Guyana Times - Thursday, June 18, 2026

Govt eliminating loopholes to strengthen Local Content Act – Bharrat

Govt Service Centre opens in Region 6

3 slapped with murder charge over acid attack, fatal beating

Tempers flare as defence attorney, prosecutor clash during crossexamination Police Inspector charged with unlawful transfer of ammo

GCCI raises concerns with Chinese Embassy over problems facing local importers

…delivery of wrong goods, post-payment silence discussed

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has engaged the Chinese Embassy following concerns raised by some local businesses about difficulties in obtaining goods purchased from suppliers in China.

According to a statement posted on the Chamber’s social media page, GCCI President Kathy Smith and Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar met with Li Hanqing, Economic and Commercial Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy, on Friday last.

The meeting was organised by the GCCI in response to complaints from members regarding transactions with suppliers in

China. The Chamber noted that as trade between Guyana and China continues to expand, it is important for local businesses to have confidence in the credibility of companies with which they conduct business.

Among the issues discussed were challenges businesses faced in communicating with suppliers after payments were made, as well as instances where products delivered did not match what had been ordered.

During the discussions, the GCCI and the Chinese Embassy explored possible areas of collaboration aimed at strengthening confidence in cross-border trade.

One proposal involved providing Guyanese businesses with access

to a list of legitimate suppliers and trading platforms.

The parties also discussed the possibility of the Chinese Embassy assisting in the investigation and resolution of complaints raised by members of the Chamber.

According to the GCCI, the meeting was intended to help improve transparency in business transactions and support stronger commercial relations between Guyana and China.

The Chamber said the engagement is a part of its commitment to addressing concerns affecting its membership and ensuring that local businesses are better equipped to navigate international trade opportunities.

Caribbean Airlines launches daily non-stop flights between Toronto, Guyana

Caribbean Airlines on Wednesday announced the introduction of daily non-stop flights between Toronto, Canada, and Georgetown, Guyana, effective July 1, 2026.

The expanded service will operate daily in both directions, increasing travel options between the two destinations ahead of the peak summer travel period. According to the airline, the move responds to rising demand driven by business, leisure, and family travel.

The schedule will see flight BW 616 depart Georgetown (GEO) for Toronto (YYZ) at 09:20h daily, while BW 617 will depart Toronto for Georgetown at 16:50h daily.

Caribbean Airlines’ Acting Chief Executive Officer Varma Khillawan said Guyana remains one of the carrier’s fastest-growing

markets.

“The introduction of daily Toronto to Georgetown flights reflects our commitment to meeting customer demand and strengthening connectivity between Guyana and North America,” Khillawan said.

He added that the enhanced schedule is intended to provide greater flexibility for passengers travelling for business, education, leisure, and family visits.

The airline said the expanded service also aligns with Guyana’s growing international profile and is expected to support tourism, trade, and wider economic activity between Guyana and Canada.

Caribbean Airlines said tickets are available through its website, mobile app, reservations call centre, ticket offices, and accredited travel agents.

BRIDGE OPENING

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, June 18 –06:15h–07:45h and Friday, June 19 – 07:10h–08:40h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Morning thundery showers with brief sunny intervals are expected to clear to lateafternoon sunshine, with partly cloudy skies and intermittent thundery showers overnight. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East-South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 06:44h and 19:20h reaching maximum heights of 2.64 metres and 2.46 metres.

Low Tide: 12:50h reaching a minimum height of 0.59 metre.

Govt eliminating loopholes to strengthen Local Content Act – Bharrat

…calls for “comparable remuneration” for Guyanese in oil & gas sector

The Guyana Government is looking to widen opportunities for Guyanese within the burgeoning oil and gas industry, clamping down on loopholes in the Local Content Act that have been taken advantage of in the past.

In December 2021, the National Assembly passed the Local Content Act, identifying 40 different service areas that oil and gas companies and their subcontractors must procure from Guyanese and Guyaneseowned businesses.

However, some persons have been taking advantage of loopholes in the legislation to illegally enjoy the benefits carved out for locals. One such practice is “fronting” or “rent-a-citizen”, whereby foreign companies employ Guyanese and/or Guyanese businesses in order to bypass the Act which stipulates only companies that are 51 per cent owned by a Guyanese can benefit from the 40 areas.

But according to Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat on Wednesday, they have been working to address these loopholes and reduce such illegal practices.

The Natural Resources Minister made these remarks at a signing ceremony on Wednesday, where 40 major operators in Guyana’s oil and gas sector received their approved annual local content plans.

“We have worked really hard in the inception to eliminate the few loopholes… [such as] the ‘rent-a-citizen’ syndrome that we had going on in the first few years, where some of the very Guyanese who lobbied for local content in Guyana started to sell the value of their passport or their rights as Guyanese.”

“On paper, it shows that they own 51 per cent [of a company], but the reality is that some of them had owned only five per cent and 10 per cent. So, we really had to work hard on clamping down on that and sending a really strong message to those people who had intentions of doing it that they will face the penalty,” the Minister stated.

The local content legislation mandates penalties, such as fines ranging from $5 million to $50 million, for oil and gas companies and their subcontractors who fail to meet the minimum targets of the legislation, as well as for those who are in breach of the Act.

Shell companies

According to Bharrat, this “rent-a-citizen” practice is now almost eliminated, as

are other arrangements that were being used to bypass the local content framework, including the use of shell companies.

“There were many companies coming in and setting up these, what we call ‘shell companies’, to hide assets and to get Guyanese involve and they wouldn’t have to contribute towards the business. So, we had to clamp down [and] we had to work through that too… And that has been successful. More and more Guyanese, because they’re being given the opportunities and they’re involved [in the sector], are realising that the right way is the way to go,” the Minister stated.

Another area that Government had to fix was the length of time oil companies take to pay local suppliers. Initially, oil and gas operators were taking as much as 90 days to pay for local goods and services – something which Guyanese companies had complained bitterly about. Government had intervened and reduced the timeline to 30 to 45 days upon receipt of the invoice.

But despite this, the Natural Resources Minister says there is still room for improvements, especially since many of these small local businesses depend on the payment to recapitalise their operations.

“So, the reduction in the processing time for payments has really helped Guyanese business to progress and to grow. Today, they’re in a much better position. But we are still look-

ing to you, and we’ll still work with you to even further reduce the processing time,” Bharrat stated.

He went on to add, “If you’re satisfied. If they did [the work] based on the contract and the specifications, then pay them. It wouldn’t change anything whether you pay them now or next week or the other week. You still have to pay them… Please let us work on reducing the payment period for them once you’re satisfied.”

Comparable remuneration

Currently, there are more than 2000 local companies that are supporting the country’s oil and gas industry, while approximately 7000 Guyanese citizens are directly employed in the sector.

Over the years, more Guyanese have been building capacity and gaining experience – something which Minister Bharrat believes calls for attracting comparable remuneration.

“It is the right time; five years after is the right time for us to start advocating more strongly for this to ensure that Guyanese employed with comparable qualifications, comparable training, comparable certification, and also now experience, that they too can have comparable remuneration to expat workers with similar background,” Bharrat stressed.

The Minister acknowledged that this request could not have been made at the time when the local content legislation was en-

acted. However, he argued that Guyanese have been upskilling themselves and gaining experience over the years, working in the local industry, offshore and even overseas; hence, they too must also enjoy the similar benefits.

“So, I believe now is the right time for us to look together as a sector as to how we can improve on the equality in terms of remuneration for workers with comparable skill sets, experience, etc. And I think it’s only fair, because we really have some young, energetic, enthusiastic, qualified Guyanese in the oil and gas sector now,” he added.

Under the Local Content Act, operators are required to set out their vision for local content for each calendar year. Among those whose annual local content plans were approved are ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd, MODEC Guyana Inc, CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Ltd, Guyana Deep Water Operations Inc and SLB.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Regional resilience & regional response

Climate change is no longer a distant threat discussed in policy papers and international conferences. It is a present reality affecting economies, infrastructure, agriculture, public health, and the livelihoods of millions across the Caribbean. Hurricanes are becoming more intense, rainfall patterns are increasingly unpredictable, coastal erosion is accelerating, and sea-level rise continues to threaten vulnerable communities. Against this backdrop, the question is no longer whether the region should invest in resilience, but how it should finance that resilience in a sustainable and effective manner.

The position advanced by Bank of Guyana Governor Dr Gobind Ganga, that the Caribbean should establish a regional resilience fund rather than pursue fragmented national financing mechanisms, deserves serious consideration and broad support. His argument is grounded in economic logic as well as also in the realities of the challenges confronting small island and coastal states.

For many Caribbean countries, the pursuit of individual climate financing initiatives has become an increasingly expensive undertaking. Governments have sought to raise capital through instruments such as green bonds and blue bonds, often navigating complex international markets and regulatory requirements. While these efforts demonstrate commitment to climate action, they also reveal a troubling inefficiency. Multiple countries are competing for similar pools of funding, duplicating administrative costs, and expending limited technical resources on parallel initiatives.

A regional approach offers a more practical alternative and by pooling resources, expertise, and risk, Caribbean nations would be better positioned to secure financing on more favourable terms while reducing the administrative burden associated with individual fundraising efforts. Economies of scale matter, particularly for small states with limited fiscal space and constrained institutional capacity. A collective mechanism would lower costs and strengthen the region’s bargaining power in global financial markets and international climate negotiations.

The logic behind regional cooperation is hardly revolutionary as the Caribbean has already demonstrated the value of collective action in several areas, including disaster risk management, public health, and insurance. The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility stands as a notable example of how regional collaboration can provide practical solutions to shared vulnerabilities. The facility’s growth and expanding coverage reflect the confidence that member states place in collective risk-sharing arrangements.

Dr. Ganga’s proposal also aligns with international trends as around the world, climate-vulnerable countries are increasingly recognising that collective action creates greater resilience than isolated national responses. The emergence of pooled financing mechanisms among vulnerable states underscores the growing understanding that climate risks transcend borders. Hurricanes, floods, droughts, and rising seas do not respect national boundaries, and neither should the strategies designed to address them.

Equally significant is the Governor’s call for a shift from a reactive culture to one centred on anticipation and preparedness. For decades, disaster management across many parts of the Caribbean has been heavily focused on response and recovery. Governments mobilise resources after storms strike, rebuild damaged infrastructure, and seek emergency financing to address immediate needs. While these actions are necessary, they often come at a substantial economic cost.

Building resilience requires investments before disasters occur that is stronger sea defences, climate-resilient infrastructure, improved early warning systems, sustainable urban planning and enhanced disaster preparedness programmes all demand long-term financing and strategic planning.

This is where a regional resilience fund could play a transformative role. Rather than merely providing financial support after disasters, such a mechanism could channel resources toward preventive measures that strengthen communities and reduce vulnerability over time. The return on investment would be measured by reduced reconstruction costs as well as in lives protected, economic stability preserved, and development gains safeguarded.

The contributions from regional institutions during the recent discussion further reinforce the merits of this approach. The scale of the climate challenge exceeds the capacity of any single government, development bank, private sector entity, or donor organisation. Climate resilience requires coordinated action across sectors and jurisdictions. It demands partnerships that integrate policy, finance, technical expertise, data, and community engagement.

A shared financing mechanism would embody the principle that the region’s future security is a collective responsibility. It would acknowledge that while countries may face different levels of exposure and varying economic circumstances, they share a common vulnerability to climaterelated shocks.

In an era when climate threats are growing in frequency and severity, fragmented solutions are unlikely to deliver the scale of protection the Caribbean requires. The region’s resilience will not be built country by country in isolation but rather it will be built through cooperation and a collective investment in a safer and more sustainable future.

Students perform during the Environmental Protection Agency’s 4th Annual Green Theatre last week, using drama and storytelling to highlight climate action and environmental protection under the World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.” The event brought together students, representatives of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Government agencies and members of the diplomatic corps to raise awareness of practical actions that can help address climate change and safeguard the environment (EPA photos)

Gunmen escape with over $44M in gold, cash after robbing 2 mining camps

Masked gunmen escaped with over $44 million in gold, cash, vehicles, and other valuables after robbing two Brazilian gold miners in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

Police said that the incident occurred between 10:00h and 17:30h on Monday at Sewanda

Backdam, Region Seven. According to preliminary investigations, the victims, aged 50 and 44, operate separate mining camps located about 200 metres apart.

Investigators said that four masked men, allegedly armed with firearms, entered the mining operation of the 44-year-old miner while he and his work-

ers were engaged in mining activities. The suspects reportedly held the miner and his workers at gunpoint and ordered that the wash-down process be completed.

After the wash-down, the suspects allegedly robbed the miner of 15 ounces of raw gold, $150,000 and a red all-terrain vehicle (ATV), with

the total value of the items estimated at $15.4 million.

The armed men then reportedly moved to the second mining operation, where they confronted the 50-year-old miner and his workers. Police said the suspects again held those present at gunpoint and demanded that the washdown process also be carried out.

