Guyana Times - Thursday, February 26, 2026

Pres Ali, US President to meet in Miami for security talks

Template needed to help small countries to integrate AI in development – Jagdeo at WSDS 2026 – talks of economic

Pensioner dies after motorcycle collision at Industry

$231.9M Jawalla Secondary School on track for Sep 2026 completion

Golden Grove woman gets $650K bail for causing the death of elderly woman

Connect app launched to drive data, market access for agriculture sector

MoE hails ExxonMobil’s US$100M STEM investment as “transformational”

Days after ExxonMobil announced a 100 million investment in Guyana’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education, Education Minister Sonia Parag welcomed the announcement, describing it as transformational for the country’s students and education sector. In a video message posted on the Ministry’s Facebook page, the Minister said she

was absolutely thrilled by the investment and is excited about the opportunities it will provide for Guyanese students. The 10-year endorsement was made on Monday by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of the Board of ExxonMobil, Darren Woods, during a reception hosted by President Dr Irfaan Ali at State House in observation of Guyana Republic Anniversary. Minister Parag highlight-

ed that the investment will benefit the students and teachers alike, as it will see the construction of a STEM centre at the University of Guyana (UG) along with the training of educators in the various fields of STEM.

“This investment is going to ensure that we have a dedicated STEM centre at the University of Guyana campus. It is also going to go towards the training of teachers, and we’re looking to start training almost immediately hundreds of teachers in, or at least master trainers, in these specific fields of studies so that they will be able to deliver to our students and our students will be able to acquire the necessary skills.” She emphasised that the programme will prioritise critical thinking, problem solving and innovation, helping students to bridge the gap between real-world application and theoretical work. “STEM education is not unknown to Guyana, but it is not as prominent as we would like it to be. So, with this particular investment, I can definitely see so many of our students benefiting from this, our education sector on the whole

benefiting from this and of course modernising, going towards modernising our education sector,” Parag added. Further, she highlighted the broader national impact of the initiative, noting that the strengthened STEM education system will contribute to economic growth, sustainable development and the advancement of human capital at a time when Guyana is undergoing rapid trans-

formation. As a result of the investments, it is anticipated that more STEM clubs will be introduced in schools, thus allowing as many students as possible to gain hands-on experience in these fields. STEM will also be integrated into the national curriculum, with particular emphasis on mathematics at the primary and secondary school levels, to improve performance in said subject areas

at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. Minister Parag related that she is looking forward to the completion of the STEM centre, which is projected for 2028 or 2029, and encouraged parents to have their children participate in the upcoming STEM programmes and clubs.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, February 26 –11:35h–13:05h, and Friday, February 27 – 12:55h–14:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light showers, interrupted by occasional sunshine are expected during the day, and clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly between 4.47 metres and 6.25 metres.

High Tide: 12:01h reaching a maximum height of 2.18 metres.

Low Tide: 18:25h reaching a minimum height of 1.0 metre.

Pres Ali, US President to meet in Miami for security talks ...as

Guyana vows action if region’s sovereignty is threatened

Miami to attend a meeting convened by United States (US) President Donald Trump and intends to focus his discussions on strengthening bilateral relationships in terms of regional security.

The Guyanese President, during an interview with reporters after meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, explained that the Caribbean has been working with the US on several initiatives, especially regional security. “Over the last couple of years, we’ve been engaging in strengthening our bilateral relationship in terms of security. And what the US Administration is having in Miami is a meeting on security matters that is convened by President Trump,” Ali stated.

When prompted about the details of the meeting’s agenda, President Ali reiterated, “I have been invited to the meeting... it’s a meeting dealing with security matters, it’s dealing with

some of the challenges in the region, and to see how we can coordinate better in relation to those challenges. And this is an engagement that has been ongoing.” According to reports, the meeting will only see the leaders of Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago attending. He further stated, “I can speak about Guyana. And Guyana has been invited to this meeting, and we will be attending.” Late last year, Washington had deployed about 10,000 troops in the Caribbean, either on ships near the Venezuelan coast or in the US territory of Puerto Rico, as part of efforts to combat transnational crime and the illicit drug trade coming out of Caracas. The Trump Administration has stated that designated narco-terrorist organisations like Venezuela’s Cartel de

los Soles are using the region’s air and sea corridors to funnel drugs into the US, thus posing a direct threat to American lives and security. The military assets in the region include eight Navy ships, F-35 fighter jets and MQ-9 Reaper drones. To date, the US has blown up several vessels in the Caribbean Sea that it said were transporting cocaine and other dangerous drugs to the country. Back in October, President Ali had said that countries within the Caribbean have nothing to fear from the US operation near the Venezuelan coast. In fact, Dr Ali reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to working with regional and international partners to ensure the protection of the country and its citizens. “Our priority is the protection of Guyana, the citizens of

Guyana and the territory of Guyana. And we will do everything necessary to ensure that our country is safe and our people remain safe. We will do everything necessary to contribute to the region remaining a zone of peace, and we will do everything in support of combating transnational crime and illicit drugs,” the Guyanese head of state told reporters. Meanwhile, at the opening of the 50th Heads of Government Meeting on Tuesday, Trinidad’s Prime Minister (PM) Kamla PersadBissessar has thrown her support behind Guyana in the eventuality of an invasion by Venezuela, stating that her country will stand with the people of Guyana. In response, Ali stated, “Well, I’m not commenting on individual speeches and so on. What I would say is that our duty as leaders is to ensure we work hard in the interests of our citizens, in the interests of our countries and in the interests of the region. “We have an inherent responsibility to support each other whenever we come under a threat from anyone. So, I welcome the support of Trinidad and Tobago and the words of Prime Minister Kamla, reinforcing the fact that Trinidad and Tobago would support Guyana in relation to any threat from Venezuela.” He nevertheless reiterated that Guyana would not sit idly by if the territorial integrity and sovereignty of any of our states is threatened.

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Farmers Connect App

The launch of the Farmers Connect App by the Agriculture Ministry, in collaboration with the National Data Management Authority, gestures a critical step in aligning Guyana’s agricultural sector with the demands of a modern, data-driven economy. Developed within a short period, the platform shows a technological upgrade; it underscores a national commitment to equipping farmers with tools that enhance productivity and competitiveness.

Agriculture has long stood as both a foundation and catalyst of Guyana’s economy, with farmers sustaining households, supplying domestic markets and contributing significantly to export revenues.

However, the sector faces persistent challenges, including pest infestations, fluctuating market prices and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. In this context, access to timely and accurate information is a necessity.

The Farmers Connect App, by placing real-time agricultural information in the hands of producers, narrows the gap between knowledge and action. One of its most innovative features is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), allowing farmers to upload images of insects or diseased crops and receive immediate guidance. Early detection and swift intervention are critical in preventing widespread crop loss. An accessible diagnostic tool of this nature has the potential to reduce costs, protect yields and improve overall farm management.

Significant also is the app’s capacity to connect farmers directly with extension officers. For decades, extension services have played a crucial role in disseminating best practices and providing technical advice. However, geographic distances and resource constraints have sometimes limited their reach. By creating a digital bridge between farmers and agricultural experts, the platform enhances the effectiveness of extension services and ensures that professional guidance is available when it is most needed.

The inclusion of real-time market prices further strengthens farmers’ decision-making power. Market volatility can erode profits and undermine confidence, particularly for small-scale producers. With up-to-date information on crop and livestock prices, farmers are better positioned to determine when and where to sell. This transparency promotes fairness, reduces information asymmetry and contributes to a more efficient agricultural marketplace.

Climate variability has emerged as one of the most pressing threats to food production worldwide. By integrating weather forecasts and soil information, the Farmers Connect App equips producers with insights that can guide planting schedules, irrigation strategies and crop selection. Such data-driven planning enhances resilience and supports sustainable practices.

The human dimension of this initiative is equally compelling, as many farmers begin their journey with modest resources, often cultivating small plots that gradually expand through dedication and perseverance. Stories of small gardens evolving into reliable sources of income are common across Guyana. The introduction of digital tools tailored to the realities of these farmers shows an inclusive vision of development, one that recognises both the small-scale producer and the larger commercial enterprise as vital contributors to national progress.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has consistently emphasised agriculture’s central role in national development. Positioning the sector at the forefront of economic strategy echoes an understanding that food security, employment and export growth are interlinked. Farmers, through resilience and hard work, sustain communities and strengthen the broader economy. Providing them with advanced technological support affirms their value and acknowledges their contribution.

Importantly, the rapid development of the Farmers Connect App illustrates what can be achieved through effective interagency collaboration.

A more informed and responsive agricultural community enhances national food security and reduces vulnerability to external shocks. As Guyana continues to diversify its economy, strengthening traditional sectors through innovation ensures balanced and inclusive growth. Technology, when thoughtfully applied, can elevate long-standing industries without displacing their foundational values.

Amused by that AI video of a dancing raccoon? This is how the misery starts

By Polly Hudson

Moan all you like about technology; there’s no denying it’s made friendship easier. In an ideal world you would spend quality time together, have deep meaningful chats on the phone and swap well-thought-out, insightful texts. But when you’re busy, tired, or just not in the mood, what a relief that you can send a meme or a quick video and know that fully counts as keeping in touch. Result?

My terrifying, omniscient algorithm served me an Instagram reel last week of an incredibly realistic 3D hole a street artist had painted on the sidewalk in New York. As people tried to pass by, they glanced down, saw the hole and panicked, feeling that they were falling, so they dropped to the ground even though, of course, the pavement was flat and solid. It was funny and, I thought, clever, so I pinged it to a friend, who I was sure would agree. Instead, he told me, in extremely certain terms, that there was no 3D hole, no street artist, and no passers-by – because the clip was AI. Heck, New York might not even exist – at this point I can’t be sure of anything.

I felt like I was wearing a tinfoil hat. I can’t believe I hadn’t questioned any of it for a second. Talk about naive, foolish and out of touch. Feeling ashamed, I healthily distracted myself by turning my attention to my so-called friend. Should he have (metaphorically) urinated on my bonfire like that? Perhaps it would have been nicer to leave me in my blissful ignorance. Obviously it will be a cold day in hell before I forward a video to him again – next time I’ll send him a lengthy voice note, and he only has himself to blame.

What is the etiquette when it comes

to breaking the news that somebody should not have believed their eyes?

This might not seem like an important issue, but we do need to work it out, because AI isn’t going anywhere. (I always say “please” and “thank you” to Alexa, which I hope she’ll remember when she’s in charge.) We must decide on a collective strategy.

Informing someone that a video they’ve been charmed, entertained or excited by isn’t real is, on the surface, simply telling them the truth. The problem is that they didn’t ask and were happier not knowing. It’s not only spoiling their fun, extinguishing a brief moment of joy in this increasingly bleak existence, but also messing with their whole concept of belief, of faith. Maybe it’s the equivalent of an atheist pointing out plot holes in the Bible to somebody deeply religious. Probably best to leave them to it.

But AI has the potential to be dangerous (not you, Alexa; love you). If we don’t learn to question it, the chances of us being scammed by its ever more sophisticated use in the wrong hands are high. Could it be that alerting someone to AI is a kindness? A necessary evil? Insurance? They’ll feel like a doofus for a minute, but if that stops

them from being tricked in the future, it could be worth it.

In an essay, written by an AI expert and investor, that recently went viral, Matt Schumer compared the way tech muggles currently think about AI to how we all reckoned that virus far away in China was nothing for us to worry about in February 2020. You might possibly remember how that turned out. “I think we’re in the ‘this seems overblown’ phase of something much, much bigger than Covid,” wrote Schumer.

So we don’t need to fret about our policy on this after all then, because AI will win regardless. Either it’s coming for our dignity – fooling us at first with amusing little videos before moving on to emptying our bank accounts – or it’s coming for our livelihoods – replacing us and doing our jobs quicker and better. Or both. It’s not if; it’s when.

Suddenly, watching footage of a kitten and a baby raccoon who are best friends, wear matching outfits, and have mastered an intricate dance routine, à la the band playing as the Titanic sinks, doesn’t seem so bad.

(Polly Hudson is a Guardian columnist)

Template needed to help small countries to integrate AI in development – Jagdeo at WSDS 2026

– talks about economic framing of climate action

Vice President (VP)

Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has called on international stakeholders to develop frameworks to assist small countries in the Global South to overcome their capacity gaps and apply Artificial Intelligence (AI) for sustainable development and climate action.

“We have to today... start thinking about how we help the smaller countries of the South, particularly in building small templates or approaches where they can bypass the reluctance or the gap in knowledge at the local level and fully use AI for development, including to help us solve climate issues,” Jagdeo said.

He made these remarks while delivering his inaugural address at the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) at the Taj Palace in New Delhi, India, on Wednesday.

The global summit, hosted annually by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), is one of the world’s leading platforms for dialogue on climate action, sustainability, and green development.

Addressing policymakers, researchers, and climate advocates at the annual gathering in New Delhi, the Guyanese VP pointed out that there cannot be a conversation about sustainable development without includ-

ing AI in the mix.

“We can’t say the focus of this summit is on transformation and not examine the challenge that AI will bring to sustainable issues,” he stated.

Citing issues of size, lack of capacity, and other complexities, Jagdeo pointed out that many Global South countries, already grappling with technology gaps, are at risk of a new challenge with AI.

