Guyana Times - Thursday, March 5, 2026

“Stop receiving bribes; charge those who offer” – Top Cop tells Sergeants …warns of consequences

Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, is doubling down on eradicating corruption within the Guyana Police Force (GPF), warning Sergeants to stop taking bribes and charge those who are offering them.

“If you become corrupt, it’s because they have a giver and you’re the receiver. As of today, stop receiving, and persons must be charged when they come to bribe the Police. I’m making myself very clear, or else other things will happen,” the Police Commissioner cautioned ranks.

Hicken was at the time delivering remarks during the opening ceremony of the Guyana Police Force Sergeants’ Conference 2026 at the Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, where he reminded the officers that they are ambassadors of the Force.

“Sergeants, you translate supervision into daily action. You are the frontline leaders of this noble organisation. You set the tone at stations, on patrol, in traffic enforcement, during investigation, and communi-

ty engagement. The public does not see our policies or strategic plan, they see your conduct, your discipline, and the standards you set,” he noted.

The one-day conference on Wednesday brought together Sergeants from across the Police divisions to discuss leadership, modern policing strategies and the role of technology in law enforcement. It was held under the theme “Modern Policing for a Modern Nation: Integrating Technology, Innovation, and Leadership

to Strengthen Public Safety and Trust”.

Against this backdrop, the Commissioner of Police underscored the importance of Sergeants equipping themselves to operate in a technology-driven Police force.

“Those who cannot use the computer, please… you need to get in tune, equip yourself, and be computer literate. Within the next two months, we’re going to take reports via computer and it’s going to go right in to the system. No paper-rugging

and tugging, and no taking long for information anymore. Those are gone days,” Hicken stated.

This move, he explained, is in line with the Force’s 2027–2031 Strategic Plan, which will focus on innovation, technology and adaptability. In addition to digitised citizen reporting platforms, other planned initiatives under this new

plan include predictive policing using data analytics, full electronic case management systems, and biometric border security, among others.

According to the Top Cop, the successful implementation of these initiatives will depend largely on their leadership and supervision.

“It means, Sergeants, you have to be on your staff

like a bug and so the mentorship programme starts at your level,” the Police Commissioner stated. Meanwhile, the 2027–2031 plan comes on the heels of the first phase (2022–2026), of which some 75 per cent has been implemented, resulting in major reforms and modernisation initiatives.

BRIDGE OPENING

MARCH 5, 2026

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, March 5 –05:30h–07:00h, and Friday, March 6 – 05:55h–07:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light showers with occasional sunshine are expected during the day, with showers continuing into the night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 17:57h reaching a maximum height of 2.75 metres.

Low Tide: 11:32h and 23:47h reaching minimum heights of 0.43 metre and 0.51 metre.

DR company looking to make Guyana cocoa-producing nation

…details plan during meeting with President Ali

ominican Republic (DR)-based Rizek Cacao, one of the world’s largest producers of organic cocoa, is looking to work with the Guyana Government and local farmers to establish a cocoa industry here.

Earlier this week, President Dr Irfaan Ali met with a high-level team from Rizek Cacao, which was led by the ambassador of the DR to Guyana, Ernesto Torres Pereyra.

With the intention of establishing operations in Guyana, the team made a presentation on their project at the Office of the President on Monday. President Ali was joined by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during the meeting.

“The company indicated plans to collaborate with the Government and local farmers to develop Guyana into a cocoa-producing nation,” a Facebook post from the Office of the President detailed.

This meeting comes on the heels of Guyana and the Dominican Republic signing an agreement back in July 2025 to commence large-scale cocoa and coffee cultivation in Region One (Barima–Waini).

The agreement outlines plans to establish approximately 200 acres each of coffee and cocoa as part of Guyana’s broader efforts to boost economic diversification, enhance rural livelihoods, and expand regional trade.

At peak production, the project is expected to yield approximately 8000 metric tonnes of cocoa.

Additionally, nearly 3000 individuals are projected to benefit both directly and indirectly from employment and economic opportunities generated through the initiative.

The agreement will also pave the way for joint research and development programmes, as well as value-added production and trade facilitation in the cocoa and coffee sectors.

That agreement builds on President Ali’s strategic vision for agricultural revitalisation in the Barima–Waini.

During a May 2024 outreach to Waramuri Village in Region One, the Guyanese leader had highlighted the region’s enormous agricultural potential and announced plans to establish a 10,000-

Sarante, had noted at the time that in addition to introducing large-scale cocoa cultivation methods pioneered by Grupo Rizek, the company also discussed Dominicanstyle housing initiatives for Guyana.

According to its website, Rizek Cacao has been a cocoa grower in the DR since 1905. Known for its passion in cocoa production, the company said its farms are distinguished by the excellence of their genetic material and the extraordinary post-harvest treatment.

acre coffee plantation featuring Arabica and Liberica varieties.

President Ali had noted the Government’s commitment to restoring Region One as a prominent coffee-producing area through strategic investment and the distribution of thousands of cocoa plants.

Subsequently, in October 2024, a high-level team from Rizek Cacao was in Georgetown to discuss the possibility of establishing a

cacao farm here.

During a meeting at the Agriculture Ministry, Minister Mustapha had informed the delegation that Guyana was looking to revitalise its cocoa industry, as cocoa, the main by-product of cacao, is widely used in several industries globally.

Commercial Counsellor and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Georgetown, Alexander

The company added that all of its cocoa is processed at a unique facility, resulting in beans with distinctive flavour profiles. According to the website, Rizek Cacao said it is the only company in the cacao industry with a fully equipped research and development (R&D) department for cacao and chocolate alongside a traceability software developed in-house.

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HPV-literate population

As Guyana observes International HPV Awareness Day, the call for intensified public education and expanded access to prevention and treatment services arrives at a decisive moment in the national health agenda. Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet it continues to claim lives at a rate that underscores the urgent need for sustained, coordinated action. The pathway to elimination is neither speculative nor unattainable. It is clearly mapped through vaccination, screening, early detection and comprehensive treatment.

The work of the Presidential Commission on the Prevention and Control of the NCDs has placed renewed emphasis on building an HPVliterate population. Human papillomavirus is not a distant or abstract medical concern; it is a common infection with well-established links to cervical cancer, particularly high-risk strains such as HPV 16 and HPV 18. More than 90 per cent of cervical cancers are associated with a small cluster of these high-risk types. Public understanding of this connection is essential, and awareness shapes behaviour, and behaviour determines uptake of vaccines, screening and treatment.

The data are sobering. Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer affecting women in Guyana. With approximately 121 new cases and 63 deaths annually, the disease exerts a disproportionate burden on women between the ages of 15 and 44. An incidence rate exceeding 20 per 100,000 women places Guyana among countries with high prevalence. By contrast, the benchmark for elimination set by the World Health Organization is fewer than four cases per 100,000 women. The gap between current reality and that target is substantial, but it is not insurmountable.

National policy has already embraced the pillars required to close that gap, as free HPV testing represents a critical intervention, particularly when coupled with the maintenance of a national register to monitor HPV-positive individuals and ensure timely followup. Screening targets – 70 per cent of women tested by age 35 and again by age 45 by 2030 – align with global standards and reflect an evidence-based approach. Screening identifies pre-cancerous changes long before they develop into invasive disease. Early detection not only saves lives but also reduces the long-term financial and social costs associated with advanced cancer care.

Since the introduction of the HPV vaccine in 2010, the programme has expanded to include both girls and boys between the ages of nine and 15. Current coverage exceeding 60 per cent represents measurable progress, yet the 90 per cent target by 2030 demands intensified outreach and community engagement. The use of the Gardasil 9 vaccine, which protects against nine HPV strains, positions Guyana among a limited number of developing countries utilising this advanced formulation. That decision reflects a strategic investment in long-term disease reduction.

Globally, momentum toward cervical cancer elimination has accelerated, as since 2017, 71 countries had incorporated HPV vaccines into national immunisation programmes; by the end of 2023, 143 had done so. However, disparities remain stark. High Human Development Index countries report vaccination rates as high as 77 per cent, while lower-HDI regions lag significantly behind. International statistics reveal approximately 600,000 new cervical cancer cases and 338,800 deaths each year, with mortality rates in low-HDI countries six times higher than in high-HDI nations. These inequities highlight the broader intersection between public health capacity and socio-economic development.

The adoption of the Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination by the World Health Organization in November 2020 formalised the “90-70-90” targets: 90 per cent vaccination coverage, 70 per cent screening coverage, and 90 per cent access to treatment for precancer and invasive cancer. Guyana’s national objectives mirror these benchmarks and demonstrate alignment with international best practice. Treatment capacity, ranging from visual inspection with acetic acid to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with plans for a brachytherapy centre, signals a commitment to comprehensive care across the continuum of disease.

Under the Administration of Dr Irfaan Ali, the national commitment to eliminating cervical cancer by 2050 has been clearly articulated. Advocacy at the international level, including engagement through Guyana’s Permanent Mission in Geneva, reflects a recognition that elimination requires global solidarity. The proposal to accelerate worldwide elimination timelines draws a parallel with the eradication of smallpox, declared eliminated in 1980 following a coordinated vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization. That historic achievement stands as evidence that sustained political will, scientific innovation and public cooperation can converge to defeat a once-devastating disease.

Expanded investment in education, integration of HPV awareness into school curricula, and collaboration with faith-based and community organisations are indispensable. Cultural sensitivities and misinformation continue to impede vaccine uptake in many societies. Transparent communication, grounded in science and delivered with respect for community values, is critical to overcoming resistance and building trust.

Eliminating cervical cancer would mark the first time a cancer has been ended globally. Such a milestone would signify a triumph for the power of prevention and early intervention.

Women grow the world. Let’s grow with them

By Dr Gillian Smith, FaO repreSentative, Guyana

Women are at the heart of agrifood systems – growing crops, processing food, and working in forestry and fisheries to sustain households, communities, and economies, and often taking primary responsibility for feeding families. This is why the United Nations has declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026), a recognition of the significant contributions women make across agrifood systems – from production to processing and trade all the way to how food is consumed.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, women globally account for 48 per cent of agricultural employment in low-income countries, contributing as farmers, traders, processors, and resource managers. In forestry, over one billion women rely on forest resources for income, food, medicine, and fuel.

In fisheries and aquaculture, women make up 24 per cent of workers in primary production, and in smallscale fisheries, they constitute 40 per cent of the value chain workforce, especially in processing and post-harvest activities, where they represent 62 per cent of workers

IYWF 2026 aims to raise awareness and catalyse action to close gender gaps and improve women’s livelihoods worldwide. It calls for renewed commitment to expanding economic opportunities, strengthening leadership, and ensuring equitable access to resources and decision-making. If women are provided with the tools and opportunities that they need to maximise their contribu-

tion to food systems, then countries and communities can maximise their productive efforts to achieve food security. By promoting equality and empowerment, the year supports the transition toward more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems globally.

Across Guyana, women make indispensable contributions to rural development, climate resilience, and food security. Women actively participate in farming across the coastal belt, hinterland, and riverine communities. They engage in crop production, agroprocessing, market trading, and small agribusiness ventures – from cassava and ground provisions to valueadded foods. Their work supports household nutrition, strengthens local economies, and contributes to national food security.

Guyanese Indigenous women are involved in gathering non-timber forest products, producing handicrafts, supporting community forestry initiatives, and applying traditional ecological knowledge to sustainable forest management. Their contributions align with Guyana’s low-carbon development strategy and help safeguard forest ecosystems for future generations.

Women are also central to the fisheries value chain, especially in fish processing, drying, packaging, selling, and managing family-owned business income. Their roles help maintain livelihoods in all communities and strengthen the country’s blue economy in the face of climate pressures.

A good pathway to national transformation is ensuring that everyone can access the services and goods that they need, including agricultural land, finance, technology, and decision-making oppor-

tunities. Women’s knowledge, creativity and hard work power the backbone of rural life. Rural young women often face compounded barriers due to low income and limited access to resources. Land rights and access to resources can help them build a foundation to achieve early, longterm economic independence.

As we get ready to celebrate International Women’s Day, it is an ideal opportunity to highlight women farmers and advocate for equal opportunities.

Equal access to agricultural extension, credit, transportation, and digital tools can help women participate more fully in agrifood value chains. By designing services that are genderresponsive – including flexible scheduling, localised training, and womenfriendly technologies – we can close persistent servicedelivery gaps.

Investing in education, technical training and leadership development expands their economic choices and enhances productivity across farming, forestry and fishing sectors. Training tailored to everyone – especially in climate-smart agriculture, agroprocessing, financial literacy and entrepreneurship – creates pathways to better employment and income growth.

Ensuring that women have a voice in cooperatives, community organisations, producer groups and natural resource management bodies leads to more inclusive and effective governance. When women influence decisions about land, markets, climate adaptation and local development, communities become more resilient and equitable. Women’s unpaid care responsibilities limit their ability to participate in training, paid work and community leadership. Expanding childcare support, social protection systems and flexible work arrangements help women manage both productive and caregiving roles, reducing gendered burdens and inequalities.

Empowering women farmers directly improves household wellbeing. When women have equal access to resources, hunger decreases, dietary diversity improves and families become more resilient to economic and climate shocks. As women’s productivity increases, communities experience broader economic growth and stronger agrifood systems.

When everyone has equal access to resources, everyone benefits: families, communities and entire national economies. Supporting equal access to resources is not only a matter of fairness but also a solution to advance equality for everyone. Let us continue to champion women – honouring their contributions, expanding their opportunities and ensuring their voices shape the future of agriculture, forestry and fisheries. When women rise, nations rise with them.

Celebrating the hands that feed, nurture, and sustain our world – this Women’s Day and throughout the International Year of the Woman Farmer.