Following the process, the suspects allegedly escaped with 30 ounces of raw gold, a 20-pennyweight gold chain, a 20-pennyweight gold band, a six-pennyweight gold ring, a red ATV and $300,000. The stolen items were valued at approximately $29.265 million.

APolice Inspector attached to Regional Police Division Four A has been charged with the unlawful transfer of ammunition following an intelligence-led operation conducted at the Linden Bus Park in Georgetown.

Inspector Abasola Flatts appeared before Magistrate Fabio Azore at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was formally read to him.

The charge stems from an operation carried out on

May 7, the Guyana Police Force said. Flatts pleaded not guilty to the allegation and

was granted $150,000 bail. The matter was adjourned to June 24.

During the robbery, the 50-year-old miner was allegedly assaulted and sustained injuries.

The two stolen ATVs were later recovered, abandoned near the Puruni River.

Police have launched an investigation.

Police said the suspects also took a quantity of clothing, groceries and internet equipment before fleeing the area.

Police Inspector charged with unlawful transfer of ammo

Page Foundation

Percentage Increase

A percentage increase is how much something has gone up, compared to its original amount.

Method 1

Example 1

Increase $50 by 40%.

Calculate 10% (by dividing by 10) and then multiply by 4 to get 40%.

First, let’s calculate 10% of $50.

10% of $50 = $5

Now, it’s easy to find 40% of $50

4×$5=$20

Now we can add it to the original number.

$50 + $20 = $70

$50 increased by 40% is $70.

Example 2

Increase 20 by 90%

10% of 20 = 2

9×2=18

20+18=38

20 increased by 90% is 38.

Method 2

Example 1

Increase 400 by 65%.

Build up an answer using percentages.

10% of 400 = 40

60% of 400 = 6×40=240

5% of 400 = 0.5×40=20

65% of 400 = 240+20=260

400 + 260 = 660

Fish are a kind of animal that lives in water. Fish have lived on Earth for more than 450 million years. There are more than 24,000 species, or kinds, of fish. New ones are discovered every year. Fish live in lakes, rivers, seas, and oceans around the world. They live in all kinds of water, from warm springs to cold Arctic seas. Fish can even be found in the dark pools of underground caves. But fish cannot live in water that is extremely salty. The Great Salt Lake in the western United States is so salty that it has no fish.

The many different kinds of fish have some things in common. They

400 increased by 65% is 660.

Example 2

Increase 142 by 48%

10% of 142 = 14.2

40% of 142 = 4×14.2=56.8

8% of 142 = 0.8×14.2=11.36

48% of 142 = 56.8 + 11.36 = 68.16

142 + 68.16= 210.16

142 increased by 48% is 210.16

Method 3

Example 1

Increase 350m by 27%.

Divide the value by 100 to find 1% and then multiply by the percentage that we want.

350÷100=3.5

1%=3.5

3.5×27=94.5m

27% = 94.5

350m + 94.5m = 444.5m

350m increased by 27% is 444.5m

Example 2

Increase £72 by 17.5%.

72÷100=7.2

1%=0.72

0.72×17.5=£12.60

17.5%=£12.60

£72+£12.60=£84.60

£72 increased by 17.5% is £84.60

Method 4

Add the percentage increase to 100%, convert that total

are all vertebrates, which means that they have a backbone. They are cold-blooded, which means that their body temperature changes along with the temperature of their surroundings. Fish generally breathe through organs called gills. They usually have pairs of fins in place of arms and legs. Most fish are covered with scales. But fish also show great variety. Over millions of years, some fish have developed unique features to help them survive. These features are called adaptations. Fish swim mainly by sideways movements of the body and tail. They use their fins for balancing, steering, and braking. To move

percentage to a decimal, then multiply the original amount by that decimal.

Example 1

Increase 3200 by 24%.

3200 = 100%. To include the increase, we combine the percentages : 100%+24%=124%

Then, we can change the total percentage to a decimal : 124%=1.24

This 1.24 means “1 full amount + 0.24 of the amount”.

Now we multiply the original amount by 1.24:

3200×1.24=3968ml

Example 2

Increase $620 by 12.5%.

100%+12.5%=112.5%

112.5%=1.125

620×1.125=697.5

$620 increased by 12.5% is $697.50

When we change a percentage to a decimal, this is called a multiplier.

Practice

Increase £520 by 20%

Increase 3420 m by 43%

Increase 38 by 14%

Increase 60 kg by 26.5%

Catrin’s salary is £18,000. She receives a 3.5% pay rise. Work out Catrin’s new salary.

quickly from a resting position, some fish shoot a stream of water out of the gills, which causes them to lunge forward.

Most fish eat other, smaller fish. The smallest fish eat tiny water plants and animals called plankton. Plankton drift with the currents in large numbers.

All fish hatch from eggs. Usually the females release eggs and the males release sperm into the water. When the eggs and sperm meet, the eggs are fertilised. Many of the eggs, and the young that hatch from them, are eaten by other fish. To increase the chance that some young will survive, some females release as many as a million eggs.

Sometimes the eggs are fertilised in the female’s body and hatch there. Then the young are born alive from the female. Fish born this way have a better chance of survival. Guppies and some sharks have live births.

By William Jay Smith

All earth’s divided in two parts, they tell us—Mind and Matter; but who is to say where the former starts, who will define the latter? Do we act or do we think when years roll round on a barber’s pole, when what is red is white is pink, which is body which is soul? Deities are dismissed from their jobs. Worlds fall neat and steady. And the mobs march on with Mr. Hobbes, to the hymns of Mrs. Eddy.

(Source: Poetry [December 1942])

Write a story from the POV of a character who was certain your protagonist would fail.

WORD SEARCH

Pres Ali challenges GAWU to take up management of a sugar estate

…expresses dissatisfaction with GuySuCo’s production

Noting that his Government is pursuing different formulas to ensure the long-term survival and profitability of the sugar industry, President Dr Irfaan Ali has called on the sector’s main trade union, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), to take up the task of managing one of the estates.

“Just as we have invited proposals for the sugar estate, and we have coming in for Skeldon, we also invited the union, if you would like, to take up the mantle of management and to take one of the estates and make it a model,” the head of state said on Tuesday evening whilst delivering remarks at the 78th commemoration of the Enmore Martyrs.

“We give you that challenge openly to take one of the estates and to manage it… We give you that opportunity with the workers so that we can have different models. We invite you to be part of the management also because that is what good responsible Government does. It invites everyone to be a part of the table… Do not shy away from the opportunity; we are here to work

with you,” President Ali told union representatives present at the event.

The Guyanese leader made these remarks as he pledged his Government’s continued commitment to support the revival of the sugar industry. But even as Government injects billions into the sector, Ali expressed his dissatisfaction with the production performance by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

“I am not pleased with the failure of the corporation to consistently achieve the production target. I have

made this position abundantly clear. I have read the riot act to management. I’ve demanded greater accountability. I’ve demanded greater efficiency. I’ve demanded better results,” he posited.

In 2025, GuySuCo ended the year with sugar production of just 59,200 metric tonnes – a shortfall of the reduced target of 60,000 tonnes. At the beginning of the year, the production target was set at 80,000 tonnes but had to be revised to 70,000 and then further reduced due to a number of challenges faced across the

four operating estates –Albion, Rose Hall, Blairmont and Uitvlugt.

This year, the sugar industry has a production target of 100,041 tonnes to meet.

Disrupting operations

However, the President reminded on Tuesday that the responsibility for the revival of the sugar industry does not rest solely with management but also with stakeholders like trade unions. To this end, he called on the union to be a better partner and not to strike unnecessarily, thus disrupting operations.

Underscoring the importance of the sugar industry to the country, Ali reminded that sugar is a heritage industry and has been the backbone of rural economies across Guyana for decades, sustaining villages and supporting families.

“Sugar does not only support sugar workers. Sugar supports the entire community, the markets, and the stores. It supports an entire ecosystem… And despite the challenges it faces today, it continues to play a vital role in national life,” he emphasised.

Nevertheless, as part of

efforts to sustain the sector, the Guyanese leader noted that other pathways are being pursued to guarantee the sugar industry’s success, expressing that “we have to look to a plan that will strengthen the industry and optimise production and reduce costs of production, whilst at the same time looking at newer areas for growth and development within the sugar plantation.”

Already, GuySuCo has converted 44 per cent of its lands for mechanical harvesting.

“We know there is an acute shortage of labour. We know that many sugar workers do not want their children to engage in the task of cane-cutting. That is why mechanisation is no longer optional. It is necessary,” he asserted.

“At the same time, drone technology is being deployed for crop surveillance and for the application of chemicals and fertilisers. We do not need to buy 100 vehicles to go in the fields, Land Rovers with managers standing at the back. We can deploy a drone, and in real time we can see the entire cultivation in less than 10% of the time it took historically. And

that is the direction we have to go,” President Ali stated. In Budget 2026, the Guyana Government has allocated a whopping $13.4 billion for GuySuCo to support its modernisation, mechanisation, factory upgrades and expanded value-added production. Additionally, a further $3 billion in supplementary provisions for the sugar corporation is being sought from the National Assembly as part of a financial paper that was tabled earlier this month.

According to President Ali, “Our investment must bring returns, and at the level of the estates, changes will be made because they are necessary for the investments we’re making. We don’t shy away. And yes, technical expertise will come in. And yes, we are looking at proposals for the reinvestment in Skeldon Estate. But we are also looking at opportunities to lift the workers from one level to the next level…with retraining and retooling, reorganising, repositioning, re-strategising, and reorienting. You can rest assured the People’s Progressive Party will do it…because at the end of it, we want the workers to win.”

3 slapped with murder charge over acid attack, fatal beating

Three men have been remanded to prison after being charged with the murder of a man who was allegedly beaten to death after being accused of theft at Honey Camp Landing in the Middle Mazaruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

Charged are Raymond Corroll, known as “Kunga Joe”, a 64-year-old businessman of Victory Valley,

Wismar, Linden; Rafeek Shan Austin, known as “Shan”, a 34-year-old gold miner of the same area; and Tyrone Phillips, known as “Wormey”, a 63-year-old gold miner of Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara. The charge relates to the murder of Robert Noble, called “Curry”, on June 9 at Honey Camp Landing, Middle Mazaruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-

Mazaruni).

The accused appeared before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where the charge was read to them. They were remanded to prison, and the case will continue on July 31.

According to Police investigations, Noble, who reportedly performed odd jobs in the Honey Camp Landing

area, was confronted by several men who accused him of stealing.

Investigators allege that during the confrontation, a belt was placed around Noble’s neck and he was dragged along the ground. The suspects allegedly dealt several blows to his body using a spade, cutlasses and pieces of wood. Police further reported that acid was allegedly poured on the victim during the assault.

After the attack, the injured man was reportedly left lying near an abandoned shop. Police were later summoned to the area and discovered Noble’s motionless body lying face down in the sand.

An examination of the body revealed what appeared to be abrasions and burn marks.

Based on information received during the investigation, the three suspects were arrested and subsequently charged with murder.

2 men flee after spotting cops, leaving over 8kg of ganja behind

Police in Regional Division Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) are investigating the discovery of more than eight kilograms (kg) of cannabis during an operation at Glasgow Housing Scheme, East Bank Berbice, on Tuesday afternoon.

According to Police, the discovery was made at about 15:30h during an exercise conducted in the community.

Ranks reported that they observed two men behaving suspiciously in a yard, and upon noticing the Police presence, the men reportedly fled on foot and escaped.

Acting on information received, officers conducted a search of a building located in the yard from which the men had fled.

During the search, Police found a black garbage bag containing four bulky parcels wrapped in transparent plastic. Another bulky black

plastic bag containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis was also discovered.

Further searches led to the discovery of a green suitcase containing two bulky parcels wrapped in transparent plastic, which also contained leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis.

The narcotics were taken to the Central Police Station, where they were weighed and amounted to 8.350 kg.

No arrests have been made, and investigations are ongoing.

Which path… …in politics?

Democratic elections were devised for folks to select their Governments – rather than being ruled by absolute monarchs or dictators!! The difference between the last two being monarchs insisted that they insisted their rule had “divine” blessings!! In our case, the Brits had ruled us as a colony in which every one of them – from plantation overseer to shop owner –was a monarch over us!! And it took all sorts of struggles – in city streets, on beaches, in fields and in villages – to ease their foot over our necks!!

But by the sixties – as Eric Williams said after his PNM won the elections in Trinidad back in 1956, “Fighting in the streets is over, and politics in Parliament will now begin!” And over there in carnival land they’ve done pretty well as far as societal stability is concerned, innit?? They’ve stuck to settling their differences – inevitable even in families, much less an entire country! - in parliament rather than in the streets!!

But over here in Mudland, Fat Boy Burnham returned us to a dictatorship – where he created a constitution that gave him even more power than Hitler over in Germany!! So it wasn’t no surprise that Guyanese who weren’t cardcarrying supporters of Burnham’s PNC also reverted to extra-parliamentary actions to get him to change his erring ways!! But he’d taken to dictatorial rule like a pig to sh*t – having imbibed Machiavelli since he was in high school!! He sharpened and deployed his “sharper steel” to deadly effect on “We the people”!!