“India has great capacity... That is not so for many other countries in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, and so those countries cannot now suffer a new development challenge of the computer and data divide. That will happen, and if we don’t want that to happen, we have to now work out templates... for those countries to follow so that they can organise their AI diffusion because there’s hardly any AI development in those smaller countries.”

To this end, Jagdeo urged international organisations such as TERI to assist Governments in these small countries to integrate AI into national development strategies, especially in areas of education and healthcare. These efforts, he underscored, are even more important at a time when there are reluctance and fear surrounding AI.

“AI will bring great chal-

lenges to development, but it can also bring great rewards for development... We have to help build awareness around AI and its impact on development.”

“Many of our policymakers don’t understand the impact of AI and its effect on development, and we can’t be at a Sustainable Development Summit and not understand the impact that AI would have... TERI must now help in the planning process; just like we added a climate variable to national planning in the past, we now need to add an AI variable to national planning,” the VP asserted.

Shifting his attention to Guyana, Jagdeo outlined that Guyana has set an example of how small countries can leverage their resources to promote sustainable development. He cited Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), which was crafted in 2009 under his presidency, as a model for how countries can balance economic growth with forest conservation.

“We sold 30 per cent of our forest carbon for US$750 million,” he noted, while mentioning Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector, which will be producing about two million barrels of oil per day in the coming years. “We want to prove that you can do that and still

have a sustainable strategy within the country.”

But while he touted forest preservation as an option for forested developing countries to generate significant revenues, the VP lamented the fact that forest carbon credits remain undervalued in international climate markets, with most transactions occurring in voluntary systems rather than compliance frameworks.

Against this backdrop, Jagdeo argued that climate solutions must make economic sense to gain political traction.

“I think we need to emphasise the economic arguments around climate issues more and more because you may have a climate outcome, but it’s good economics, and nobody argues with economics,” he said, pointing to India’s and China’s dominance in solar technology and electric vehicles as examples of climate solutions becoming profitable industries.

This point was made on the heels of highlighting how geopolitical shifts impact climate action. Citing the United States’ absence from key climate negotiations, he said, “Often we are reluctant to confront the biggest issue that is affecting us right now, and that is the need to raise ambition to achieve the climate goals that we have set for ourselves, and with

Berbice woman stabbed by husband clinging to life

ACorentyne cane harvester is dead, one day after he allegedly stabbed his wife during a domestic dispute at their Number 76 Housing Scheme home, leaving their daughter horrified.

Police said the incident occurred shortly after 13:30h on Sunday. 47-year-old Olive Thompson reportedly ran from her home in blood after she was brutally stabbed by her husband, Patrick Mahendra Singh.

Neighbours rushed to assist the injured woman and transported her to the Number 75 Public Hospital, where she was admitted in a serious condition.

One neighbour, Rupa Persaud, recounted the quietness before screams pierced the community.

“We hear screaming, but like in a far distance, so we didn’t check because it was like a lot of noise and so on, so we didn’t come out. And then after they screamed, they placed on quiet, and then we see she come out

from the house. When she come out, we see the blood on her clothes, and she run over,” Persaud said.

She said as they rushed Thompson into a vehicle, Singh emerged from the yard.

“When we driving out, he ride out with the motorcycle with green substance on his skin,” she added. At the hospital, the couple’s daughter, Chandra Singh, said her mother was bleeding and was struggling

to speak.

“We didn’t allow her to talk, because she went bleeding a whole lot,” Persaud also recalled of the effort to keep Thompson calm before doctors intervened.

While the injured woman underwent treatment, the family said there was no immediate information about Singh’s whereabouts. As hours passed, relatives began searching the housing scheme themselves.

“So, what we did, we go

and search for ourselves. We went with phone light. We searched from all the way around in the scheme,” Chandra Singh said.

She explained that the search continued late into the night and into Monday morning. “She said that they went and they look whole morning… she said they find him dead.”

Police later confirmed that Singh’s body was discovered near a bridge within the scheme, with his parked motorcycle nearby.

Investigators believe he ingested a poisonous substance suspected to be Gramoxone. A bottle was recovered from the area as part of ongoing investigations.

Chandra Singh said there were no visible signs earlier that morning that anything was wrong.

Meanwhile, Thompson remains hospitalised but is said to be in a stable condition as investigations continue into the alleged stabbing and the subsequent death.

the absence of the United States of America at the table... it would be very, very difficult for us to achieve.”

“So, I think the challenge before this gathering over the next couple of days is to find ways where we can move forward even without the participation of the United States of America at this point in time,” the Guyanese official stated.

Nevertheless, the VP further shed light on Guyana’s recently launched Global Biodiversity Alliance, arguing that biodiversity could be the catalyst to bring climate sceptics to the table.

“We just realised that in many parts of the world, including in the United States, many people who were climate sceptics may also be strong supporters of biodiversity protection,” he sur-

mised.

During the WSDS opening session on Wednesday, remarks were also delivered by India’s Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, along with other international leaders and climate stakeholders.

In 2025, Jagdeo was named among a select group of just 18 global figures to receive the prestigious Sustainable Development Leadership Award – one of the summit’s highest honours. The award recognises transformative leadership in climate action, environmental protection, and sustainable development.

Past awardees include world leaders, global policymakers, and influential figures in climate and development.

Page Foundation

Fraction arithmetic

Fraction arithmetic involves adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing with fractions. There are techniques and skills you should learn and practise to help you with fraction arithmetic.

In order to add or subtract fractions they must have the same denominator. If the denominators are the same then you can perform the addition or the subtraction to the numerators.

In order to add fractions: Ensure the fractions have a common denominator. Add the numerators (top numbers). Write your answer as a fraction, making sure it is in its simplest form.

Example 1

1/5 + 1/5

Step 1: Ensure the fractions have a common denominator.

5 is the denominator for both fractions, so 5 is the common denominator.

Step 2: Add the numerators (top numbers).

1/5 + 1/5 = (1+1)/5 = 2/5

Step 3: Write your answer as a fraction, making sure it is in its simplest form.

The final answer is 2/5.

Example 2

1/8 + 5/8

1/8 + 5/8 = (1+5)/8 = 6/8

This fraction is not in its simplest form.

Both 6 and 8 are multiples of 2, so 2 is a common factor and can be cancelled.

6/8 = (2 × 3)/(2 × 4) = 3/4

The final answer is 3/4.

Example 3

5/8 + 1/2

These fractions do not have a common denominator.

Since we need the fractions to have a common denominator, we find a way to make 1/2 have a denominator of 8.

2 x 4 = 8, so we multiply the numerator and the denominator by 4.

1/2 × 4/4 = (1×4)/(2×4) = 4/8

Now that the fractions have a common denominator, we can add them.

5/8 + 4/8 = (5+4)/8 = 9/8

9/8 do not have a common factor to cancel, but it is an improper fraction.

We can write it as the mixed number 11/8.

The final answer is 11/8.

Practice

1) 3/9 + 4/9

2) 5/12 + 3/12

3) 6/5 + 9/5

4) 1/3 + 6/3

5) 7/9 + 1/9

6) 3/6 + 4/3

7) 4/6 + 1/2

8) 8/4 + 1/6

9) 9/10 + 4/5

10) 6/15 + 8/3

Allow the paint to dry completely.

BY MARVIN BELL

The moon is visible tonight even to the realists among us. Its white salt descends over an Earth in shadow to enter and preserve. . . The moon is visible tonight even to realists. Its white salt descends to enter our human wounds and to preserve us. . . It is the miserableness in us just as we are, removed to a safe distance. There above us, we should be unable for one night to try to change it. But we should see it as it is, bare hip beneath night’s shoulder as it turns slowly away. A catch, a whip, a long line from one rock to another— a tall tale, a rolling boil in the pot on the stove— you can take this to court with an egg in one hand and a round hole in the bottom of a shoe: Members of the jury, I ask you to believe that I stepped upon the moon, without doing anything. You have only to deliberate to see that I have told the truth and am innocent in the sight of God.

(Source: Poetry [October/November 1987])

Write about someone who strays for the first time from their daily life/routine and discovers a whole new world existing at the same time as theirs.

WORD SEARCH

“Deliver visible, active supervision” –Min Walrond charges

Police

Inspectors

– says lack of proper supervision breeds corruption among junior ranks

As the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues to undergo transformation, Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond has charged the leadership to step up and play an active role in advancing the ongoing modernisation of the Force.

She made these remarks on Wednesday while addressing the opening ceremony of the GPF’s Annual Inspectors Conference. During her presentation, the Minister highlighted the key areas that the Force needs to enhance in 2026, telling Inspectors that performance and accountability will be the focus.

“It’s time to speak, work on leadership skills, knowing that the people of Guyana are demanding no less... You’re supervisors;

performance is important... I believe that we have taken on roles of leadership, and we ought to be held accountable for our results,” she posited.

According to Walrond, the direction that the Police Force is heading toward cannot be achieved only at conferences but will have to be done on the ground through leaders like Inspectors, whom she says are the hinge between strategy and execution.

“Supervision is the deciding factor, Inspectors... In 2026, my charge to you, the Inspectors, is that you’re expected to deliver visible, active supervision,” she stated.

In calling for Inspectors to be more active in the execution of their duties, especially over junior ranks, Walrond pointed out that the lack of proper supervision breeds corruption.

“Corruption is not a minor breach. It is a national security threat and will be treated that way. In 2026, [there is] zero tolerance for bribery, collusion, abuse of authority, or neglect of duty. Corruption survives where supervision is weak... The buck stops with you, the Inspectors... You’re expected to deliver daily enforcement of discipline,” she asserted.

Similarly, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken reminded the Inspectors that they are ambassadors of the Police Force and need to lead from

the front. To this end, the top cop said he wants to see more Inspectors out in the field going forward.

“More often than ever, you are supposed to be on the road. You’re operational, and you’re supposed to be supervising the sergeants and all the other ranks and constables while you’re on the road. Please let this be a change of focus for the Guyana Police Force, for the Inspectors –that is why you are promoted.”

“You are responsible for the station and outpost. It means anything happening at the station and outpost, you are responsible. And so, I want to say, today stands the dawn of a new era where the Force’s succession plan will be realised, but more importantly, mentorship will be realised within every region,” Hicken posited.

This two-day Inspectors’

Golden Grove woman gets $650K bail for causing the death of elderly woman

Tbail

who

wenty-eight-year-old Rushana Hopkinson was granted $650,000 bail on Wednesday for causing the death of Jacqueline Cumberbatch following an accident along the Rupert Craig Highway. Hopkinson, of Lot 77 Section C Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD), appeared before Magistrate Abigale Gibbs at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the indictable charge. Police stated that on Sunday, February 22, in the vicinity of MovieTowne, Greater Georgetown, Hopkinson drove motor car PАМ 4632 in a manner dangerous to

the public, thereby causing the death of 65-year-old Jacqueline Cumberbatch. She was granted bail with the conditions that she report to the Police and lodge her passport. The matter was adjourned to March 30, 2026.

It was reported that Cumberbatch, a resident of Liliendaal, was reportedly on her way to MovieTowne to collect her pension when she was struck down along the Rupert Craig Highway Southern Carriageway. She was pronounced dead at the scene. A relative had told this publication that the family received a call shortly after, informing them of her death. Upon arrival at the scene, Cumberbatch’s lifeless body was seen on the parapet. Hopkinson was later arrested and charged with the offence of causing death by dangerous driving.

Conference comes on the heels of the Guyana Police Force’s Officers’ Conference held earlier this month, where President Dr Irfaan Ali outlined the roadmap to accelerate the transformation of the GPF.

Both conferences were held under the theme “Modern Policing for a Modern Nation: Integrating Technology, Innovation, and Leadership to Strengthen Public Safety and Trust”.

Drawing on that common theme, Minister Walrond also highlighted some of the areas that Inspectors need to ensure are improved upon, including ensuring case files leaving stations are complete, accurate, and court-ready; that technology is used with discipline and accountability; and that traffic and border enforcement remain consistent, impartial, and firm every time.

She also spoke to the need for enhanced response time and patrol coverage, noting that citizens must receive prompt attention at the station level – something that will help build public trust.

“In 2026, modern policing looks like a station that

responds. Every complaint must be treated with urgency. Every citizen treated respectfully, delays corrected, cases to be progressing every day. The public measures policing by your response,” she emphasised.

She further added that “modern policing looks like a station that protects the vulnerable. Domestic violence and sexual offences must be treated urgently and with the utmost confidentiality. Victims should be treated with dignity. Follow-up must be structured, not ad hoc. When a force fails the vulnerable, we cannot build trust.”

Underscoring the importance of strong and consistent supervision, Minister Walrond noted that Inspectors will have to take charge in executing the mandate of the Guyana Police Force. To do this, she stressed that the strategy and resources, even the presidential directions, are already in place.

“Strong supervision produces discipline, and discipline produces good performance, and performance produces the ultimate, which is public trust, which is what we are all aspiring to. When we have pub-

lic trust, most of our problems are solved. So that is the chain of responsibility, and that chain begins with you...”

“Your leadership must be visible, measurable, and consistent because you’re the ones who determine whether stations operate with control or drift into disorder. You determine whether complaints are treated seriously at your stations and elsewhere. You determine whether patrols are properly conducted, and you determine whether investigations meet procedural standards... These pillars will advance or stall based on the quality of your supervision,” she reminded.

The Annual Inspectors Conference, being held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, will wrap up today.