Parenting 1st, protection always, and raising children take all of us

Dear Editor,

Too often, when society is confronted with troubling behaviour among our youth, like sexual violence, bullying, truancy, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and so on, we look immediately to the state for answers. The Government certainly has a duty to protect, regulate, and provide services. But we should be honest with ourselves: some responsibilities fall squarely at the feet of parents, the household, the family, and the community. Take moral and sexual education, for example. This cannot be outsourced entirely to the school system or to Government programmes. Schools can teach age-appropriate health and safety concepts, and agencies can provide guidance and interventions, but par-

ents must start that education at home. Children learn values first by observation: how adults speak to each other, what boundaries look like, what respect sounds like, and how conflict is handled.

That brings me to modelling. Many of us want children to “behave better”, “listen”, “stay focused”, and “choose right”. Yet structure often comes after the fact – after the phone addiction, after the bad company, after the crisis. No parent can control everything a child does, of course not. But parents can control the culture of their homes: routines, supervision, clear expectations, and consequences that are firm but fair. And crucially, we must live what we teach. Children can forgive imperfect parents; what they struggle

with is hypocrisy.

Communication is another pillar we cannot afford to neglect. Children need a safe space to ask hard questions and to receive truthful, age-appropriate answers. When that space is missing, children will still search for answers, but they may find them in places that distort reality: social media, peers, predators, and misinformation. If a child cannot talk to their parent about relationships, sex, consent, fear, shame, or confusion, then we have already left them exposed. At the same time, we must acknowledge that raising children requires a village, and that village includes communities and the state. The Government’s role is not to replace parenting but to safeguard all Guyanese, including chil-

dren, and to ensure there are clear systems for prevention, reporting, rescue, and support when families struggle or when harm occurs. Our Government has strengthened that protective framework through laws and agencies designed to intervene when violence, abuse, and neglect threaten homes. The Childcare and Protection Agency (CCPA) exists specifically to protect and care for children in need of assistance and protection, supported by legislation that sets out its functions and authority. In addition, the 914 hotline provides a nationwide, tollfree reporting channel for child abuse, sexual offences, and domestic violence, making it easier for citizens to speak up before it is too late.

We have also seen continued legislative strengthening around family safety, including the Family Violence Act 14 of 2024, which modernised and expanded protections beyond the older framework. And importantly, the Government has publicly engaged stakeholders on reforms to the Sexual Offences Act, including proposals aimed at strengthening protections for victims and improving the system’s response.

But even the best laws cannot substitute for what must happen daily in homes and communities. Government can build guardrails; parents must steer. Communities must also play their part: neighbours who report abuse, faith leaders who counsel responsibly, youth groups that provide mentorship, and schools that collaborate with families rather than compete with them. So, let us embrace the courage and self-awareness to say, “We must take responsibility for our part.” Parenting is not only about providing; it is about guiding. Not only about love, but it is also about discipline and protection. Not only about shelter, but it is also about shaping character.

If we want to keep our children safer and have a healthier society, the path is clear: parents lead, communities support, and Governments safeguard. That is how the village works.

Yours respectfully, Dr Suelle FindlayWilliams

“Stop receiving bribes, charge those who offer...

Among the key achievements highlighted was the deployment of 30 speed cameras nationwide under the Safe Roads Intelligent System, which contributed to a 29 per cent reduction in road accidents, while e-ticketing increased significantly from 837 tickets in 2024 to 24,793.

Infrastructure, operational capacity

Infrastructure and operational capacity were also expanded with the construction of five command centres across several regions, the activation of 55 CCTV sites, the completion of 23 Police stations, and the construction of 10 new boathouses.

Moreover, serious crime declined by 27 per cent, supported by targeted operations, improved intelligence coordination, and the work of 476 community policing groups across the country.

Additionally, 6685 bodyworn cameras and 942 digital workstations were deployed.

But even as he reminded the Sergeants to ensure that ranks are equipped with the bodycams and tasers, the top cop pointed out that equipment and infrastructure do not reduce crime on their own but are driven by leadership, especially at the Sergeants’ level. To this end, he called on Sergeants to ensure they fulfil their responsibilities.

“This is all I want the Sergeants to deal with –your station boundary. No matter the other boundaries, you focus on your station boundary. And if everybody focuses on the station boundaries, the place will get small. You’re policing only your area of responsibility. All the Sergeants have the responsibility… You’re supposed to know everybody in there, who’s drinking, where the business is, where the people smoking drugs, where the mechanic shop is. You ought to know everything.

And if you don’t know that, get busy or else things are coming for you,” he cautioned.

According to Hicken, performances in areas like this will be checked upon during the force’s annual promotion – something which he says will be merit-based.

“We need to ensure that you’re working and so, [as] components of the Monthly Evaluation Units, quarterly inspection will be done. And when they’re coming back, don’t think that you’re going to be promoted based on who like you and who don’t like you. It’s merit-based,” the top cop posited.

In 2025, some 3510 ranks in the Police force were promoted under this merit-based system. During last year also, the Police force provided opportunities that saw 1966 ranks benefit from scholarships, with 105 of them receiving language training in Spanish, Portuguese and Mandarin.

Another 811 ranks enrolled in the Guyana Police Force Digital School to enhance academic and professional development, while some 774 new recruits were enlisted last year. In fact, the GPF has even expanded its accommodation facilities to increase recruit intakes by 300.

Page Foundation

◄ Sets cont’d

1. Write the set of even numbers less than 12.

2. Which of the following statements are true?

a) 4 ∈ {2, 4, 6}

b) 7 ∈ {1,3,5}

c) 3 ∉ {1,2,4}

3. List all the subsets of the set B = {1, 2, 3}.

4. What does the symbol ∈ mean in set notation?

5. If A = {1,2,3} and B = {2,3,4}, what is A∩B?

6. Describe in words the set A = {2, 4, 6, 8}.

7. Explain the difference between

equal sets and equivalent sets.

8. If U = {1,2,3,4,5} and A = {1,2}, what is the complement of A?

9. Draw or describe a Venn diagram for sets A = {1,2,3} and B = {3,4,5}. What is the union of A and B?

10. If A = {1, 2} and B = {1, 2, 3}, is A a subset of B? Write your answer using the symbol. ⊆.

By RogeR WeingaRten

Tucked into a machine gun nest on the roof of the Tel Aviv Hilton and staring at the aquamarine hundred and ten degree evening, I had a waking dream of my overstuffed grandmother falling like an immigrant star into my arms. Isn’t it great, she said, staying up all night in The Holy Land, and why didn’t you ever write or send a picture? If I were to fall into her dream, I’d apologize and curl like a chambered nautilus into what my Uncle Pincus, his hands arcing away from his chest, called “the family bosom” and listen to her chant names of her great grandchildren, sabbath prayers and imprecations to eat the carrot floating between shimmering yellow islands of schmaltz, while shards of gossip blister the air around aunts and cousins, and I swear on the sun buried on the other side of the planet, I’d never come out

(Source: Poetry [October/November 1987])

“I’d like to buy a plane ticket to your furthest destination today,” you told the airline employee.

WORD SEARCH

Pres Ali, UK MPs hold talks on strengthening bilateral relations

In a push to further strengthen the bilateral relations between Guyana and the United Kingdom (UK), President Dr Irfaan Ali earlier in the week met with Alicia Kearns and Dan Carden – members of the British Parliament.

The two British Parliamentarians paid a courtesy call to the Guyanese leader on Monday at the Office of the President (OP) in Georgetown.

Kearns serves as the Conservative MP for Rutland and Stamford and Shadow Parliamentary Undersecretary at the UK Home Office, while Carden is the Labour MP for Liverpool Walton.

In a Facebook post, OP said that during the meeting, the President and the Members of Parliament “... discussed priority areas for collaboration in sup-

port of Guyana’s development agenda and the continued strengthening of UK-Guyana bilateral relations.”

Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd and Deputy High Commissioner to Guyana, Liam McShane, also attended the meeting. This visit by the British Parliamentarians comes about a month after President Ali had visited the UK for a series of high-level engagements, including with His Majesty King Charles III and the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey.

During his engagement with King Charles at Buckingham Palace, the Guyanese leader said they discussed ongoing collaborations in the areas of environmental protection, biodiversity, and climate action.

“We had a very good engagement. King Charles has recommitted his support to Guyana and lauded the work that we’re doing, and we came up, of course, with the priorities in these areas that we will pursue. I exchanged ideas on how best we can bring financing; we can look at a biodiversity model that is market-based... And importantly, one in which we can build an ecosystem around,” President Ali noted after the meeting.

However, as Guyana positions itself as a major player in biodiversity and ecological services, the Head of State has said the Commonwealth has similarly reaffirmed its support for the country’s efforts.

A key outcome from the engagement between the Guyanese President and the Commonwealth SG is an agreement to collaborate on

Supermarket attacker pleads guilty to attempted murder

for March

31

strategic initiatives to support the Global Biodiversity Alliance. A Joint Working Team will advance efforts to establish an International Biodiversity Centre of Excellence based in Guyana.

Those engagements followed an announcement by former British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller, in January that the UK will join the Global Biodiversity Alliance – an initiative crafted by President Ali that seeks to accelerate international financing and technical expertise to conserve the world’s biodiversity resources.

During his working visit, President Ali also met with the top brass of United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) in London.

During the meeting, the Guyanese leader and the UKEF chief executive officer, Tim Read, discussed key infrastructure projects as part of Guyana’s transformational agenda.

In a brief statement on his Facebook page, President Ali

said, “Key issues discussed included current pipeline projects such as the CJIA terminal expansion and the expansion of UKEF’s portfolio in Guyana.”

According to the Head of State, teams from the Government of Guyana and UKEF will have follow-up meetings in the next three weeks to further advance these discussions.

The UKEF is the UK’s official export credit agency, which aids countries and private companies across the world to access the financial support they need to procure from the UK, thus unlocking the potential of the UK supply chain by making their bids more competitive.

Last October, it was announced that UKEF raised its financing capacity from £2.1 billion to £3 billion for both the Guyanese Government and the local private sector to tap into.

At the time of the announcement, President Ali had set out his priorities for possible UKEF collaboration

over the next five years, including the second phase of the Linden to Lethem Road Expansion Project, from Mabura Hill to Lethem, as well as the deep-water port facility in Berbice and the modernisation of the country’s electricity transmission system.

Currently, the ongoing construction of a second terminal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) – Guyana’s main port of entry – is being financed in part by the UKEF.

The modern 150,000-square-foot CJIA Terminal Two project, the design of which includes a range of premium amenities, is being executed by a UK-based company, BHM Construction. It is partnering with the Manchester Airport Group to design and construct the facilities within the 18-month timeline.

The Guyanese Government has allocated some $3.2 billion in Budget 2026 to complete this new terminal.

Fisherman feared dead after boat mishap off West Coast, Berbice – sentencing set

Leon Bishop, also called “Osmon Ali”, pleaded guilty to attempted murder on Wednesday when he appeared before acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh in the High Court in Demerara.

Following the plea, Justice Singh ordered that a probation report be prepared along with a presentence report from prison authorities. The reports are to be submitted to the court by March 25. Sentencing is scheduled for March 31, 2026, at 09:00h.

It was reported that on June 17, 2019, Winston Small, a security officer, was performing duties at a supermarket in Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara (WBD), when Bishop entered the establishment.

Small reportedly approached him after noticing that he was behaving in an unusual manner.

Bishop reportedly told Small that he was being chased by a man with a gun; however, no such person was observed. Bishop then began knocking items off shelves and attempted to exit through a side door.

Small intervened and attempted to restrain him, but Bishop ran towards the rear of the supermarket and later returned armed with an axe.

In retaliation, Small picked up a hatchet, and as Bishop advanced towards him, he dropped the hatchet and held onto the axe. During the commotion, Bishop reportedly dropped the axe, armed himself with a 22-inch cutlass, and began chopping at Small.

The security officer sustained multiple injuries to his right hand, left calf, left cheek, head, forehead, and left upper arm before losing consciousness.

Bishop fled the scene after committing the act. The injured Small was picked up and taken to West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) and was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he remained hospitalised for two weeks.

Police later contacted Bishop, during which he told Police that he was defending himself after being attacked by the security officer.

Meanwhile, a medical report in favour of Small detailed severe injuries, including deep facial lacerations, the complete severing of the third finger on the right hand, partial severing of two other fingers, and multiple deep wounds involving bone and tendon.

The attending doctor concluded that the injuries were life-threatening and would result in disability and disfigurement.

A33-year-old fisherman from Abary, West Coast Berbice (WCB), Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), is feared dead after falling overboard during a fishing expedition last Thursday evening.

The missing man has been identified as Ryan Roberts of Block B Bath Settlement, WCB.

Based on reports received, Roberts had left during the day with a fishing crew, but as it got dark, Roberts, who was standing on an ice box in the boat, fell overboard after the boat was hit by a heavy wave. At the time, the others were trying to pull in the net.

Missing: Ryan Roberts

Crew members quickly responded and managed to pull him back into the boat. However, Roberts reportedly complained that he had sustained a broken leg during the incident.

In an effort to return to shore as quickly as possible, the crew decided to cut the seine free. While doing so, another heavy wave struck the vessel, throwing the crew members overboard.

Although they managed to regain control and began

heading back to shore, the situation worsened when the crew realised the boat had begun taking in water rapidly. Approximately five minutes into the journey back to land, the vessel reportedly capsized. The fishermen then placed the injured Roberts on an ice box and used it as a flotation device while attempting to swim to shore.

However, another powerful wave struck the group, sending the men in various directions. When the wave subsided, the ice box had broken apart, and Roberts could not be seen. Several hours later, another fishing vessel rescued the remaining crew members. Up to press time, Roberts remained missing and is feared drowned. Authorities are expected to continue search efforts in the area.

US extradition request Guyanese indicted for identity theft, bank fraud handed over to US Marshals

Guyana-born Ronley

Floyd Bynoe has been extradited to the US to face fraud and identity theft charges.

Bynoe, who was indicted in a US court for the misuse of a social security number, aggravated identity theft, and bank fraud, was extradited from Guyana on Wednesday.

This was according to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, in a statement to the media on Wednesday, in which she stated that Bynoe was taken from the Camp Street Prison in Georgetown, where he was held on remand pending the extradition on Tuesday night.

