambassador in Haiti, said in an interview with Le Nouvelliste, with more than 9000 of 78,975 asylum applications filed in Mexico in 2024 being from Haitians.

From 2019 to 2025, roughly 47,000 Haitian na-

tionals were listed as refugees in Mexico by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. But increasingly, the number arriving from Central America find themselves stuck in Tapachula. A key reason is Mexico’s policy that forbids asylum seekers from leaving the state where they first filed for protection.

(Excerpt from The Haitian Times)

T&T Carnival 2026 hailed as major economic, cultural success

Carnival 2026 generated a bumper season and reinforced Trinidad and Tobago (T&T)’s position as a worldclass cultural destination, the Ministry of Culture and Community Development and the National Carnival Commission (NCC) of T&T have said.

In a media release issued as the country observed Ash Wednesday, the Ministry and the NCC credited strong public participation, vibrant events and coordinated stakeholder support for what they described as a successful and memorable festival under the theme “Yuh Go Love Dis”.

The Ministry and the NCC commended masqueraders, bandleaders and service providers for maintaining order

and discipline throughout the season. They said public cooperation helped ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration and demonstrated that Carnival remains both a cultural treasure and a national unifier.

The organisers also thanked cultural bodies, including Pan Trinbago, the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation and the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association, for preserving the traditions and artistry of the festival.

They acknowledged operational support from the Ministry of Homeland Security, the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, the

Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross Society, REACT, the media and other stakeholders whose coordination facilitated Carnival 2026.

The Ministry further recognised the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government and Regional Corporations for completing post-Carnival clean-up and sanitisation exercises and restoring public spaces shortly after the festivities ended.

The release said the success of Carnival 2026 aligns with Government policy to position the festival as a key economic driver with yearround cultural offerings. Planning for Carnival 2027 has already begun as organisers move to build on this year’s momentum. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Over 18,000 cruise passengers, crew arrive in St John’s Harbour in one day

to commit a felony,” Duncan said.

The Superintendent added that the Police are now actively pursuing other suspects who may have assisted Copeland in committing the act.

“The charging of Copeland brings to the clearing up of four of the five murders recorded in Manchester for 2026. We also saw another five murders being cleared up from previous years, which brings our total to nine murders being cleared for 2026,” Duncan said, noting that this represents a clear-up rate of 180 per cent.

He also commended the work of detectives in the Manchester Division.

(Jamaica Observer)

More than 18,000 cruise passengers and crew members arrived in St John’s Harbour as five vessels called at the destination, underscoring continued momentum in the 2025/2026 cruise season.

According to Antigua Cruise Port, a total of 18,399 persons came ashore, including 13,229 passengers and 5170 crew members.

The visiting ships were the Norwegian Epic with 4484 passengers and 1571 crew; Britannia with 3629 passengers and 1351 crew; Celebrity Ascent carrying 3181 passengers and 1430 crew; Marella Discovery 2 with 1835 passengers and 743 crew; and Emerald Sakara with 100 passengers

and 75 crew.

Port officials said the steady arrival of large vessels, many making return calls, is providing consistent weekly traffic for local stakeholders, including tour operators, retailers and transportation providers.

The cruise port noted that the current season re-

flects sustained growth and operational strength, with Antigua and Barbuda continuing to attract repeat business from major cruise lines.

Officials added that the season is ongoing, with additional calls scheduled in the weeks ahead. (Antigua Newsroom)

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Oil settles up 4% on Iran-US tensions; Russia-Ukraine talks end without breakthrough

Oil prices settled up by more than four per cent on Wednesday as traders priced in potential supply disruptions amid concerns of conflict between the US and Iran, and after talks between Ukraine and Russia in Geneva ended without a breakthrough.

Also, US heating oil futures jumped around five per cent.

Brent crude futures settled up US$2.93, or 4.35 per cent, at US$70.35 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures settled up US$2.86, or 4.59 per cent, to US$65.19. Both contracts posted their highest settlements since January 30, rebounding a day after plumbing two-week lows.

Both contracts rallied late, up by more than US$3 toward the end of the session on media reports that Israel had raised its alert level on increased indications of a possible attack on Iran by the US and Israel, according to Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group.

“The big moves in oil prices today are being solely driven by geopolitics; they continue to react to headlines with respect to meetings between the US and Iran and Russia and Ukraine,” said Andrew Lipow, President of Lipow Oil Associates.

“The oil market is pricing in additional risk of a supply disruption,” he added.