But with the return of democracy in 1992 – and the return to Parliament – one would have thought street action went out of the picture. But it wasn’t to be!! Guess the old folk wisdom about “once dogs start sucking eggs, you just can’t get them to stop” kicked in!! Hoyte’s PNC led street protests that escalated into a frontal attack on the state and Indian Guyanese-perceived PPP supporters!! Be as it may, since then our politics have evolved to a more even keel after our more ethnically balanced population ended the situation where an ethnic majority – read Indian Guyanese for the longest while! –would automatically capture the Government!!

Now out of the (old, rotten) woodwork comes this geriatric member of the WPA – from the six who’re still alive – calling for African Guyanese to return to the streets to create political change!! He’s supporting the identical call by his comrade Black Pudding Man – who was sent by PNC leader Aubrey Norton to Parliament!! What it means, then, is since the democratic process banished these fellas to oblivion, they’re out to capture power “by any means necessary”!! Maybe the 33 AK-47s for new Buxton Freedom Fighters??

Take heed!!

…for Sanction Man

Sanction Man just got a further reprieve from keeping his date in that orange jumpsuit in Florida!! The CCJ was supposed to rule on his appeal that the PPP officials who’re following up on our extradition treaty with the US - are “politically biased” and so are out to get him!! But they’ve delayed their announcement – which sadly has given Sanction Man some (false) hope!!

So, he’s once again taken on the poor slob he beat out for the LOO position – Aubrey Norton – demanding that he be allowed to select the three GECOM Opposition Commissioners!! He’s insisting on a meeting to settle this!! However, the three worthies who’re presently there insist that only death or resignations can get them out – and they ain’t budging!! Since they’re all geriatrics, the salary is a wonderful inducement to stay put!!

So, Norton has merely shrugged his shoulders and said, “What’s there to meet and discuss?? There ain’t no vacancies in GECOM!!”

Meanwhile, Sanction Man’s waiting to reward his lawyers!!

…on Iran?

As your Eyewitness has emphasised, we’ve got quite a lot of skin riding on the status of the Iran War. While the truce-text still hasn’t been released, we’re getting glimpses that suggest Iran’s really coming out smelling roses!!

2020 election fraud trial

Tempers flare as defence attorney, prosecutor clash during cross-examination

It was another day of flared tempers on Wednesday when the trial in the 2020 elections fraud case resumed, with defence attorney Eusi Anderson and Special Prosecutor Darshan Ramdhan getting into a heated exchange during Anderson’s cross-examination of Supreme Court Registrar Sueann Lovell.

The trial continued before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The day’s proceedings saw the defence beginning cross-examination of Lovell after the remaining Statements of Recount (SoRs) from the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections were entered into evidence.

During his questioning Anderson continuously asked Lovell about the chain of custody, authenticity and security of the Statement of Polls (SoPs) and the SoRs that were handed over to her for safekeeping in January 2021. Lovell acknowledged that there were moments when she was away from her office or on leave but maintained

that the security of the documents remained uncompromised during her absence.

The documents were secured in cabinets that were locked both with a key, as well as a combination code.

Lovell stressed that as pertains to the combination, she was the only one with the code, and she shared it

with no one.

“I made it up, and I didn’t share it with anybody,” Lovell stressed about the codes to the locks.

Nonetheless, Anderson continued to press about the resilience of the cabinets.

“The way the cabinets are constructed it’s seamless; you don’t see any

joints,” Lovell replied when asked if it was possible to unscrew the cabinet or tamper with it using a crowbar.

Lovell has been the gatekeeper of the original SoPs and SoRs since the High Court ordered the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to transfer all original SoPs and SoRs

from the 2020 elections to the custody of the High Court for safekeeping and as official evidence. The documents were delivered to the High Court by former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, in the presence of GECOM Chairperson Claudette Singh. Lowenfield is one of

the defendants currently charged in the case.

The documents were ordered to be handed over given that the Representation of the Peoples Act (ROPA) allows the CEO to destroy all elections documents after a 12-month period has elapsed.

Anderson also hammered Lovell about steps taken to ascertain the authenticity of the documents received. However, it was noted that her instructions were to simply collect the documents handed over by the GECOM and to secure them. She underscored that the documents were not tampered with during her custody.

“Whatever I received from GECOM I kept. I didn’t add anything, I didn’t subtract anything; what I received I put in the cabinets, secured them, then brought them to court,” she noted. The prosecution objected to Anderson’s line of questioning, which eventually resulted in an exchange between Anderson and Ramdhani, and Magistrate McGusty called the day’s proceeding to a close. The trial continues on Thursday.

Given Under

THE NATIONAL REGISTRATION ACT and THE NATIONAL REGISTRATION (RESIDENTS) REGULATIONS (Cap. 19:08) PUBLICATION OF PRELIMINARY LIST OF ELECTORS AND CLAIMS AND OBJECTIONS

1. Pursuant to section 15(1) of the National Registration Act, the Elections Commission appoints the buildings identified in Schedule 2 as the buildings on which shall be affixed the preliminary list of electors prepared by the Commissioner of Registration under section 14(1)(b) of the National Registration Act.

2. Pursuant to section 15(2) of the Act and the Regulations made thereunder, claims and objections, to facilitate the production of revised lists of electors for the registration divisions in each of the registration divisions in each of the Registration Areas set out in Schedule 1, may be made in respect of the entries on the list referenced in paragraph 1 above:

(a) with respect to the qualifying date of 30th day of June, 2026, in accordance with sections 6(1A) ((b) and 14(1)(b) of the Act, and (b) in accordance with the Registration District, the Registration Officers, the Registration Areas or Parts Thereof, the and the Addresses of their Offices, as specified in columns I, II, III and IV in Schedule 2, and the times specified in paragraph 3 below.

3. Official hours for Claims and Objections and Registration Phase (1) Exercises shall be as follows: -

(a) Registration Offices Monday to Friday 08:00hrs to 18:00hrs Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays 10:00hrs to 14:00hrs

Schedule 1 | Registration Areas

Registration Areas for Region No. 1: - Mabaruma/Moruca/Port Kaituma

Registration Areas for Region No. 2: - Charity/Anna Regina

Registration Areas for Region No. 3: - Parika/Nouvelle Flanders/La Grange

Registration Areas for Region No. 4: - Diamond/ South Georgetown/ North Georgetown/Coldingen

Registration Areas for Region No. 5: - Mahaicony/Fort Wellington

Registration Areas for Region No. 6: - New Amsterdam/ Whim/Corriverton

Registration Areas for Region No. 7: - Bartica/Kamarang

Registration Areas for Region No. 8: - Paramakatoi/Mahdia

Registration Areas for Region No. 9: - Lethem/Annai

Registration Areas for Region No. 10: - Mackenzie/Wismar

Schedule 2

Schedule 2 | continued (1)

Schedule 2 | continued (2)

Regional fund needed to build climate resilience across Caribbean – BoG Governor

As the Caribbean continues to explore more ways to build climate resiliency, Governor of the Bank of Guyana (BoG), Dr Gobind Ganga, believes that it is more cost-effective and efficient to have a regional fund rather than individual countries pursuing their own financing mechanisms to build long-term resilience.

“There is need for a regional fund. Currently, I believe there are two or three countries that are doing their own; that is very expensive. It is not a resilience for the future. It is trying to build insurance for your own,” Dr Ganga said while speaking on a panel about financing future resilience across the Caribbean.

Noting that the Region has not been actively taking steps to finance its future resilience, the BoG Governor pointed to the V20 Group, which comprises climate-vulnerable countries from around the world that developed a collective lifeline fund of US$1 billion –something which he says demonstrates the benefits of a coordinated approach.

According to the Central Bank head, while some countries in the Caribbean are pursuing their own financing mechanisms, this approach is costly and inefficient.

“What is being done in individual countries? Some of them have been putting out green bonds, [and] some have been putting out blue bonds. We find quite a lot of people are trying to raise funds, but…the funds are for individual countries, and it’s very expensive.”

“If it is being done for the Caribbean, it would be cheaper and less work. We have to have the capacity also to do it. Regionally, it’s easier and it is far better in terms of the scopes that we need to look at. So, I believe that while we need to raise funds, it needs to be done in a manner which is very efficient, cost-effective and it spreads across the Region, so it has to be regional,” Dr Ganga contended.

Reactive culture

He went on to highlight the need for the Region to also move away from a re-

active culture to one of anticipation when it comes to disaster management. This, he pointed out, requires not just financing but other aspects in building out resilience.

“So, preparation is very important in terms of our culture and moving away from reactive to anticipation. The future is what we need to look at, and that is how you build resilience… Our capacity and our ability, the wherewithal to build

resilience, comes from our partnerships, and that is what is important,” the Central Bank Governor posited.

Dr Ganga was, at the time, sharing the stage with Vice President of Corporate Services at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Gillian Charles-Gollop, during Tuesday’s panel.

Charles-Gollop too underscored that collaboration, especially among regional institutions, is fundamental to the Region’s resiliency agenda.

“There is a big scale, and there’re lots of cost complexities in the challenge that we face, and that work that needs to be done exceeds the capacity of any single government, any single multilateral development or Private Sector bank or any organisation. And so, our progress and success will re-

ally depend on one stronger alignment across policy, finance, data, implement and community action.”

“It is really, really important for us to recognise that this is not a problem for one party to fix, one government to fix [or] one term to fix. We have to recognise we are all in this together, and we do need to represent and act together and plan for the future,” the CDB Vice President for Corporate Services emphasised.

Partnerships

Similarly stressing the need for partnerships was the Chief Operations Officer at the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility Segregated Portfolio Company (CCRIF SPC), Gillian Golah.

CCRIF SPC provides disaster risk financing products and services to member

countries in the Caribbean and Central America region. Last year alone, the CCRIF SPC ceded some US$1.4 billion in coverage to members.

But as the organisation looks to expand its product offerings beyond just nations to sectors, utilities and microfinance, Golah says that there would be an increase in the insurance coverage – something that is already being witnessed.

“This year from June 1, it’s US$1.57 billion. That’s actually a very, very impressive figure, and we expect that to increase but has to increase within partnerships. It is really central [for] financing, resilience and planning. And influencing that discussion of covering risk is important because it means PublicPrivate Sector partnerships and donor interventions are more targeted, and it is through that targeted support that we can see more of the countries as well as the most vulnerable beginning to benefit more and more as we look into the next three to five years,” the CCRIF SPC official stated.

The panel discussion was held on Tuesday at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre in Georgetown, where the 14th Caribbean Conference on Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM14) was officially launched. The event is slated to be held in Guyana from December 7 to 12, 2026.

Sip & Paint: Young artists paint awareness on children’s rights

Primary school students from St Pius X Primary, St Sidwell’s Primary and St Gabriel’s Primary participated in a Sip & Paint activity hosted by the Labour and Manpower Planning Ministry in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady. The initiative used art and interactive engagement to raise awareness about child labour and children’s rights while encouraging discussions on the importance of ensuring every child can learn, play and develop in a safe and supportive environment

Government Service Centre opens in Region 6

...passports, birth certificates, digital ID services now closer to residents

Residents of Port Mourant, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and surrounding communities now have easier access to a range of Government services following the official commissioning of the Government of Guyana Service Centre on Wednesday.

The facility, located in Port Mourant, brings together several Government agencies under one roof, allowing residents to access services such as passport applications, birth certificate processing, digital identification registration, police clearances, marriage certificates and other transactions without having to travel long distances.

Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Minister Zulfikar Ally said that the centre fulfils a commitment made by President Dr Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Administration to improve access to public services across the country.

“This is not a small thing for Berbice,” Ally told those gathered at the opening ceremony.

“You no longer have to travel to different offices, different departments and different regions to access Government services. You can now come to one building and receive the services you need,” he added.

According to Ally, the initiative is intended to ensure citizens are treated with dignity when accessing Government services while reducing the time and cost associated with travelling to New Amsterdam or Georgetown.

The Minister also encouraged residents to obtain

the national digital identification card, noting that it will play a key role in the delivery of future digital Government services.

Meanwhile, Operations Director of the Digital ID Centre, Sara Godraj, said the opening of the Port Mourant office is another step in ensuring Guyanese have access to secure digital identities and the opportunities they create.

She explained that the digital ID card will allow citizens to access online Government services, conduct digital transactions and participate in Guyana’s expanding digital economy while benefiting from enhanced identity protection and security features.

Meanwhile, Chief Immigration Officer Stephen Telford disclosed that passport services have already been operating from the location since May 20.

According to Telford, the office has received 451 passport applications and issued 367 passports to date. He also announced the availability of a mobile passport service aimed at assisting persons who are unable to visit the office because of age, illness or other circumstances.

Head of Operations at the General Register Office, Vikram Budhu, said residents can now access fully digitised birth certificate services through the Port Mourant facility. He noted that citizens can apply online, through WhatsApp, by email or directly at the office, where staff can assist with applications and corrections.