“He was escorted under security to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), where he was handed over to two US Marshals and placed on an outgoing American Airlines flight bound for the USA at 1:30a.m.,” the release stated.

It was reported that Bynoe allegedly committed the offences in September 2023, which led to the filing of a criminal indictment in the District Court of the Northern District of Ohio, USA, for him to stand trial before a grand jury.

Based on the charges, an arrest warrant was issued but could not be served on the accused because he had fled the USA. However, investigations conducted by US authorities revealed that Bynoe had travelled to Guyana.

As such, in November 2025, the US Government made a request for Bynoe’s extradition to the Guyana Government through the Home Affairs Ministry, which sought and obtained legal advice from the DPP’s Office on how to proceed with the extradition request from the US Government.

On February 16, 2026, pursuant to Section 12(1) of the Fugitive Offenders Act, Chapter 10:04, as amended by the Fugitive Offenders

(Amendment) Act 2024, Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond signed and issued the authority to proceed with the extradition.

Meanwhile, Bynoe was arrested by local Police on

McGusty to initiate the legal proceedings required for extradition. Parmanand Singh was accused of operating a motor vehicle while his blood-alcohol level exceeded the lawful limit, leading to impaired faculties.

Meanwhile, extradition proceedings are currently ongoing for US-indicted businessman Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, who are wanted in the US on financial charges.

The extradition of the Mohameds is being pursued under the Guyana-United Kingdom Extradition Treaty, which remains in effect in Guyana under Section 4(1)(a) of the Fugitive Offenders Act, Cap. 10:04, as updated by Act No. 10 of 2024. The formal request for their extradition was submitted by the United States Government on October 30, 2025.

The Mohameds, along with their business interests, were sanctioned by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on June 11,

February 18, 2026, and appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court the following day, where he was informed of the extradition request made by the US authorities. He consented to be extradited to the USA without court proceedings to face multiple fraud charges allegedly committed there.

Back on January 15, 2025, Parmanand Singh, a Guyanese citizen, was extradited to the United States of America (USA) after he waived his right to an extradition hearing and consented to return to the USA to address judicial matters related to a fatal vehicular incident. In September 2024, the Government received a formal extradition request from the US Government.

At that time, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn signalled Chief Magistrate (ag) Faith

He collided with another vehicle, resulting in the death of its sole occupant. Following the accident, Singh sustained injuries and received medical treatment at Broward Health Medical Center in Florida. In 2023, United States fugitive Bobby Allen Stark was deported to the US, where he had fled child molestation charges. He was arrested on April 30, 2022, in the United States in connection with the charge and would have posted a US$25,000 bond in May 2022 but failed to appear for a scheduled jury trial in El Paso County in October, court records showed. Stark fled to Guyana in late 2022 and would have overstayed his time. Immigration authorities here were tipped off, and along with Police from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), he was arrested along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

2024. The sanctions were imposed for allegations of large-scale corruption, including gold smuggling, money laundering, and bribery, with investigations indicating attempts to evade more than US$50 million in taxes owed to the Guyanese Government.

In addition, a grand jury in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida has indicted the father-son duo on 11 criminal counts, including wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering, primarily linked to the export of gold by their company, Mohamed’s Enterprises, to the United States. If convicted, most of the charges carry a maximum prison sentence of 20 years and fines up to US$250,000. The money laundering charge carries a potential fine of US$500,000 or an amount equivalent to the value of the laundered assets.

Questions…

…from the BEEB

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has quite a long history with the news in our country! Back in the day when we were owned lock, stock, and barrel by the Brits, we kept our ears glued to our shortwave radios to receive world news as selected by the Government-owned BBC. And even when we got our own radio stations, for the longest while we kept running the “BBC News” as a key item that was diligently followed by one and all!! The BBC, we’d been told, “tells it like it is” – and we could count on their “impartiality”!! Well, we now know there was an unwritten pact by the British media – including the BBC – not to let on about, for instance, any of the indiscretions of their royal family. We can only imagine what else they left out as they decided what we “needed” to know!!

We were informed that a BBC team that puts out a podcast dubbed “BBC World Questions” will be coming to our Mudland to do their schtick!! Which is to have a panel of Government and opposition reps plus those from civil society and the other usual suspects to be quizzed by the host Jonny Dymond – with questions of his own and some from the live audience. They were supposed to’ve done the programme a year ago, but it got canned after the Govt objected to the panel being too skewed to the opposition!!

This go-round, the panel “to debate the nation’s political and economic future” will be comprised of the Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; WIN MP Tabitha Sarabo-Halley; Ayodele Dalgety-Dean, activist & businesswoman; and Clinton Urling, secretary of the PSC. It wasn’t clear how the audience – from which some questions will come – would be selected. Just that they’ll be enjoying refreshments at the Pegasus before the taping!!

They gave us a teaser as to what they’re interested in – our oil, its revenues and how it should be spent, taking into account local, regional and environmental concerns, and the “fairness” of distribution of benefits. There’s also Mad Maduro’s abduction and its implications for local and regional security. But since they boasted the programme “puts people and their questions at the heart of the debate”, your Eyewitness hopes the BBC will allow the audience to ask whatever questions they have on their minds!!

Like, for instance, questions to the host about the British royalty exposés revealed in the Epstein Files!! Guyanese really want to know what caused Andrew to develop all these sexual fetishes that involved young girls!! Is it due to his having a nanny till he was an adult?

Then, of course, there are all those stories about hunger in Britain. Should we be sending relief to them??

…the peeps

Your Eyewitness can only imagine some burning audience questions to the panel and the likely answers!!

Q: “Dr Singh, when exactly will we be getting our $100,000 cash grant??”

A: “Soon, my friend, soon. We’re in a period of religious sacrifice, and we didn’t want to place too many temptations in front of people at this point in time.”

Q: “OK. But will there be more cash grants during the year, and will your Government be returning to the old $250,000 a pop since oil prices have gone through the roof with the Iran war?”

A: “Well, the President indicated that cash grants will be a recurring tool in our budgets. But we wouldn’t want to trigger runaway inflation, would we??”

Q: “Mr Urling, with the Minister of Agriculture increasing our stock of cattle, can we expect a lowering of the price of cowheel soup at Germans?”

A: “The free market will determine that.”

Q: “Ms Sarabo-Halley, how many parties have you hopped?”

A: “I’ve lost count.”

…for Delcy

The screws are being turned on Venezuelan (ag) President Delcy Rodriguez, filling in after Maduro had to keep that appointment in Miami!! US federal prosecutors have prepared a draft criminal indictment that can be filed at any time!!

Mother seeks protection for teen in ICU after stabbing

The mother of a 15-year-old girl who was stabbed around 25 times and remains hospitalised in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the New Amsterdam Hospital is now calling for security at the hospital, fearing for her daughter’s safety as the 28-year-old suspect in the attack remains at large.

Tiana Chapman of

Heathburn Village, East Bank Berbice (EBB), was attacked on February 22. The man accused of carrying out the attack is reportedly the father of the teen’s 18-month-old child.

Chapman remains a patient in the ICU, where doctors continue to monitor her condition.

Her mother, Adacia Andrews, said the teenag-

er’s condition has improved since the incident, but she remains under close observation.

“She’s stable now. She wasn’t stable before, but she’s stable now. I could say for now, because she’s in ICU and you don’t get much time in there. So, she’s just stable for now.”

Family members had initially told this newscast that the teen does not live

with the suspect and that the young woman was at a friend’s house within the village when the incident occurred. The mother, who was out of the area at the time, said she first learned of the attack while at work after receiving a call urging her to check on her daughter.

“When I found out she was pregnant, she was already five months and change. We took her to the wellfare and she attended all the sessions. They said they would contact me and that the man would be charged with rape, but they never came back and told me anything. Since 2024, they never came back.”

Andrews said she has also been seeking updates from investigators but remains uncertain about the progress of the case.

“I don’t know what the Police are doing. I didn’t hear anything from the Police. I was there today and they told me to go back tomorrow. So tomorrow when I go, I don’t know what they are going to tell me.”

Meanwhile, with the suspect still at large, the woman said she fears for her daughter’s safety while she remains hospitalised.

“For now, we hear that he’s around the place, so I ask for security at the hospital because we don’t know where the young man is. So, we ask for security at the ICU until she moves to the ward because we don’t know where this boy is.” Police have launched an investigation into the incident as efforts continue to locate the suspect.

AK-47 rifle, 9mm gun seized; 6 arrested in Berbice

Police in Regional Division Six have arrested six persons and recovered a high-powered rifle, a handgun, and matching ammunition during intelligence-led operations across the Corentyne as investigations continue into recent armed robberies in Rose Hall Town. According to a Police press release, ranks on Tuesday conducted an operation at Ulverston Village, Corentyne, Berbice, acting on information received in relation to the recent robberies.

During the exercise, a 21-year-old construction worker of Alness Village, Corentyne, was contacted and arrested. Police also carried out checks at a location in Ulverston Village, where a cutlass sack was found in a tamarind tree on an empty plot of land. Inside the sack they found a 9mm pistol with four matching rounds, an AK-47 rifle with seventeen matching 7.62 rounds, and a pair of gloves.

The suspect was escorted to the Rose Hall Town Police Station along with the suspected firearms and ammunition, which were lodged pending investigation.

Regional Commander Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus confirmed that six persons in total have been arrested as part of the ongoing probe. He said the weapons were recovered during a series of operations carried out in several Corentyne communities.

Bacchus explained that the final two suspects were taken into custody at a residence on the Lower Corentyne. Information indicates that one of the six persons arrested is a woman.

Investigators are seeking to determine possible links between the suspects and two recent armed robberies in Rose Hall Town. Police are also working to establish whether the individuals may be connected to other criminal activities along the Corentyne.

One of the robbery victims previously told this publication that three men who entered his home appeared to be teenagers. He estimated that the youngest suspect was about 15 years

old and the eldest around 19. Another businessman who was robbed in a separate incident also stated that the perpetrators appeared to be young.

On February 23, three armed men entered Shanie Liquor and Grocery Store in Rose Hall Town, confronting owner Shanie Ramsingh and discharging a firearm

before escaping with cash and other valuables. Days later, G Sudhai and Sons Grocery Store was targeted. Businessman Gurudat Sudhai and his wife were reportedly robbed of millions of dollars in cash and valuables by men armed with hand-held firearms.

Police said investigations are ongoing.

East Ruimveldt man gets 2 years, fined $1.1M for narcotic possession

Thirty-six-year-old

Jamol Johnson, who was on trial for the possession of 1.278 kilograms (kg) of cannabis, was on Wednesday found guilty and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment, along with a fine of $1.150 million.

The matter was heard before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court. The

Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) stated that Johnson was arrested on April 8, 2025, at his East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, residence during an operation that led to the discovery of the cannabis. He subsequently appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where he pleaded not guilty to the offence of possession of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. At

that time, he was refused bail and remanded to prison. It was reported that officers from the CANU, acting on information received, conducted an operation at Lot 422 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, during which 1.278kg of cannabis and one black CANiK 9mm pistol with serial number T647220CC-02763, along with a magazine containing six live rounds, were discovered. He was arrested and subsequently charged.

Guyana records 63 cervical cancer deaths annually – NCD Commission

…says HPV literacy key to eliminating cervical cancer by 2050

The Presidential Commission on the Prevention and Control of the NonCommunicable Diseases (NCDs) has called for greater public awareness and expanded access to prevention and treatment services as Guyana observes International HPV Awareness Day on Wednesday.

In a message marking the occasion, the Commission said building an HPV-literate population is critical to eliminating cervical cancer by 2050. It commended the Ministry of Health and the Government for advancing policies focused on testing, vaccination and treatment of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the primary cause of cervical cancer.

HPV refers to a group of more than 200 related viruses; most are harmless, but several high-risk strains can lead to cancer.

The Commission highlighted HPV 16 and HPV 18 as the main cancer-causing types prevalent in Guyana. More than 90 per cent of cervical cancers are linked to a small number of highrisk HPV strains.

According to the commission, cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in Guyana. Approximately 121 new cases and 63 deaths are recorded annu-

ally. The disease disproportionately affects women between the ages of 15 and 44. With an incidence rate exceeding 20 per 100,000 women, Guyana’s rate is considered high. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines elimination as reducing incidence to below four per 100,000 women.

The Commission stressed that widespread testing is essential. It welcomed the Government’s policy of offering free HPV testing and underscored the importance of maintaining a national register of HPV-positive individuals to allow monitoring and early intervention. The national target is to ensure that at least 70 per cent of women are screened by age 35 and again by age 45 by 2030.

Vaccination remains a central pillar of prevention. The HPV vaccine was introduced in Guyana in 2010 for girls aged nine to 11. The programme has since expanded to include boys and now targets children between the ages of nine and 15. The goal is to vaccinate 90 per cent of girls before age 15 by 2030. Current coverage exceeds 60 per cent, according to the Ministry of Health.

The commission noted that Guyana utilises the Gardasil 9 vaccine, which protects against nine HPV strains, including those

most associated with cervical cancer, adding that Guyana is among a limited number of developing countries using this vaccine.

Globally, the uptake of HPV vaccines has increased significantly. In 2017, 71 countries had introduced HPV vaccines into national programmes. By the end of 2023, 143 countries had done so. However, coverage remains uneven. High Human Development Index (HDI) countries report vaccination rates ranging from 40 to 77 per cent, compared to significantly lower rates in regions such as Africa, South-East Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean.

The Commission also pointed to progress in treatment services. Guyana currently offers visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), chemotherapy, radiotherapy and plans for a brachytherapy centre. The national objective is for 90 per cent of women diagnosed with cervical cancer to access treatment and care by 2030.

Internationally, cervical cancer accounts for approximately 600,000 new cases and 338,800 deaths each year. According to global data, low-HDI countries experience incidence rates three times higher and mortality rates six times higher than high-HDI countries. Asia accounts for 60 per cent of global cervical cancer cases and 57.3 per cent of deaths, followed by Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

In November 2020, WHO Member States adopted the Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination. The strategy sets “90-70-90” targets to be achieved by 2030: 90 per

cent of girls vaccinated by age 15; 70 per cent of women screened by ages 35 and 45; and 90 per cent of women with pre-cancer treated and invasive cancer managed.