On Tuesday, oil fell after Iran’s foreign minister said Tehran and Washington had reached an understanding on the guiding principles of nuclear talks. On Wednesday, the Iranian semi-official Fars news agency reported that Iran and Russia will conduct navy drills in the Sea of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean on Thursday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Iranian security official appears to fire

on crowd at cemetery

Crowds of mourners appear to have been fired on by a security official at a cemetery in Iran.

The incident happened in Abdanan, in west Iran, on Tuesday as people gathered to commemorate those killed during the Government’s brutal crackdown on protesters last month.

Events have been held in several cities across the country to mourn the thousands killed during the deadliest nights of protests on January 8 and 9.

Verified video also shows people shouting anti-Government chants at events in Tehran, Mashhad and Abdanan on Tuesday as crowds gathered at cemeteries and in the streets for commemorations.

BBC Verify and BBC Persian have verified footage of people chanting “death to Khamenei”, referencing Iran’s supreme lead-

er, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

An armoured vehicle is then seen driving past the crowd of mourners as an apparent security official opens fire. People are heard screaming and seen fleeing the area as two gunshots ring out.

The person who appears to be in uniform is seen pointing the gun away from the camera when the first shot is fired, before pointing the gun towards the crowd when a second shot can be heard. A puff of smoke near the gun is visible after each shot.

Another verified video from the cemetery shows smoke in the distance as people run away from the scene, and several gunshots can be heard.

State-run IRIB News claimed that the event was peaceful and reports of people injured or killed were not true. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Trump says UK’s Starmer making “a big mistake” with Chagos Islands deal

Donald Trump has criticised the United Kingdom’s plan to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a day after the United States Department of State gave its official approval of the deal.

The US President said on Wednesday that Prime Minister Keir Starmer was “making a big mistake” in the agreement to return sovereignty of the archipelago to Mauritius and lease back the island of Diego Garcia, which is home to a UK-US military base.

He warned in a Truth Social post that Starmer was “losing control of this important island by claims of entities never known

of before”, adding, “In our opinion, they are fictitious in nature.”

The Indian Ocean ar-

chipelago became part of British territory in 1814, with the UK detaching it from Mauritius before it

gained independence in the 1960s. It then worked with the US to force the islands’ residents to leave in order to build a military base on Diego Garcia, which it had leased to the US.

Mauritius won its legal battle for sovereignty over the islands in 2019, and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) urged the UK to cede control. This was followed by a UN resolution giving the UK six months to hand it back.

Trump had criticised the agreement in January, but after speaking with Starmer earlier in February, the US leader said the British Prime Minister had made “the best deal he could”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

11 held in France over killing of far-right activist

Eleven persons, including two aides to a French far-left lawmaker, were arrested in France overnight and early on Wednesday on suspicion of involvement in the killing of far-right activist Quentin Deranque, 23, last weekend in Lyon, which has opened a murder investigation.

Among those arrested

were at least one aide and two other persons connected to Raphael Arnault, a lawmaker from the farleft party France Unbowed (LFI), who said on Tuesday that the aide, Jacques-Elie Favrot, had “stopped all parliamentary work”.

Another of Arnault’s assistants and one of his former interns were also among the detained,

French media outlets reported.

Favrot’s lawyer Bertrand Sayn said his client has acknowledged committing violence and being present at the site but said he was not “the author of the blows that caused the death of Mr Deranque”.

Videos of the confrontation were widely shared on social media. Seven of

the suspects detained were investigated for possible murder, while the other four were investigated for helping others escape police searches, the prosecutor’s office said.

The suspects detained on Tuesday evening will remain in police custody for at least 48 hours. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Naval shipwreck emerges in Sweden after being buried underwater for 400 years

A17th-century Swedish Navy shipwreck buried underwater in central Stockholm for 400 years has suddenly become visible due to unusually low Baltic Sea levels, marking the latest centuries-old vessel to be found in the country’s waters.

The wooden planks of the ship’s well-preserved hull have since early February been peeking out above the surface of the water off the island of Kastellholmen, providing a clear picture of its skeleton. Archaeologists have yet

to identify the exact ship, as it is one of five similar wrecks lined up in the same area to form the bridge, all dating from the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

Parts of the ship had already broken the surface in 2013, but never before has it been as visible as it is now, as the waters of the Baltic Sea reach their lowest level in about 100 years, according to the archaeologist.

Major European allies decline to join 1st meeting of Trump’s Board of

Dozens of world leaders and national delegations will meet in Washington DC today for the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, as major European allies declined to join the group and criticised the organisation’s murky funding and political mandate.

The White House has indicated that the summit for his new ad hoc council at the renamed Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace will heavily function as a fundraising round, with Trump an-

nouncing on social media that countries have pledged more than $5bn toward rebuilding Gaza, which has been devastated in the war with Israel and remains in a humanitarian crisis.