Budhu reported that more than 200 applications have already been processed since the office commenced operations.

Transformation

Delivering the feature address, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, said the opening of the centre is part of a transformation taking place across Region Six under the leadership of President Ali.

According to Singh, Berbice will be vastly different within the next five to 10 years as major infrastructure, industrial, and economic projects come on stream.

Among the projects outlined were a new four-lane Berbice River bridge, a four-lane highway along the Corentyne Coast to Moleson Creek, road links to Orealla and Siparuta, a deep-water port at the mouth of the Berbice River, a bridge across the Corentyne River and the landing of Guyana’s second gas pipeline in Region Six.

The Finance Minister said the gas-to-energy infrastructure will support electricity generation, manufacturing and industrial development, including investments in petrochemicals, bauxite processing and fertiliser production.

He told residents that these projects will create thousands of jobs in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, energy, tourism and hospitality, while opening new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.

Singh urged residents to take advantage of Government-sponsored training programmes and educational opportunities to prepare themselves for the jobs that will be created.

He also highlighted ongoing developments, including the new regional hospital at Number 75 Village, the construction of a new hospital in New Amsterdam, the Guyana Technical Training College at Port Mourant and

the large-scale commercial, residential and sporting developments taking shape at Palmyra.

The Government Service Centre will offer a range of services, including immigration and passport proces-

sing, General Register Office services, digital identification registration and other Government transactions, as the Administration continues its efforts to improve service delivery across the country.

Fire contained at Robb St Chinese store in Georgetown

Firefighters from the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) responded to a building fire on Wednesday at Lot 87 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown.

According to the GFS, it deployed one water tender and two water carriers to the scene after receiving reports of the fire. Upon arrival, firefighters observed smoke coming from the storage bond of Sue Fashion. Firefighters activated standard firefighting procedures and were able to extinguish the blaze.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.

40 charged, fined $1.3M over illegal entry, mining at Iwokrama Protected Area …1 remanded on firearm charge

Atotal of 40 persons were charged following a Joint Services operation conducted within the Iwokrama Protected Reserve Area, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) between June 13 and June 14, 2026.

The defendants were charged on Tuesday with illegal entry, contrary to Section 34(1)(b) of the Immigration Act, Chapter 14:02, and illegal mining, contrary to Section 14(1)(a)(i) of the Mining Act, Chapter 65:01.

Among those charged with both

illegal entry and illegal mining were Luiz Angle, Carlos Alberto Lezama Rivas, Oliver Jesus Urdaneta, Anabel Bolívar Flores, and Daysmair Jaramillo Carrillo.

Abigail Hernandez and Dilmarita Figueroa Martines were charged with illegal entry only.

A further group was charged with illegal mining only, including Kamel Roberts, Joel Sampson called “Naldo”, Alex Simon called “John”, Jushan Stephens, Ezra McCurdy, Duran Harvey called

“Leopold”, Ilight Hendricks, Junior Whittington called “Jerry”, Joel Daw called “Godson”, Walter Devon called “Dunce”, Alex Vincent called “Bernard”, Rayon Faleim, Michael Earle called “Dove”, Olden Murray, Rohan Rambhrrat, Dexter Atkinson, Winston Gomes, Travis McCallum, Shane McCalmon, Reaz Khan, Terrence Hinds, Ivor Albert, Angilo Felix, Shawn Wilson, Thelston Edward, Carlos Alberto, Ronaldo Tudor, Orin Jones, Devin London, Imran Jacobus, Peter

Andrew, Alanzo Christian, and Sonita Miguel.

The defendants appeared virtually before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, where the charges were read to them. All of the accused pleaded guilty.

Each person convicted of illegal entry was fined $50,000 and ordered deported to Venezuela. Those convicted of illegal mining were each fined $25,000.

In a separate matter, Raul

James, a 37-year-old pork-knocker of Kara Kara, Mackenzie, Linden, Region Ten, was charged with possession of a firearm without a licence, contrary to Section 16(2)(a) of the Firearms Act, Chapter 16:05. James appeared virtually before Senior Magistrate Nurse at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty. Bail was refused, and he was remanded to prison. The matter was adjourned to September 23.

Youth chamber welcomes Development Bank, calls for entrepreneur readiness

The Guyana Youth Entrepreneurship Chamber (GYEC) has welcomed the establishment of the Guyana Development Bank, announced by President Irfaan Ali, describing it as a significant opportunity to improve access to finance for small businesses.

In a statement, GYEC said access to affordable capital remains a key requirement for private sector growth, particularly for micro and small enterprises in Guyana. It noted that limited collateral, weak credit history, and lack of formal documentation have historically restricted

many entrepreneurs from securing financing, slowing business development.

The chamber said the proposed model of zero-interest, zero-collateral loans of up to GYD $3 million for micro and small businesses represents a major shift in the regional financing landscape. It added that the initiative could expand opportunities for youth-led enterprises, women-owned businesses, persons with disabilities, and others operating outside the formal financial system.

GYEC also pointed to provisions allowing consortium arrangements, saying these could encourage col-

laboration among businesses and improve access to larger opportunities.

However, the organisation stressed that businesses must now prepare to meet lending requirements. It said entrepreneurs will need to strengthen financial management systems, maintain proper documentation, and improve operational discipline to ensure they are “bankable” and able to effectively use financing for growth.

Founding President of GYEC, Rosh Khan, said the development reflects government proactivity in expanding access to finance but added that readiness

within the private sector will be critical.

“Our mandate at GYEC is to now ensure that our members are ready for it. Being eligible for this

loan is only the beginning. The real work is becoming bankable… GYEC sees the bank not just as a financial mechanism but as a call to action,” Khan said. He added that the chamber will support entrepreneurs through financial literacy, business management training, and capacity-building programmes aimed at improving compliance and preparation for lending opportunities.

GYEC said it will intensify its programmes in the coming period and is encouraging eligible entrepreneurs to begin preparation ahead of the bank’s rollout.

River defence works leave section of Islington seawall breached

Residents of Islington, Greater New Amsterdam, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) have expressed concern after a section of the community’s river defence structure was reportedly damaged during ongoing sea and river defence works on Monday evening. The incident had left part of the seawall breached, and residents were worried about the impact of high tides while they awaited answers from the authorities.

Residents said that for several weeks work has been ongoing along the Islington seawall.

The works involved the placement of sand along the landward side of the river defence structure and, more recently, the installation of large boulders along the river’s edge.

According to residents,

the situation escalated on Monday evening when a barge operating on the

tend that during the placement of another set of rocks, part of the existing concrete

large portions of concrete breaking away and falling among the newly placed boulders.

The affected area ex-

Berbice River began placing additional boulders in the area. While earlier loads were reportedly placed without incident, residents con-

structure was struck and severely damaged.

The impact had left a section of the river defence structure breached, with

tends for more than thirty feet, and the damage has become concerning as the tide began to rise Monday eve-

ning, allowing water to overtop the compromised area.

By Tuesday morning, residents were closely monitoring conditions as the area faced another high tide cycle. Their concerns intensified as forecasts indicated that an even higher tide was expected later in the day.

Adding to those concerns, residents claim that after the incident occurred, workers operating from the barge left the location, and no explanation was provided regarding what had happened or what immediate remedial measures would be taken.

The residents on Tuesday morning tried to document the condition of the structure, expressing fears that continued tidal action could worsen the situation if urgent corrective works are not undertaken.

Additionally, the contractor has been placing sand with no revetment, al-

lowing sand to fall, blocking the internal drainage system.

Meanwhile, records show that Works at Islington is part of the Public Works Ministry’s programme for the construction of sea and river defence structures.

A contract valued at more than $136.7 million was awarded to I & R Construction on March 31 this year.

The project was listed as covering river defence works within the Islington community. The contractor has been paid $136.7 million.

Meanwhile, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill subsequently instructed that the contractor carry out immediate remedial works, which were undertaken.

On Wednesday evening residents confirmed that remedial works were being done to repair the breach.

Youth leaders complete training ahead of National Expedition

More than 400 young persons from communities across Guyana are expected to benefit from the upcoming National Expedition Programme following the successful completion of a pre-expedition training exercise conducted by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

The training, organised through the Ministry’s Department of Youth and

the President’s Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG) Medal of Service Programme, was held at the Kuru Kuru Training Centre (KKTC) along the LindenSoesdyke Highway from June 19 to 21, 2026.

According to the Ministry in a social media post, the exercise is part of preparations for the National Expedition Programme, which is scheduled to engage youths from across the country at the

end of June.

Activities began with a four-mile hike from Umbrella Resort to the training centre, a journey that took approximately two and a half hours. Upon arrival, more than 90 youth leaders were divided into groups and participated in a series of activities aimed at strengthening leadership, teamwork and survival skills.

Training sessions started

as early as 05:00h and continued until near midnight each day. Participants received instruction in campcraft, basic survival techniques, watermanship and water safety, wilderness first aid, physical fitness, expedition conduct, navigation and leadership development.

According to the Ministry, the programme was designed to teach, reinforce and assess key life

skills, including time management, self-discipline, leadership, conflict resolution, analytical thinking, dexterity, first aid, campcraft, watermanship, and navigation.

The training also sought to provide youth leaders with the practical and theoretical knowledge required to effectively manage national expeditions, familiarise them with environmental conditions and challenges associ-

ated with expedition activities, and promote greater unity, teamwork and interdependence among participants.

The Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry said it remains committed to expanding the PYARG Medal of Service Programme and providing opportunities that support personal development and leadership among young people across Guyana.

ERC, Carter Center discuss 2025 elections report, strengthening of social cohesion

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Wednesday, June 17, held discussions with a delegation from The Carter Center on the findings of its final report on Guyana’s 2025 General and Regional Elections.

The Carter Center delegation comprised Country Director of the International Election Observation Mission, Jason Calder, and

Associate Director of the Democracy Programme, Brett Lacy.

They met with an ERC delegation led by Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack, alongside Deputy Chairman Charles Ogle and Commissioners Ras Khafra, Chandrowtie Sarran, Neaz Subhan and Norris Witter, as well as Acting Chief Executive Officer Oma Sukhu.

A release from the ERC

on Wednesday stated that Chairman Hack thanked The Carter Center for its long-standing involvement in Guyana’s democratic processes since 1992 and highlighted the importance of continued engagement with national institutions.

He also briefed the delegation on the ERC’s role during the 2025 elections, noting its community outreach before, during and

Shop owner charged with narco-trafficking

A37-year-old shop owner from Itaballi Village, Lower Mazaruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) has been charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Sheldon Bess was arrested on Monday in connection with a narcotics matter and subsequently charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to Section 5(1)(a)(i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Chapter 10:10.

Bess appeared before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty to the offence and was

granted bail in the sum of $80,000.

The matter was adjourned to July 27.

after the polls. He pointed to the Commission’s deployment of a large team of local election-day observers and outlined its broader programmes, including Harmony Clubs in schools and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) training across public and private sector organisations.

The Carter Center representatives said they were engaging national

stakeholders to discuss the findings and recommendations of their Final Report, with a view to supporting their implementation. The delegation also commended the peaceful conduct of the 2025 elections and acknowledged the ERC’s support for its observation work. A copy of the centre’s election observation handbook was shared with the commission.

Both sides noted their shared focus on promoting inclusive and peaceful democratic processes. While acknowledging challenges raised during the discussions, the ERC and the Carter Center reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and advancing national unity and expressed willingness to continue cooperation in the future.

Construction worker fined $110,000 for

multiple traffic offences

A30-year-old construction worker from St Ignatius Village, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) has been fined a total of $110,000 after pleading guilty to several traffic offences committed on the St Ignatius Public Road.

Roylee Williams appeared before Magistrate Omadatt Chandan at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where he admitted to the offences.

The charges stemmed from an incident on Friday last while Williams was driving a motorcycle bearing trade plate number JCA 3.

Williams pleaded guilty to driving without a licence, contrary to Section 23(1) of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02. For that offence, he was fined $25,000 or, in default, sentenced to two weeks’ imprisonment.

He also pleaded guilty to operating an uninsured

motor vehicle, contrary to Section 3(1) of the Motor Vehicles Insurance (Third Party Risk) Act, Chapter 51:03. He was fined a further $25,000 or two weeks’ imprisonment in default of payment.

Additionally, Williams admitted to driving a motor vehicle while his breath alcohol level exceeded the prescribed le -

gal limit, contrary to Section 39(2) of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02. He was fined $60,000 – or six weeks’ imprisonment in default.

In total, Williams was ordered to pay $110,000 in fines. Failure to pay the fines could result in a combined default sentence of nine weeks’ imprisonment.

Canada, T&T sign MoU to strengthen intellectual property cooperation B

The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) and the Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) Intellectual Property Office (TTIPO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation on intellectual property and deepening longstanding relations between the two countries.

The agreement establishes a formal framework for collaboration between the two agencies to enhance intellectual property systems, promote innovation, and support entrepreneurs and businesses in both Canada and T&T.