The Government, led by President Dr Irfaan Ali, has committed to positioning the country to eliminate cervical cancer by 2050. The Commission also highlighted Guyana’s advocacy at the international level, pointing out that on March 13, the Commission will join Guyana’s Permanent Mission in Geneva and other diplomatic missions to advocate for accelerating global elimination to 2080, ahead of

the current WHO timeline of 2120.

Drawing parallels with the eradication of smallpox, the Commission said coordinated global action, mass vaccination and sustained political commitment can achieve similar success in eliminating cervical cancer. Smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980 following a global vaccination campaign led by the WHO. The Commission urged expanded investment in education, routine screening, vaccination access and quality treatment services. It also called for integrating HPV awareness into school curricula and faithbased outreach to ensure broad public engagement.

According to the Commission, eliminating cervical cancer would mark the first time a cancer has been ended globally. Achieving that milestone, it said, requires sustained national, regional and international commitment, with prevention and early detection at the forefront of public health strategy.

Min Mustapha urges stronger regional coordination, increased investment to eradicate hunger, poverty

Agriculture Minister

Zulfikar Mustapha

believes that while member states unanimously underscored the need for sustained political commitment and coordinated action to achieve Sustainable Development Goals One and Two, financing for transforming the region’s agrifood systems remains fragmented and insufficient.

The Guyanese Minister was at the time addressing delegates from Latin America and the Caribbean at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean (LARC) being held in Brasília, Brazil.

Mustapha, who joined the conference virtually, stated that, over the past two years, the conference conducted an assessment of the regional outlook for food security and nutrition.

“While noting a recent decrease in the prevalence of undernourishment at the regional level, Members expressed deep concern over the sharp increase in hunger within the Caribbean subregion. They also acknowledged improvements in South America alongside persistent challeng-

es in Mesoamerica and the Caribbean and highlighted that our region faces the highest cost for a healthy diet globally and recognised the acute vulnerabilities of small island developing states to climate change, disasters, and external shocks,” he explained. He further related that in response to the complex panorama, the conference strongly supported international and regional efforts to accelerate progress towards eradicating hunger and poverty, including the initiative for a global alliance against hunger and poverty.

“Members unanimously underscored the need for sustained political commitment and coordinated action at all levels to achieve Sustainable Development Goals One and Two. The conference emphasised the critical importance of mobilising innovative and scaled-up financing to eliminate hunger, guarantee the right to adequate food, and support the vital work of subnational Governments in building efficient, inclusive, and resilient local food systems. I hope that at this conference, we can achieve some of these outcomes and move

the process forward,” the Minister noted.

The Minister added that it was agreed that the urgent strengthening of resilience was needed, given the rapidly increasing risks facing the region. This, he added, requires transforming agrifood systems through science, innovation, robust early warning systems, and deeper regional cooperation.

Mustapha, who is also the outgoing chair of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, said that the member states had endorsed the four regional priorities as the key mechanism for implementing the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31.

“They recommended that FAO provide integrated normative, technical, policy, and investment planning support

to Members through a cohesive programmatic approach, ensuring greater impact and leaving no one behind. Support was also expressed for FAO’s ongoing efforts to modernise its Country Office Network through transparent and inclusive consultations.

The fundamental role of agrifood systems was reaffirmed – not only in ensuring food security but also in driving economic progress, promoting healthy diets, generating employment, and managing natural resources sustainably, thereby accelerating progress across the entire 2030 Agenda.”

These, he explained, are recommendations from discussions that took place at the 38th meeting in Guyana. He also expressed hope that in the upcoming session, the achievements of the targeted objectives

can be reviewed.

“Over the last two years, it has been an objective of the region to achieve these goals. In the coming days, let us examine the outcomes to determine how many targets were met. These are objectives that demand our immediate attention, because if we do not achieve them, we will have failed the people in the region.”

The FAO Regional Conference is the highest forum where its member states in the region meet to agree on priority challenges and actions related to food and agriculture and is essential to ensuring the effectiveness of FAO’s work in the service of its members in the upcoming biennium.

The 39th FAO Regional Conference is taking place in Brasília, Brazil, and will conclude on March 6, 2026.

Bus operator remanded after skipping court on felonious wounding charge

ATuschen, East Bank Essequibo bus operator who was previously granted bail on a felonious wounding charge was remanded to prison on Tuesday after failing to appear for a scheduled court hearing.

Keyvin Cupidore appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where a warrant had been issued for his arrest.

When his name was called, the Magistrate informed him that he had been arrested after failing to attend court on the last adjourned date. The matter had been previously postponed to this week, but Cupidore did not appear, prompting the issuance of an arrest warrant.

Addressing the court, Cupidore claimed that he had mistakenly mixed up the dates, thinking his court date was March 14. He said after checking Tuesday and noticing that the date is a Sunday, he attempted to contact the Police and his attorney. However, he said his lawyer was out of the jurisdiction at the time. He apologised to the court for his absence.

Magistrate McGusty questioned why he did not present himself to the court immediately after realising he had missed the hearing. She noted that instead of voluntarily attending, he had to be arrested.

Cupidore pleaded with the court, stating that he operates a business and would

suffer losses if remanded. However, the Magistrate said that persons with businesses and responsibilities must put proper systems in place to ensure they comply with court orders.

She further remarked that there must be consequences for persons who disregard court dates and stated that remanding him would ensure the court knows his whereabouts. A representative from his attorney’s chambers later appeared and offered an explanation for his absence, but the Magistrate maintained her position and remanded him to prison. The case will continue on March 11.

Cupidore was initially charged earlier this year with felonious wounding. It is alleged that on January 2, at Roxanne Burnham Gardens, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Ceon Isaacs with intent to maim, disfigure, and cause bodily harm.

During his first appearance before Magistrate McGusty at the Georgetown

Magistrates’ Courts, Cupidore pleaded not guilty to the charge.

His attorney had told the court that the virtual complainant had only recently been released from prison and allegedly attacked Cupidore over a prior dispute. The defence further stated that several persons had since come forward to the Police, indicating that Cupidore was acting in self-defence.

In applying for bail at that time, the attorney argued that the complainant was not in danger and noted that Cupidore had already spent four days in custody. The prosecution had objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offence and informing the court that investigations were ongoing.

After hearing both sides, Magistrate McGusty granted Cupidore $150,000 bail and adjourned the matter. It was during those adjournments that he failed to attend court, leading to the issuance of the warrant and his subsequent remand.

Guyana launches 1st wellness centre to keep healthcare workers healthy

The Health Ministry on Wednesday launched the Eccles Wellness Centre, the first facility of its kind in Guyana dedicated to preventative care for healthcare workers.

The wellness centre, located at the Eccles Heath Centre, East Bank of Demerara, will operate as a pilot programme aimed at improving the overall health of the Health Ministry’s staff through routine screenings, lifestyle counselling and early disease detection.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony described the initiative as part of the Government’s effort to transform the country’s healthcare system from what he termed “sick care” to preventative medicine.

“When you think about health and you think about the system that we have set up, whether it’s a health

centre, a health post, or a hospital, all of these institutions are set up to help people when they’re sick. So basically, how our traditional sector has been poised is to get patients, so somebody has to be sick, and then they come to us, and in some terms, that’s providing sick care. We want to change that concept. And we want to keep people healthier so that they avoid getting sick to come to use the institutions,” the Minister said.

He explained that while Guyana has been working to increase life expectancy, equal focus is being placed on improving what he calls “health-span”, which is described as the number of years a person lives in good health without any form of chronic illness.

The wellness centre will offer annual medical checkups for ministry staff, in-

cluding screening for diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Services will also include ECG testing, mammograms, HPV screening and prostate cancer evaluations.

Cancer evaluations

Dr Anthony noted that early detection is critical, particularly given the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases in Guyana. Cervical and breast cancers remain the most common cancers affecting women across the nation, while prostate cancer significantly impacts men.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of HPV vaccination for both boys and girls, explaining that the virus is linked not only to cervical cancer but also to certain cancers affecting men.

Apart from clinical test-

Following

ing, the centre will place significant emphasis on lifestyle modification. Staff will receive guidance on healthy eating, portion control, and the reduction of ultra-processed foods. Minister Anthony encouraged greater consumption of plant-based foods, noting that studies have shown such diets are associated with lower rates of chronic diseases.

He further addressed the health risks associated with excessive salt intake, alcohol consumption and smoking, describing them as preventable contributors to longterm illnesses. The ministry, he added, continues to provide smoking cessation support, including nicotine replacement therapies.

Mental & social well being

Mental and social wellbeing will also be part of the centre’s focus, with counselling services, stress management support and education on the importance of ade-

2 suicides

quate sleep and maintaining strong social bonds, which are directly linked to physical wellness, though many think they are not.

Representing the Regional Health Officer of Region Four (Demerara–Mahaica) Dr Afara Khan underscored the importance of healthcare workers leading by example. She noted that many individuals only seek medical attention when illness has progressed to advanced stages. She also encouraged citizens to take advantage of the health vouchers the ministry has made readily available for each person to have access to the necessary healthcare services they may need.

She said, “With this, we can actually get early detection, early diagnosis before we even reach the stage where we cannot get help… So with the modern healthcare that we are having, it gives us that opportunity to get checked. Today,

as Guyana continues to strengthen its healthcare system and introduce progressive initiatives, we have the unique opportunity now to transform how we approach health in our country. And we can move simply by treating illnesses to prevent them by early detection.”

Director of Primary Health Care Services, Dr Ertensia Hamilton, described the centre as a significant step towards prioritising the welfare of health care workers, noting that ensuring the wellbeing of medical staff is essential to delivering quality health care services nationwide. The Eccles Wellness Centre will operate as a pilot initiative, with data being collected to evaluate its effectiveness, and if successful, will be replicated across the nation as part of Guyana’s continued investment in preventative healthcare strategies.

GPHC strengthens monitoring, safety measures

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has begun implementing additional safety measures following two recent patient deaths by suicide within the institution.

During an interview with the media on the side-lines of an event at Eccles, East Bank Demerara, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony described both incidents as “very unfortunate”, noting that the individuals were on suicide watch at the time.

“Both deaths are very unfortunate because both persons were on suicide watch,” he said.

According to the Minister, in each case, a staff member had been assigned to monitor the patient. However, the incident

occurred during brief moments when the staff members had left the rooms.

“Both persons were on suicide watch. Someone was assigned to the room, but in both cases, as soon as the person left the room, you had the patients behaving erratically,” he explained.

In response, the Minister said he has instructed hospital officials to immediately install temporary barriers on all windows in affected wards as an added precaution while long-term solutions are being completed.

“I have given specific instructions to the hospital to, one, put temporary barriers on all windows. So, after the second case, I spoke to them on the first occasion, and they started a process of changing the windows

so that somebody cannot go through the windows. But that process has not been completed. So, I told them, all the other windows, while they’re manufacturing the windows and installing them, to not wait until that process is finished. Let us put temporary barriers in place as we change out the windows; then that will solve the problem. So that’s one measure,” he noted.

The Minister acknowledged that safety decisions within healthcare facilities often involve balancing competing concerns, including fire safety regulations and patient protections.

He added, “It’s a balance that we have to do. The fire service would have come into the hospital even before this. And there’s a balance be-

tween grilling the windows and having a fire, so it can be problematic. Versus if you don’t put preventative measures in place, then you can end up with cases like this.”

The Minister expressed that once the new windows are completely installed, the risk associated with that particular vulnerability should be significantly reduced.

He further disclosed that ongoing repairs to the hospital’s psychiatric ward have required the temporary relocation of some patients to other sections of the facility, which may present additional management challenges.

“Because we are doing some repairs at this psychiatric ward, which is very secure, we have to temporarily locate these patients in a different part of the hos-

pital. But we’ll take even more precautions now that we’ve had these cases,” he explained.

Despite the tragic incidents, the Minister emphasised that additional precautions will now be taken to strengthen monitoring and ensure the safety of patients.

“We are very sorry for the loss of these patients, and we’ll try to do our best to prevent anything happening in the future. But I think by barring the windows now and eventually changing out all the windows, we’ll solve that problem,” the Minister said.

On February 26, a 70-year-old patient died after jumping from the second-floor male surgical ward of the Georgetown

Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The man had been hospitalised for several weeks and was reportedly under suicide watch at the time of the incident. He succumbed to injuries sustained in the fall.

On January 18, 22-yearold Marissa Eastman, who was six months pregnant, died after jumping from the third floor of a ward at GPHC. Eastman, of La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, Region Three, had been admitted earlier that day after relatives raised concerns about her unusual behaviour.

(If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or thoughts of suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 915 for assistance.)

New Leonora Road to link with Versailles-Parika Highway to strengthen connectivity in Reg 3

Anew 7.7-kilometre asphalt roadway is set to be constructed in Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD), which will then connect to the Versailles-to-Parika

Abandoned

Highway, marking a transformative infrastructure project that will significantly reshape the development landscape of Region Three.

Moreover, the road also represents phase one of an

integrated transportation network, which will eventually link to the Leonora to Canal Number One Highway, creating faster and more efficient travel between the West Coast and

West Bank of Demerara, as well as surrounding regions.

On Wednesday, Housing Ministers Collin Croal and Vanessa Benn visited the alignment for the new thoroughfare.

They were joined by Permanent Secretary Bishram Kuppen, Senior Engineer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Randolph Hunte, and other technical staff from the CH&PA Projects Department and Surveys Unit.

Minister Croal explained that the new roadway will substantially reduce travel time for commuters while providing improved access to more than 300 new homes being constructed in the Leonora/Groenveldt area.

He noted that the project will also enhance logistics and support commercial activity within rapidly expanding growth zones along the corridor.

Croal further emphasised that these infrastruc-

ture investments are critical to the Government’s vision of a modern, well-connected Guyana, ensuring that accelerated housing development is matched with reliable and resilient transportation links.

ward at National Psychiatric Hospital goes up in flames

Asection of an abandoned building at the National Psychiatric Hospital in New Amsterdam, Berbice, was damaged by fire on Wednesday.