But, despite Trump’s characteristic bombast, the Board of Peace summit will open to heavy scepticism, with expectations limited both for today’s meeting in Washington and in the Middle East, where the 100-day peace and recovery plan announced by Jared Kushner in Davos has

stalled and aid into Gaza remains at a trickle.

Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former US diplomat, said that the Board of Peace would have difficulty resolving the key questions in the IsraelGaza conflict: who will govern the territory, who will provide security on the ground, and how to deal with the immediate needs of the Palestinian population. There also was little indication how a Board of Peace

Peace

could break a key deadlock in negotiations between Israel and Hamas, he added.

“The board is a convenient way for a President who’s interested in quick wins, transactions and a lot of motion in lieu of serious movement as a way to project that things are somehow … not dead,” he said, referring to diplomacy. “So you could get some impressive pledges. But pledges are one thing; delivering is another.” (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Investigate home improvements, lowering your overhead, or applying for grants that favor cost efficiency changes you want to make. Upgrading your skills will encourage you to land a position that pays more. How you use your experience and skills will determine how you can turn your attributes into something you can appreciate and enjoy.

Study situations before you spring into action. It’s necessary to have everything in place if you intend to meet your expectations. A chance to explore possibilities will help you determine the personal changes you need to make before you follow through. Take precautions and stick to protocol and regulations. Share your feelings and intentions with someone you love.

Take it easy, be observant, ask questions, and get the lowdown necessary to make the best choices. Dismiss suggestions that lack continuity or leave you questioning legitimacy. Put more energy into specialization and being unique. Distance yourself from the masses, and something interesting and unexpected will come your way. Trust facts over hype. Protect your reputation.

It’s up to you to manifest opportunities. Sitting back and waiting for things to happen will be empty-handed. Speak up, do your thing, and show off a little. What you promote will make a difference and put you in an excellent position. An interesting partnership or offer can lead to new beginnings. Friendship and romance look promising.

Learn as you go. Visit places that spark your imagination, take courses that help build a solid resume, or attend events that lead to interacting with people of interest. Put more thought, time, and energy into partnering with someone who has as much to offer as you. Set high standards and use your skills to promote your interests.

Keep your finger on the pulse and your energy pointing in a direction that encourages wealth, emotional well-being, and physical health. Show discipline in maintaining a lifestyle that fulfills your needs and makes you happy and grateful for all you have. Put greater emphasis on love and nurturing the most meaningful relationships. Romance and self-improvement are favored.

You are in a better position than you think. Don’t hide, get out, and the networking you do will pay off. Someone you encounter will offer a unique perspective on how to leverage your experience and connections to get ahead. Gaining insight into how others work a room will help you pick and choose who you approach.

Don’t waste valuable time over something you need to put behind you. Learn your lessons and move along. Embrace those who breathe life into the atmosphere and inspire you to think creatively and dominate your genre. Attend events that offer social interaction and meet people who can enrich your life. Update your appearance and embrace love and romance.

Get what you want in writing. Someone will offer far more than intended to grab your interest. Trust facts, not hearsay. Put your energy into research, travel, reconnecting with old friends, and exploring what’s possible while eliminating what’s no longer of value to you. Change requires time, energy, and desire. Protect your heart and emotional well-being from shysters.

Extend a helping hand, insight, or support to someone, and the return will be a welcome surprise. Attitude and gratitude go hand in hand and can turn a negative into a positive. Spend a little time and money upgrading your appearance or resume, and get ready to promote yourself personally and professionally. Love is in the stars.

High energy, trust, and belief in your abilities will lead to the strength and courage to excel. What you achieve is to achieve your own happiness, not others. Please don’t pay for someone else’s mistake when you owe it to yourself to look out for your interests first. Challenge anyone who tries to take advantage of you.

Take pride in what you do and what you say. Kindness and consideration will encourage others to respond likewise, and together you will achieve what you set out to do. Life is about making sacrifices to achieve the best outcome for everyone. Step outside your comfort zone, and the feeling of exhilaration and freedom will evolve.

Sahibzada Farhan settled his side’s nerves with a blazing unbeaten hundred, as Namibia were outgunned by 102 runs in Colombo to end any doubts about Pakistan’s progression to the T20 World Cup Super Eight. With 11 fours and four sixes, Farhan produced a perfect burst of acceleration against a toiling attack. His second fifty of his 57-ball century came from just 20 balls. And his eventual 100 not out from 58 balls would be more runs than Namibia managed (97) before being bowled out.