Under the MoU, both offices will cooperate in several key areas, including the exchange of information on institutional development and operational experience; sharing of data and best practices; and collaboration on capacity-building and professional development initiatives. The agreement also provides for joint work

Minister of Land and Legal Affairs, Saddam Hosein, MP (left), and High Commissioner for Canada to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Michael Callan, hold up copies of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Intellectual Property Offices of Trinidad and Tobago and Canada, following the signing ceremony on June 17, 2026

in other areas of mutual interest related to intellectual property administration.

Officials said the partnership reflects the enduring relationship between Canada and T&T, and reinforces a shared commitment to fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and advancing economic

growth through stronger IP protection and administration frameworks.

The two agencies are expected to use the agreement to enhance technical cooperation and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of intellectual property services in both jurisdictions.

(Trinidad Guardian)

A&B Attorney General calls for immediate licence suspensions in fatal crash cases

Attorney General (AG)

Steadroy Benjamin says motorists involved in fatal crashes caused by reckless or dangerous driving should have their licences suspended immediately, arguing that the current system leaves grieving families without justice while investigations drag on.

AG Benjamin made the remarks in Parliament on Tuesday during debate on the Fatal Accidents Bill 2026, legislation that was subsequently passed after amendments were made during the committee stage.

The AG said he has instructed legal drafters to

prepare additional amendments to traffic laws that would allow authorities to suspend a driver’s licence on the spot where it is clear that a fatal collision resulted from dangerous, careless or reckless driving.

He criticised what he described as delays in the legal process, noting that in some cases drivers involved in fatal collisions continue driving for months while investigations and court proceedings remain unresolved.

Benjamin’s comments came as Parliament debated and approved legislation repealing and replacing a Fatal Accidents Act that dates back to 1924. He

argued that the century-old law no longer reflects modern realities and needed significant reform.

A major feature of the new law is the introduction of bereavement damages, allowing certain family members to seek compensation for grief and emotional suffering following the wrongful death of a loved one.

The Fatal Accidents Bill was among several pieces of legislation considered during Tuesday’s sitting of the House of Representatives, the first regular sitting of the new Parliament following the April General Election. (Excerpt from Antigua Newsroom)

J’ca: Man charged with sex with underage stepdaughter, possession of child pornography

A29-year-old construction worker of the Burnt Savannah District, St Elizabeth, has been charged with several incidents of reported sexual misconduct involving his stepdaughter.

The man, whose identity is being withheld to protect the victim, faces five counts of sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 16, sexual touching of a child, possession of child pornography, and distribution of

child pornography.

According to reports, the victim, a 15-year-old student from the parish, was living with her mother, siblings and the accused, who is her stepfather. Between December 24, 2025, and June 7, 2026, the accused allegedly engaged in sexual activity with the minor on multiple occasions, knowing she was under 16.

During one of these incidents, he reportedly recorded the act using his

phone and later sent the video to the victim’s phone. This video was seen and retrieved by the Police.

The matter was thereafter reported to the Police, and a statement was subsequently recorded implicating the accused.

Following a targeted operation at his home, the accused was arrested. He was later interviewed and subsequently charged.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

“Don’t meddle”: Lula calls on Trump to stay out

razilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has warned that the United States (US) should not interfere in his country’s upcoming presidential race, which is being held in October.

Wednesday’s remarks came after both Lula and his US counterpart, Donald Trump, attended the Group of 7 (G7) conference in Evianles-Bains, France.

During a news conference, Lula said Trump was entitled to continue his relationship with the Bolsonaro family, whose patriarch, Jair Bolsonaro, led Brazil as President from 2019 to 2023.

“As far as I’m concerned, he can continue liking Bolsonaro, the father, the son, and the grandson,” Lula said. “There is no problem with that. It’s his problem. There’s no accounting for taste.”

of Brazil’s elections

But Lula then proceeded to establish a firm red line: no interference in Brazil’s elections.

“Now, don’t meddle in the Brazilian elections, because the Brazilian elections are a Brazilian problem, just as American elections are their business, not mine,” Lula continued.

“All I want is the same respect for Brazil that I have for the United States. That’s it.”

Lula is currently a leading contender ahead of October’s race. If the left-wing incum-

bent wins, it will be his fourth term as President of Brazil. He previously served from 2003 to 2011 before being re-elected to a non-consecutive third term in 2022. But Lula’s top election rival is a member of the Bolsonaro family: Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, Jair’s eldest son. Flavio is running as the candidate for Brazil’s farright Liberal Party. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Pierre to assume Caricom Chair as Saint Lucia prepares to host summit

Prime Minister (PM)

Philip J Pierre is set to assume the chairmanship of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) in July as Saint Lucia prepares to host the 51st regular meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom from July 5 to 8.

Pierre will officially succeed PM Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis and will serve a six-month term ending December 31, 2026.

The regional summit, which brings together Heads of Government from across the Caribbean Community, will be held under the theme Caricom: From Resilience to Renewal in a Changing World.

Speaking ahead of the

the country’s tenure as Caricom Chair. According to the PM, the conference theme reflects both the challenges facing the region and the opportunities that lie ahead.

He noted, however, that resilience alone will not be sufficient to address the increasingly complex challenges confronting the region.

meeting, PM Pierre described the event as a significant moment for Saint Lucia and outlined his vision for the Region during

Pierre said his chairmanship will focus on renewing key areas of regional development, including economic growth, regional cooperation, institutional effectiveness and opportunities for Caribbean citizens.

“The task before us now is renewal,” he stated. (Excerpt from St Lucia Times)

UN Secretary-General António Guterres urges world leaders to keep promises to Haiti

During his visit to Haiti on Tuesday, United Nations (UN) Secretary General António Guterres criticised the international community’s inaction and urged Haitians not to miss the opportunity to pull out of the multidimensional crisis.

Speaking at a press conference in Pétion-Ville before departing the country, Guterres said Haitians should know they are not alone and that the world cannot continue to turn away from the country’s suffering.

“Haiti cannot wait,” Guterres said. “The greatest shame is not the gang

violence but indifference – that of a world that has looked away for far too long.”

His remarks amounted to one of the strongest criticisms yet from a senior international official of the global response to Haiti’s crisis. For years, Haitian leaders, civil society organisations and humanitarian agencies have warned that international pledges have often failed to translate into meaningful action.

Humanitarian response plans have repeatedly fallen short of funding targets, and security assistance has arrived slowly or not at all; promised support for inter-

national security missions has lagged behind urgent needs, and efforts to help restore democratic institutions have yielded limited results. As gangs expanded their territorial control, many have accused the international community of reacting too late and doing too little to help address the country’s deteriorating security, political and humanitarian conditions.

The UN chief described Haiti as facing the most severe humanitarian crisis in the Western Hemisphere and one of the fastest-deteriorating situations in the world. (Excerpt from The Haitian Times)

Around the World OIL NEWS

Oil rises 1% on USIran deal doubts; IEA warns of supply glut

Oil prices gained nearly one per cent on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump said the new ceasefire agreement with Iran was not final and the Iran war could resume if he were unsatisfied, but concerns over excess supply next year limited the gains.

Brent crude futures settled 59 cents, or 0.75 per cent, higher at US$79.55 a barrel, and US West Texas Intermediate gained 74 cents, or 0.97 per cent, to US$76.79.

Trump said on Wednesday that a Memorandum of Understanding with Iran was not final and that he could resume a bombing campaign if he did not like it or if Iran did not “behave”. The US and Iran on Sunday said they had terms to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

There’s “still a bit of uncertainty in terms of the US situation... (it) makes sense for oil to bounce back from these levels after staging what has been quite a sharp decline in the last few days”, said Fawad Razaqzada, market analyst at City Index and FOREX.com.

There were fresh Israeli air strikes and artillery fire in several towns of southern Lebanon on Wednesday. Lebanese security sources said Hezbollah had also launched two drone attacks on Israeli forces in the south.

The memorandum calls for a halt to hostilities between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group in Lebanon. (Excerpt from Reuters)

7-year-old hit in US airstrike may lose his ability to walk

Aseven-year-old boy who was riddled with shrapnel during a deadly US airstrike in Somalia faces losing his ability to walk unless he has a £750 emergency operation.

But Abdiqadir Salah’s family cannot afford the surgery, and the US –which refuses to admit that any civilians were killed or injured during its attack six months ago – appears unwilling to pay compensation to those affected by airstrikes in Somalia.

Shards of shrapnel are lodged in two places in Abdiqadir’s back and in his upper thigh after US airstrikes that killed at least 12 civilians, including eight children.

It is the deadliest attack on civilians in Somalia during either Trump administration and one of the worst since the botched 1993 US military operation in Mogadishu known as Black Hawk Down.

His mother, Marian Haji Abdi Guled, said Abdiqadir

US-Iran agreement now in effect

AUS-Iran agreement to extend the ceasefire between the two countries has been signed and is now in effect, a White House official has confirmed to the BBC.

President Donald Trump formally signed the deal on Wednesday night – which is set to reopen the pivotal Strait of Hormuz – while attending the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains in France.

It has also been signed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, according to the White House.

The 14-point Memorandum of Understanding says that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon and also commits a US$300 billion fund for the “reconstruction and economic development” of the country – although the US is not required to contribute. It comes four months

after the conflict between the countries – and Israel –broke out.

The agreement has been described by the Trump Administration as “performance-based”, with Iran benefitting only if it complies with its commitments.

While the text of the deal leaves several questions un-

answered and key issues unresolved, the main provisions are understood to include an end to conflict “on all fronts” (Point 1); respect for “internal affairs” (Point 2); an extendable 60-day timeline (Point 3); a US commitment to end the blockade (Point 4); provisions concerning the Strait of Hormuz

(Point 5); funding for Iran’s reconstruction (Point 6); the lifting of sanctions (Point 7); a commitment to the absence of nuclear weapons (Point 8); maintenance of the “status quo” (Points 9 and 10); the release of frozen funds (Point 11); and arrangements for monitoring and subsequent final negotiations (Points 12–14).

The signing by the two leaders comes after Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and US VicePresident JD Vance electronically signed the agreement on Sunday, the White House explains.

Earlier, both Trump and Iranian officials indicated that there would be a formal signing ceremony sometime later this week. It’s unclear whether that will still go ahead now. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Ukraine’s Zelenskyy says he spoke to Trump and Macron after G7 summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said late on Wednesday he had spoken to US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron in a “coordinating conversation” at the close of the G7 summit in Evian.

“This was an important coordinating conversation which could change a great deal,” Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram.

“I am grateful to President Trump for his attention to Ukraine and for his readiness to help bring peace closer. I am grateful to Emmanuel for the excellent organisation of the summit

and the consistently strong joint work.”

Zelenskyy, in a subsequent post on Telegram, said he had discussed the outcome of the Evian summit with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Brussels.

“The main thing is working on strengthening our defence and getting US licences to produce air defence systems,” Zelenskyy wrote. He thanked Rutte for his support and pledged to make next month’s NATO summit in Ankara “effective for the defence of Ukraine”. (Excerpt from Reuters)

was in the street outside his family home in Jamaame on November 15, 2025 when he was struck by a missile.

After the attack, Guled took her three injured children into the surrounding countryside to flee the drones.

Her eldest, Mohamed, 16, had shrapnel lodged in his fingers, while her daughter Sumaya, 14, had three metal fragments lodged in her head, which have since been removed. Abdiqadir’s X-rays show shrapnel still lodged near his hip socket from where it entered his lower back.

Guled has no doubts over the origin of the strikes that injured her children, insisting they had not been inflicted by infantry weapons such as mortars. “It is the Americans who are responsible for our suffering,” she said.

The US Department of War did not respond to a series of detailed questions regarding the airstrikes on Jamaame. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Latest US strike on alleged drug boat in eastern Pacific kills 1, leaves 2 survivors

The US military attacked a boat accused of smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, killing one man and leaving two survivors, as the Trump Administration continues its months-long campaign against alleged traffickers in Latin America.

The latest attack brings the number of people who

have been killed in boat strikes by the US military to at least 208 since the Trump administration began targeting those it calls “narcoterrorists” in early September.

As with most of the military’s statements on strikes in the eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, US Southern Command said it targeted the alleged

drug traffickers along known smuggling routes.

The military did not provide evidence that the vessel was ferrying drugs. A video posted on X showed a boat travelling in the water before being hit by the strike and bursting into flames.

Southern Command said it “immediately notified the US Coast Guard to activate the Search and Rescue system for the survivors.”

The strikes have drawn intense scrutiny from some Democratic lawmakers and military legal scholars. The US military’s first strike in early September drew particular concern from some lawmakers and those who study military law.

(Excerpt from CBS News)

Huawei CFO’s admissions can be used at criminal trial, US Judge rules

Atop Huawei executive’s admission that the Chinese telecom company illegally conducted business in Iran can be used in the upcoming US trial against Huawei, a US Judge has ruled.

The ruling was filed in Brooklyn federal court on Tuesday.

The company’s Chief Financial Officer, Meng

Wanzhou, made the admission as part of a 2021 deal to dismiss the criminal charges she faced in the case. She had been accused of bank fraud in the US in connection with violating sanctions on Iran. In a fourpage statement of facts, Meng acknowledged lying to a financial institution about Huawei’s compliance with sanctions and export control

law.