“At 17:05h, we received a call at our operations room about a building on fire in this facility. Immediately, two appliances responded,” McDonald explained.

He said that upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke and flames emanating from the building, prompting an aggressive firefighting operation to prevent the blaze from spreading.

“On the crews’ arrival, they observed heavy smoke and flames coming from the building. Immediately, an offensive approach was taken to stop and suppress the fire from further spreading,” the officer noted.

working to determine the exact cause of the fire, but early indications suggest it may have been an electrical fire.

“As for the cause of the fire, we’re still conducting an investigation, but preliminarily it looks like it’s electrical in nature,” McDonald said.

Despite visible smoke during the firefighting operation, the officer stressed that the situation had been brought under control and posed no further danger.

The fire, which started just after 17:00h, was quickly brought under control by firefighters responding to the scene.

According to Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald, the Guyana Fire Service received a report of the fire, prompting an immediate response from the New Amsterdam Fire Station.

A third fire tender was later dispatched to support the initial response as firefighters worked to bring the situation under control.

McDonald explained that the structure involved in the fire had not been in use for some time.

Almost two months after it was commissioned by President Dr Irfaan Ali, the Yas School of Inspiration officially opened its doors to the first cohort of learners on Monday last, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of quality early child-

“There is nothing in the building. The building is just there with a standing structure... mainly garbage lies on the floor, no appliances,” he stated.

Investigators are currently

“The building is unoccupied. For quite some time, it housed inmates, but based on reports, the building is unoccupied,” he said. He added that the building contained no equipment nor furniture, noting that debris and garbage were scattered across the floor.

“There is no imminent threat. All the threats have been eliminated. The fire cannot spread anymore,” he said. He also credited the quick response by firefighters for limiting the damage to only part of the structure.

“If you notice, just a section of that building is destroyed. Another section is still standing, so you can see due to a quick response,” McDonald added.

Yas School of Inspiration welcomes 1st cohort of young learners

Young learners at the school on Monday

hood education in Guyana. The institution commenced operations with three classes comprising a total of 30 learners between the ages of three and six. Each class is led by a trained teacher and supported by two classroom aides, ensuring a nurturing, structured,

and responsive learning environment tailored to the developmental needs of young children.

The school offers an early stimulation programme designed to foster cognitive, social, emotional, and motor skill development during these critical formative

years. The curriculum emphasises interactive learning, creativity, and foundational skills that prepare learners for lifelong academic success.

In keeping with its commitment to inclusivity and holistic child development, the Yas School of Inspiration

will soon introduce therapy services to further support learners who may require specialised interventions.

This expansion underscores the school’s mission to provide comprehensive care and individualised attention to every child.

The school was con-

structed by the Government of Guyana in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady and the Government of the UAE, with funding and technical support provided through this international cooperation. The facility cost approximately $100 million and was built specifically to provide stateoftheart learning environments for children with diverse needs.

The facility features purposebuilt classrooms, sensory and therapeutic spaces, specialised equipment, and plans for specialised transportation services to support learners and their families.

The Yas School of Inspiration is Guyana’s 49th Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) space and was designed to serve around 50 children. It stands as a testimony to the Government’s commitment to creating safe and inclusive learning spaces for all.

Tambaqui rearing begins in Bonasika Creek as aquaculture diversification expands nationwide

Tambaqui aquaculture activities have now commenced at Bonasika Creek, Essequibo River, as part of the Government’s expanding aquaculture development initiative.

Two farmers in the community have recently received feed and Tambaqui fingerlings and have begun pond-rearing activities, with first harvests projected for June 2026.

An additional five farmers are scheduled to receive feed and fingerlings in the coming weeks to commence production, further strengthening aquaculture development in the area.

This expansion forms part of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s aquaculture diversification efforts, aimed at diversifying income opportunities, enhancing food security, and stimulating sustainable economic growth within riverine and hinterland communities.

The initiative also led to the introduction of cage aquaculture, the expansion of brackish water shrimp

production, and the development of Vannamei prawn farming in Guyana.

The cage-culture project was first launched at Mashabo in August 2023, and since 2024, the community has been regularly harvesting Tambaqui from the cages established there.

The most recent harvest, conducted on January 21, 2026, yielded 76 heads of Tambaqui with an average weight of 5.3 pounds (lbs), producing a total of 403 lbs of fish.

These consistent harvests have generated income for participating residents and have contributed directly to strengthening village economies. Recognising the project’s success and growing demand, two additional cages were installed in Mashabo in 2025, further expanding production capacity.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said the continued harvests and geographic expansion of the initiative demonstrate the soundness of the President’s vision. He not-

ed that when the project was conceptualised, the objective was not only to increase fish production but also to empower communities with sustainable livelihoods and improve national food security.

According to the Minister, the steady results at Mashabo and Capoey Lake, as well as the introduction of pond rearing in communities like Bonasika Creek, show that the Government’s aquaculture development efforts are delivering measurable benefits to families and strengthening economic resilience at the community level.

In 2025, Tambaqui rearing commenced in Bethany and Rockstone, while aquaculture cages have been installed in an additional ten communities, where production is expected to begin in early 2026. As these communities prepare for stocking and production cycles, the initiative is poised to further increase freshwater fish output and income-generation opportuni-

Ammunition charge struck out over incomplete Police file

An ammunition charge against a man was, on Wednesday, struck out by acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty after the prosecution failed to produce a completed case file or a ballistics report.

Kayody Jarvis, who appeared virtually while in prison before the acting Chief Magistrate at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where the matter was called for an update.

When asked about the status of the case, the prosecutor informed the court that he was not in possession of the file and that certain aspects of the investigation remained outstanding, including a ballistics report.

Jarvis’s attorney, Travis Ferreira, reminded the court that when the matter was first heard,

the prosecution kept asking for more time. At the last hearing, they requested two weeks, and Magistrate McGusty had set Wednesday as a peremptory date to allow the prosecution sufficient time to complete its investigations.

Ferreira said he had agreed to a month’s adjournment at that time and had indicated that if the file were not ready by the next hearing, he would seek dismissal.

On Wednesday, the prosecution requested a further adjournment.

However, Magistrate McGusty noted that Jarvis had been in custody since last year and that the court had already granted additional time.

During the submissions, the Magistrate questioned the prosecutor

about the process for obtaining the outstanding documents. The prosecutor explained that certain procedures had to be followed through other offices to secure the reports.

In delivering her ruling, Magistrate McGusty reminded the court that the last adjournment was peremptory. Given the continued absence of the file and key evidence, she struck out the charge and ordered that Jarvis be released on that matter.

The Magistrate indicated that if the Police wish to proceed with the case in the future, they may reinstitute the charge once the necessary documentation is available.

Jarvis had been charged with possession of 50 rounds of ammunition and had remained in custody since December 27, 2025.

ties across multiple regions.

To support this expansion, significant upgrades have been undertaken at the Anna Regina Fish Culture Station in Region Two throughout 2025, with additional improvements scheduled for 2026.

Recent enhancements include an improved water supply system, upgraded aeration, and additional tanks. These upgrades have enabled the station to grow small Tambaqui fingerlings to stocking size for aquaculture cages at Mashabo, Capoey Lake, Bethany, and Lake Mainstay, as well as farmers’ ponds across the region. Tilapia fingerling production has also commenced at the facility, allowing farmers in the region to access improved stock locally.

The upgraded facility has also strengthened training and technical support services in the region. Recently, students from the Guyana School of Agriculture’s Essequibo Campus visited the station, gaining first-hand exposure to modern aquaculture practices without

travelling significant distances. Further upgrades are planned for 2026 to enhance service delivery and ensure that the expanding aquaculture sector continues to receive strong technical backing.

While speaking on the recent development, Minister Mustapha noted that the initiative represents a long-term investment in community development. He stated that each harvest translates into direct income for families, improved access to protein for households, and stronger village economies, adding that the Government remains committed to expanding cage aquaculture across Guyana as part of its broader strategy to advance food security, diversify rural livelihoods, and build a resilient and sustainable agriculture sector.

Mustapha also disclosed that the Ministry will soon establish an aquaculture station in Bartica similar to the upgraded Anna Regina Fish Culture Station.

“This station will consist of tanks, a water fil -

tration system, a back-up generator, pumps, and aeration systems. It is expected to be operationalised before the end of May and will facilitate the supply of fingerlings for cage aquaculture projects in the nearby communities of River’s View, Falls Mouth, Itabali, and Kartabo, as well as a pond aquaculture project in the Batavia community,” he explained.

He said that, in addition to the 3000 persons who are set to benefit, the facility will also be used to facilitate practical and theoretical training activities for students in the area.

The establishment of a similar facility is planned in Lethem.

With cage culture production now underway at Bethany and pond rearing commencing in Bonasika Creek, and additional communities set to begin operations in early 2026, the Government’s aquaculture development initiative continues to fulfil the vision of creating sustainable economic opportunities while strengthening Guyana’s aquaculture industry.

Guyana pushes for expanded air routes at Routes Americas 2026

Guyana is currently being represented at Routes Americas 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, by Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar, Board Director Sanjeev Datadin, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Ramesh Ghir.

This aviation forum provides a critical platform to position Guyana as a key regional gateway, aligning with the country’s

rapid economic expansion and the growing demand for increased international access.

As such, the Guyanese delegation is actively engaging leading airline, airport, and tourism executives. With a robust and targeted engagement agenda, Minister Indar is scheduled to meet with representatives from 22 airlines and more than 30 tourism boards and airport operators from across the region.

These high-level discussions are focused on expanding route networks, increasing passenger and cargo traffic, and strengthening strategic partnerships that will further enhance Guyana’s air connectivity and regional competitiveness.

Minister Indar stated, “Our presence at Routes Americas signals Guyana’s readiness to expand its global footprint. As our country experiences unprecedented growth,

strengthening air connectivity remains a national priority to support tourism, investment, and trade.”

In addition, Datadin related, “These high-level engagements are critical to advancing CJIA’s strategic objectives.” Each meeting provides an opportunity to showcase Guyana’s development trajectory and the airport’s readiness to accommodate new and expanded routes.”

As Guyana continues its

upward trajectory, CJIA remains firmly committed to building impactful aviation partnerships that connect Guyana to the world. The three-day conference will conclude today.

Only recently, Tourism Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues stated that since 2020, Guyana has added nine new international airlines, bringing the total number of carriers operating in the country to 15. She added that the ex -

panded air connectivity has not only increased the number of routes available to Guyanese travellers but has also widened Guyana’s reach into key tourism markets across Europe and the Americas.

In light of this, Rodrigues revealed that Guyana recorded 453,489 visitors in 2025, representing a 22 per cent increase over 2024 – growth she described as ‘extraordinary’ when compared to global tourism trends.

Health Ministry to probe teen mom’s postpartum death

The Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, has indicated that the Ministry will review the circumstances surrounding the recent death of a teenage

mother approximately one month after giving birth, while outlining the standard procedures followed in the care and discharge of pregnant patients.

Fifteen-year-old Aleena Preetam, who was found dead on February 23, died of heart failure and anaemia, according to the post-mortem examination.

Preetam, of Good Hope, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon–Supenaam), was found dead in her bedroom.

On Wednesday, when asked about the case, the Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, noted that he did not yet review the full details but assured that the matter can be investigated.

Addressing questions about the care process for pregnant patients, the Minister explained that any expectant mother who presents at a public health facility is first assessed at the accident and emergency department.

“So basically, anybody, if you’re pregnant and you come to the hospital, if you come to the accident and emergency, the team there would do an examination. And from that examination, they would determine what would be the next step,” he explained.

According to the Minister, patients may either be admitted for further monitoring and testing or discharged depending on their condition.

Anthony added, “In some cases, they would need to admit that patient. So, if they admit that patient, then the patient would go through all the requisite checks and so forth, tests and so forth. In other cases, at the emergency, they’ll be able to do the assessments, maybe do some laboratory tests, and if they’re satisfied, they would then send that person home.”

He noted that specific symptoms, such as bleeding or other complications, would typically require closer observations within the hospital setting.

“If you have a pregnant person and if they have bleeding and so forth, that might warrant bringing the person in and keeping them for a little bit and observing. If none of that exists, then maybe they might be discharged,” the Health Minister said.

The Minister further explained that patients who are discharged are provided with follow-up clinic dates to ensure continued monitoring after delivery.

“When you’re discharged from the clinic, you will be given clinic dates and so forth for follow-up. So, I think that would be the normal process,” Minister Anthony expressed.

He also emphasised that if a patient experiences worsening symptoms after being discharged, they or their relatives should return to the hospital immediately so medical intervention can be provided.

“If somebody were very ill at home, somebody would have to bring them to the hospital where some medical thing could be done. Or if a neighbour or somebody called in, then we can send the ambulance to pick them

up. But if we are not aware of the problem, then it’s hard for us to treat the person,” the Minister noted. Preetam, a former student of Abram Zuil Secondary School, had transferred to another secondary institution but eventually dropped out of school. After leaving school, she became pregnant and subsequently gave birth. Her delivery process was regarded as safe, and both mother and baby had returned home.

Men charged with 2022 murder in Mabaruma to face trial after Judge rejects guilty pleas

Two men jointly charged with the 2022 murder of Mabaruma youth Jude Christino will now face a Judge and a jury after their guilty pleas were rejected on Wednesday by Acting Chief Justice Avinash Singh in the Demerara High Court.

Wayne DaSilva, 22, called “Monkey Man”, and OJ Samuel Smith, called “Red Boy”, appeared before Justice Singh in relation to the fatal stabbing of Christino at Kumaka Waterfront, North West District (NWD), Region One (Barima–Waini).

When the indictable charge was read, DaSilva initially indicated that he “accepted” the allegation, suggesting a guilty plea to murder. However, during questioning by the court to

ensure the plea was voluntary and unequivocal, he appeared confused, stuttered, and held his head as though unwell.