Needing a victory (or, at the very least, a washout) to keep the hopefuls of the USA at bay, Pakistan produced the most comprehensive win of their campaign. It was sealed by their four-man spin cohort. Mohammad Nawaz led a mid-innings squeeze with 1 for 22 in his four overs, before Shadab Khan and Usman Tariq dovetailed for each of Namibia’s last seven wickets.

Shadab was the main character of their victory surge. He had earlier been pushed up to No. 5, ahead of Babar Azam, to help Farhan thrash 78 runs from the final six overs of their innings. He then followed up with 3 for 19, the

Pakistan into Super 8s after Farhan ton sinks Namibia

last of them coming via a superb diving catch at square leg from Saim Ayub, off Zane Green, which spoke of Pakistan’s mounting confidence.

Shadab himself was also in the act with a smart catch at midwicket to claim the first breakthrough of Tariq’s late entrance. Though he didn’t bowl until the 12th over, Tariq’s extraordinary repertoire of carrom balls and delayed-release leggies proved unfathomable to Namibia’s lower order. Ruben Trumpelmann and Bernard Scholtz were both bowled through the gate by perfect googlies before Willem Myburgh snicked off to a legbreak, to cap Tariq’s career-best figures of 4 for 16.

Slow build from Pakistan

It wasn’t the perfect performance from Pakistan. In particular, their batting powerplay was a microcosm of their campaign: rarely convincing, yet still doing the needful in spite of some ugly moments. Ayub’s 14 from 12 balls comprised two leading edges and a flying nick for four past the keeper; Farhan’s first boundary came via a mis field in the covers, and his second to a similarly wild hack through deep third off Jack Brassell, moments after he had flung his bat through square leg while mistiming a cut through point.

But, by degrees, Pakistan settled into their work, emboldened by every over in which their underperforming middle order was spared early exposure. Namibia rang in the changes, rotating through six options in their first eight overs. But it was their two bowlers serving up backto-back overs who inadver-

tently released the mounting pressure.

Farhan found his range with back-to-back fours off Ruben Trumpelmann, including an unrepentant slog through midwicket, then took his newfound poise out on Willem Myburgh. The leg-spinner’s first over had gone for just five; his second realised three vast sixes, with Farhan contributing back-to-back slog-sweeps. Though he ended the same over in a heap, after jarring his knee during a drive, the shackles were officially off.

Farhan into overdrive

Farhan nudged the first ball of the 12th over through midwicket to bring up a 37ball half-century. Twenty balls later, he did likewise to Gerhard Erasmus, to ca-

were collared for back-toback fours down the ground.

vort through to his maiden T20I hundred. His was also the third of this year’s tournament, a new record.

In between whiles, his acceleration was violent and unrelenting, though it did not begin in earnest until the 15th over, when Trumpelmann’s slower balls

That sounded the bugle charge. JJ Smit’s left-arm spin was then smoked for 17 runs, including two more fours and a baseball slug for six; and Brassell’s last was sent for 20, with Farhan marching into the 90s as he hoisted a slower ball over fine leg for his fourth six.

Salman Agha played a vital part in Pakistan’s uptick. His 38 from 23 balls included three fours and two sixes, as he helped propel his team to 107 for 1 after 12. He was livid with himself when he holed out to mid-off with his job far from done, and Khawaja Nafay’s five-ball stay meant Pakistan were soon in familiar danger at 118 for 3 in the 14th. But in came Shadab, with licence to swing his bat. He was only too eager to deliver.

Steenkamp threatens briefly Namibia needed ten an over from the outset, and they did give it a go in the powerplay. Faheem Ashraf was an unlikely candidate

bowling the first over, with Shaheen Afridi paying the price for some leaky displays so far in the tournament – and consequently being dropped. Ashraf’s introduction looked doubly sketchy when Louren Steenkamp picked his third ball, a slower ball, to pump him over the sightscreen. Pakistan’s frailties were all too apparent in the same over. Nawaz dropped a sitter at deep midwicket off Jan Frylinck. Soon, at 32 for 0 after four, Namibia was putting up a decent challenge.