Following the opening ceremony on Wednesday, there were comprehensive presentations by several senior officials within the GPF, including Deputy Commissioner (Administration) Ravindradat Budhram and Deputy Commissioner (Law Enforcement) Wendell Blanhum.

Going on…

…and (zzzzz)

on

Imagine we’re now in 2026 and the trial of the GECOM nine – who conspired with APNU/PNC to rig the 2020 elections – ain’t only going on, but shows no signs of ending!! In the meantime, we’ve had another General Election after the stipulated five years – under new GECOM staffing, of course!! They had to replace a host of highlevel employees since those on the dock include former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, Region Four Returning Officer Mortimer Mingo, Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Myers, and GECOM staffers Denise BabbCummings, Enrique Livan, and Michelle Miller!!

They say, “The wheels of justice grind slowly – but exceedingly fine”, implying that while the process can be tedious, in the end the right decision is gonna be made because it takes time to sift the paddy from the husk!! But they also say, “justice delayed is justice denied”, and to be honest, this saw most accurately describes your Eyewitness frame of mind!!

So, what’s been holding up the case? One big factor was – believe it or not – the “unavailability” of the initial Magistrate assigned for months and months!! This worthy was no other than Chief Magistrate Leron Daly, who fell ill shortly after the trial commenced in July of 2024.

Yep!! It took that long to even get started!!

Daly was able to have just two persons testify by November – when the Chancellor was forced to replace him with a successor – Faith McGusty. But it doesn’t seem that much has changed, has it?? The latest excuse was that the lawyer for some of the defendants couldn’t be reached!! Yes!! In this age of instantaneous communications, even from outer space!! Shouldn’t this lawyer be cited and condignly punished for contempt of the court?? What happened?? He forgot his court date?? Jeez!!

The other case crying out for a conclusion, of course, is Sanction Man and his Daady’s extradition hearing!! Even though the fella – now the new Opposition leader – assures us he entered politics to fight for justice for all Guyanese, he’s been fighting a massive rear-guard action to stop the wheels of justice!! He’d like us to believe he’s being denied justice in Guyana, but the fact of the matter is, HE’S NOT ON TRIAL IN GUYANA!! In an extradition case, that’s for the court in the country to which he’s being extradited – where the crime was committed!!

All of the delays have been caused by him insisting that our extradition LAW ain’t kosher, even though it’s been applied so many times before – including just last week!! His latest appeal to the High Court has been thrown out, so hopefully the senior Mohammed will be recovered to show up in court?!! Let justice be done – even if the heavens fall!!

…about zones of blindness

Well, Caricom Heads of Government (aptly abbreviated as “HOGS”) are meeting in St Kitts-Nevis. And, as expected, the sparks flew as from a blacksmith’s hammer and anvil when T&T’s PM Kamla Bissessar took the podium. She insisted that leaders have gotta speak frankly – and meetings can’t be all smiles and hugs when there are differences of opinion on matters affecting members!! Who can argue with that??

Of concern to us was when she highlighted the silence of some leaders at the aggression of Venezuela under Mad Maduro against her country – and also ours!! And in this we’ve gotta back Kamla to the hilt!! While we must work to maintain the solidarity of Caricom, like when aggressive moves such as those committed by Mad Maduro when he sent a Venezuelan gunship to threaten an FPSO in our EEZ, are made against a member, then the group has gotta take a stand!!

In the present, whatever other concerns exist, the US action to remove Mad Maduro must be supported!!

…to the hereafter

As far as your Eyewitness knows, the recently departed Dr Rupert Roopnarine was an atheist. But he hopes that notwithstanding those beliefs, his cosmic consciousness is aware of all the positive vibes he engendered in people!! RIP!

CARICOM Chair lauds Guyana’s digital education drive at Heads of Govt meeting

Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Prime Minister (PM) of St Kitts and Nevis Dr Terrance Drew on Tuesday evening lauded Guyana’s expanded digital education initiatives, describing them as a model for regional innovation and youth empowerment. Delivering the feature address at the opening ceremony of the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in Basseterre, Drew highlighted Guyana’s flagship Guyana Digital School as a tangible example of how technological advancement can transform the region.

“Technological advancement will define the next generation of Caribbean development,” Drew said. “Digital transformation strengthens governance, education, commerce and security.

Initiatives such as expanded digital education offerings from our fellow Caribbean country of Guyana illustrate how innovation can widen access and empower our youth. We must strengthen digital infrastructure, enhance cyber resilience and cultivate technological capacity that supports diversification and competitiveness. Technological progress pursued together expands possibilities for all of our people here in CARICOM.”

The Guyana Digital School, launched last December as the brainchild of President Dr Irfaan Ali, employs a four-quadrant approach integrating technology, content, engagement and hands-on experiences to transform education and equip students with skills for the 21st century. The initiative extends full access to learners across the Caribbean region, making it available to CARICOM nationals beyond Guyana’s borders. Its features include an online, interactive curriculum aligned with Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) requirements, a dig-

ital library with textbooks and multimedia learning tools, support for hundreds of courses, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered assistance and virtual labs for practical subjects. The platform has been described as a gateway to digital learning and an enabler of essential skills, particularly for students who face challenges accessing traditional schooling. The launch of the Guyana Digital School was hailed as the beginning of an era in which education is continuous, flexible, and inclusive. Guyana’s digital push also includes the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), through which thousands of scholarships have been awarded for online courses in technology and workplace skills, producing tens of thousands of graduates since 2021. These initiatives form part of a broader national strategy often described as “Digital Guyana” or the National Digitalisation Programme, through which the Government has been investing in digital education and wide-ranging digitisation efforts to modernise public services, expand access to learning and build digital capacity. The country is also working toward full digitalisation of Government services by mid-2026. In his address, Drew underscored the importance of regional integration and collective advancement as he spoke on how development in different member states can benefit the collective countries in the region. “A world without a Caribbean Community would be culturally poor, intellectually diminished and spiritually less vibrant. Our integration was neither accidental. We must never, ever forget our foundational principles. By ourselves, many states could not have achieved what CARICOM made possible,” he said. Drew stressed that connectivity and cooperation are essential to ad-

vancing regional priorities.

“Connectivity is the infrastructure of togetherness.

It allows trade, culture and opportunity to circulate

freely within our shared Caribbean space,” he said.

“Trade must be advanced with renewed commitment. We must dismantle our bar-

riers and strengthen regional value chains. We owe it to all of our people. Our response must be intelligence-driven and regionally

coordinated. When institutions work together, meaningful progress is achievable,” the CARICOM Chair added.

GDF represented at inaugural Western Hemisphere Chiefs of Defence Conference in Washington

Colonel General Staff, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, recently represented the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) at the inaugural Western Hemisphere Chiefs of

Participating states included 13 CARICOM members, 15 Latin American countries, Canada, and four European states with territories in the region, including Denmark.

consistent engagement among regional defence partners.

Discussions underscored the importance of coordinated responses grounded in partnership

Defence Conference in Washington, DC

He attended the event on behalf of Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan.

The high-level forum, held between February 11 and 12, 2026, was hosted by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the United States military and brought together Chiefs of Defence from 33 nations across the hemisphere and the wider region.

The conference served as a strategic platform to examine hemispheric security priorities, including risks posed by foreign terrorists’ organisations, transnational criminal organisations, cyber and other threats to the security, stability and prosperity of the hemisphere.

Particular emphasis was placed on strengthening institutional trust, enhancing intelligence sharing, and sustaining

and mutual confidence.

Guyana’s participation reflects its continued commitment to proactive regional engagement and meaningful dialogue on collective defence issues. Through representation at forums of this level, the Guyana Defence Force advances strategic relationships while contributing to broader efforts aimed at strengthening stability and security throughout the hemisphere.

Pensioner dies after motorcycle collision at Industry

Sixty-nine-year-old

Anjanie Mohabir of Block 8 Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD), is Guyana's latest road fatality after she was struck down on Tuesday at Industry Public Road, ECD.

Police stated that on the day in question, at about 17:50h, a motorcycle bearing registration number CR 523, driven by a 29-year-old male of Owen Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was proceeding along the Industry

Public Road and came to a halt to allow Mohabir to cross the roadway. At the time, a 28-year-old female was the pillion rider.

However, Police stated that a collision subsequently occurred between the motorcycle and the pedestrian.

As a result of the collision, the motorcyclist, pillion rider, and pedestrian sustained injuries. They were picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where Mohabir

succumbed while receiving medical treatment.

The pillion rider was admitted for observation, while the driver was treated and released from the hospital. Police are reviewing the CCTV footage as investigations continue.

A breathalyser test conducted on the driver of the motorcycle proved that there were no traces of alcohol in his system. He nevertheless remains in Police custody pending further investigations.

Regional unity in focus at 50th CARICOM Summit as leaders confront crises in Haiti, Cuba

The importance of the continuation and strengthening of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the humanitarian crisis in Cuba, the ongoing instability in Haiti,

“A world without a Caribbean Community would be culturally poor, intellectually diminished, and spiritually less vibrant. Our integration was not accidental. By ourselves,

regional security, climate resilience, and economic cooperation took centre stage on Tuesday as regional leaders gathered in Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis, for the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government.

The featured address at the event was delivered by the current CARICOM Chair, Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrence Drew, while remarks were also delivered by the outgoing Chair, Andrew Holness, PM of Jamaica.

Also speaking at the event were the PM of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, and the President of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons.

The speakers underscored that despite differences, challenges, and global uncertainty, the regional integration movement must endure and evolve. Dr Drew highlighted the moment as pivotal for the region.

“CARICOM stands at a decisive hour. Supply chains remain uncertain, markets fluctuate, and climate shocks have intensified. In such a world, fragmentation breeds vulnerability. By contrast, togetherness generates resilience,” Drew said. He emphasised that the regional body has been indispensable to small states.

many states could not have achieved what CARICOM made possible,” Drew noted. Drew called for deeper collaboration on food security, trade, connectivity, digital transformation, and crime fighting.

“Connectivity is the infrastructure of togetherness. It allows trade, culture, and opportunity to circulate freely within our shared Caribbean space,” he said.

On Haiti, he noted that “Haiti demands our sustained attention. A stable Haiti means a stable Caribbean.” While acknowledging limited resources, he stressed, “We must continue to work as a community to ensure that the best opportunity for Haiti does not waver.”

Turning to Cuba, Drew, a doctor who studied in Cuba, stressed that the humanitarian situation requires urgent regional attention.

“It would affect the whole region. A destabilised Cuba will destabilise all of us. Let us devise the mechanisms and the channels so that we can help the people of Cuba,” he said.

Holness also reflected on the regional project’s durability while cautioning that adaptation is necessary.

“The question before us is not whether CARICOM can endure – for we have, and we will – but whether it can

deliver for our people with urgency and relevance in a rapidly changing world,” Holness said. He reminded leaders that integration does not mean uniformity.

“CARICOM is not a political union... and because we are sovereign states, each accountable to our own electorates, we will at times assess risks differently... That is not evidence of the weakness of our association,” he noted.

“CARICOM endures because it adapts... small states can achieve big things when we work together.”

Addressing Cuba, Holness urged careful but principled engagement.

“It must be clear that a prolonged crisis in Cuba will not remain confined to Cuba. It will affect migration, security, and economic stability across the Caribbean basin,” he said.

“Let there be no doubt Jamaica stands firmly for democracy, human rights, political accountability, and open market-based economies.”

On Haiti, he said CARICOM “has a critical role in supporting the political, humanitarian, and security pillars of the recovery.”

In addition, PersadBissessar echoed the call for collective purpose. “We all have different pathways to walk, but our destination, our goal, and aim are the same: for a better quality of life for the people in our countries and the entire region,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar took a firm position on Cuba. “Trinidad and Tobago will not support a dictatorship in Cuba. We are all citizens and must have equality before the rule of law. We must have separation of powers and checks and balances, freedom of expression, and association,” she said.

She also highlighted Haiti’s fragile democracy.

“In Haiti, democracy continues to be under threat... We in Trinidad and Tobago are committed to helping Haiti,” she said.

Further, GeerlingsSimons reminded delegates that CARICOM is about unity, not uniformity.

“CARICOM is not mere-

ly an institution; it is a family. Regional unity is not optional.” It is a necessity to stand together and speak with one voice to demonstrate that small states can exert collective influence far beyond their small size,” she said, adding that “the region is not defined by its vulnerability.” It is defined by creativity, resilience, and determination.”

PM of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Godwin Friday, reflected on past tensions

within the movement but reaffirmed its necessity.

“The spirit of regional integration persists. We may complain and fight amongst ourselves, but meanwhile, we continue to support and reshape it... because we need it,” he said. He stressed that in an increasingly uncertain global order, unity is a necessity.

“In the current global realities, we need each other more than ever,” he said.

CARICOM Secretary-

General Carla Barnett described 2025 as one of the most challenging years in the integration movement’s history, citing extreme weather, geopolitical tensions, and economic pressures.

“Individual national priorities remain vital; however, our collective strength is what amplifies our voice, secures opportunities for growth, and mitigates risk,” she said.

“Until the ending changes, domestic violence will remain” – Parag

“The Government alone cannot do it,” Education Minister Sonia Parag tells Region Five students after a dramatic poetry item highlights abuse.

Parag has warned that domestic violence will continue to plague Guyana unless the narrative surrounding abuse changes, telling students that “until the ending changes, the story will never change.”

She made the remarks during the region’s Republic Anniversary flag-raising ceremony at Fort Wellington, Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), after a female student delivered a dramatic poetry piece depicting domestic abuse.