Justice Singh paused the proceedings and enquired whether DaSilva was fit to proceed. After being informed that he was not feeling well, the Judge carefully questioned him to determine whether he understood the nature and consequences of a guilty plea.

Under further examination, DaSilva gave conflicting accounts. At one point, he appeared to admit involvement; at another, he denied killing Christino. He told the court he had gone to the area as a “peacemaker” and attempted to separate Christino and Smith. He claimed that while pulling Christino away, the

young man “collapsed” in his hands.

When pressed about how Christino sustained stab wounds, DaSilva alternated between admitting and denying responsibility. He later stated that he saw Smith stab Christino multiple times in the neck.

Given the inconsistencies, Justice Singh ruled that the plea was not clear and unequivocal and therefore entered a formal not guilty plea on DaSilva’s behalf. Smith also addressed the court. He claimed that DaSilva had instructed him to hold Christino during the altercation. When asked why he complied, Smith said he feared for his life because DaSilva was armed with a knife.

Smith alleged that DaSilva told him to “hold

Gold miner jailed for 1 year, fined $30,000 for drug trafficking

A59-year-old gold miner, Stanton Isaacs of Church Street, West Bank Demerara, was sentenced to one year of imprisonment and fined $30,000 after pleading guilty to a charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking on Wednesday.

Isaacs was arrested on March 3 at the Itaballi Police Checkpoint along the Lower Mazaruni River. He appeared the following day before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed via Zoom at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him.

Following his guilty plea, Magistrate Mohamed handed down the one-year imprisonment sentence and imposed the $30,000 fine. Stanton Isaacs

him”, and while he restrained Christino out of fear, DaSilva stabbed the teen. Although Smith initially indicated a willingness to plead guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter, his explanation introduced possible elements of duress.

Justice Singh noted that, based on the accounts given, potential defences could arise and the court could not safely accept the pleas as presented. As a result, he rejected both pleas. The matter has been set down for trial on March 17.

DaSilva and Smith were previously charged in 2022 for the murder of 18-yearold Jude Christino, who was

fatally stabbed at Kumaka Waterfront, Mabaruma. At the time of the incident,

Smith was a 16-year-old. Reports at the time indicated that the stabbing stemmed from an altercation after Christino allegedly interrupted a conversation between one of the accused and his girlfriend. The disagreement reportedly escalated into violence, resulting in Christino being stabbed multiple times. The accused were initially remanded when they first appeared before the Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court in August 2022. The case will now proceed to trial in the Demerera High Court. The case was prosecuted by state attorneys Christopher Belfield and Geneva Wills.

Businessman gets $7000 bail, fined $5000 for traffic-related charges

A23-year-old businessman was on Wednesday granted $7000 bail and fined $5000 by Magistrate Shivani Lalaram for driving an uninsured motor vehicle in a dangerous manner.

Riyad Ahmad from Happy Acres, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Lalaram at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where the charges were read to him.

As such, he pleaded not guilty to the dangerous driving charge and guilty to the uninsured motor vehicle of-

fence.

For the dangerous driving allegation, he was granted bail in the amount of $7000, while he was fined $5000 for driving an uninsured motor vehicle. The dangerous driving matter was adjourned to April 8 for continuation.

Ahmad was arrested in connection with a February 11, 2026, accident at the intersection of David and Alexander streets in Kitty, Georgetown, which has left 63-year-old Waveney Fernandes seriously injured and hospitalised.

It was reported that the vehicle he was driving allegedly failed to observe a stop sign, collided with another vehicle, and subsequently struck Fernandes as she was walking home from work. Fernandes sustained a broken leg and arm and has since indicated that she remains confined to her bed due to her injuries.

Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident are ongoing, and the matter remains before the court.

Jamaica officially enters reconstruction phase post-Melissa

Prime Minister (PM) Dr Andrew Holness has announced that the country has officially entered the reconstruction phase of the Hurricane Melissa disaster response.

Holness noted that this transition was supported by the near-completion of utility restoration, a rebounding agricultural sector, and lower-than-expected inflation.

“For electricity, I can say that we are 98 per cent recovered [and] for water, we are 97 per cent restored. Agricultural output has rebounded more quickly than anticipated, and perhaps most encouraging, inflation has come in below what

we had anticipated,” he explained.

The PM was delivering the keynote address at the official launch of the Cedar Creek housing development in Westchester Drive in Portmore, St Catherine, on March 3.

He maintained that the stable inflation rate has enabled the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) to reduce its policy interest rate to 5.5 per cent in February 2026, which the PM described as a “huge deal”.

The reconstruction phase centres on long-term investments in housing, schools, and public infrastructure, ensuring all structures meet

climate-resilient standards.

Furthermore, the Government will evaluate the potential relocation of specific facilities while fortifying the power and telecommunications grids for greater utility resilience.

The PM noted that all three phases – relief, recovery and reconstruction – operate simultaneously, but the Government strategically focused resources where they are most essential at each stage.

Meanwhile, Holness noted that Jamaica’s overall recovery from Hurricane Melissa has significantly outpaced expectations. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

T&T’s Hosein backs PM on SoE

Minister of Legal Affairs and Land and Legal Affairs

Saddam Hosein has defended the Government’s decision to declare a State of Emergency (SoE), accusing the opposition of politicising a matter of national security while reiterating that the measure was necessary to address credible criminal threats.

In a statement issued today following criticism from the Opposition, Hosein said the decision to invoke emergency powers was not taken lightly but was based on what he described as an urgent need to protect law-abiding citizens and members of the security services.

He said Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar acted in response to intelligence indicating serious threats posed by criminal elements and placed the safety of citizens above political considerations.

He added that the Administration “is not one to gamble with the safety of our people to satisfy the sensitivities of the opposition”, maintaining that strong measures were required to confront escalating criminal activity.

Hosein also rejected claims by the opposition leader that certain provisions within the current SoE regulations undermine democratic principles or signal a move toward dictatorship. He said the provisions being criticised are identical to those contained in the 2024 State of Emergency regulations enacted un-

der the previous People’s National Movement (PNM) Administration.

Hosein stressed that the Government would not be deterred by criticism and would continue what he termed “the serious work required” to ensure national security and prevent criminals from destabilising the country. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

CIBC Caribbean to end GBP cheques,

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) Caribbean has announced it will stop issuing and processing cheques and bank drafts in Great British Pounds (GBP) from March 31 2026.

The bank said the decision follows its correspondent banking partner’s move to discontinue support for GBP cheques and drafts, reflecting a wider global shift towards electronic payments.

Customers holding GBP cheques or drafts are being urged to present them at any branch for encashment or de-

Haiti’s La Gonâve Island buries Stimphile sisters as arrests mount

Relatives, classmates, and neighbours gathered on Tuesday in the Picmy section of Anse-àGalets on La Gonâve Island to bury two young sisters whose killings have shaken the community and drawn attention in Haiti and abroad.

Wilandia and Wisberline Stimphile, ages seven and five, were laid to rest on March 3 in small cream-coloured coffins that mourners said symbolised stolen childhoods. Inside the church and along nearby streets, cries filled the air as their parents held each other in grief. Their mother, Roselor Stimphile, wept as relatives and neighbours struggled to console the family.

The funeral came a day after Haitian National Police arrested Janel “Tiga” Louissaint, identified by local authorities as a key suspect in the February 18 killings. The sisters were found dead in a wooded area near

their home after their mother returned from the market, authorities said.

Eight people have been detained in connection with the case. After questioning, four – including Louissaint –remain in custody as the investigation continues.

The killings have sparked protests and renewed calls for stronger protections for children in a country facing deepening insecurity. While much of Haiti’s violence has been

concentrated in the capital, residents of La Gonâve say crime is spreading to areas long considered relatively insulated.

Local officials have urged calm as the judicial process unfolds. As the coffins were carried out of the church, silence fell over the crowd before giving way to sobs – a community united in grief and in its call for answers. (Excerpt from The Haitian Times)

BVI inmates take the stage at HMP

Inmates at the British Virgin Islands’ (BVI’s) His Majesty’s Prison (HMP) swapped cells for centre stage as they mounted their inaugural drama exhibition as part of a broader push toward rehabilitation.

The event brought together 10 men, one woman and four juveniles, who performed pieces aimed at highlighting growth and personal change, according to the Government.

Organisers said the event showcased confidence, teamwork, discipline and commitment to self-improvement –traits seen as key to successful reintegration.

Health and Social Development Minister Vincent Wheatley said the initiative reflected the Government’s continued focus on rehabilitation.

“Rehabilitation remains central to our mandate,” he said.

“The First Annual Drama Exhibition demonstrates how

creative and structured programmes can positively influence behaviour, build confidence and support personal transformation.”

He added that an annual prison debate competition has met with similar success over the past two years, as has a basketball league launched last year.

“These initiatives show that rehabilitation is not simply a concept but a deliber-

ate and sustained effort,” Mr Wheatley said.

Prison Superintendent Jay Kendall described the exhibition as a meaningful step in preparing inmates for life after incarceration.

“This exhibition was more than a performance,” he said. “It represented commitment, growth and the willingness of our inmates to channel their energy into positive development.” (The BVI Beacon)

Barbados adjusting $80M foreign policy with Caricom as “strategic anchor”

drafts from March 31 S

posit before the deadline.

Deepa Boucaud, the bank’s executive director of personal and business banking, said the change brings the institution in line with international best practice as financial systems modernise. She said electronic payments offer greater security, speed and reliability than paper-based methods.

Clients are being encouraged to use the bank’s online banking platform or mobile app to send and receive GBP wire transfers. The bank said digital transfers provide improved tracking, en-

hanced security and faster settlement.

Customers not yet registered for online services can sign up via the bank’s website or download the mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

The bank said staff will provide personalised assistance to seniors and other customers who may need help transitioning to wire transfers.

It added that it remains committed to supporting clients as it expands its digital banking services. (Antigua Newsroom)

enior Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

Senator Chris Sinckler has announced plans to recalibrate Barbados’ foreign policy to navigate what he described as a rapidly shifting world order – while affirming that Caricom will remain the island’s strategic anchor in its external relations.

Senator Sinckler made the announcement on Tuesday as the estimates on foreign affairs and foreign trade opened in the House of Assembly. He outlined what he saw as a disciplined but necessary adjustment to the country’s diplomatic and trade posture.

“Recalibration, however, does not mean abandonment. It means that we execute with discipline,” he said.

While admitting that the international landscape is undergoing profound transformation, Sen Sinckler said Barbados must rethink how it engages with the world.

He told Parliament: “We are experiencing a structural transition in global affairs. The international order is evolving, and I say that with some caution. It may even be descending into a place that we may not even recognise.”

“These are shifts that are not transient. They define the operating environment in which Barbados

must secure its future,” he said, posing what he called the central question: “How does Barbados convert diplomatic capital into measurable economic and developmental returns in an era of geopolitical volatility and fiscal constraint?”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is actively recalibrating both foreign and trade policy to reflect global realities, while holding firm to core principles such as respect for international law, commitment to multilateralism, defence of small island developing states, advocacy for climate justice and adherence to rules-based orders, he said. (Excerpt from Barbados Today)

OIL NEWS

Oil settles at highest in over a year for 2nd

consecutive day as Iran crisis escalates

Oil prices settled unchanged on Wednesday at the end of a volatile trading session, as escalating US and Israeli strikes against Iran widened regional tensions and paralysed shipping through the Strait of Hormuz for a fifth day, disrupting vital Middle East oil and gas flows.

Brent crude settled at US$81.40 per barrel, flat to Tuesday’s close and at its highest since January 2025. US West Texas Intermediate crude settled 10 cents, or 0.1 per cent, higher at US$74.66, closing at its highest since June for the second day in a row.

”Oil prices remain elevated as markets grapple with the prospect of a prolonged war and lingering supply disruptions,” Nikos Tzabouras, senior market analyst at Tradu.com, said.

”The US has signalled a four- to five-week campaign, Iran is seeking to regionalise the conflict, and the crucial Strait of Hormuz chokepoint is effectively shut. These developments could ⁠overturn previously unfavourable supply-demand dynamics, pushing crude higher and bringing the $100 threshold into view,” Tzabouras added.

The Brent benchmark had gained more than US$3 to touch US$84.48 in morning trading, within sight of multimonth highs, but traded lower after the New York Times reported operatives from Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence signalled openness to the US Central Intelligence Agency to talks on ending the war, citing officials briefed on the matter. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Russia accuses Ukraine of drone attack as gas tanker sinks in Mediterranean

ARussian tanker carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) has sunk in the Mediterranean between Libya and Malta, as Moscow accused Ukraine of attacking the vessel.

The Libyan port authority said the tanker was hit by “sudden explosions followed by a massive fire, which ultimately led to its complete sinking” on Tuesday night north of the port of Sirte, Libya.

Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of attacking the gas carrier.

“This is a terrorist attack. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this kind of thing,” Russia’s Putin told a reporter from Russian state television on Wednesday, accusing Kyiv of responsibility.

There was no immediate

comment from Ukraine.

Russia’s Transport Ministry said that the Arctic Metagaz, which had been carrying LNG from the Arctic port of Murmansk, was attacked by Ukrainian naval drones launched from the coast of Libya.

It said the 30 crew members, all Russian nationals, were safe and thanked Maltese rescue services.

“We qualify what happened as an act of international terrorism and maritime piracy, a gross violation of the fundamental norms of international maritime law,” the Ministry said.

According to an advisory from Libya’s maritime rescue agency, the Arctic Metagaz sank in waters between Libya and Malta after catching fire on Tuesday night. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Around the World

Americans trying to evacuate Middle East frustrated with Government response as US sub sinks Iranian warship in Indian Ocean

As the US Department of State urges Americans to leave 14 countries across the Middle East amid the widening war with Iran, some Americans are voicing frustration with the lack of help from their Government.

Sasha Hoffman, an American who lives in Chicago and was vacationing in Dubai when the US-Israeli military action began, initially thought she would be able to wait out the fighting. But after hearing President Trump say Operation Epic Fury could last four to five weeks, her thinking changed.