Mirza, however, switched ends to bowl Frylinck through the gate for 9, and when Jan LoftieEaton ruined his strong start by attempting a non-existent run to Agha at mid-off, the downturn was swift and decisive. Nawaz made amends for his catching by luring Steenkamp into a top-edged swipe for 23, and four balls later, Shadab snicked off the captain, Erasmus, with a big legbreak in his first over. The end would follow swiftly. (ESPNcricinfo)

aaa

Pakistan (20 ovs maximum)

Sahibzada Farhan not out 100

Saim Ayub c †Green

b Brassell 14

Salman Agha (c) c Erasmus

b Brassell 38

Khawaja Nafay c & b Erasmus 5

Shadab Khan not out 36

Extras (lb 2, w 4) 6

Total 20 Ov (RR: 9.95) 199/3

Did not bat: Babar Azam, Usman

Khan †, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem

Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq

Fall of wickets: 1-40 (Saim Ayub, 5.1 ov), 2-107 (Salman Agha, 12.1 ov), 3-118 (Khawaja Nafay, 13.2 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

JJ Smit 3-0-28-0

Gerhard Erasmus 3-0-25-1

Ruben Trumpelmann 4-0-36-0

Jack Brassell 4-0-48- 2

Willem Myburgh 2-0-27-0

Bernard Scholtz 4-0-33-0

Namibia (T: 200 runs from 20 ovs)

Louren Steenkamp c †Usman

Khan b Mohammad Nawaz 23

Jan Frylinck b Salman Mirza 9

Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton run out

(Salman Agha/Saim Ayub) 5

Gerhard Erasmus (c) c †Usman Khan

b Shadab Khan 7 Alexander Busing-Volschenk st †Usman Khan b Shadab Khan 20 JJ Smit c Shadab Khan

There was no 300, not even 200, but there was a reiteration of why India are the favourites they are for this T20 World Cup. On a slow backsoil pitch, the Netherlands didn’t do much wrong except for one dropped catch that didn’t prove to be costly, but India still scored 193, which they defended successfully to take their winning streak in T20 World Cups to 12.

Dube, Varun keep India unbeaten for Super 8s

Aryan Dutt rules the powerplay

Aryan Dutt got the better of the three left-hand batters – including a third duck for Abhishek Sharma this tournament – at the top; the fast bowlers denied India pace or room; they got in boundary-free spells of 20, 19 and 16 balls; they had the run rate under eight an over after 15 overs, but Shivam Dube’s 66 off 30 gave the bowlers enough to set up a comfortable victory.

SCOREBOARD

India (20 ovs maximum)

Abhishek Sharma b Dutt 0

Ishan Kishan † b Dutt 18

Tilak Varma c van der Merwe b van Beek 31

Suryakumar Yadav (c) c sub

(T van der Gugten) b Klein 34

Shivam Dube c sub

(T van der Gugten)

b van Beek 66

Hardik Pandya c van der Merwe b van Beek 30

Rinku Singh not out 6

Extras (b 1, w 7) 8

Total 20 Ov (RR: 9.65) 193/6

Did not bat: Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Abhishek Sharma, 0.3 ov), 2-39 (Ishan Kishan, 4.2 ov), 3-69 (Tilak Varma, 8.6 ov), 4-110 (Suryakumar Yadav, 13.3 ov), 5-186 (Shivam Dube, 19.2 ov), 6-193 (Hardik Pandya, 19.6 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Aryan Dutt 4-0-19-2 Logan van Beek 4-0-56-3

Colin Ackermann

Kyle Klein

Bas de Leede

Netherlands (T: 194 runs from 20 ovs)

Michael Levitt c Washington Sundar b Pandya 24

Max O’Dowd b Varun 20 Bas de Leede c Varun b Dube 33

Colin Ackermann c Singh b Varun 23

Aryan Dutt b Varun 0 Scott Edwards (c)† b Bumrah 15 Zach Lion-Cachet c Washington Sundar b Dube 26

Noah Croes not out 25 Logan van Beek not out 4

Extras (lb 2, w 4) 6

Total 20 Ov (RR: 8.80) 176/7

Did not bat: Roelof van der Merwe, Kyle Klein

Fall of wickets: 1-35 (Max O’Dowd, 5.4 ov), 2-51 (Michael Levitt, 7.5 ov), 3-94 (Colin Ackermann, 12.1 ov), 4-94 (Aryan Dutt, 12.2 ov), 5-112 (Bas de Leede, 13.6 ov), 6-125 (Scott Edwards, 15.5 ov), 7-172 (Zach Lion-Cachet, 19.4 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Arshdeep Singh

3-0-36-0

4-0-38-1

4-0-28-0

Roelof van der Merwe 1-0-15-0

3-0-22-0 Jasprit Bumrah

3-0-17- 1 Washington Sundar 4-0-36-0 Varun Chakravarthy

3-0-14-3 Hardik Pandya

3-0-40-1 Abhishek Sharma

1-0-10-0 Shivam Dube

3-0-35-2

India chose to bat partly to prepare themselves for bowling in the dew later in the tournament and partly to flex their batting muscle, but Dutt, the tall offspinner, had other plans. He bowled quick, he cramped the batters up, and he stayed away from driving or pulling length. Two dots later, Abhishek, yet to score a World Cup run, backed away and tried to go over mid-on, missing the ball completely. Dutt would have started off with a wicket maiden but for a bad bounce from a corner strip.