The performance portrayed the grim reality of violence within the home, ending in tragedy. Parag commended the student’s presentation as excellent but questioned the inevitability of such conclusions.

“When is it ever going to come that we are going to see a young lady start off with depicting domestic vi-

olence but finish that skit with feeling empowered?” she asked.

“While she did a dramatic and excellent depiction, the end of that story remained the same. Her life was gone.”

Her remarks come against the backdrop of national data showing that domestic violence remains a serious social issue.

According to the Human Services and Social Security

Ministry, the national 914 hotline receives thousands of calls annually, with hundreds relating directly to domestic abuse and gender-based violence. In recent updates, the Ministry reported over 6000 calls to the hotline within a single year, including more than 180 linked specifically to domestic violence. Government figures also indicate a 33 per cent reduction in domestic violence-related homicides,

a development officials have attributed to strengthened interventions and the implementation of the Family Violence Act of 2024.

However, official data suggest that the problem remains widespread. The Ministry has previously reported close to 900 domestic violence cases recorded in 2022, while public officials have acknowledged that many incidents go unreported, meaning the true scale may be significantly higher.

Authorities say ongoing police training, expanded support services, and community engagement efforts are critical in tackling the issue, but they continue to emphasise that cultural attitudes and public awareness must shift to meaningfully reduce violence within homes and communities.

Parag stressed that legislation alone cannot end abuse. “The Government alone cannot do that,” she said.

“The Government can create laws, and the Government can put protection in place, but until that

time, a lady or a woman wants to move her life from one place to the next and shift that narrative; the story will never change.”

She further noted that responsibility must be shared across society.

“It’s not just our women; our men have to empower our women too,” she added, urging communities to confront harmful norms and support victims seeking change. She framed the issue as one of mindset as much as policy.

“Everything starts with a

mindset,” the Minister told the gathering, “your mind has the power to imprison you, or it has the power to free you.”

Until the conclusion of such stories reflects empowerment rather than loss, Parag suggested, domestic violence will remain a persistent and painful reality. Changing that ending, she indicated, is a collective responsibility, one that extends beyond Government and into homes, schools and communities across the country.

Parag pledges to address internet connectivity at Waramadong Primary

Education Minister Sonia Parag has committed to addressing the issue of internet connectivity during her visit to the Waramadong Primary School in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Tuesday.

The Minister reaffirmed that the PPP/C Government remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents of hinterland regions, particularly through continued investments in education.

Constructed approximately three years ago, Waramadong Primary School currently serves about 154 students, several of whom are preparing to sit the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) this year.

In her address to the students, Minister Parag en-

couraged them to remain focused on their studies and to approach their examinations with confidence and determination.

“Those of you who are in Grade Six and will be writing the National Grade Six Assessment this year, I want to wish you the best of luck. Your second mock exams will be in March, and then the final exams in April. I want to wish you all the best as you head into those exams, and I want you to concentrate and focus, because the Government is making resources available to you so that you can do well, and I know your teachers are preparing you for those exams,” Parag told the children.

“Thank you for doing the job that you’re doing; I know it’s not easy a lot of the time, but you are doing one of the most honourable jobs in this country – that is to mould the minds of our young ones and to nurture them into being great human beings.”

The visit formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing outreach to hinterland communities, as efforts continue to strengthen infrastructure, expand access to resources, and ensure that every child, regardless of location, receives a quality education in a supportive learning environment.

She added, “We want to see you do well, and we will continue to invest in you because you are the future of our country. Don’t ever forget that.” Parag also expressed appreciation to the teachers for their dedication and service to the nation’s children, acknowledging the challenges they face while carrying out their duties.

MoH meets Land Registry to tackle title processing delays amid massive housing expansion

Housing Ministers

Collin Croal and Vanessa Benn, along with staff of the Ministry of Housing, recently met with officials of the Land Registry to address the processing of Government titles and operational challenges impacting the registry.

Discussions focused on the significant increase in the volume of certificates

of titles arising from the rapid expansion of housing schemes by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), which has placed operational strain on the Land Registry.

Registrar of Lands, Rosalie Robertson, confirmed expanded registration areas and extended working hours to facilitate Government-related titles,

noting that the current processing timeframe is approximately three months and is expected to reduce once the backlog is cleared.

Following the meeting, the Ministers toured the land registry and observed first-hand several operational constraints, including document storage.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to contin-

$231.9m Jawalla Secondary School on track for Sep 2026 completion

Construction of the new $231.9 million Jawalla Secondary School in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) is on track for the September 2026 completion. This was revealed by Education Minister Sonia Parag, who visited the construction site on Tuesday and expressed her satisfaction after a full-scale inspection. The multi-million dollar initiative, which aims to improve learning conditions and ease overcrowding for stu-

dents transitioning from primary, has recorded a significant advancement in recent months.

The Minister was accompanied by the Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO) for Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development, Marti De Souza, along with the project contractor and consultant.

“It’s very important that we have students from the primary top come into this school and occupy this space. We want to remove

the overcrowding that’s happening at schools right now; that’s one of the main reasons why we embarked on this project,” Minister Prag said. She encouraged the contractor to accelerate works to ensure that the facility is completed in time for the new school year in September 2026.

“We are hoping that the facility is completed just before the opening of the new term in September 2026. I think the contractor may be able to do that because, like I said, we’ve seen significant improvements in the last few months.” While acknowledging that some finishing work remains, the Minister assured regional officers that measures will be put in place to ensure the timely completion of the project. Parag will continue to closely monitor the project to ensure the school is delivered on schedule as promised. The new Jawalla Secondary School forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to expand education quality and access and strengthen educational infrastructure in hinterland communities.

ued collaboration with the Land Registry to resolve the challenges identified and to ensure timely land tenure for citizens.

The Ministerial team consisted of Director of Operations Denise KingTudor, Head of the Corporate Legal Secretariat Hannifah Jordan, and Head of the Conveyance Department Esther Stephen.

Since 2020, the Housing Ministry, through the CH&PA, processed over 25,000 Certificates of Title or Transports as part of the land regularisation programme.

Of these, some 4498 were processed in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) alone, with 2953 titles distributed over the last five years. Between January and November 2025, 872 Certificates of Title were distributed.

At the beginning of the year, some 23 families of Greenwich on the East Bank of Essequibo (EBE) in Region Three received their Certificates of Title as the Housing Ministry embarks on an aggressive land titling

programme this year with the Guyana Government’s continued drive to complete homeownership.

In addition, 250 Certificates of Title for plots of land in Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) were distributed to residents earlier in the year.

A total of 3000 residents of Cotton Tree are said to benefit from the project being spearheaded by the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission.

President Dr Ali had stated that the land regularisation process had begun in 2009 under the then People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration, but the work was stalled for five years during the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) regime.

He noted that later in the year, areas such as Stewartville, Uitvlugt in Region Three, and several villages along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) are among the villages to be formalised.

Major foundation works underway on $63B

256-room Georgetown Seafront Resort

Major foundation works are under way on the $63 billion, 256-room Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre, which, when completed, is expected to significantly expand Guyana’s tourism and conference capacity. The investment agreement, signed in 2025 between the Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest) and the project’s international developers, represents one of the largest hospitality investments currently under way in the country.

The introduction of the resort under the Hilton brand, alongside modern convention facilities along the Georgetown seafront, will strengthen Guyana’s ability to host large-scale regional and international events, support business tourism, increase visitor arrivals and generate substantial employment and service-sector opportunities. The investment will also stimulate linkages across construction, hospitality, retail, transportation and other supporting industries, contributing to economic diversification and sustained growth in the non-oil economy. This project aligns directly with President Dr Irfaan Ali’s

Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification, tourism expansion, private-sector growth and the creation of sustainable employment opportunities across all regions. By deepening hospitality capacity and strengthening conference infrastructure, the investment reinforces the Government’s strategy of building an economy by design, one that positions Guyana as a competitive destination for global business, travel and events. The project is expected to generate over 450 jobs during the construction and operational phases. In addition to its core accommodation and 2,000+ seat convention facilities, the development will feature multiple food and beverage outlets, speciality restaurants and lounges, retail spaces, and a potential seawall restaurant. Amenities will include a kids’ zone, fitness centre, sports facilities such as tennis and paddle courts, a swimming pool, pool bar and grill, a spa with wellness centre and a social club, positioning the facility as a full-service hospitality and events destination along the Georgetown seafront. The developers have committed to full compliance with Guyana’s laws

and regulatory frameworks and are implementing the project under robust local content requirements. These measures are intended to maximise participation by Guyanese businesses and workers, strengthen domestic capacity in the construction and hospitality sectors and ensure that the investment delivers lasting economic benefits to the country. In late 2025 in Qatar, Chief Investment Officer (CIO) and Head of Go-Invest, Peter R. Ramsaroop, engaged senior executives of the project company to finalise strategic investment arrangements and accelerate implementation of timelines. These high-level discussions formed part of Go-Invest’s targeted international investor engagement strategy aimed at attracting transformative, large-scale projects aligned with Guyana’s expanding tourism and non-oil growth agenda.

Ramsaroop stated, “This investment is not incidental; it is intentional. Under His Excellency’s Vision 2030, we are building an economy by design, expanding our tourism infrastructure, deepening private-sector participation, and positioning Guyana as a premier destination for global business and international events. The commencement of major foundation works reflects investor confidence in Guyana’s trajectory and our Government’s disciplined approach to sustainable, non-oil growth.” As construction progresses, the Hilton-branded Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention

From silence to strength: New group targets women’s empowerment

Anew women’s empowerment initiative was recently launched in Berbice, with its founder, Amanda Punwa, declaring that women must not only understand their rights but have the confidence to assert them.

The organisation, “Her Rights, Her Power”, was formed in collaboration with Dorcas Mending Hearts Ministry and aims to provide women with legal guidance, emotional support, and practical tools to better navigate challenges in their personal and professional lives.

Punwa, a teacher by profession, said the idea for the initiative emerged from years of interaction with mothers of the children she teaches. In daily conversations, she encountered women who were quietly grappling with financial dependence, workplace inequality, strained relationships, and emotional stress.

“Women have all heard many times, ‘You know what, it’s okay, just accept it, go with the flow… maybe you’re the problem, maybe you should tone down a bit, maybe you shouldn’t say when there is a problem, just let it be,’” Punwa said.

According to her, such messaging has conditioned many women to suppress their concerns rather than confront them constructively. She stressed that the organisation is not about encouraging confrontation but about building awareness and self-assurance.

She recounted instances where women expressed frustration over financial dependence within their households.

“Maybe I want to buy

something, miss, but I can’t buy it because I don’t have the money. I have to wait until my husband says it’s okay… like financial dependencies… All of these things I get to hear all the time,” she explained.

Punwa said these recurring themes made it clear that many women were not lacking strength but access to information and support systems.

To address that gap, the newly formed body plans to bring together professionals who can provide structured guidance. Legal awareness will form a major component of its work, particularly in areas relating to marriage, separation, and employment rights.

“Definitely lawyers, because a lot of women do not know of their rights as women, especially being separated from their husbands, or even employment rights as women… and we have a Court of Appeal Judge, Dr

In addition to legal professionals, the initiative intends to engage doctors and other specialists to assist with mental health awareness and personal development. Training sessions and therapeutic activities are also being planned to help women manage stress and build confidence.

Punwa, who will serve as team leader, said she hopes to assemble a strong network of women capable of sustaining the initiative and ensuring it remains accessible to those in need.

“We’re going to give them the weapon of understanding… the weapon of confidence in themselves to know that, you know what, I got this. It’s not me alone. I got this,” she said. For Punwa, empowerment begins with awareness, and awareness begins with conversation.

11 vendors begin relocating to make way for ‘B’ Field Sophia Road widening project

Public Works Minister

Bishop Juan Edghill, on Wednesday, visited the ongoing relocation exercise in B Field Sophia, thus marking a significant step forward in the widening of the community’s main road artery. The visit served as a follow-up to a successful meeting held with local vendors on Tuesday, where all parties mutually agreed to relocate to facilitate the continuation of this vital infrastructure project. During the visit, Edghill expressed his gratitude to the vendors who are actively transitioning to the newly designated tarmac. He commended their con-

tinued cooperation and praised them for prioritising community progress over the misleading narratives of anti-development forces.

The relocation of the vendors will see the advancement of the road-widening project – a cornerstone for the continued development of B Field Sophia. Expanding this main artery is essential for alleviating traffic congestion, improving road safety, and creating a more efficient, modern transport network for all residents and businesses. To safely execute these upgrades, it is necessary to clear the road shoulders,

and this will see a total of 64 vendors relocated to make way for the expansion. Currently, 11 vendors operating directly within the alignment of the road project have already commenced their move with support from the Ministry. The Government remains deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals who ply their trade in the area can maintain their economic livelihoods without interruption. To accommodate the remaining vendors currently operating on the road shoulders, the Ministry will construct two additional, purpose-built tarmacs within B Field, in the middle and at the far-

Teen mother reportedly stabbed 25 times by child father

A15-year-old mother from Heathburn Village, East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), is fighting for her life after she was reportedly stabbed 25 times during a violent attack on Tuesday evening, allegedly by the father of her child.

Shanice Daniels remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) under close medical supervision as police continue investigations into the brutal incident that has sent shockwaves through the quiet East Bank Berbice community.