”We’re honestly trapped,” she told CBS News on Tuesday. ”It’s really frustrating that right now the US is saying ’Americans come home’ when in reality we can’t come home. We’ve had flights booked today and tomorrow; all of them are cancelled. All of the airspace is closed through tomorrow night now, if you’re in the UAE.”

She said she understands the need to prioritise safety, ”but then you can’t tell us to get out and create no zone where we can all leave on commercial flights.”

Hoffman also spoke of the

fear of being trapped in a war zone, telling CBS News, ”It’s terrifying.”

”We’re not used to it in the US, where you just hear fighter jets going on all day long, and you certainly don’t hear the missiles actually landing and blowing up ... nor smoke plumes,” she said. ”These are not things that are normal. I even lived through the Boston Marathon bombing; I lived right above it, and this is so much worse than that.”

Americans were told late Monday to ”depart now” from

Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. They were urged to leave ”using available commercial transportation, due to serious safety risks”.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth has said an American submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean.

He said the ship was sunk by a torpedo on Tuesday and

that it died a ”quiet death”.

Hegseth did not name the ship, but his announcement came after Sri Lankan officials said its navy had responded to a distress call from an Iranian ship on Wednesday morning named the Iris Dena, which had gone down about 40 kilometres from its southern coastline.

Eighty bodies from the ship were found by rescuers, a Sri Lankan defence official told BBC Sinhala. Another 32 were rescued, the Sri Lankan navy said.

A navy spokesman said some 180 persons were believed to have been aboard the Iris Dena, based on the ship’s documentation.

The survivors were ”seriously injured” and had been taken to a hospital in the southern port of Galle, foreign affairs Minister Vijitha Herath said.

Hegseth told a news conference on Wednesday that a US submarine had sunk an Iranian warship ”that thought it was safe in international waters”.

He also claimed it was ”the first sinking of an enemy ship by a torpedo since World War Two”. (Excerpts from BBC News, CBS News)

Landslide kills over 200 persons at Congo’s Rubaya mine, Mines Ministry says

More than 200 persons died on Tuesday in a landslide triggered by heavy rains at the Rubaya coltan mine in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the country’s Mines Ministry said on Wednesday.

A senior official from the AFC/M23 rebel group, which controls the mine, told Reuters earlier that only five or six died in the accident.

Rubaya produces around 15 per cent of the world’s coltan, which is processed into tantalum, a heat-resistant metal that is in high demand by makers of mobile phones, computers, aerospace components and gas turbines.

The site, which has been under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel group since 2024, was recently added to a shortlist of mining assets being offered by the Congolese Government to the United States under a minerals cooperation framework.

”The damaged site is one of those where continued operation had been discouraged pending the securing of the area and the implementation of protective measures for miners. The incident is due to the heavy rains of the

last few days,” another senior AFC/M23 official told Reuters.

The Mines Ministry said that around 70 children were among the victims and that many injured were evacuated to health facilities in the city of Goma.

An M23 spokesperson wasn’t immediately available for comment on the Government’s toll.

The latest incident came a month after another disaster at the site killed more than 200 persons in late January. (Reuters)

Swedish fighter jets patrol Iceland in show of force over Arctic

Swedish fighter jets are patrolling the skies around Iceland for the first time, as NATO allies try to show both US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin that they are serious about protecting the Arctic.

Sweden has sent six of its Saab Gripen fighter jets, the crown jewel of its defence industry, as part of NATO mission Arctic Sentry.

The mission is seeking to strengthen NATO’s presence in the strategically important Arctic region as part of an effort to defuse severe tensions

within the alliance prompted by Trump’s push for the US to acquire Greenland.

Trump has forced NATO allies to sharply increase military spending, including in the Arctic. He has been particularly unimpressed by Denmark’s military presence on Greenland, which he mockingly described as ”two dog sleds”.

The Swedish fighters are mainly on the lookout for Russian long-range bombers that can take off from air bases on the Kola Peninsula, which is home to Russia’s Northern Fleet and also has nuclear missile silos.

”Iceland as well as all of the Arctic would be important (in case of a conflict) because that’s the warning chain for attacks against the US or Canada across the Arctic,” said Major General Frode Arnfinn Kristoffersen, deputy chief of staff, operations, at NATO Joint Force Command Norfolk.

Russia has repeatedly dismissed claims it is seeking to take over Greenland or is a threat in the Arctic, saying they are false ”horror stories” made up by Western leaders to justify their own behaviour. (Excerpt from Reuters)

SUDOKU

Check out suggestions, offers, grants or funding that can help you turn your dream into a reality. Simplify your plans to meet your budget. Partnerships require equality.

Consider what you can do to make your life easier. Surround yourself with people who share your plans, and work toward a common goal. A change will require time and energy.

Say little and do a lot. Show compassion and understanding, but don’t take on someone else’s problems. Offer suggestions and get back on track. Living up to your expectations and reputation will help you excel.

There is a price for everything; make sure your aspirations don’t cause you to go over budget. Time, patience and planning are all called for. Personal growth looks promising.

Delve into new possibilities; study, research and include what you discover into your routine and plans. A change will lead to an interesting alternative or connection.

You have plenty going for you, so don’t let negativity stand in the way of your desires. Speak up and act fast if you want personal, emotional and financial growth to unfold.

Try not to involve yourself in circumstances that can get you in trouble. Don’t exaggerate your qualifications; update your knowledge and grow your expertise.

Instigate what you want to see happen. An encouraging word, hands-on help and mixing business with pleasure will fuel your success. Focus on the important relationships in your life.

Look inward and prepare to change whatever is no longer working for you. Dismiss those who continually disappoint or take advantage of you. Make choices that protect you from risk and scammers.

Put more thought into your investments and how you earn a living and spend your cash. Honesty and transparency are essential to avoid problems. Use your energy to fine-tune your agenda and make it flow.

Put your energy to work, and you can bring in more cash. Sell unwanted belongings, develop a product that you can turn into a lucrative business or become a minimalist.

Work hard and play hard. Get into the swing of things and do your part. Your contributions will attract attention, new friendships and opportunities you don’t want to miss.

On Saturday, New Zealand nervously tuned into Sri Lanka v Pakistan, wondering if they could sneak into the semi-final. Matt Henry was on the way back home from Colombo for the birth of his second child. New Zealand’s build-up to the semi-final was just as uncertain as they waited anxiously for their bowling spearhead to return. On Wednesday, their performance in the semi-final was

b

Allen’s 33-ball hundred leads

New Zealand into final

anything but uncertain as they KO’d South Africa, who were unbeaten until this game, and launched New Zealand into their second men’s T20 World Cup final.

After their attack welcomed Henry back and limited South Africa to 169 for eight on a slower-than-usual Eden Gardens track, Finn Allen took centre stage and crashed a 33ball century, the fastest ever in a men’s T20 World Cup, to make a mockery of the chase. Just as Allen was soaking in his century, Tim Seifert, the other half of New Zealand’s Bash Brothers, pumped his fist in the dugout. New Zealand completed the demolition job with nine wickets and just more than seven overs to spare.

McConchie goes bang bang

Mitchell Santner handed the new ball to off spin-bowling allrounder Cole McConchie in the second over, and he aced his match-up, taking out the left-handed pair of Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton in the only over he bowled. De Kock threw the first punch at McConchie when he swiped him over mid-on for four. McConchie then punched back the next ball

by darting one into the pitch and having de Kock pop a catch to mid-on for 10 off eight balls. It was the third time in five innings that de Kock was dismissed by an offspinner in this competition.

Rickelton, at number three, had a crack at an offbreak next ball and ended up slicing a cut to short third for a golden duck. Brevis then avoided the hat-trick, but McConchie, the 18th player included in New Zealand’s T20 World Cup squad, had done his job.

Santner, Ravindra tighten screws

With the two lefthanders gone and the power play done, Santner introduced himself into the attack and conceded just three runs off the seventh over. The New Zealand Captain helped offset the damage caused by a 17-run powerplay over from Jimmy Neesham, who had replaced legspinner Ish Sodhi.

Rachin Ravindra then struck in his first over, tossing up one at Aiden Markram’s stumps and having him caught at longon for 18 off 20 balls. Daryl Mitchell charged in from long-on, dived forward and plucked it inches from the ground. Replays suggested it was touch-and-go, but Nitin Menon, the TV umpire, eventually ruled it as a clean catch.

After dropping Markram on three at midwicket, Ravindra enjoyed redemption with the ball.

4-0-34-2

1-0-9-2

4-0-29-1

Neesham 3-0-42-1

4-0-25-0

4-0-29-2

(RR: 13.48) 173/1

Did not bat: Glenn

Against the left-handed David Miller, Ravindra hiked his pace and aimed to hide the ball away from his swinging arc. Ravindra could have had Miller on three, but Glenn Phillips, believe it or not, dropped a catch in the outfield. Miller added three to his tally before chipping Ravindra to Mitchell at long-off for a regulation catch. Ravindra finished with two for 29 in his four overs, extending his own tournament tally to 11. Among spinners, only Varun Chakravarthy, the number one-ranked T20 International (T20I) bowler, has more wickets than him in this T20 World Cup. Dewald Brevis flickered briefly for 34 off 27 balls before he was undone by the slowness of the Eden pitch.

He jabbed at a drive early and ended up spooning Neesham to Santner at cover. South Africa were 77 for five at that point.

Jansen rescues SA

Marco Jansen then combined with Tristan Stubbs for a 73-run partnership for the sixth wicket – a new record for South Africa in men’s T20Is. Despite the clatter of wickets, Jansen showed his power and composure. After charging at Ravindra, his former team-mate at Washington Freedom in the Major League Cricket (MLC), and lofting him for six, Jansen lined Henry up for a no-look six over wide long-on. He reached his half-century off 27 balls, with a six off Neesham, and finished with his T20I career best of 55 off 30 balls, including two fours and five sixes. Lockie Ferguson snapped the stand in the 19th over when he castled Stubbs for 29 off 24 balls with a nifty legcutter from around the wicket. Henry then closed out the innings with a sixrun over, which also included the wickets of Corbin Bosch and Kagiso Rabada. Jansen’s half-century, though, gave South Africa’s attack something to bowl at.

Finn-tastic Allen wins KKR bat-off

That something soon turned into next to nothing once Allen took off in the chase as the dew set in at Eden Gardens. Allen faced 33 balls and sent 18 of those to or over the boundary. Rabada tried his leg-cutter, Lungi Ngidi dipped into his slower dipper, Jansen tried to bang it away on a hard length and Bosch offered pace, but nothing worked against Allen.

After reaching his fifty off 19 balls, Allen stormed to his ton off 33 balls.

Allen shattered Chris Gayle’s previous T20 World Cup record of a 47-ball hundred

against England in 2016.

It was Seifert who had made the early running, contributing 41 of the 62 New Zealand had scored in the first five overs of their chase. In the final over of the power play, Allen carted Bosch for a sequence of six, four, four, four, four as New Zealand finished with 84 for 0. It was the second-highest powerplay score in this T20 World Cup and the highest power-

play score across all knockout games in the T20 World Cup. From thereon, it was all about Allen and his brute power. If this was a batoff for an Indian Premier League (IPL) opening spot at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Allen won it emphatically. South Africa found some respite when Rabada removed Seifert for 58, but Allen finished it off in grand style at Eden Gardens, in the company of Ravindra, another Knight Rider. (ESPNcricinfo)

Forde justifies GFF actions in open letter following U20 fallout

Astatement from the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) on Monday evening sparked widespread outrage across the local football fraternity, with accusations of the Federation “not defending” their players after the National Men’s Under-20 team were disqualified from the ongoing CONCACAF U20 Qualifiers and four players subsequently receivied bans.

Taking umbrage with the barrage of accusations on social media, GFF President Wayne Forde has since penned an open letter to the football fraternity, detailing the GFF’s actions and procedures followed since being informed of CONCACAF’s review process.

Forde wrote, “Fellow Members of the Football Family, Fans and Stakeholders, I write this letter for one principal reason: to address the narrative circulating primarily on social media, and in other quarters, that the Guyana Football Federation has failed to defend its Under-20 players.

That assertion is categorically untrue.

Over the past several hours, our Under-20 players, their parents and guardians, our technical staff and our wider football community have endured significant hurt and disappointment following the decision of the CONCACAF Disciplinary Committee to disqualify Guyana from the 2026 Under-20 Qualifiers.

We remain convinced, based on the video recording in our possession of the altercation, that our players did not provoke or instigate the incident. That conviction does not diminish

the emotional toll this matter has taken on young men whose reputations have been subjected to intense public scrutiny. It has also affected their families, who have had to contend with harsh and, in many instances, ill-informed commentary circulating across social media platforms.

I acknowledge and understand the anger and frustration of supporters who rallied behind this team. The incident and its aftermath have been damaging to the image of the players, to the Guyana Football Federation, to CONCACAF, and to our country. Emotions are understandable. However, clarity and facts must guide responsible discourse.

To that end, here are the key timelines that have guided our actions thus far:

• 28 February 2026: Match Incident

In the 85th minute of the match, a mass confrontation occurred involving players from both teams. Multiple red cards were issued. The match was subsequently abandoned after Anguilla fell below the minimum number of players required under the IFAB Laws of the Game. As is standard proce-

dure, the Referee and Match Commissioner submitted official reports detailing the incident.

• 1 March 2026 (Morning): Opening of Disciplinary Proceedings

The GFF received formal notification from CONCACAF that disciplinary proceedings had been opened. We were advised that our written position had to be submitted by 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time that same day. The timeline was compressed because a decision had to be rendered prior to our next scheduled fixture, given the sporting, logistical and financial implications tied to match operations, hotel bookings and international travel arrangements.

• 1 March 2026 (Within Deadline): Submission of GFF Position

Within the limited window provided - a matter of hours, the GFF submitted a detailed written response. That submission included a comprehensive account of what was observed on the video recording in our possession, together with reports from our delegation and technical staff on the ground. We advanced our position clearly and unequivocally, defending our

Archery Guyana, through a recent missive, has unveiled a strategic collaboration with Women Across Borders, marking a bold and transformative partnership dedicated to advancing women’s empowerment, inclusion,

players and contextualising the sequence of events as we understood them.