Ishan Kishan, the form batter for India, tried to use his short stature to manufacture pulling length, but Dutt didn’t waver. The ball lobbed off his pad onto his forearm and then rolled onto the leg stump. That India didn’t promote Suryakumar Yadav to break up the left-hand batters allowed Dutt to tie down Tilak Varma as well.

Seamers continue to stifle India

The fast bowlers used the conditions well by taking the pace off often and going into the pitch. Kyle Klein was the pick of the quicks, but it was Logan van Beek who created two chances in the ninth over. While Suryakumar found relief through a drop from Michael Levitt, Tilak Varma found a flying Roelof van der Merwe at wide longoff. Those shots came about thanks to no boundaries for 20 balls, and immediately the Netherlands put together another spell of 19, which included Dutt coming back and signing off with an analysis of 4-0-19-2.

Dube derails Netherlands

Just when Suryakumar began to look dangerous with a pick-up six over long leg, he found the fielder with perfection trying to repeat the dose. Dube, though, stayed

pace from the quicks, which generally tend to slow him down.

Pandya also overcame the early slowness to end up with three sixes to go with Dube’s six as India took 75 off the last five.

Bumrah and Arshdeep test with the new ball

The new ball did a bit,

away from the fielders, most crucially off the first ball he faced. An off-pace short ball, it was nearly a repeat of his dismissal against the USA, but the top edge fell short of the keeper.

In the absence of Axar Patel, who was rested for this match, Dube was the only spin disruptor in the side. He got off to a slow start, making only six off the first 11 balls he faced, surviving an lbw through umpire’s call, but once he got stuck into Colin Ackermann, he didn’t look back. There was nothing cute about his hitting, no sweeps or reverse sweeps, just lusty hitting from the crease.

Even though Suryakumar fell and Hardik Pandya also found it difficult to get going immediately, Dube kept getting the better of the spinners. A standout feature was how he put away changes of

and the Netherlands openers found themselves against two of the best in Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah. For a

change, they continued unchanged for four overs, moving the ball each way in the air and off the seam, drawing 12 false shots and conceding just 22. Behind the rate, the openers felt obligated to hit out and lost wickets to Varun Chakravarthy and Pandya in their first overs.

Varun provides finishing touches With the asking rate having gone past 12 an over as early as the ninth over, India bowled Abhishek and Dube, which ended up giving the Netherlands some momentum. However, with 100 needed off the last eight, India went back to Varun, and he nearly picked up a hat-trick, getting Ackermann on the slog, bowling Dutt with a wrong’un, and nearly getting past the defence of Scott Edwards with another.

Dube went for 23 off the first nine balls he bowled, but he came back by executing the wide lines well, getting Bas de Leede caught at fine short third to end the 14th over. That was as good as done. (ESPNcricinfo)

The Caribbean American Motor Sports (CAMS) and its President are just the latest in a slew of high-profile stakeholders to throw their support behind incumbent President Mahendra Boodhoo ahead of the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club’s (GMR&SC) elections this weekend.

CAMS shared in a recent statement, “As the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) approaches its 34th Annual General Meeting on February 21st, the Caribbean American Motor Sports (CAMS) organisation – through its President, Afraz Allie –proudly extends its sup-

port for the re election of Mr Mahendra “Raj” Boodhoo as President of the GMR&SC.

For more than 25 years, CAMS has been deeply invested in the advancement of motorsport in Guyana, and in recent years the sport has experienced its most significant resurgence in decades. Circuit racing has been growing at a steady and encouraging rate, with race grids returning to the strength of the sport’s glory years; some would even argue surpassing them. The introduction of GT3 machinery at last November’s race and the highly anticipated GT3 Series scheduled for July 11–12 mark a historic milestone. For the first

time in Guyana’s history, an event of this scale and global relevance will be held on local soil, signalling the nation’s arrival on the international motorsport stage. CAMS attributes this momentum to the stability, professionalism, and clear strategic direction demonstrated under Mr Boodhoo’s leadership. His administration has fostered an environment where racers, teams, and sponsors feel confident investing in the sport’s continued growth. CAMS notes that this consistency has been essential to unlocking new opportunities, opportunities that extend far beyond individual race weekends.

The quarterfinalists in the inaugural MODEC Tertiary Education Football tournament are all but decided following the conclusion of the first home and away leg of the competition on Tuesday.

Venues in Essequibo and Berbice were hosts to three exhilarating matches where the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI) maintained their dominance over the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre (LT&VTC) while the Port Mourant Technical Institute (PMTI) flipped the script on the New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI). Meanwhile, Upper Corentyne Industrial Training Centre (UCITC) and University of Guyana’s Tain Campus had to settle for a draw.