The teenager was found with multiple stab wounds about her body and was rushed to the New

Amsterdam Public Hospital, where she was immediately admitted to the ICU.

Medical personnel are treating what relatives described as approximately 25 stab injuries, and she remains in critical condition under close observation.

The teenager’s aunt, Denzel Chapman, said she was awakened sometime after 21:00h on Tuesday evening and rushed over to the teen’s home after being alerted by relatives.

By the time she reached the yard, she said the injured teen was already being rushed to the hospital. “I see them bringing out she body wrap in a sheet… covered in blood,” Chapman recalled.

She said she did not see the full extent of the injuries but noticed heavy bleeding. “Just she foot I see when she wrap… all the blood running down she foot… all the by skin soak blood.”

Chapman said the family later heard that the teenager sustained approximately 25 stab wounds. “Oh me, I know… me hear they say it’s 25. 25 stabs,” she said.

Chapman said the relationship had been a concern for some time and claimed that the suspect had previously been warned to stay

away from the teenage mother.

“Long they warning him… the police come in and tell him to stay away, and this is it,” she said.

She further alleged that there had been previous instances of violence. “Yes… couple of times she say he beat she up. He beat she up on the dam; on the road he beat she up.”

According to the aunt, the suspect is significantly older than the teenager. “He’s twenty-something… 28 years old, and she’s 15,” she said.

The family is now calling for swift action for his arrest.

ther end of the community. This transition not only allows the road project to advance but also provides vendors with a safer, more organised and formalised environment to conduct their business. Meanwhile, Edghill firmly reiterated the Government’s stance regarding the unauthorised occupation of state reserves.

He clarified that individuals cannot claim self-assumed prescriptive rights to Government land and as such, the Government will not entertain requests for financial compensation for the removal of structures from these public reserves.

Armed bandits invade Rose Hall Town business, escape with cash & vehicle

Armed bandits carted off cash and a motor vehicle after storming Shanie’s Liquor and Grocery Store in Rose Hall Town, Corentyne Berbice, on Monday evening.

The incident reportedly took place at about 21:00h, leaving the family traumatised. Owner Shanie Ramsingh related that the men gained entry into the shop moments after she had closed for the day.

“Well, on Monday night at about 9 o’clock I closed my shop… and was gaffing with a customer just by that pool table,” Ramsingh recounted. She said the attack unfolded suddenly.

“When all of a sudden I see three men from this direction… they appear in front of me just like that,” she said. “The two pass me when the third one shoot something up in the air, which is a gunshot.”

Realising they were under attack, Ramsingh said she sought safety. “I sneak into my shop and lock it, where I know I’m quite secure,” she explained.

While Ramsingh secured herself, the suspects moved next door to her nephew’s house, located within the same yard.

Stephen Ramsingh, 26, said he initially mistook the gunshot for something else. “I heard a pop, something like a squib burst… so I thought it was a novel, somebody who can burst a squib,” he said.

Seconds later, he said, one of the men was standing over him with a weapon.

“Next thing I saw, one man with a high-powered weapon pointing the gun at my head, saying, ‘Where the effing money and gold is?’” he recalled.

Despite repeatedly telling the men he had no gold or large sums of cash, Stephen said the bandits continued to threaten him.

“I said, ‘Man, I don’t have no gold, no money,’” he said. “But they saw the money on top of the barrel, and they collected the money.”

He said he was struck during the robbery.

“They get a slap across me with the man with the high-powered weapon across my head,” he added. Stephen said approximately $25,000 was taken from him.

“Just about $25,000. That’s what I have in my possession,” he said. He described the suspects as young and heavily disguised.

“All of them was wellmasked… had construction gloves, construction clothes. Long-sleeve shirt and everything,” he said. “These

fellows are very rapid, and they are young fellows… between 15 to 19 years of age.”

Meanwhile, Ramsingh said the bandits’ movements appeared coordinated. After robbing her nephew, she said they encountered her cousin, who was arriving at the property.

“My cousin… she was coming to visit my niece and pulling up in the car… they decided to drag her out of the car… and take the car and drive off,” she said. The car was later recovered. The entire ordeal, she said, happened within minutes.

“Oh, I’m so traumatised… until now, I can’t… it traumatised me,” she said. “Although they didn’t get to do me anything, I feel it. Because I imagine if they would have get me, what would have happened?”

Ramsingh also raised concerns about public safety in the area, pointing to the frequent bursting of squibs, youths loitering late at night, overgrown bushes providing escape routes, and loud motorcycles masking suspicious movements.

“I’m asking the Guyana Police Force to please look into this. This is very serious,” she said. The suspects fled the scene, and investigations are ongoing.

Elections fraud case

Cross-examination delayed due to absence of defence lawyer

– Magistrate allows voir dire to continue

Cross-examination in the ongoing 2020 elections fraud case was again stalled on Wednesday after the attorney leading questioning for one of the accused failed to appear in court, prompting objections from the prosecution and debate over how the matter should proceed. The case, being heard at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, centres on allegations of electoral fraud during Guyana’s 2020 General and Regional Elections. Although the prosecution had several witnesses present and ready, cross-examination in the voir dire proceedings could not move forward due to the absence of Defence Attorney Eusi Anderson. Anderson, who is representing former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) employee Denise Babb-Cummings is reportedly out of the jurisdiction.

On Tuesday, Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty had been informed that attempts to contact him were unsuccessful, leading to an adjournment. When the case resumed on Wednesday, he was again absent. In light of the de-

lay, Prosecutor Latchmie Rahamat urged the court to allow another Defence Attorney to proceed with cross-examination, arguing that all counsel is collectively on record for the accused. “These dates were reserved since November last year. Witnesses have been scheduled and prepared for months. Persons have already been briefed, a lot of the other civilian witnesses and these witnesses have jobs,” Rahamat told the court. She maintained that the prosecution had organised its witnesses well in advance and had intended to conclude the voir dire for Sheffern February before beginning that of Babb-Cummings. Rahamat stressed that no prejudice would arise if another lawyer handled the cross-examination. “All of the defendants have five lawyers. We do not believe there is any prejudice in permitting the evidence of these witnesses to be led,” she said, adding that it was unreasonable to expect the prosecution to reshuffle witnesses within a day after months of preparation. The defence however, maintained that each attorney is responsible for

conducting proceedings on behalf of their specific client. Attorney-at-law Ronald Daniels, who appeared virtually, explained that the arrangement has been consistent throughout the case. “That practice has not changed,” Daniels told the court. “I have not taken any involvement in these proceedings, having regard to the manner in which our respective representation.” Attorney Tiffaine Rutherford, appearing in court on behalf of Nigel Hughes of Hughes, Fields and Stoby, later indicated that she would supervise the testimonies to allow some progress, pending Anderson’s return. The Magistrate informed the court that Anderson had communicated that he would be available to conduct cross-examination by Friday. The charges stem from allegations that former GECOM Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield; former District Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers; former Minister of Health Volda Lawrence; A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For

Change (APNU+AFC)

Chief Scrutineer Carol Smith Joseph; and former GECOM employees Sheffern February, Michelle Miller, and Denise Babb-Cummings conspired between March 2 and August 2, 2020, to manipulate election results at the Ashmins Building in Georgetown. During Wednesday’s proceedings, members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) gave evidence in the voir dire against February and Babb-Cummings. Among those testifying were Inspector Nigel Stephens of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID);

Assistant Superintendent Komal Pitama of the Cove and John Police Station; Detective Superintendent Rodwell Sarabo of the Brickdam Police Station; Inspector Hamlet DaSilva of Police Headquarters at Eve Leary and the Tactical Services Unit; Detective Inspector Shane James of CID Headquarters; and Lance Corporal Sherwin Benjamin of CID Headquarters. The matter was adjourned to Thursday, February 26, 2026, for other witnesses to testify. However, on Friday, February 27, cross-examination is expected to commence.

Farmers Connect app launched to drive data, market access for agriculture sector

Guyana’s agriculture sector took a major digital step forward on Wednesday with the launch of the Farmers Connect mobile application designed to place real-time market prices, weather forecasts, soil data and pest diagnostics directly into the hands of farmers across the country. Delivering the keynote address, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha spoke about the significance of this development, encouraging all stakeholders to get on board with the Government’s digital agenda. He said the initiative represents a defining moment in the modernisation of the sector and fulfils a commitment made by President Dr Irfan Ali to digitise agriculture under the Government’s broader Digital Guyana agenda.

“The official launch of the Farmers Connect app marks a defining moment in Guyana’s agricultural transformation,” Mustapha said. “Digital platforms are not convenience; they are strategic infrastructure.” The application is designed to close long-standing gaps in infor-

mation, communication and market access that farmers have traditionally faced. Through the app, users will be able to access up-to-date market prices, receive climate and tide information, view regional soil maps, report flooding and drainage issues and connect directly with buyers, agro-processors and exporters. Farmers will also be able to utilise an artificial intelligence (AI) feature that allows them to photograph diseased crops and receive immediate recommendations for treatment – a process that previously required labora-

tory testing and consultation with extension officers.

“For too long, farmers have faced challenges accessing real-time pricing, receiving timely advisory services and connecting efficiently with buyers,” the Minister said.

“This app will change that.”

The platform complements the Agriculture Information System launched in 2024, which strengthened internal coordination within the Ministry of Agriculture. Unlike that system, the Farmers Connect app is farmer-facing and integrates a centralised national farmers’ database built over recent years. Mustapha emphasised that agriculture remains a critical pillar of Guyana’s development, even as the country continues to earn significant revenues from oil and gas production.

“Today our country is an oil and gas producer,” he noted, “but as a Government with a vision, we recognise the importance of agriculture, to our country’s development.” He pointed out that Guyana is currently the only country among 186 surveyed globally with the capacity to feed itself across all seven major

food groups, including meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, dairy, plant-based proteins and staple crops such as rice and corn. The Minister also linked the initiative to CARICOM’s regional agenda to reduce the food import bill by 25 per cent by 2030, noting that Guyana’s success is central to achieving that target. “For CARICOM to be successful, Guyana has to be successful,” he said, adding that regional states are increasingly looking to Guyana for leadership in food production. During his address, Mustapha highlighted several parallel ini-

tiatives aimed at transforming the sector, including the introduction of a rice farmers’ insurance product, the first of its kind in the Caribbean, with approximately 85 per cent of rice farmers already enrolled. He also referenced the recently commissioned Tissue Culture Laboratory at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), which is now producing more than one million disease-resistant planting materials each year. The Minister acknowledged that some farmers may initially hesitate to

adopt digital tools but urged them to embrace the platform. “In Guyana, our farming population have a stigma that when you bring these kinds of facilities to them, many will say, ‘I can’t manage it.’ But we have to change our mindset,” he said. Agriculture officers were present at the launch to assist farmers in downloading and installing the application. With more than 250 extension officers operating nationwide, Mustapha said the platform will also enhance accountability and responsiveness within the Ministry’s services. “We are now bridging policies with production,” he stated. “We are empowering you, the farmers.” The Minister encouraged farmers to use the app consistently, report challenges and take advantage of training and market opportunities available through the system. “Today, we are not just launching this application,” Mustapha said. “We are strengthening connections. We are modernising agriculture and we are expanding opportunities. We are advancing Guyana.”

T&T Prime Minister delivers scathing address at Caricom Summit opening

In a hard-hitting address to fellow CARICOM leaders, Prime Minister (PM) Kamla PersadBissessar delivered a forceful defence of her unwavering support for United States President Donald Trump while sharply rebuking members of the regional bloc for what she described as political interference across the region and their failure to confront Venezuela in defence of Guyana.

Delivering an address at the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM

in St Kitts and Nevis yesterday evening, the Prime Minister started her speech by pledging Trinidad and Tobago’s support for CARICOM.

However, that tone of camaraderie soon gave way to criticism, and what began as allyship shifted into open admonishment.

“Who vex loss.” the Prime Minister said as she doubled down on her support for the Trump Administration in a room where the presence of the US military in the Southern Caribbean had sharply split opinion over the last couple months.

Persad-Bissessar, who is due to meet with Rubio today, said she will welcome the US military intervention again, as it had led to a 42 per cent decline in murders in Trinidad and Tobago.

She also asked regional leaders why they did not stand up for Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana when they were being “threatened” by Venezuela.

“So, how can it be that when that regime was threatening violence to two CARICOM member states, there was no voice from the CARICOM?” (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

US will not allow Venezuelan

Heavy rains flood downtown Cap-Haïtien, disrupt city life

Rain has been falling intermittently in Haiti’s second-largest city since February 24, leaving several downtown streets flooded. Trash can be seen piled high along the roadways mixed with standing water, slowing traffic and pedestrian movement.

Many residents who rely on solar panels and inverters reported temporary power outages, cutting off communication and limiting access to entertainment and online services. Several businesses closed or operated at reduced capacity. Street vendors and small merchants said sales were slower, and some schools shut their doors for the day.

As of Wednesday morn-

ing, no deaths or injuries had been reported. Flooding remained limited to certain areas and was considered mild. According to forecasts,

the rain is expected to end on the evening of Wednesday, February 25, and return on February 28. (The Haitian Times)

Govt to pay Maduro’s legal fees, lawyer says Berger Paints’ Barbados plant closure reignites trade rules debate

Venezuela’s captured President Nicolas

The US is blocking the Venezuelan Government from paying for Nicolas Maduro’s legal representation in the drug trafficking case he faces in New York, the deposed Venezuelan President’s defence lawyer said on Wednesday.