• 2 March 2026: Decision Rendered

The CONCACAF Disciplinary Committee rendered its ruling. The decision imposed four- match suspensions on four Guyanese players, levied a financial sanction, declared subsequent matches forfeited, and disqualified Guyana from the competition.

When incidents of this nature arise at the international level, there is no public hearing, no oral advocacy before a panel, and no forum for protracted debate. The regulations provide for written submissions within strict deadlines. That is the established process across global football governance.

The suggestion that the Federation did not defend its players is therefore not only inaccurate, but fundamentally misinformed. We acted within the regulations, met every deadline, and presented our case comprehensively.

It is also important to understand that in disciplinary matters of this type, the primary evidentiary documents considered are the Referee’s Report and the Match Commissioner’s Report. While video evidence may be reviewed, those official reports carry substantial weight.

Under Law 12 of the IFAB Laws of the Game (Fouls and Misconduct), violent conduct constitutes a sending-off offence. Crucially, even where a player is first attacked, retaliation may independently amount to violent conduct and attract a red card. This principle is consistently applied in football worldwide.

We lodged a strong pro-

test in relation to our Captain, Max Robinson. Based on the recording, he appears to have been attempting to restrain a teammate rather than participate in the altercation.

Nevertheless, he was dismissed. In the absence of audio evidence, it is conceivable that the sanction related to language used, as players may also be sent off for offensive, insulting or abusive language. These are determinations made by match officials in real time.

Let me be unequivocal: our boys are not violent, indisciplined or devoid of respect for the game. They are good young men. In our considered view, they were drawn into a volatile situation that escalated rapidly, one in which many individuals, in the heat of the moment, might have reacted similarly. That context does not excuse misconduct, but it does matter.

The GFF is investing heavily to ensure that our young players are consistently afforded opportunities to compete on the international stage. We are building pathways and expanding exposure precisely because we believe in their potential. We therefore respectfully encourage those with significant public platforms to devote equal energy to promoting and celebrating their achievements as they do to amplifying moments of controversy.

As is standard practice of the Guyana Football

Federation, we carefully utilise the regulatory window for appeal in matters of this magnitude, irrespective of the immediate outcome. That process, too, is governed by strict timelines and procedures, and will be approached with the same discipline and diligence that have characterised our actions thus far.

Support for our players is not measured by public theatrics. It is measured by responsible, strategic action taken within the rules that govern our sport.

I ask our football family to remain measured, informed and united as we navigate this challenging moment.”

While Guyana were disqualified after playing just two games at the qualifiers, their two remaining games were registered as 3-0 forfeits to Haiti and St Vincent and the Grenadines. Additionally, players Max Robinson, Mateo Clarke, Sheldon Kendall and Shaquan David were handed four-match bans to be served in the U20 or higher age groups in FIFA or CONCACAF competitions.

Archery Guyana announces landmark collaboration with Women Across Borders

and leadership through sport and community engagement.

The formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Sonia Noel, representing Women Across Borders, and Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, President of Archery Guyana. Also present was Nadira Budram, member of the Executive of Women Across Borders.

According to the sport association, this landmark collaboration bridges the dynamism of sport with the global mission of Women Across Borders to uplift, connect, and empower women across communities through purposeful initiatives and strategic partnerships.

The partnership envisions a multifaceted platform aimed at increasing partic-

ipation of women and girls in archery and sport while championing gender equality, representation, and access within athletic pathways. Together, the organisations will work alongside the Women in Sport Committee of the Federation to develop leadership and mentorship programmes designed to equip female athletes with life skills, leadership competencies, confidence-building strategies, and tools for social empowerment.

The 2026 Archery Guyana Women in Sport Committee, commissioned on January 14, comprises Chair of the Committee Juanita Persaud; Secretary Jo-Lee Zammet; Shequana Holder; and Persaud-McKinnon.

“Today marks a new chapter in empowering women through sport and community. This collaboration with Women Across Borders strengthens our commitment to inclusion, representation, and opportunity for all women and girls in archery and beyond,” Archery Guyana President Persaud-McKinnon shared.

Noel, an international fashion designer, entrepreneur, and advocate for women’s empowerment, has spent nearly three decades building platforms that elevate

confidence, leadership, and cultural identity through fashion and community engagement. As she approaches her 30-year milestone in the fashion industry – three decades of empowering lives through fashion, mentorship, and global representation – this collaboration forms part of a broader legacy of impact and purpose-driven work.

Women Across Borders is a platform dedicated to connecting and empowering women across regions through leadership development, strategic alliances, and initiatives that foster economic growth, personal development, and social advancement. The organisation is committed to creating opportunities that transcend geography and create lasting change.

Noel expressed, “We are honoured to stand alongside Archery Guyana in advancing opportunities for women and girls through sport. Empowerment is not limited to one industry; it is about creating access, building confidence, and nurturing leadership wherever women show up. As I celebrate three decades of empowering lives through fashion, this partnership represents the continued expansion of that mission into sport, into community, and across borders.”

Infrastructure upgrade forces shift in GMR&SC calendar

With the historic hosting of the GT Challenge de las Américas series here just over three months away, the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) has begun the mammoth task of bringing the South Dakota circuit into the 21st century.

Following the announcement and later track visit by officials of the GT Challenge de las Américas, along with Government officials and club executives, a major infrastructure upgrade was mandated if the club were to honour its commitments to host the series at the mecca of Caribbean motorsport.

The magnitude of the work needed to bring the venue up to scratch with an aggressive programme by the newly-elected executive of the GMR&SC means the calendar of events must shift, according to President Mohamed Shairaz Roshandin.

“The sheer volume of work outlined to us by the organisers of the GT3 class of racing before the July event means that as a club, we have had to make the hard decision, that decision being putting off the first round of the circuit racing championship initially set for April 12.”

“It’s not something we want to do, but at the same

“Not a time to panic”Matthews

time, with the scope of work that needs to go into the modernising of our South Dakota track, it means that even with resources working around the clock, we still would not be able to complete said works in time for that April 12 event,” the GMR&SC boss added.

He said that the club is in the process of identifying a suitable replacement date and will keep fans and racers alike updated.

Among the slew of changes to be made are a complete revamp of the entire front straight to accommodate the calibre of racing expected come July, the upending and replacement of several kerbs with-

after Windies Women’s series loss

After falling short in the recent OneDay International (ODI) series (2-1) and T20 International series (2-0) against Sri Lanka at home in the Caribbean, West Indies Women’s captain Hayley Matthews is of the opinion that her troops should not be panicking about form ahead of the 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s T20 World Cup

This year’s World Cup is set for England from June 12 to July 5, involving 12 teams.

Matthews took this position on Wednesday in the aftermath of her team’s nine-wicket loss and impending 2-0 T20I series loss to visitors Sri Lanka at the National Cricket Stadium, St George’s, Grenada.

“Not really,” Matthews responded to enquiries about whether or not she was worried about the West Indies’ batting in the power play. “I think I’m not scoring runs and it’s as simple as that. I feel as though once that issue is fixed, the power play is going to look a lot different for us.”

The skipper went on to assert her confidence in her team, stating, “Contrary to what you said, I think we actually have quite some time before the World Cup; few

more tours coming up before then that we could get things right, get the combinations going. So, I don’t think it’s time to panic. I think the conditions in England are gonna be quite different as well. So, lots of things that we have to work on going forward, but certainly not a time to panic yet, as a group or as a team.”

Zeroing in on their batting unit during the last contest against Sri Lanka, Matthews said, “We felt like we weren’t far off what would’ve been par for a wicket like this. I think kudos goes to how they properly batted in the second innings, negating a bit of the turn going on, but yeah, I feel like if we’re able to get a bit more through the middle, we certainly would’ve been exactly where we want to be.”

Looking ahead at their next assignment against Australia, Matthews picked out some positives from the Sri Lanka series that they can take forward.

The West Indies Women’s captain reasoned, “In the ODI cricket especially, the way some of the youngsters have been able to step up

like Jannillea Glasgow, the way we’ve been able to get 200+ on the board without many of our top six scoring runs in those first two ODIs are certainly some positives and I think the bowlers have been doing a real good job in this T20 series, the way they’ve come out and bowl.”

“So, still so many positives we can take from it and we’re just going to have to correct the areas that we aren’t doing so well,” she went on to add.

Australia Women’s tour of the West Indies is set to get underway on Thursday, March 19, at Arnos Vale in St Vincent and the Grenadines with the first of a three-match T20I series. The West Indies will host Australia’s women for three T20Is and three ODIs.

in the track perimeter, and the lengthening of the pit straight.

“For now, and I can give you a layman’s terms of things, we have to basically renovate about 70 per cent of the front stretch. All the old fencing between the pit and the front straight has to be uprooted and replaced with a solid concrete pit wall and catch-fencing. We are talking about at least a quarter- to half-mile of work where we need to put down a structure in keeping with the prescribed guidelines. In that as well, we need to create what is deemed a ‘hot lane’ where cars can come into the pit as well as the normal garage-like area.”

The GMR&SC Head also

contended that these works are mandatory if the Club was to host events like the 2026 GT Challenge de las Américas and other regional series, something the current executive is considering.

The upgrades, he said, will significantly enhance local motorsport.

“After these works are put in, drivers and riders will now have a facility that is up to standard and on par with most, if not all, in the Caribbean and Latin America. This will open the door to competitors honing their skills; something as simple as having the right height and style of kerbs can unlock more cornering speeds and faster driving

lines and therefore make better, more agile competitors; they can now translate this information when they go to other racing venues in the Caribbean and other locations, so no longer will they be on the backfoot.”

“We’ve already begun the work because the clock is ticking; we have deadlines to meet. They are ambitious, but with the team that is backing me and with the support of the Government of Guyana and the Private Sector through the racing stakeholders, I have no doubt we will get this done.”

Guyana will play host to the third round of the championship from July 11 - July 12, 2026.

2nd Guyana Cup nomination day confirmed for April 5

The Port Mourant Turf Club will host the Easter Cup horse race on Sunday, April 5. This race will be the second nomination day for the Guyana Cup.

Ten races are on the cards, including the jockey dash, and close to $15 million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs.

The feature race will be the Easter Cup, open to three-year-old and over horses. According to the provisional programme, horses will run at approximately 1600 metres, and the total purse for the feature is $4 million. The winner will be rewarded $2 million in the Easter Cup feature.

Other races on the provisional programme are the Easter Sprint, open to all four-year-old and old-

er horses; the three-yearold imported; and the F Class and Lower Open, for four-year-old and fiveyear-old imported horses who have not raced within the last six months, and also six-year-olds and older with no racing over a year. Additionally, the other races are three-year-old and over West Indian-bred, open to three-year-old native-bred, H Class and lower non-winners in 2025 and open to West Indian-bred non-winners in Guyana, the three-year-old and over I/J/K Class, open to L Class and the jockey dash.

Racing will be running under the new Guyana Rules of Racing. Entries for the Easter Cup are set to open on March 25, March 26 and March 27. In addition to the feature

race, five more races will have the $1 million purse. The Easter Cup could see the rematch between champion horse Dataman and Olympic Kremlin. Dataman dominated the last race meet, which was held at Port Mourant Turf Club.

The Jumbo Jet Racing Stables and Master Z Racing Stables had a good outing, while JS Racing Stables impressed, becoming the first stable to earn nomination day for the prestigious Guyana Cup in August.

Next month’s Easter Cup will be the second opportunity for horsemen to secure their spots for the Guyana Cup. Preparation has already begun with horses hunting towards glory for August 23 at a venue to be announced.

As promised, Elton Dharry’s highlyanticipated world title fight will be contested in the Land of Many Waters, in a massive professional-amateur (Pro/ Am) card that is scheduled for the Pegasus Hotel and Corporate Suites on Friday, March 20.

Dharry is set to enter the squared circle against Tanzania’s Salmin Kassim for the International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Super Bantamweight World Title in an open-air clash at the Kingston venue.

As such, Pegasus’ Finance Controller Brandon Badal touted the upcoming event as a “huge” one for sports tourism.

“This is going to be huge,

Dharry World title fight confirmed for March 20 at Pegasus Suites

absolutely huge. So, our hotel has a history of host- ing sports events, chess, and boxing. This is not our first world title fight at the hotel, but it’s going to be the biggest production by far,” Badal told the gathering.

The Pegasus Finance Controller went on to add, “Let me tell you, when you put together boxing with the relevant ministries and tourism at the most prestigious hotel in the country, only good things can hap-

pen. It’s not just a boxing match; this is sports tourism at its finest.”

Four amateur bouts will precede the Pro Card with the likes of Abiola Jackman and Ken Harvey slated for action. Meanwhile, on the professional side of things, Joel Williamson and Patrick Harvey will have their rematch while Desmond Amsterdam takes on Kevin Hilton out of Jamaica.

Another title fight, featuring Keevin Allicock and Dexter Marques, will see the two clashing for the Guyanese featherweight title before Dharry and his opponent take the ring.

One other clash is still tentative, as fans look forward to seeing “Doggie” going up against the “Guyanese Critic”. Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) President Peter Abdool shared an update on the state of that fight.

be a tremendous bonus to an already incredible card.” Also gracing

Abdool divulged, “I know the public is waiting with bated breath for us to finally confirm Bradley Sampson vs Mikhail Rodrigues. At this stage, I can tell you that while we have the signature of one of them, we don’t have the signature for the other. This fight is still in the making; it may still happen, and if it were to happen, it would

Wednesday’s press conference was Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, who assured of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s support.

“The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport is very heartened with the work that the Guyana Boxing Board of Control has been doing; they’ve taken up the mantle, and they’ve

accepted the challenge in a time when there’s a dearth of boxing promoters. So, I want to say to Peter and his team ‘job well done’, and you can count on the Ministry for support,” the Director of Sport remarked. Tickets for the event will go on sale on Monday at the Pegasus Suites. Gallery seating will cost $10,000, ringside $20,000, VIP $40,000 and VVIP $60,000.