“Meng was – and is still – Huawei Tech’s CFO,” US District Judge Ann Donnelly wrote. “Huawei Tech should not be able to object that admitting the statement of its senior executive about her conduct in connection with her job – which Huawei Tech adopted – violates Huawei Tech’s rights.” Donnelly rejected

Huawei’s argument that prosecutors could not use Meng’s admission against it because the company was entitled to remain silent despite her statement. The Judge also said it was unnecessary for Huawei to question her at trial.

A Huawei spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Think outside the box. It’s OK to be unique and to stand out when you have something to offer. Refuse to let anyone ruin your plans. Expect someone to overreact or tempt you to go overboard with your intentions. If you mix business with pleasure, you’ll find out who’s on your team and who’s competing with you.

Put more time and effort into home, family and lifestyle changes. An adjustment to your routine that sets you on the road to better health will distance you from bad influences and emotionally draining situations. Put drama aside and focus on personal growth and self-improvement. Change begins with you.

Make an offer and follow through. Living up to your promises, requests and words will help you gain the confidence of others. Show how disciplined and fruitful you can be, and everyone will want to help you excel. Spruce up your living space to meet your demands, and you’ll achieve what you set out to do.

Stick to what works best for you. If you follow someone, you’ll be disappointed with the outcome. Place more faith and trust in yourself and your ability to finish what you start. Investigate what and who you are up against or what’s required for you to reach your destination of choice. Nothing is free.

It’s about who you connect with, what you discover and how you react that matters. Pay attention to relationships, conversations and the validity of the information you receive and the intentions of the people you encounter. If you have a positive impact on someone, it will reflect and, in turn, put you in the spotlight.

Suggestions and offers you receive will generate excitement and a desire for change, but before taking a leap of faith, consider the outcome. Make sure your budget can withstand the overhead costs, and pay attention to detail as you inch forward. Don’t rely on others; doing the work yourself will satisfy your soul and your ego.

Procrastination is what holds you back. Excuses are far-fetched and downright depressing, putting you into a catatonic state of mind that’s stopping you from living your dream. Shake yourself off, and get moving. Physical activity will encourage you to engage in life and to thrive in the limelight. Less talk and more action are in your best interest.

Rethink your strategy on health, love and earning potential. Perhaps it’s time to rethink and update your direction, skills and connections. Mix business with pleasure, and you’ll gain respect and insight into how to fine-tune your talents to meet today’s demands. Put your energy, creativity and networking skills to work, project your timeline and execute your plans.

Set yourself up, let go of the past and stabilize your future. Choose your space wisely. Put in the time to ensure you feel comfortable. How much and how well you produce what’s important to you in life depends on your surroundings. A change regarding joint possessions and expenses needs to be considered carefully. Don’t sell yourself short.

Deal with what irks you and put it to rest. Letting matters fester will put you in a vulnerable position. It’s time to let go of what’s not working for you and to engage in what soothes your soul. High energy and engaging with people who share your concerns will bring you closer to your happy place.

Start with love, enthusiasm and a fun-filled agenda. The more excited you are, the easier it will be to tempt others to join in. Creativity is on the rise. Look for an outlet that can make you money or bring you joy. Personal gain is apparent if you put your heart and soul into completion.

Your best effort will develop if you participate in events or activities that stretch your mind and help you build relationships with people who bring out the best in you. Aligning yourself with those who share your beliefs and offering an unusual perspective will enhance your ability to grow and nurture your dreams.

Imlach eager to put preparations to the test against Sri Lanka

West Indies Select XI captain Tevin Imlach is looking forward to returning to competitive action when his side faces Sri Lanka in a four-day warm-up match beginning today at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

The Guyanese wicketkeeper-batsman said he has spent recent weeks working on his game but has not had many opportunities to assess his progress because of a lack of match time in Guyana due to persistent rain.

“I’ve been working on my game, but I haven’t been able to put it into practice because we haven’t had much match time in Guyana because of the rain,” Imlach said.

The upcoming fixture, which runs from June 18-21, will provide the right opportunity to see how those improvements stand up in a competitive environment.

“I’m looking to put the work to the test in this game,” he added.

Imlach is one of four Guyanese selected in the West Indies Select XI squad. He is joined by fast bowler Nial Smith, all-rounder Keemo Paul and wicketkeeper-batsman Kemol Savory.

The match forms part of Sri Lanka’s preparations for their upcoming Test series in the Caribbean and gives several regional players the chance to impress against international opposition.

Alongside Imlach, the Select XI squad includes Joshua Bishop, Jonathan Drakes, Karima Gore, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kirk McKenzie, Keemo Paul, Kemol Savory, Ojay Shields, Nial Smith, Gilon Tyson and Kevin Wickham.

For the Guyanese captain, the fixture represents an important chance to return to the middle after an extended period of limited cricket and to assess the work he has been putting in away from competition.

Gill, Kishan hundreds carry India past 400 to victory

Shubman Gill recorded his ninth One Day International (ODI) century, Ishan Kishan scored his second, while Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar picked up three wickets each as India claimed a 170-run win against Afghanistan to win the second ODI and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

The win was set up by a rousing Gill-Kishan stand, who added 224 runs off 141 balls for the third wicket as India piled up 402 in 49.5 overs. Despite the onslaught, Afghanistan did make a comeback, picking up seven for 62 in the last ten overs to restrict India, when at one stage, 450 and above was on the cards.

aaa SCOREBOARD

India (50 ovs maximum)

Yashasvi Jaiswal c Nangeyalia

Kharote b Mohammad Saleem 4

Rohit Sharma b Rashid Khan 48

Shubman Gill (c) c Darwish

Rasooli b Nangeyalia Kharote 154

Ishan Kishan † c sub (Ikram

Alikhil) b Nangeyalia Kharote 125

Shreyas Iyer c Ibrahim Zadran

b Nangeyalia Kharote 26

KL Rahul c Ibrahim Zadran

b Nangeyalia Kharote 0 Washington Sundar c

† Rahmanullah Gurbaz

b Rashid Khan 19

Gurnoor Brar c Ibrahim Zadran

b Rashid Khan 3

Arshdeep Singh c Rashid

Khan b Ghazanfar 3

Kuldeep Yadav not out 3

Prince Yadav run out

(Nangeyalia Kharote/

†Rahmanullah Gurbaz/Bilal Sami) 5

Extras (lb 8, nb 1, w 3) 12

Total 49.5 Ov (RR: 8.06) 402

Fall of wickets: 1-9 (Yashasvi Jaiswal, 1.6 ov), 2-96 (Rohit Sharma, 13.1 ov), 3-320 (Ishan Kishan, 36.3 ov), 4-360 (Shubman Gill, 42.3 ov), 5-360 (KL Rahul, 42.4 ov), 6-371 (Shreyas Iyer, 44.3 ov), 7-387 (Gurnoor Brar, 46.6 ov), 8-392 (Arshdeep Singh, 47.6 ov), 9-396 (Washington Sundar, 48.5 ov), 10-402 (Prince Yadav, 49.5 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

AM Ghazanfar

Mohammad Saleem

Bilal Sami

10-1-69-1

8-0-75-1

8.5-0-90-0-

Nangeyalia Kharote 10-0-76-4

Rashid Khan

Hashmatullah Shahidi

8-0-48-3

5-0-36-0

Afghanistan (T: 403 runs from 50 ovs)

Rahmanullah Gurbaz † c †

Rahul b Gurnoor Brar 41

Ibrahim Zadran c Prince Yadav b Arshdeep Singh 21

Sediqullah Atal lbw

b Washington Sundar 42

Rahmat Shah c Gurnoor Brar

b Prince Yadav 79

Afghanistan got nowhere near the towering target. Rahmat Shah scored a laborious 79, Rahmanullah Gurbaz 41, but that was about it. The visitors were bowled out for 232, with Darwish Rasooli, on debut, retiring hurt midway through his innings and not coming back. Arshdeep picked up three for 45, while Gurnoor returned three for 60. Debutant Prince Yadav also picked up two wickets. Afghanistan bowled in sweltering conditions and had early success with Mohammad Saleem grabbing his maiden ODI wicket in the form of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who cut to backward point in the second over. Gill, though, was at his fluent best. He started his innings with a classy cover-drive off AM Ghazanfar before Rohit Sharma treated the Lucknow faithful to back-to-back front-foot pulls as India raced past fifty in the seventh over.

Darwish Rasooli retired hurt 6

Hashmatullah Shahidi (c)

b Gurnoor Brar 4

Nangeyalia Kharote b Prince Yadav 6

Rashid Khan c Sharma

b Arshdeep Singh 12

AM Ghazanfar c Iyer

b Arshdeep Singh 1

Mohammad Saleem b Gurnoor Brar 9

Bilal Sami not out 2

Extras (lb 2, nb 2, w 5) 9

Total 44.3 Ov (RR: 5.21) 232

Fall of wickets: 1-52 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 7.3 ov), 2-71 (Ibrahim Zadran, 13.1 ov), 3-128 (Sediqullah Atal, 23.1 ov), 3-136* (Darwish Rasooli, retired not out), 4-140 (Hashmatullah Shahidi, 24.5 ov), 5-170 (Nangeyalia Kharote, 30.1 ov), 6-188 (Rashid Khan, 32.6 ov), 7-190 (AM Ghazanfar, 34.1 ov), 8-220 (Mohammad Saleem, 39.6 ov), 9-232 (Rahmat Shah, 44.3 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Arshdeep Singh 9-0-45-3 Prince Yadav 7.3-0-56-2 Gurnoor Brar 10-0-60-3 Kuldeep Yadav 10-0-42-0 Washington Sundar 7-0-24-1 Yashasvi Jaiswal 1-0-3-0

Nangeyalia Kharote’s spell began with a nearwaist-high full toss down leg that was spanked over deep fine leg by Gill. Some Rashid Khan mystery got Afghanistan back as he foxed Rohit with a skiddy googly for 48, but it only summoned the start of a storm.

Gill reached his fifty off 38 balls with a six off Kharote over wide long-on. Kishan was initially sedate. He reached his half-century off 52 balls, his first since September 2023. Then he went ballistic. He slapped Ghazanfar down the ground, went four, six, nil, and four against Hashmatullah Shahidi’s offspin before smashing Rashid for two sixes and a four.

Gill, watching the carnage unfold, reached his century off just 77 balls by

working Bilal Sami through square leg. In the same over, Kishan went four, four, four to reach his second ODI ton and his first since the 210 he hit against Bangladesh in December 2022. Kishan had taken 52 balls for his first 50 and just 19 for his second.

Gill also upped his strike rate by twice going through extra cover against Saleem.

India were 193 for two after 28 overs; in the next eight, they ransacked 114 runs with the run rate zooming past the 8.5 mark. Kishan hit two one-handed sixes against Kharote but fell doing it a third time, mistiming to deep midwicket. The Lucknow heat began taking its toll on the players. Rashid limped off the field, while Gill also summoned the physio multiple times.

While Gill still managed to find a few boundaries and, in the process, reach 150 off 109 balls, Shreyas Iyer struggled to keep up. Kharote then struck twice in two balls, first sending back Gill, whose reverse sweep only went as far as deep point, while KL Rahul slogged him to long-on for a golden duck.

Kharote picked up his fourth wicket when Shreyas mistimed him to long-on. The boundaries dried up in the death, and India only

managed to get past 400 in the final over. The innings ended with Prince run out for five as Kharote picked up four for 76, while Rashid returned three wickets.

Gill didn’t take the field in the second innings, with Shreyas leading. Gurbaz took on Prince twice in the second over and then smashed Arshdeep for a six and four. Prince should have had his maiden ODI wicket in the form of Gurbaz when a sharp bouncer was top-edged to mid-on, but he overstepped.

Prince’s loss was Gurnoor’s gain when the quick saw the back of Gurbaz with a back-oflength ball at 147.7 kph, which was edged to Rahul. Afghanistan reached 62 for

by Gurnoor. Rahmat rode his luck and reached his fifty off 52 balls, but Afghanistan’s innings never moved into a higher gear. Prince flattened Kharote’s off stump for his maiden ODI wicket while Arshdeep removed Rashid and Ghazanfar. The Afghanistan innings meandered along for a few more overs with Rahmat getting the odd boundary in. It was the Arshdeep-Gurnor combination that fittingly ended the innings, with Rahmat the last man out, caught at deep fine leg.

The difference between the two teams was clear. India faced 110 dots and hit 45 fours and 12 sixes; Afghanistan faced 148 dots and managed just 29 fours and two sixes.

Messi nets hat-trick to tie Klose record with 16th World Cup goal

Lionel Messi made history Tuesday night by tying Miroslav Klose’s record for most men’s World Cup goals at 16 after scoring a hat trick to lead Argentina to a 3-0 win over Algeria.