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, both pleaded not guilty on January 5 to drug trafficking charges

that could land them in US prison for decades. They are jailed in New York awaiting trial.

In a letter addressed to US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, who is overseeing Maduro’s case, defence lawyer Barry Pollack said the Treasury Department on January 9 granted an exception to US financial sanctions on Venezuela allowing the South American coun-

try’s Government to pay Maduro’s fees but revoked that permission hours later without explanation.

Pollack said “Venezuelan law and custom” dictate that the Government pays the expenses of the President and first lady.

Pollack is best known for representing WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who pleaded guilty to conspiring to obtain and disclose classified defence information.

“The Government of Venezuela has an obligation to pay Mr Maduro’s fees, Mr Maduro has a legitimate expectation that the Government of Venezuela would do so, and Mr Maduro cannot otherwise afford counsel,” he wrote in a letter dated February 20 but made public on Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the Manhattan US Attorney’s office, which brought the case, declined to comment. The Treasury Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Cuba says it killed 4 on speedboat from Florida who opened fire off Cuban coast

Cuba’s coast guard killed four persons on a speedboat from Florida who opened fire off the Cuban coast on Wednesday, the interior Ministry in Havana said.

The ship was one nautical mile northeast of the El Pino canal in Cayo Falcones, the Ministry said in a statement. When five members of the Border Guard Troops approached the boat for identification, those aboard the speedboat allegedly began shooting. The commander of the Cuban boat was injured, the Ministry said.

“As a result of the confrontation,” four people aboard the speedboat were killed and

six were injured, the Ministry said. The injured parties “were evacuated and received medical assistance.” It is not clear who was in the Florida-registered speedboat, where they were from, or what their reason was for entering Cuban waters or allegedly opening fire. An investigation is ongoing, the Ministry said.

During a Congressional Hispanic Caucus news conference at the annual House Democratic retreat in Leesburg, Virginia, Rep. Adriano Espaillat of New York, chair of the caucus, stepped out to take a call and then returned and told re-

porters there was “breaking news that four Americans were killed in a speedboat as they ventured, allegedly, into Cuban waters and were shot at by Cubans – so we’re going to be getting more detailed information.”

In a separate news conference, US Vice President JD Vance said the White House is monitoring the situation.

“Hopefully it’s not as bad as we fear it could be. But I can’t say more, because I just don’t know more,” Vance said.

The identities of the four victims have not been confirmed by US or Cuban authorities. (Excerpt from CBS News)

Berger Paints

Barbados’ decision to close its factory has triggered renewed concern about the future of manufacturing on the island and whether the Caribbean’s regional trade framework is working as intended.

On Monday, the company announced a shift to a new distribution model that will see the closure of its manufacturing plant, warehouse, Colour Shops and administrative offices by April 24.

In a statement, Berger said the move was driven by sustained changes in the operating environment, including the impact of Article 164 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, which governs the CARICOM single market, which it said had

affected the long-term viability of its local operations.

Two UWI economists, Dr Ankie Scott-Joseph and Dr Antonio Alleyne, zeroed in on Article 164 as lying at the heart of the issue.

“Article 164… allows small CARICOM economies, which are called Less Developing Countries [LDCs], to impose tariffs on specific goods imported from larger member countries like Barbados,” said Dr Scott-Joseph. “The purpose is really to protect industries.”

That means Barbadianmade paint can be tariffed in those markets in order to make production in those lower-cost territories more attractive. She added, “So the same provision that

CARICOM has [that] made manufacturing unviable here makes it more attractive there…” So as a consequence, Barbados loses and Grenada gains, Trinidad gains, and so on.” The company’s decision, while fundamentally a business move, highlights deeper structural issues within the Barbadian economy, said Dr Alleyne.

Both economists agreed that the development underscores the need for CARICOM to revisit and refine its trade arrangements to ensure that regional integration does not unintentionally disadvantage more advanced member states like Barbados. (Excerpt from Barbados Today)

“I feel loved”: Irish MP overwhelmed by Jamaican response to viral speech

Thomas Gould, the Irish politician who recently captured global attention because of his distinctive accent, says he has been overwhelmed by the volume of messages received from social media users worldwide, particularly from Jamaica.

Gould, a member of Sinn Féin, went viral after a speech he delivered in the Irish parliament in early January began circulating across social media platforms.

Many viewers were quick to point out similarities between his Cork accent and the Jamaican way of speaking.

According to Gould, he had never previously considered the likeness.

“I never thought about it until the last two days,” Gould admitted. “I know I

have a very strong accent, and I know I speak very fast. So when I listen to Jamaicans speak, not all of them, but some of them do speak like me.”

He explained that the similarities are most noticeable among residents from his native city of Cork, particularly on the north side.

Gould also acknowledged the historical ties between Ireland and the Caribbean, explaining that he has recently learned more about the migration of Irish people to the region under indentured servitude. Despite the unexpected attention, Gould said he has welcomed the response from Jamaicans and members of the wider Caribbean diaspora, describing the moment as a positive distraction amid troubling global events.

“Listen, thank you; we are all friends. I really appreciate the support and the nice comments. There are a lot of bigger problems in the world, and a bit of laughter is a good thing. I feel loved; the messages I have got have been unbelievable,” Gould added. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Around the World

Spain declassifies files on 1981 attempted coup in effort to dispel conspiracy theories

Spain’s Government has released dozens of documents related to an attempted coup that took place 45 years ago – regarded as a key moment in the country’s history.

A group of armed officers burst into Parliament and threatened MPs, aiming to overthrow the country’s fledgling democracy and return it to dictatorship. Their efforts failed when King Juan Carlos refused to support them.

However, conspiracy theories have abounded since, including that the king may have had prior knowledge of the coup or even that he may have been actively involved. The release of the files also came on the same day as the death of the coup’s

leader, Antonio Tejero Molina, at the age of 93.

Tejero’s lawyer described him as a “man of honour, unwavering faith, and great love for Spain”.

“May God grant him the peace that men denied him,” he wrote on X on behalf of his family.

On 23 February 1981, a group of officers led by Tejero burst into the main chamber of the national Parliament, wielding guns and threatening the politicians as a new Government was being sworn in. Their aim was to return authoritarianism – six years after the death of the country’s dictator, Francisco Franco.

Judge rules Trump Administration’s policy for “third-country” deportations unlawful

Afederal Judge ruled Wednesday that a Department of Homeland Security policy that allows immigration authorities to deport migrants to “third countries” that are not their own, without first giving them notice or the opportunity to object, is unlawful.

US District Judge Brian Murphy in Massachusetts ruled that the Trump Administration’s policy regarding third-country removals must be set aside.

Murphy paused his ruling for 15 days to give the

Trump Administration time to appeal.

Under the policy issued last March and reaffirmed last July, immigration officers did not need to give notice or an opportunity for migrants to contest their removal to third countries, so long as the Government had received word from that country that deportees would not be persecuted or tortured. Third countries are those other than the ones designated on an immigrant’s order of removal.

Murphy ruled that the

Trump Administration’s third-country removal policy violates federal immigration law and migrants’ right to due process.

“This new policy – which purports to stand in for the protections Congress has mandated – fails to satisfy due process for a raft of reasons, not least of which is that nobody really knows anything about these purported ‘assurances’. Whom do they cover? What do they cover? Why has the Government deemed them credible? “How can anyone even know for certain that

they exist?” Murphy wrote. “These are basic questions that the Constitution permits a person to ask before the Government takes away their last and only lifeline.”

The Judge, appointed by President Joe Biden, said that under the Department of Homeland Security’s policy, migrants can be arrested and dropped off “in parts unknown” as long as the Government does not know they would face violence upon their arrival in the third country. (Excerpt from CBS News)

US accused of “shameless exploitation” over proposed Zambian health aid deal Zelenskyy, after speaking with Trump, says talks should lead to a leaders’ meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Wednesday that he and US President Donald Trump agreed that the next session of trilateral talks in March on a war settlement should lead to a meeting of the countries’ leaders.

Zelenskyy, speaking after a phone conversation with Trump, said the three-sided talks with Russia and the United States would take place early next month. US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner also took part in the phone call.

“We expect this meeting to create an opportunity to move talks to the leaders’ level. President Trump supports this sequence of steps,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.

“This is the only way to resolve all the complex and sensitive issues and finally end the war.”

The telephone call took

place on the eve of another meeting, between just Ukrainian and US negotiators, to discuss post-war reconstruction.

Zelenskyy said the two leaders discussed both meetings. He thanked the United States for its “active involvement” in the peace process and for missiles for air defence systems that were helping Ukraine endure wintertime attacks.

Addressing a news conference in Kyiv earlier alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, Zelenskyy said Thursday’s meeting would include discussion of a “prosperity package”.

Zelenskyy said the US wanted to find a way to end as soon as possible Europe’s biggest conflict since World War Two. But Moscow and Kyiv remain far apart in their positions. (Excerpt from Reuters)

The US has been accused of “shameless exploitation” over a health financing agreement with Zambia worth more than $1bn (£740m), amid warnings that the country is getting a raw deal from the Trump Administration.

A leaked draft of a fiveyear memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two countries, seen by the Guardian, reveals that Zambia may accept terms worse than health financing agreements the US has reached with 16 other African countries.

The terms include a commitment to give Washington access to its health data for 10 years – far longer than other countries have negotiated. Zambia’s deal also predicates any health financing on an even more covert arrangement that could open up the country’s mining industry to US interests.

Asia Russell, director of the HIV advocacy organisation Health Gap, said, “These terms are vastly

Oil settles little changed; supply worries persist despite large US crude stock build

Oil prices settled largely unchanged on Wednesday, as a much larger-than-expected US crude stock build did not do much to calm jitters about the threat to oil supply from potential military conflict between the US and Iran.

Brent futures closed up eight cents at US$70.85 a barrel, while WTI futures settled 21 cents lower at US$65.42. US crude inventories rose by 16 million barrels last week as refinery utilisation fell and imports increased, the Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday. That far exceeded the 1.5-million-barrel rise that analysts had forecast in a Reuters poll.

However, the EIA’s adjustment number, which totals unaccounted-for changes in crude stocks, hit a record last week at 2.7 million barrels per day.

“A bearish (EIA) report with a large crude build... the prices’ impact was, however, limited, as the oil market remains more influenced by other factors at present, such as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East,” said Giovanni Staunovo, commodity analyst at UBS.

Brent prices had reached their highest since July 31 on Friday, while WTI hit its highest since August 4 on Monday, as the US positioned military forces in the Middle East to try to compel Iran to negotiate an end to its nuclear and ballistic missile programme. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Poland charges ex-intel chiefs for using Israel’s

Pegasus spyware

worse than other deals. [The US] is conditioning life-saving health services on plundering the mineral wealth of the country.

“It’s shameless exploitation, which is immoral. It’s also dangerous – when health programmes are treated like a bargaining chip by a rapacious administration, everyone suffers,” she said.

The Trump Administration is pursuing these bilateral global health deals after dismantling most of the federal development agency, USAID.

The new strategy channels health financing directly to Governments, rather than through aid organisations, while also requiring increased investments from partner countries.

On Wednesday, Zimbabwe said it was halting its bilateral health agreement talks with the US over concerns about the sharing of sensitive health data. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Polish prosecutors filed criminal charges against two ex-intelligence chiefs for using Israeli-made Pegasus spyware on the job, saying it potentially jeopardised sensitive information.

The National Prosecutors’ Office announced the charges against Piotr P, former head of Poland’s ABW internal security agency, and Maciej Materka, head of the SKW military counter-intelligence service, on Wednesday.

Prosecutors withheld their last names under Polish privacy law, but Materka later named himself in a social media post condemning the action.

In a press release, the prosecutor’s office said the men “did not have the required IT security accreditation” for the software and

used it “despite being aware of the risk of compromising” the agency’s activities, including “secret” or “top-secret” information. Each faces up to three years in prison for allegedly failing in their official duties. The prosecutors said both men denied the alleged acts and “refused to give explanations” during questioning.

In a post on X, Materka said it was his duty to provide officers “with the necessary and best possible tools” for their work.

“All operational activities carried out during my leadership of the SKW were undertaken exclusively on the basis of decisions and court approvals required by law,” he said, adding he “served Poland with an impeccable record” for 24 years. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Consider what makes you happy and take care of matters that stand between you and your emotional well-being. Be honest with yourself, and it will be easier to resolve the issues you have with others. Keep situations in perspective; if you overreact, you’ll encounter backlash. Home improvement, making a move, or a lifestyle change are favored.

Sharing your thoughts will promote progress. Join forces with like-minded people and make a difference. Let your actions lead the way, and your anger melt away. Change and how you implement it are up to you. A positive attitude mixed with charm, incentives, and pitching in at ground level to help will open doors to new beginnings.

Use your resources. Confront situations that are standing in your way. Trust your instincts over what others say. Offer suggestions, but don’t take on problems that don’t belong to you. Pay attention to where your money goes, don’t fund someone else before taking care of your needs and aspirations. Use your energy and choose your words wisely.

Be honest about what you are willing to do or can do. Promising more than you can deliver will hurt your reputation or change someone’s perspective regarding your capabilities or loyalty. A straightforward approach, defining what you can do accurately, and finishing what you start, will be the path to your success. Romance is on the rise.