The first match unfolded at the Iman Bacchus Ground on the Essequibo Coast, where ETI got past a stubborn LT&VTC, 5-3.

LT&VTC’s Reon Alleyne broke the ice in the 25th minute, but their celebra-

tions were shortlived as Deangelo Davidson levelled the scores for ETI by the 30th. Although Therry Thorne and Kenard Simon added to LT&VTC’s tally in the 49th and 55th minutes, Davidson went on to complete his hat trick for ETI in the 53rd and 62nd, while the likes of Jamal Smith (51st) and Jim Carter (72nd) netted one goal each to hand ETI the win.

Over at the Scotts Ground in New Amsterdam, UG’s Tain Campus improved on their last performance to hold out for a 2-2 draw with Upper Corentyne. Rarvon Simon put UCITC ahead with goals in the 5th and 20th minutes, but Tain’s Jaheim Elgin replicated the feat, also netting a brace in the 30th and 36th minutes.

The second of the Berbice doubleheader saw Port Mourant rebound from a 1-2 loss in their first game to stun NATI in their return fixture. Akadian Andrews added his name to the scoresheet first, giving Port Mourant the lead in the 18th. However, NATI’s Amare Caesar struck in the 38th to equalise.

In the second half, Andrews completed his double with another goal in the 53rd, while Clarence Charles put equalising out of NATI’s reach with another goal in the 84th.

The teams in the tournament are competing for a $300,000 grand prize to be given in kind for a school project. The second-, thirdand fourth-place finishers will pocket $200,000, $100,000 and $50,000 for the same purpose.

The tournament is also being supported by MACORP, Demerara Mutual, and Banks DIH under its Powerade brand.

One of the most pressing issues in motorsport governance is the duration of executive terms. A one year term simply does not provide the stability required for meaningful investment. Sponsors operate on multi year cycles, and teams and drivers make decisions based on long term confidence. Infrastructure upgrades, safety improvements, and international partnerships cannot be negotiated, funded, or executed within a rushed 12 month window.

A two year executive term, under the guidance of a focused and proven leader like Mr Boodhoo, would give motorsport in Guyana

the breathing room needed for sustainable expansion. It allows leadership the necessary time to align stakeholders, identify weaknesses, complete engineering and design work, navigate regulatory requirements, and secure corporate support. These are not short term tasks; they require continuity.

CAMS itself is preparing to make major financial investments in Guyana, including significant enhancements to its own operational and racing infrastructure. These initiatives are driven entirely by the clear and forward thinking direction set by the current adminis-

tration. When the vision is strong and consistent, investment follows.

CAMS endorses Mahendra “Raj” Boodhoo for re-election as GMR&SC President Port

If Guyana’s motorsport community is serious about achieving world class results, safer facilities, stronger international ties, increased spectator engagement, and greater economic impact, then leadership capable of delivering that vision must be empowered. Mr Mahendra “Raj” Boodhoo has demonstrated that capability, and he deserves the time required to complete the work he has begun. For these reasons, CAMS stands firmly in support of his re election as President of the

Super 8 teams lock in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028 spots …as qualification details are announced

Progressing teams from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 group stage have earned automatic spots in the 2028 event, to be held in Australia and New Zealand.

Pakistan’s victory over Namibia completes the slate for the Super Eights, with Salman Ali Agha’s side and India progressing from Group A, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe from Group B, West Indies and England

from Group C and South Africa and New Zealand from Group D.

As co-hosts of the next edition, Australia and New Zealand already held guaranteed entry to the tournament.

The final three automatic qualifying spots will be taken up by the next three highest-ranked teams in the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings at a March 9 cut-off, the day after the tournament final.

Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Ireland are set to take those spots, with no international fixtures scheduled to affect current rankings.

The final eight places in the 20-team field will be decided through regional qualification, with allocations based on the relative competitive strength of each region.

Junior Jags optimistic ahead of CONCACAF qualifiers

Next Tuesday, the Guyana National Under-20 Men’s team will embark on their CONCACAF U20 Qualifiers campaign, competing out of Group D alongside hosts Curacao, Haiti, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Anguilla.

As the Junior Jaguars fine-tune their skills ahead of the all-important assignment on the regional stage, the players are optimistic about both their training and abilities on the compet-

itive field.

As such, forward Bryan Wharton and defender Max Robinson shared their thoughts on the ongoing training camp.

“It’s a new coach and, like, a new environment he’s putting us in, and it’s really professional, so we’re trying to adapt. We’re not there yet, but we’re getting there,” Wharton told this publication.