The hat trick was the 11th of Messi’s international career but first at the World Cup. At 38, he became the oldest player to score three goals in a game at the tournament. He came off late in the second half to a rousing ovation from the partisan Argentina crowd at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.

“It’s an honour being up there for what it means, being alongside Klose and [Brazil’s] Ronaldo, who is there also. But it doesn’t mean anything,” Messi said after the game. “[Kylian] Mbappé is there, too; he scored twice today. At the end of the day, they are stats and nothing more.

“It’s an honour to compete with them, but it doesn’t mean anything. For me, Ronaldo, who I watched and is one of the greats, is not at the top. So, it’s just

stats.”

When Messi took the field for defending champion Argentina’s first group stage match – his 200th with the national team – he also became the first player to feature in six World Cups.

Messi broke the record of five World Cups held by Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal); Antonio Carbajal, Andrés Guardado and Rafael Márquez (all of Mexico); and Lothar Matthäus (Germany). (Ronaldo should equal the mark in Portugal’s opener against Congo on Wednesday.)

Messi gave Argentina the early lead in the first half with a left-footed strike from just outside the area. He then scored twice in the second half to complete the hat trick and equal Klose’s record of 16 goals for Germany.

The Argentina Captain was left in tears after his first goal.

“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football,” Messi said after the match. “I went

through some dif days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team mates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”

The goals came 20 years to the day that Messi made his World Cup de but for Argentina in a match against Serbia and Montenegro – he scored in that one, too – and made him only the second play er to score in five editions of the tournament.

Argentina’s triumph also meant that Messi is tied for the most World Cup victories with Klose at 17.

It was the fifth straight World Cup game in which Messi had scored, but there were doubts about his fitness coming into the tournament after he came off early in his last MLS match with Inter Miami in May due to muscle fatigue.

“It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way,” Messi added. “What I’m living through now is

Congo DR stun Portugal with opening draw

Congo DR produced a stunning result at the 2026 World Cup as the African side won their first-ever point in the tournament by holding one of the pre-tournament favourites, Portugal, to a 1-1 draw in Houston on Wednesday.

Congo DR, who were playing at the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, became the second African nation to make a strong start in the tournament against European competition following Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw with Spain on Monday.

Playing in front of a crowd of 68,777 spectators at Houston Stadium, which was mostly filled with Portugal supporters, Congo DR were making only their second World Cup appearance. The first came in 1974, when the team was known as Zaire.

Cristiano Ronaldo joined Lionel Messi as the only men to play in six World Cups, and, aged 41 years and 132

days, he became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match. But the forward cut a frustrated figure in attack.

João Neves gave Portugal the lead in the sixth minute. The five-foot-seven midfielder headed in a cross from Pedro Neto.

Yoane Wissa equalised for Congo DR with a header in stoppage time at the end of the first half off a cross from Arthur Masuaku, delighting the small pockets of blue-clad fans. It was Congo DR’s first World Cup goal in the country’s history.

Congo DR were shut out in their previous three World Cup matches, losing to Scotland (2-0), Yugoslavia (9-0) and reigning champion Brazil (3-0) at the 1974 tournament in West Germany.

Ronaldo had a chance to move out of a tie with Messi, who had a hat trick on Tuesday, by becoming the first player to score in a sixth tournament. Ronaldo

missed shots wide right in the 68th and 73rd minutes. He shook his head in disgust after both.

Ronaldo finished without a shot on goal for the sixth time at a World Cup as his scoreless run in the competition extended to five games.

Bruno Fernandes also had a chance to put Portugal on top in the 90th minute, but his shot was also wide right.

Portugal looked to have taken the lead in the 55th minute on a bicycle kick by João Cancelo, but he was ruled offside.

Soon after that, Cédric Bakambu’s attempt to put Congo DR on top failed when his shot bounced off the near post.

The parents of Diogo Jota, a member of the Portugal team who died alongside his brother in a car crash last summer, attended the game in a luxury suite.

the cherry on top. I’m very happy and grateful for this wonderful group; I enjoy it so much.”

Argentina are among four teams making their base camp in the Kansas City area, and much as it has the rest of the world, Messi mania has swept through the area ever since La Albiceleste’s arrival about two weeks ago.

On match day, thou-

sands of fans wearing his No. 10 jersey trekked into the home of the NFL’s Chiefs on the outskirts of Kansas City, singing odes to their hero from Rosario. Meanwhile, during a watch party at the downtown Power & Light District, a goat accompanied by former NFL quarterback-turned-Fox broadcaster Jameis Winston came on stage wearing an Argentina

jersey.

The humorous moment seemed to have foreshadowed a big night for Messi when he scored an hour later, and the argument that he is soccer’s GOAT is becoming no argument at all with every World Cup goal he scores.

Argentina play Austria in Dallas on June 22 before wrapping up group play against Jordan. (ESPN)

West Indies Head Coach Darren Sammy praised his team’s composure and intelligent cricket after they secured a thrilling five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the decisive third T20 International at Sabina Park on Sunday night, sealing a 2-1 series triumph.

In front of an enthusiastic home crowd, the Caribbean side chased down their target with just two balls to spare, ending a lengthy wait for another T20 series victory on home soil. In the aftermath, Sammy expressed his delight at the result, highlighting the team’s calm approach under pressure.

“I wasn’t too nervous. I was just hoping that we get over the line,” Sammy said after the match. “Today it was a lot more thoughtful and smart cricket, especially by Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford, followed by Jason Holder.”

The Coach credited the bowlers for laying the foundation for the victory, with fast bowler Shamar Joseph once again making a significant impact.

“I think the game was set up, up front, when we bowled. Shamar Joseph continues to impress,” Sammy noted. “We needed a victory. It’s been a while since we won a T20 series at home. In front of the Jamaican fans, I know they wanted a victory for us, so I’m glad that we could finish

series win

Sammy sees signs of progress in hardfought

the series on a high.”

Joseph’s performances throughout the series earned special praise from the Coach, while veteran all-rounder Jason Holder was recognised for his influence both on and off the field.

“Shamar stood out really well. Jason continues to lead, not only with his actual skills, but through his leadership and helping out the bowlers on the field. We saw how much we missed his experience in the second game,” Sammy opined.

Despite the series’ success, Sammy emphasised the importance of developing emerging talent. Youngsters Akeem Auguste and Shamar Springer were given opportunities during the series, gaining valuable international experience despite not producing the results they had hoped for.

The all-format Head Coach remarked, “We gave some youngsters a couple of games. Yes, they didn’t perform the way they wanted to, but all in all, getting a series win after almost two years is something to be proud of.”

Looking ahead, the West Indies Coach stressed that the team’s long-term focus remains on building a squad capable of competing at the highest level, with preparations already underway for future global tournaments, including the road toward Australia 2028.

Sammy also highlighted the team’s ability to remain calm in crucial moments as a key takeaway from the series.

“Being under pressure today and having the nerve, the calm and the cricket smarts to do what it takes to come out over the line, that was special,” he said.

With experienced performers stepping up and young talents gaining exposure, the Caribbean side will hope this memorable triumph at Sabina Park marks the beginning of a sustained period of success in T20 cricket.

Forde, Chattopadhyay attend 2026 FIFA Executive Summit

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) concluded a productive participation at the FIFA Executive Football Summit 2026 in Miami, Florida, USA, reaffirming its commitment to football development and strengthening strategic partnerships that will support the continued growth of the sport in Guyana, a missive from the Federation indicated earlier this week.

Representing Guyana at the summit were GFF President Mr Wayne Forde and General Secretary Mr Pushpargha Chattopadhyay. Held from June 12 to 16 on the sidelines of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, the summit brought together all 211 FIFA Member Associations

alongside senior FIFA officials to discuss the present and future of global football.

The annual summit serves as a key platform for Member Associations to engage with FIFA on football development initiatives, competition structures, governance standards, and emerging opportunities designed to advance the game worldwide. More importantly, it also provides member associations with the opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences, ensuring that FIFA programmes continue to evolve in ways that are more inclusive and responsive to the needs of its global football community.

Reflecting on the summit, the discussions placed significant emphasis on

youth development, talent pathways, the expansion of the FIFA Forward Programme, and preparations for upcoming youth competitions, including the FIFA Under-15 World Cup and the FIFA U-15 Festival.

A major area of focus was the FIFA Forward 4.0 Programme, where Member Associations received updates on future plans and implementation strategies aimed at strengthening football infrastructure, administration, and development globally. Sessions also explored the evolving landscape of digital broadcasting and streaming, including presentations involving DAZN, FIFA’s official digital platform partner for content broadcasting.

On the side-lines of the

Fruta Conquerors, Beacon,

on governance, compliance, and collaborative initiatives that will support the continued advancement of football in Guyana and the wider region.

summit, the GFF delegation held exclusive meetings with representatives from DAZN to discuss opportunities related to broadcast and streaming, while also engaging with FIFA officials on football development and future projects.

VMFA, Riddim Squad secure victories in GFA U13 League

The Federation also participated in discussions with FIFA’s Member Associations division, led by Mr Jair Bertoni, Director of Member Associations Services (Americas), alongside FIFA Regional Office Lead Mr Jordan Victoire. These engagements focused

GFF President Wayne Forde noted that participation in forums such as the FIFA Executive Football Summit remains critical to ensuring Guyana remains aligned with international best practices while identifying new opportunities to accelerate football development at all levels.

As the global football landscape continues to

evolve, the GFF remains steadfast in leveraging international partnerships, embracing innovation, and advancing initiatives that create lasting opportunities for communities across Guyana. The knowledge gained and relationships strengthened at the FIFA Executive Football Summit 2026 position the Federation to further elevate local football, attract greater investment, and ensure that Guyanese players and stakeholders benefit from the continued growth of the global game.

Young Amaya Mohamed ready for Need for Speed Karting debut

Fourteen-year-old Amaya Mohamed is counting down the days to her first competitive karting event as she prepares to line up in this weekend’s highly anticipated Need for Speed Karting Championship.

The two-day championship, organised by Jumbo Jet Events, will be held on Friday and Saturday at the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC)’s Thomas Lands facility and is expected to attract some of the country’s top karting talent.

Fruta Conquerors Football Club (FC), Beacon FC, Vurlon Mills Football Academy and Riddim Squad FC all recorded victories as the second round of the Georgetown Football Association’s (GFA) U13 Youth Ensemble League continued on Saturday last at the National Training Centre (NTC), Providence.

The day’s action, which forms part of a Guyana Football Federation (GFF) youth development initiative, produced 19 goals across five matches, including a thrilling eight-goal draw between Pele FC and Camptown FC.

Fruta Conquerors FC registered one of the most convincing wins of the round, defeating Western Tigers FC 4-1. Daniel Vancooten led the charge with a brace in the fourth and 48th minutes, while Jomari Nelson added a goal in the 11th minute. Western Tigers’ Thyatira King bundled the ball into the back of her own net in the 25th minute to gift Fruta Conquerors a goal, while Jaden Henry

scored a consolation goal in the 45th minute.

Beacon FC also enjoyed a productive outing, defeating Police Force Academy 5-1 after taking a 3-0 advantage into the interval.

Xavier Smith opened the scoring in the 10th minute before Jomel Imhoff doubled the lead two minutes later. Ayden McLintock made it 3-0 in the 19th minute, while Isco Grumble and Xavier Smithett added further goals in the second half in the 25th and 47th minutes, respectively.

The Police Force Academy’s lone response came late in the contest through Joshua Daniels in the 54th minute.

Vurlon Mills Football Academy continued their strong form with a 3-0 victory over Eastveldt FC. Simeon Devonish opened the scoring as early as the sixth minute before Noel Persaud doubled the lead in the 26th minute. Devonish then completed his brace in the 37th minute to seal the win.

Riddim Squad FC also maintained a clean sheet as

they defeated Black Pearl FC 2-0. Calvin Ralph gave Riddim Squad the lead in the 11th minute before Edenan Hercules added a second in the 33rd minute to secure all three points.

The most entertaining encounter of the round saw Pele FC and Camptown FC battle to a 4-4 draw.

Pele held a 3-1 halftime advantage thanks to goals from Tofari Softleigh (16th), Julio Correia (20th) and Raymond Carter (21st), while Anthony Moses scored Camptown’s first goal in the 30th minute.

The second half produced four more goals as Tafari Softleigh extended Pele’s lead in the 56th minute. Camptown, however, mounted an impressive comeback through Jayden Sargeant in the 34th and 38th minutes and Harlan Laing in the 50th minute to earn a share of the points.

The competition is scheduled to continue this weekend at the National Training Centre, Providence, as the young players continue their quest for honours in the developmental league.

For Mohamed, the journey into motorsport began earlier this year after attending the historic Nitro Kart Klash event.

“I first got into kart racing when I went to the Nitro Clash Kart Racing. I realised that it looked very fun and it looked interesting, so I decided to give it a go,” the youngster explained.

Since then, she has been working hard behind the scenes, attending practice sessions and learning the fundamentals of the sport.

“I’m trying my best to come as many days as I can and really push myself and work on my lines and know what I’m doing wrong and acknowledge all of my mistakes. I’m trying to perfect all of it,” Mohamed said.