Listen carefully, observe, and honor your promises. There is no wiggle room when dealing with others. Size up, do what you can, and move on. Wasting time on something you cannot change will lead to anger, mistrust, or setbacks. Keep your thoughts to yourself until you figure out your next move. Be patient, an opportunity will surface.

Participation is the road to new beginnings. Find something you care about and start a movement to make a difference. How and what you do to make the world a better place, or your life meaningful, will change your life for the better. Volunteering your time will help you see firsthand what’s necessary and what you can contribute.

Avoid confrontations, tone down the rhetoric, and pay attention to what you can achieve. Home improvements that enhance your comfort and peace of mind give you the chance to rethink your domestic or work situation and the alternatives you can implement. Dedication and loyalty are in your best interest. Stick to a plan, and do what’s right.

Take the plunge, try something new, explore the possibilities, and put yourself in a position to learn something new or grow through an experience or chance meeting you encounter. An interesting personal perspective will unfold, giving you access to a broader range of feelings and options. Share your thoughts with someone you want to spend more time with.

Maintain your momentum. Focus on functionality, fortitude, and freedom to follow a path that has purpose and meaning for you. Walk away from anyone trying to goad or manipulate you into a lifestyle or commitment that isn’t fulfilling. Choose to put your energy to work for you, not someone else. Use your imagination to outsmart bullies.

Motor up and set your sights on what you want to accomplish. A high-energy approach will get you to the finish line without delay. Use your experience and discipline to outmaneuver anyone reverting to emotional tactics. Create opportunities rather than waiting for someone else to make the first move. A joint venture or partnership looks promising.

Take a closer look at your finances and put together a budget and plan that puts your mind at ease. Home improvements that lower your overhead will determine your lifestyle moving forward. An opportunity to use talent, insight, and desire to develop something that can bring in additional income. A positive change is on its way to you.

Adjust your space to serve your needs. How you rearrange your furniture or configure your workspace will contribute to your productivity and peace of mind. Keep the momentum going, and you’ll build a strong foundation for whatever you want to incorporate into your life. Sign up for events or classes that encourage a proper diet and good health.

Ravindra, Santner, McConchie eliminate Sri Lanka from T20 World Cup

Astunning rearguard from Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie knocked Sri Lanka out of the 2026 T20 World Cup in spite of an electric start for the hosts as New Zealand sealed a crushing 61-run win. At an electric R Premadasa Stadium that crackled with perhaps the best atmosphere of the tournament, Sri Lanka’s spinners put New Zealand’s top and middle order to the sword, reducing them to 84 for six.

But just as New Zealand’s innings looked to be petering out, Santner and McConchie responded with a fierce counterattack in the last four overs. McConchie began it with a takedown of Dushmantha Chameera before Santner flayed Maheesh Theekshana, up till then the game’s best bowler. The last four overs produced 70 runs as the duo added 84, the highest seventh-wicket stand in T20 World Cup history.

Punch-drunk Sri

Lanka never got back up following that flurry of attacks. The first ball of the innings saw them lose their talisman Pathum Nissanka to Matt Henry’s inswinger, and Charith Asalanka fell in his following over. In response, Sri Lanka retreated into their shells as New Zealand strangled them with spin.

Rachin Ravindra only had a part-time role in India but he was thrust into a leading role. He responded with two wickets in his first over and rounded out his spell with 4 for 19 - his best T20I figures. The game was long done even as it meandered to a dispiriting conclusion for a crowd that had shown its side it was ready to play its part. As Sri Lanka limped to 107 for 8, and out of the tournament, the team itself simply couldn’t keep up its end of the bargain.

Theekshana rips through New Zealand on mixed day It was a boomerang of a day for Maheesh

stand, and Henry made sure it carried on uninterrupted. Off the first ball of the chase, he produced an unplayable inswinger that burst past Nissanka’s inside edge to knock off the top of the stumps. It was the start of a wicket-maiden, and that dagger already plunged, he returned for his second to take another wicket to open the over. This time, it was Charith Asalanka, a listless heave merely ballooning up in the infield.

To add insult to injury, McConchie and Santner returned to strangle Sri Lanka through half of the power

Theekshana for them somewhat, with the spinner unable to stem the run flow as Santner took him apart for 21 in his last over.

Henry’s double-strike leaves Sri Lanka reeling New Zealand had the momentum at the halfway mark thanks to the SantnerMcConchie

Neesham to add bowling depth, with Ish Sodhi playing his first game of the tournament, not counting the Pakistan fixture that was washed out.

But it was Ravindra who epitomised New Zealand’s vast flexibility with a career-best performance, taking four wickets across his spell and carving the heart out of Sri Lanka’s middle order. All told, the visitors used five different spin options with only three overs of seam bowled all innings –the fewest for New Zealand in a completed T20I innings. (ESPNcricinfo)

New Zealand (20 ovs maximum) Tim Seifert † c PHKD Mendis

b Chameera 8

Finn Allen c & b Theekshana 23

Rachin Ravindra c Hemantha

b Theekshana 32

Glenn Phillips b Chameera 18

Daryl Mitchell b Wellalage 3

Mark Chapman b Theekshana 0

Mitchell Santner (c) c Asalanka b Chameera 47

Cole McConchie not out 31

Extras (lb 1, w 5) 6

Total 20 Ov (RR: 8.40) 168/7

Did not bat: Matt Henry, Ish

Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

Fall of wickets: 1-30 (Finn Allen, 3.1 ov), 2-34 (Tim Seifert, 4.2 ov), 3-75 (Glenn Phillips, 9.3 ov), 4-84 (Rachin Ravindra, 11.2 ov), 5-84 (Mark Chapman, 11.4 ov), 6-84 (Daryl Mitchell, 12.1 ov), 7-168 (Mitchell Santner, 19.6 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Dilshan Madushanka 3-0-34-0

Dunith Wellalage 4-0-27-1

Maheesh Theekshana 4-0-30-3

Dushmantha Chameera 4-0-38-3

Dushan Hemantha 2-0-22-0

Charith Asalanka 3-0-16-0

Sri Lanka (T: 169 runs from 20 ovs)

Pathum Nissanka b Henry 0 Kusal Mendis † st †Seifert b Ravindra

Sam, Harrison triumph in Jade’s Wok U1400 Rapid Chess Tournament

Dominic Sam and Chelsea Harrison emerged as the top performers at the Jade’s Wok, Pinnacle Business Services, and Cubs in Action International-sponsored U1400 Rapid Chess Tournament, held last Sunday at the David Rose Special School. The two juniors captured the Open and Female titles respectively after delivering stellar performances over the board of rapid chess.

Sam finished in first place ahead of the 25 competitors in the Open Category.

Returning to competitive chess after a break from his studies, Sam made an impressive comeback. His perfect score was thwarted by draws against Tejasvarun Kandavel and Jeremy Cole in rounds two and seven.

Shurlan Sparman produced a calm and technically sound performance to finish with six points; however, due to tiebreakers, he was awarded the second-place trophy. His lone loss came in the fourth round against Sam.

Third place went to the talented Arush Ramnarine, who scored five points after a resilient showing despite losses in rounds five and six.

Jeremiah Jacobs finished fourth with five points after losses in rounds one and six.

Rounding off the top five was Jeremy Cole, who scored five points. His performance was highlighted by solid play and draws in rounds four and seven, respectively, with a single defeat in round three.

In the Female Category,

Harrison finished with a solid six points ahead of the 16 girls. Her only setback came in the third round, when she lost to second-place winner Angelina Yhap. Yhap maintained a tactically sound and disciplined approach for most of the nine rounds. Her strong run included only two minor setbacks: a draw in the fifth and a loss in the final round, bringing her score to 5.5 points.

Third place went to Sana Sreebalakumar, who finished with 4.5 points.

Sreebalakumar displayed her depth and knowledge of the game despite losses in the first and sixth rounds and a lone draw in the third round.

Finishing in fourth place on a tiebreak was seasoned competitor Italy TonneChung, finishing with 4.5 points, with losses in the first and sixth rounds and a hard-fought draw in the fifth round con ing to her fi nal stand ing.

Parnita Kishun se cured fifth place also with 4.5 points due to the tiebreak ers. She played calmly and consistent ly to win her final round, showing her resilience and expe rience. She

Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Wednesday unveiled a dynamic 15-member squad to face Sri Lanka in a three-match Women’s T20 International Series, running from February 28 to March 3 at the National Cricket Stadium in St George’s, Grenada.

The series promises high-octane action as the Caribbean side ramps up preparations for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to bowl off in the United Kingdom, scheduled from June 12 to July 5.

The squad will be led by captain Hayley Matthews as the team continues to build momentum in the shortest format.

Among the exciting selections is 17-yearold Barbadian Eboni Brathwaite, who earns her maiden call-up to the Senior level following a strong showing during the recently concluded regional T20 Blaze tournament. The aggressive top-order batter impressed the selectors with

drew her game in the second round and recorded two losses in the third and fifth rounds.

Notable players in the Open Category were Ethen Pompey, finishing with five points; Jacob McDonald, Mark Defreitas, Tejasvarun Kandavel, Sanjay Suman, Brian Clarke, Pranav Suman, and Viren Meghan, all finishing with four points.

Other notable players in the female category were Axela Vieira and Divya Persaud, who both finished with four points. Bianca Jessimy, Rebha Lachhman, Varsha Pooran, and Madison Spencer each ended the tournament with 3.5 points.

The seven-round competition featured a rapid time control of 15 minutes plus a five-second increment per move and was overseen by Chief Arbiter John Lee and his assistant arbiters Ethan Lee and Kim Shing Chong.

The U1400 Rapid tournament is in its second year of running, designed designed for players rated 1400 and

Series Schedule: (All matches will be played at the Grenada National Cricket Stadium)

First T20I – Saturday, February 28 – 13:00h AST

Second T20I – Sunday, March 1 – 13:00h AST

Third T20I – Tuesday, March 3 – 13:00h AST

her positive strokeplay, recording a strike rate of 146 throughout the competition.

Also making their way into the T20 squad following the conclusion of the ODI series against the same opponent, are Zaida James and Mandy Mangru, replacing Ashmini Munisar and Shunelle Sawh, with Brathwaite stepping in for Realeanna Grimmond.

Head Coach, Shane Deitz, spoke on the squad’s preparation for the series, especially in the context of the push towards the global tournament:

“With this being a World Cup year, this T20 series provides valuable preparation with that tournament firmly in mind. We had a strong campaign two years ago and have continued

below, giving them a chance to shine and compete among players with similar playing strength.

In a simple prize-giving ceremony, trophies were pre-

sented by Mrs Lucknauth, proprietor of Jade’s Wok, on behalf of the tournament sponsors, to the top five finishers in both categories.

The Guyana Chess

Federation would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Jade’s Wok, Pinnacle Business Services, and Cubs in Action International for their generous sponsorship.

to play quality T20 cricket since then, so the group is excited about what lies ahead.”

Several players return in strong form from the Women’s Premier League (WPL), further strengthening the squad’s firepower.

“Three of our players have returned from the WPL in good form, and we’re expecting meaningful contributions from them”, said Deitz. “Some of our younger players will also have opportunities to showcase their skills in the T20 format, including Eboni Brathwaite from Barbados on her first tour with the senior team. She demonstrated plenty of power hitting in regional and Under-19 cricket, and we’re eager to see her bring that same intent and free-

RRookie Knueppel races to NBA threepointer record

With a league-leading 201 three-pointers, Knueppel needs just six more to surpass Keegan Murray’s 2022-23 record of 206—the most three-pointers made by a rookie in a single season.

ookie Kon Knueppel became the fastest player in NBA history to reach 200 three-pointers, helping the Charlotte Hornets to a 131-99 victory over the Chicago Bulls.

The 20-year-old scored 21 points, including three three-pointers, while Brandon Miller added 23. The win marked the Bulls’ 10th consecutive defeat, their longest losing streak since the 2018-19 season.

Knueppel reached his 200th three-pointer in just 58 games, 11 fewer than previous record-holder Duncan Robinson, and became only the second rookie in NBA history to hit the milestone.

A former Duke Blue Devils player, Knueppel was selected as a fourth overall pick by the Hornets in the 2025 draft.

“It is exciting and refreshing [to coach Knueppel],” said head coach Charles Lee after the Hornets’ eighth straight win on the road.

“It elevates our whole culture when you have a guy who is that good but that humble and has no ego, and it becomes contagious throughout the whole organisation.”

Meanwhile, new signing James Harden scored 20 points as the Cleveland Cavaliers returned to winning ways with a 109-94 victory over the New York Knicks.

The result helped them draw level on 37 wins and

22 losses with the Knicks, who are third in the Eastern Conference.

Harden, who left the Los Angeles Clippers this month, is an 11-time NBA All-Star and regarded as one of the greatest guards in history, but the 36-year-old has never won an NBA title.

“We’re working to build something special, and each game is an opportunity to get better,” said Harden. “Tonight was a good step for us.”

The Boston Celtics consolidated second place with a 97-81 win over the Phoenix Suns, while the Philadelphia 76ers posted a 135-114 win against the Indiana Pacers, who are bottom of the Eastern Conference after reaching the NBA Finals last year.

Western Conference leaders the Oklahoma City Thunder overcame the Toronto Raptors 116107, while sixth-placed Los Angeles Lakers were edged by the Orlando Magic 110109, and the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 124121. (BBC Sport)

dom to this series.”