On the other hand, Robinson shared, “For the past week, it’s been great.

Getting this different per spective of coming to a dif ferent country and getting the different type of playing styles, it’s very athletic with a lot of running, and it real ly pushes me to be a better player.”

Quizzed on their group composition and expecta tions, both players articu lated an intention to achieve positive results.

The forward expressed, “I think that’s our main fo cus right now, the first one against Curacao and then

Bayrock Stadium is a significant milestone –Ninvalle

Steve Ninvalle, the Director of Sports, has characterised the inauguration of

the Bayrock National Stadium as a significant milestone in sports development.

“Well, the opening of the Bayrock National Stadium is a breath of fresh air to the mining town of Linden, and it ushers in a new era for sports development in Region 10. The multi-purpose state-ofthe-art facility represents

against Haiti, two of the biggest teams in the Caribbean actually. We’re just looking to go and give our all and hope for a good result.”

“We have a good chance if we fight because we have a good group. Playing well together as a team and getting to know each other better. So yeah, I think we stand a chance,” Wharton continued.

The Defender later added, “I think the biggest mindset is, we’re hungry and we want to win.”

On a more personal note, Wharton shared his goals for the competition, while Robinson discussed what a few victories would mean to him.

mean everything to me. I mean, I’ve been with this team and some of these players since I was 1213 years old, and seeing these guys grow, and myself, I think winning and bringing back that ‘top of the table’, just points and points, it would mean everything.”

The Junior Golden Jags will take on Curacao first on

“I just want to go and get a good tournament and showcase my talent across the board and share my experience with the guys,” Wharton shared.

Robinson related to this publication, “This would

the fulfilment of a promise made by the Government of Guyana,” Ninvalle stated.

He went on to discuss the broader implications of this facility for the region.

“It’s an investment in the sportsmen and women of not only Region 10 but, by right, across Guyana, and additionally, it brings a positive economic impact to the region,” Ninvalle opined.

Since its launch, the National Stadium has already hosted two track meets and will serve as an additional venue alongside the National Track and Field Centre in Leonora.

In a significant validation of Guyana’s growing influence in the global automotive arena, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), has issued a high-level commendation of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) and its President, Mahendra Boodhoo.

The correspondence, dated February 18, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for Guyanese motorsport, highlighting the successful integration of the GMR&SC as a Full Member of the FIA’s global network.

President Ben Sulayem’s message underscores the strategic importance of the GMR&SC’s position within a “powerful global network of 149 organisations”. This partnership is designed to empower the local club through several key pillars: Technical Expertise & Funding: Providing the

GMR&SC with the necessary tools and financial support to manage motorsport with “absolute confidence”.

Infrastructure & Visibility: Enhancing digital infrastructure to increase Guyana’s presence on the world stage.

Participation: Facilitating involvement in the world’s most prestigious racing events.

The FIA President specifically lauded the leadership of GMR&SC President Mahendra Boodhoo, noting that his tenure has been instrumental in reinforcing high standards of governance, cooperation, and development.

“Your leadership during this period has played a clear role in strengthening the GMR&SC’s engagement within the FIA family,” Ben Sulayem stated, acknowledging Boodhoo’s personal contribution to motorsport at both the national and regional levels.

Tuesday, February 24, before turning their attention to Anguilla on Saturday, February 28.

The Guyanese team will need to finish at the top of

their group in order to secure a spot at the CONCACAF U20 Championships later this year.

FIA President endorses Boodhoo in landmark show of support

Beyond the technical aspects of racing, the FIA’s commitment to the GMR&SC focuses on longterm growth and social responsibility. The joint mission aims to make the sport more accessible, more sustainable and more inclusive.

Through dedicated training and talent development, the FIA and GMR&SC are building the “strong foundations” required to ensure the sport’s growth for years to come.

As the GMR&SC prepares for its forthcoming Annual General Meeting, the endorsement from the highest office in world motorsport serves as a powerful testament to the club’s current trajectory. With the full backing of the FIA, Guyana is no longer just a regional participant but a respected player in the “World in Motion”.

Reflecting on this milestone, President Mahendra Boodhoo noted the long jour-

ney to this level of interna tional standing. Boodhoo, who has been with the club since be fore it achieved its current sta tus, recalled the pivot al transition under former FIA President Jean Todt.

“It is a pro found honour to receive this endorsement from the FIA President,” Boodhoo stated. “I have been ded icated to this club since before the GMR&SC achieved Full Member sta tus. I recall with pride our transition to full membership under then-President Jean Todt, whom I had the pleasure of welcoming to Guyana. Today, it is a privilege to continue this