Despite being a newcomer, she is embracing the challenge and looking forward to competing alongside more experienced racers.

“I heard that it’s going to be really fun, it’s going to be competitive, and I can’t wait to participate in my first race. Honestly, I’m excited to race with all of them, and I hope I can learn from them if I have any mistakes. I just hope they can help me.”

Mohamed will make her debut at one of the richest karting events ever staged in Guyana.

More than GY$17 million in prize money will be contested across several divisions, including LO206 Briggs & Stratton Light, Heavy, Junior and Cadet; Honda GX200; IAME 125cc; LO206 Rookie Over-35; LO206 Female; Supermoto Senior; and Supermoto Junior categories.

The marquee LO206

Briggs & Stratton Light class will carry a winner’s purse of GY$4 million (US$20,000), while several other divisions will offer GY$2 million (US$10,000) to the champion. Remaining categories will compete for prizes ranging from GY$1 million to GY$1.5 million. Adding to the spectacle will be the debut of a “VIP and Local Celebrities Arrive and Drive” category, which is expected to provide fans with plenty of entertainment while giving prominent personalities a taste of competitive karting. Veteran racers have also been accommodated through a dedicated Veteran Pro Drivers class for competitors aged 50 years and older, with the winner set to receive GY$2 million.

Organisers have confirmed that most categories will race on MG Red tyres, while competitors in the IAME 125cc division will utilise MG Yellow tyres. With substantial prize money, a packed programme of racing and the emergence of promising newcomers such as Mohamed, the Need for Speed Karting Championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting motorsport events on the local calendar.

With the clock swiftly winding down towards the historic GT Challenge de Las Americas, Guyanese competitors are sharpening their teeth at the prospect of going wheel to wheel with the best in Latin America.

One such competitor is

Rameez Mohamed aiming to make his mark at GT Challenge de las Americas

fine-tuning it to my specifications. We are not sure yet which of the classes of the GT Challenge the car will fit in, but I can say for sure that we are going to be out there 100 per cent representing Guyana.”

Rameez Mohamed. No stranger to the local motorsport circle and a former Starlet Cup champion, Mohamed will debut his KTM X-bow at the July 11 and 12 event.

According to Mohamed, “The car has been ready for some time, but we were just

The Prem’s Electrical and BM Soat-sponsored white KTM is a step up from his normal Honda Civic (GP2) and Toyota Starlet (GP3), and Mohamed accepts that challenge.

“Yes, it’s definitely an entirely different machine compared to the ones I’m used to in the Group two Honda and previous Starlet that I handled, but it presents a challenge that I am willing to take on.”

“The car (KTM) is still

Austin, Hinckson earn NCAA All-American honours with LSU

the top eight in their respective events at the NCAA Championships. Athletes placing between ninth and 16th receive Second Team All-American recognition.

Austin secured First Team All-American honours as a member of Louisiana State University’s men’s 4x400-metre relay team. The Guyanese quarter-miler was part of a relay squad that finished among the na tion’s top eight at the championships held at Hayward Field.

In addition to his relay success, Austin also earned Second Team All-American rec ognition in the men’s 400 metres after plac ing among the top 16 competitors in the event.

Hinckson also collected First Team AllAmerican honours after helping LSU’s women’s 4x100-metre relay team secure a top-eight finish at the national championships.

The recognition caps another successful collegiate season for both Guyanese athletes, who continue to make their mark at one of the highest levels of university athletics in the United States.

LSU enjoyed a dominant showing overall, finishing with a nation-leading 20 First Team All-American honours and 28 AllAmericans in total.

Among the Tigers’ standout performers were Jaiden Reid and Shawnti Jackson, who each earned three First Team All-American honours. Reid was recognised in the men’s 100 metres, 200 metres and 4x100-metre relay, while Jackson achieved the feat in the women’s 100 metres, 200 metres and

new to me in some cases, and we are awaiting the completion of the works at the South Dakota Circuit before we can resume our testing. The car will do well in the series and are going to go all out to ensure that we represent Guyana well.”

Mohamed, who also has in his stable the revered Renault Megane, revealed that he is also aiming to run that car in Group Four of

the local segment.

“We had some work to do on the Renault from the last event that we had here, and we are trying to get it back in action for the July event.

Once we do, then we are also going to be running that and the Group Two Honda Civic as well. Again, it all comes back to how favourable the cars are in testing once we get the use of the track.”

When quizzed about

Women’s T20 World Cup…

the possibility of running the cars in the upcoming Dakota 100 and track day on June 28, he responded, “I guess we will have to wait and see! I’m not letting the cat out of the bag, but spectators can turn up, and maybe they will be surprised.”

The GT Challenge De Las Americas is set for July 11 and 12 at the South Dakota circuit, Timehri.

Campbelle, Alleyne optimistic ahead of Scotland clash

It was a magical start to the 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) T20 World Cup campaign for the West Indies’ women, toppling defending champions New Zealand by seven wickets, on the back of an unbeaten 90* from Shemaine Campbelle and a four-for from Aaliyah Alleyne on Saturday last.

As the Caribbean side prepares for their second fixture against Scotland today, the camp is brimming with confidence.

Much of that confidence, according to Alleyne, comes from knowing they can get the job done without their “big name” players.

Alleyne explained, “We’ve been saying that we have a lot of youth coming through, and we said that this is one of our better teams. So, I think it was just for

each person to put up our hands, and I think it’s always good for our cricket to see that we’re winning without Stafanie Taylor, Chinelle Henry. It could show that any eleven we put out there is a threat to any team.”

Looking at today’s opposition, Guyanese wicketkeeper/batter Shemaine Campbelle says they will not be underestimating Scotland.

“All the teams are going to come hard. Scotland, you know, they’ve been improving, and they get good players that could play a good brand of cricket. So, for us, it’s just to go out and play positive cricket and don’t take anyone for granted,” Campbelle shared.

loss to Scotland that kept them out of the 2025 World Cup, Campbelle responded, “We’re just going to come and play hard cricket, and they will come hard as well, but for us, it’s just to remain confident, positive and just come and play West Indies brand of cricket.”

Looking at the broader competition, Alleyne shared what she thinks will be crucial to their success.

“Been watching a couple of games, and I see that fielding is going to be very crucial, and I think us as a unit, we just have to take every opportunity. We’re not perfect, but maybe 95% or 98% of those opportunities, we need to take,” Alleyne opined.

Quizzed on whether or not the Maroon Women will be fixated on revenge after being ousted from the 50over World Cup Qualifier by Scotland, Campbelle had other priorities.

Refusing to dwell on the 11- run

She assured, “We just have to stay focus, stay together and enjoy the game.”

The West Indies women will take on Scotland from 13:30h today, Thursday, June 18, at the Headingley Ground in Leeds.

President Ali convenes Caricom sub-committee on cricket

In a decisive move for the sport within the region, President Dr Irfaan Ali convened a meeting of Caricom’s Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Cricket on Wednesday, a social media post indicated.

The Head of State wrote, “This morning, I chaired the virtual meeting of Caricom’s Prime Ministerial SubCommittee on Cricket.

Discussions focused on the development of the cricket ecosystem from the community to the professional level, covering senior

male and female cricketers as well as upcoming youngsters.

The strengthening of cricket administration, infrastructure, and the business of cricket, along with improved partnerships with the private sector, also formed part of the agenda.”

President Dr Irfaan Ali was accompanied by Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr and Minister within the Subject Ministry, Steven Jacobs. Also in physical attendance was renowned former Guyanese and West

Indian batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan.

In addition, to the Caricom officials who joined virtually, legendary former West Indies Captain Sir Clive Lloyd was also in attendance virtually.

Back in February 2025, President Dr Irfaan Ali had been chosen to replace former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley as Chairman of the Sub-Committee at the 48th Caricom Heads of Government meeting in Barbados.

GBF secures certified Hardwood Court in major boost for basketball development

As Guyana prepares to host the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers from July 8-12 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) has made a landmark investment in the future of the sport with the acquisition of its own certified hardwood basketball court.

According to a release from the Federation, the floor was purchased from NCAA Division I institution, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), and represents one of the most significant infrastructure investments made by the GBF in recent years.

The hardwood floor will be installed at the National Gymnasium and will be used exclusively for basketball activities, where it is expected to play a central role in Guyana’s preparations for the upcoming 10-country tournament, while also serving as a training and practice venue for visiting teams competing in the championship.

GBF President Michael Singh described the acquisition as a worthwhile investment that aligns with the Federation’s long-term vision of elevating the sport and eventually establishing a dedicated basketball facility in Guyana.

“The purchase of this court is a major step for basketball in Guyana,” Singh said. “It’s considered a portable court since the Federation intends to decentralise indoor basketball playing, where we can move the court. We can move it to Linden or Berbice once we have a covered space.”

The portability of the court is expected to significantly benefit the development of basketball outside Georgetown, providing opportunities for players and communities in other regions to experience the game on a professional-grade sur-

face.

Singh stressed that the invest ment goes beyond com petition and player development, highlighting the importance of athlete health and safety.

“It’s a major addition and good asset to us when it comes to play ing basketball at a high level. It will also do tremendously well for players because, for example, Suriname doesn’t play basketball on hard court anymore to extend the longevity of the players, so we have to play catch-up in that regard when it comes to players’ health,” Singh explained.

with both the Government and the private sector to pursue additional investments that will support the long-term growth of the sport.

The GBF President further noted that the court meets international standards and is certified for elite-level basketball competition.

“The court is certified, which means NBA and top professional players can use it as well,” Singh added.

For decades, basketball in Guyana has largely been played on concrete and other hard surfaces, which can place additional stress on athletes’ joints and increase the risk of injury over time. The introduction of a certified hardwood court marks a significant advancement in the local basketball landscape, bringing Guyana closer to the standards utilised across major international competitions and professional leagues.

The acquisition also reflects the Federation’s broader commitment to strengthening basketball infrastructure throughout the country.

Singh revealed that the GBF intends to collaborate

Guyana’s Junior Jaguars to compete in FIFA Global U-15 Boys Festival

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has announced that Guyana’s Junior Jaguars will participate in the inaugural FIFA Global U-15 Boys Festival.

Among the Federation’s goals is the establishment of a basketball-only facility that would provide a permanent home for national team preparation, youth development programmes, coaching clinics, and domestic competitions.

“While we enjoy use of the courts at the Sports Hall, because it’s a shared space, we are forced to either be considerate or work along with the plans and schedule of the National Sports Commission. We hope to change that and see basketball having its own space, and I think this court is a start in that direction,” Singh said.

The timing of the investment, Singh said, is particularly significant as Guyana prepares to welcome teams from across the Caribbean for the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers.

The GBF President believes that hosting the tournament presents a unique opportunity to showcase the country’s growing commitment to basketball and its ability to stage major international events.

The youth football event is scheduled for October 2026, with the host nation and official tournament dates to be confirmed by FIFA. All 211 FIFA Member Associations are eligible to take part, making the festival one of FIFA’s most inclusive youth development initiatives.

The competition is open to boys born in 2011 and 2012. It will be played in an eight versus eight format on half of a standard FIFAregulation football field. Matches will consist of two 20-minute halves, with running substitutions allowed.

Guyana’s delegation will include 14 players and six officials. The group will also include a dedicated Child Safeguarding Officer, which the GFF said reflects its commitment to player welfare and child protection.

The GFF Technical Department will lead a comprehensive talent identification process to select the squad. The scouting exercise will include players based in Guyana as well as eligible players from the Guyanese diaspora.

The ongoing GFF Youth

Ensemble U-15 Boys Championship will be used as a key platform for identifying players. The tournament features hundreds of young footballers from across the country’s nine Regional Associations each weekend, with the GFF’s talent identification team expected to work along with member associations to assess prospects.

Forde described the FIFA initiative as an important opportunity for young Guyanese players to gain international exposure at a critical stage of their development. He said the experience would help players build confidence, resilience and the mindset needed to compete internationally.

He also noted the Youth Ensemble Championship has created new opportunities to identify talent across the country and expressed confidence that promising players will emerge from communities throughout Guyana.

Forde encouraged parents to support their sons’ football development by promoting discipline, hard work and good values. He also stressed that selection for the Junior Jaguars programme will be based solely on merit.

According to Forde, every eligible boy, whether based in Guyana or in the

diaspora, will be given a fair opportunity to earn selection.

The GFF said the FIFA Global U-15 Boys Festival is designed to assess and develop technical and tactical qualities in young players. The small-sided format is expected to increase ball contact, improve decision-making, strengthen technical execution and support better game intelligence.

FIFA will also collect performance data during the festival. That information will be shared with participating member associations to help guide future player development programmes and strengthen grassroots football pathways.

The GFF said its Youth Ensemble Programme remains a central part of its grassroots development strategy. The programme was created to provide young players with structured annual competition, regular match exposure and an environment where youth coaches can develop their technical and tactical work.

The Federation added that further updates on scouting activities, selection criteria and tournament preparations will be provided once more information becomes available from FIFA.