Deitz also highlighted the continued development of fast-rising all-rounder Jahzara Claxton, who impressed on debut last year.

“Last year’s debutant, Jahzara Claxton, also possesses a skill set well suited to T20 cricket, and this will be another important opportunity for her to make an impact. Overall, this series is an important step in our World Cup build-up, and we’re ready to play an exciting brand of cricket for the fans here in Grenada”, the Head Coach added.

This series is expected to provide a good gauge of the regional side’s current positioning, with Sri Lanka being ranked seventh in ICC Women’s T20 cricket and West Indies just ahead in sixth, the series is expected to be fiercely competitive.

Fans across Grenada are urged to attend, with free admission to all matches. Supporters are invited to pack the National Cricket

Stadium and create a vibrant home atmosphere as the West Indies Women continue their journey toward the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

Regional fans can follow each match live on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel and Disney+. West Indies Women T20 Squad reads: Captain Hayley Matthews, Vicecaptain Chinelle Henry, Aaliyah Alleyne, Eboni Brathwaite, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Shawnisha Hector, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Karishma Ramharack and Stafanie Taylor.

Team Management Unit:

Head Coach: Shane Deitz

Team Manager: Sheena Gooding

Assistant Coach: Ryan

Austin Assistant Coach: Damien Wright

Assistant Coach: Shane Dowrich

Physiotherapist: Ashley Stephens

Strength & Conditioning

Coach: Hector Martinez

Charles Performance Coach: Dr. Nadine

Sammy Media & Content Officer: Nicholas Maitland

Matthews’s ton steers Windies Women to consolation win

The three-match One Day International (ODI) Series between West Indies and Sri Lanka came to an exciting end for the hosts at the National Cricket Stadium in St George’s, Grenada, as another masterful innings of stroke play led the Caribbean Women to victory.

Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat, as they had in the first two games, where they defeated West Indies by 10 and 14 runs, respectively.

However, on Wednesday, Hayley Matthews stole the show, scoring a well-crafted

100 from 119 balls, including 13 fours and a six.

Early on, however, the West Indies Women were in trouble after Qiana Joseph fell for two in the third over.

Two overs later, Shemaine Campbelle went back to the dugout for a duck, leaving the hosts in hot water at 12–2.

Matthews and former captain Stafanie Taylor were the day’s heroes, joining forces for a stellar 124run partnership that put West Indies in the driver’s seat.

Taylor departed first for a patient 38 off 70 deliveries, leaving Matthews to

aaa SCOREBOARD

Sri Lanka Women (50 ovs maximum)

Hasini Perera c Taylor

b Matthews 27

Chamari Athapaththu (c) lbw

b Matthews 0 Harshitha Samarawickrama c Dottin

b Ramharack 70 Vishmi Gunaratne c Matthews

b Ramharack 26

Kavisha Dilhari not out 45

Nilakshika Silva lbw b Munisar 14

Kaushini Nuthyangana † c Alleyne

b Fletcher 5 Dewmi Vihanga run out (sub [RMAU Grimmond]/Alleyne) 12

Sugandika Kumari not out 9 Extras (lb 1, nb 2, w 6) 9

Total 50 Ov (RR: 4.34) 217/7

Did not bat: Malki Madara, Inoka Ranaweera

Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Chamari Athapaththu, 0.4 ov), 2-44 (Hasini Perera, 10.6 ov), 3-122 (Vishmi Gunaratne, 30.3 ov), 4-133 (Harshitha Samarawickrama, 34.1 ov), 5-161 (Nilakshika Silva, 39.3 ov), 6-174 (Kaushini Nuthyangana, 42.3 ov), 7-198 (Dewmi Vihanga, 47.4 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W Hayley Matthews 10-2-33-2 Chinelle Henry 3-0-21-0 Karishma Ramharack 10-0-39-2

Afy Fletcher 10-1-39-1

Ashmini Munisar 10-0-42-1

Aaliyah Alleyne 4-0-25-0

Deandra Dottin 3-0-17-0

West Indies Women (T: 218 runs from 50 ovs) Hayley Matthews (c) c Samarawickrama b Athapaththu 100 Qiana Joseph c Athapaththu b Madara 2 Shemaine Campbelle † c Ranaweera b Madara 0 Stafanie Taylor c Gunaratne b Ranaweera 38 Chinelle Henry not out 32

Deandra Dottin not out 24 Extras (lb 8, w 14) 22 Total 46 Ov (RR: 4.73) 218/4 Did not bat: Jannillea Glasgow, Aaliyah Alleyne, Afy Fletcher, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack

Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Qiana Joseph, 2.1 ov), 2-12 (Shemaine Campbelle, 4.1 ov), 3-136 (Stafanie Taylor, 29.5 ov), 4-169 (Hayley Matthews, 36.2 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W

Malki Madara 6-0-33-2

Sugandika Kumari 9-1-39-0

Dewmi Vihanga 7-0-42-0

Inoka Ranaweera 10-0-39-1

Kavisha Dilhari 6-0-15-0

Nilakshika Silva 3-0-14-0

Chamari Athapaththu 5-0-28-1

guide the team to victory.

Wins for Albion, Bush Lot in BCB U-19

Albion and Bush Lot Cricket Club were in the winners’ row over the weekend in the Berbice Cricket Board Under-19 50-overs tournament. Playing at Port Mourant, Albion Community Centre defeated Port Mourant by nine wickets. Winning the toss and taking first strike, Port Mourant were dismissed for a paltry 68 in 16.1 of their allotted 50 overs. Legspinner Feeaz Baksh bagged 4 for 4 from 3.1 overs, and me-

dium pacer Nicholas Lepps took 4 for 26 from five overs, bowling for Albion.

Only Deverdra Samaroo offered a bit of resistance with 15 for Port Mourant.

In reply, Albion raced to 70 for 1 in 10.4 overs. Chamesh Sewnauth and Nathaniel Ramsammy were unbeaten on 26 and 25, respectively. Over at Bush Lot Ground, West Coast Berbice, the home team got the better of Blairmont Cricket Club.

Blairmont batted first and managed 125 all out in 35.4 overs. Lakeraj Hemraj produced 4 for 23 from 6.4 overs. Afraz Ali bowled eight overs and had 2 for 22. In reply, Bush Lot reached 126 for 2 in 11 overs. Lakeraj Hemraj had a fine all-round game, scoring 40. Akash Ramdewar made 38, and Altaf Ali scored 37 not out.

beaten 45 off 58 got the visitors past the 200-run mark. Sri Lanka eventually posted 217–7 in their 50 overs.

Matthews was the pick of the West Indian bowlers, taking 2–33 in 10 overs, a performance that earned her the player of the match award. Karishma Ramharack had returns of 2–39 from 10, while both Afy Fletcher and Ashmini Munisar took one wicket each.

As such, the West Indies managed to avoid a whitewash in the 2–1 series. They will now turn their attention to the shorter format, which will bowl off on Saturday, February 28.

As the 2026 powerlifting season gets underway, Franklin Wilson, president of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation, is brimming with optimism, as he anticipates the federation’s first competition in March.

Newcomers are expected to take the stage in March to display their strength, with Wilson assuring that the federation is finalising logistics for the competition.

“Registration is still ongoing, so we are hoping to have a good turnout in

terms of athletes for this segment of the GAPLF season, and sponsorship is something we have been going after. As you know, we recently took office; I was recently elected, and we are putting together all the necessary things that need to be put in place to have a successful start to the year,” Wilson remarked.

Moreover, Wilson shared his expectations for the novice athletes leading up to the event.

“This is the first entry into mainstream competition for the novices and, of course, junior athletes, and of course they would want to come and really make an impact on the platform and

do well to show that they are ready to take on the big guys eventually,” Wilson explained.

The competition is scheduled for March 8.

Lady Jags team named for CONCACAF W Qualifiers continuation

The upcoming FIFA Women’s International Match Window will see Guyana’s Senior National Women’s Football Team, the Lady Jags, in action twice – at home and away – over the next week.

Their first assignment will come on Friday night, taking on Dominica at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC), West Coast Demerara (WCD).

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has since revealed a 23-member squad to represent the Golden Arrowhead.

The Lady Jags squad reads:

get them together more often, like we’re seeing them now, two months from when we last saw them, you can build on from there. The first game came a little too soon, compared to the last game we had before that, so it’s a plus that we can get them in two months again and see them in April so then we can really build the team,” the head coach went on to share.

ers alongside Jamaica, Nicaragua, Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica. The team will be looking to rebound from a 3-1 opening loss to Nicaragua back in December.

The local team will need to finish at the top of their group in order to move on to the CONCACAF W Championship later this year. The six group winners from the CONCACAF W Qualifiers will meet top-ranked teams the United States and Canada in this year’s eight-team CONCACAF W Championship.

Goalkeepers – Arden La Rose, Ludesha Reynolds, and Deekola Chester Defenders – Jenea Knight, Savanna MondesirSingh, Adia Ritchie, Glendy Lewis, and Niomie Williams Midfielders – Brianne Desa, Samantha Banfield, Hannah Baptiste, Savannah Viva Singh, Alexis Bayley, and Glengie Lewis Forwards – Hope Windebank, Otesha Charles, Calaigh Copland, Annalisa Vincent, Adelina Ritchie, Anya Tribune, Shamya Daniels, Shanic Thornhill, and Sandra Johnson

his team’s preparation and the importance of keeping the group together.

As Head Coach Omar Khan whips his side into shape, the gaffer spoke on

Curaçao slips past Junior Jags 3–2 in U20 Qualifiers opener

Chances went a-beg ging as Guyana opened their CONCACAF Under-20 Qualifiers campaign on Tuesday night with a nar row 3–2 loss to hosts Curaçao at the Rignaal “Jean” Francisca Stadium in Willemstad, Curaçao.

Head Coach Thomas Dooley opted to start with Captain Max Robinson, with Emmanuel Lewis in goal, alongside Walker ShabazzEdwards, Dakarai Drakes, Jaden Thom, Mark Phillips, Mateo Clarke, Shaquan David, Bryan Wharton, Sheldon Kendall and Reiss Parris.

“Today, we’re continuing and building up with the team, some new players on and getting them ready to perform on Friday,” Khan explained.

“It’s all about getting players together. If you

Khan later shared a message for his team as they prepare to compete on Friday, stating, “Stay positive; be aware that, against opponents like we’re facing Friday, you can get surprised by counterattacks, but rather than that, enjoy the game. Play forward, play attacking-wise to entertain the public, so that’s the message for them.”

The Lady Jags are in Group B of the qualifi-

The Championship will serve as the Confederation’s qualifier for both the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 and the 2028 LA Summer Olympics.

The clash between Guyana and Dominica is set to get underway at

local time.

Though the higher-ranked hosts pushed to maintain possession early, Guyana were the side to strike first in the eighth minute. Shaquan David capitalised on a slip-up in the Curaçao defence, sending the ball across to Bryan Wharton, who executed a right-footed shot into the top-right corner of the net.

Guyana maintained their

another masterful steal from David saw Mateo Clarke advance with the ball to challenge the lone remaining defender and goalkeeper; however, Clarke skied the ball as the chance went begging.

Then, Reiss Parris Reiss Parris faced the decision to shoot or pass after breaking through Curaçao’s defence and getting into the penalty area. Parris’ decision to shoot eventually became an unfortunate one as the ball sailed over the crossbar in another missed opportunity for the Junior Jags.

Curaçao’s Dayvi Busby then handed the home side the lead in the 34th minute, curling the ball with his left

foot into the far corner of the goal.

The score remained 2-1 in Curaçao’s favour at the interval and well into the second half, even though several opportunities went the way of Guyana and their opponents.

Bernardina completed his brace in the 68th minute, finishing from close range after receiving an assist from Jorvimar Martina.

When it looked as though Curaçao would cruise to victory, it did not come without some hiccups for the hosts as the encounter got increasingly tense in the closing minutes.

From a set piece in the 90th minute, Jaden Thom kept the ball alive in the box before Reiss Parris tapped home Guyana’s second goal.

The battle intensified in stoppage time as Guyana sent several desperate shots into the box, but it was a little too late for the Junior Jaguars, who had to settle for the disappointing loss.

Nonetheless, the Guyanese side will be back on the pitch on Saturday, February 28, taking on Anguilla at 17:00h local time.

Battle of the unbeaten teams: West Indies, South Africa lock horns today

West Indies and South Africa are the two most dominant teams in the ongoing T20 World Cup, and these two unbeaten teams will face each other today, Thursday, February 26, in the Super Eight fixture in Ahmedabad, India.

According to the West Indies Captain, the reality is that South Africa will have more of an advantage, having played most of their games at the chosen venue.

“It’s certainly a factor,” Hope said at the post-match presentation, “when you play in a venue for so many games in a short span, you would have an advantage. That’s reality. But it won’t deter us from what we’re trying to do. We’ll still play the same cricket and assess the conditions as quickly as we can.”

“We’ve played there before, so it wouldn’t be com-

pletely alien to us. The key thing will be adapt ing quickly because they would be more familiar with the conditions,” Hope added.

Despite West Indies keeping a clean slate, Hope believes there are areas to improve.

“There are always areas you can improve, but when you get 250-plus on the board in a T20 game, you must be happy as a batting unit,” Hope said. “And then with the ball being as clinical as we were, especially in the powerplay and middle phase, I would call it a complete game.”

South Africa Squad: Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (w), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, George Linde, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Maphaka, Jason Smith.

at