Guyana Times - Thursday, November 27, 2025

Home Affairs Ministry puts cops on notice for tint compliance

Home Affairs Ministry puts cops on notice for tint compliance

ome Affairs Minister

HOneidge Walrond on Wednesday, via her Facebook page, put all Police ranks on notice to comply with the regulations for tint on vehicles or face disciplinary actions.

According to Minister Walrond, any rank who has tint on their private motor vehicle that does not comply with the regulations and who does not possess a valid tint permit must remove the tint immediately.

Ranks were further advised that no tint is to be reinstalled unless an approved tint permit has been formally applied for and granted.

“Let it be clearly understood that the law applies to everyone equally. Those empowered to enforce the law must be the first to uphold it. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action, without exception,” her post declared.

The move, though not regarded as being related to the event, comes after a social media video post just a few days ago showed a heavily tinted Police rank’s vehicle involved in an accident with a horse along a public road.

There have been many reports of the abuse of tint laws among Police officials over the years, with some sections of the media also referring to the use of tint as a “status symbol” among persons with “connections”.

Just last month, reports stated that the Government was mulling the introduction of a standardised tint level for normal road users. However, there will be a separate level for the security forces and diplomats.

“We may just have two levels,” Vice President Jagdeo explained last month. “One for security forces and maybe diplomats, and then another tint level for the general public. Everybody gets treated the

same. There’ll be no exemptions...”

Jagdeo also argued that a clear, across-the-board framework would reduce opportunities for favouritism, curb the bottleneck of applications, and ensure fairness.

He added that the proposed reforms are part of wider efforts to improve efficiency in Government, reduce red tape, and allow Ministers to spend more time on issues that matter to citizens.

“It’s better to do acrossthe-board systems… rather than be bogged down with 50 or 500 applications for tint exemptions every week going into the Ministry,” he had said then.

Construction, machinery highpotential investment opportunities – Guyanese, UK businesses told

Machinery, construction, and other specialist sectors have emerged as high-potential areas for expanded investment from the United Kingdom, according to Chris Bennet, Managing Director of the Caribbean Council, a London-based membership organisation working to build beneficial relationships and two-way trade and investment between international companies and their Caribbean and Central American partners.

He made these remarks on Tuesday during the fifth British Trade Mission to Guyana, which brings together more than 18 participating British companies for a week of commercial exploration and public-private partnership building.

In his address to the gathering, Bennet underscored the rapid evolution of Guyana’s opportunity landscape, recalling his earliest engagements in the country, noting that during his first visit discussions centred primarily on mining, timber, and forestry opportunities, long before hydrocarbons dominated investment discourse. However,

with first oil production commencing around 2020 and the inaugural UK-led trade delegation soon after, the country’s development intent became immediately clear.

He highlighted Guyana’s hands-on approach, characterised by visible infrastructure delivery, strong Government-private sector alignment, and national leadership set on accelerating development.

“It's one thing to have the revenues and the op-

portunity from the oil, but it's quite something else to actually make something happen with it. And I think that we can all see that that is what is happening. Things are getting done. And it's a testament both to the private sector and to the Government that they are working closely together, they have a vision, they have leadership, and they are really delivering for the people of Guyana.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, November 27 –08:35h–10:05h and Friday, November 28 – 09:45h–11:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Early morning sunshine turns to thundery showers and light rain during the day, with periods of cloudy skies and thundery showers at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 09:15h and 21:38h reaching maximum heights of 2.18 metres and 2.34 metres.

Low Tide: 15:07h reaching a minimum height of 1.07 metres.

Guyana Jewellers Association launched to raise standards, strengthen branding, boost gold sector

Guyana’s jewellery industry is poised for a major transformation following the official launch of the Guyana Jewellers Association (GJA), a move the Government says will raise professional standards, strengthen national branding, and boost the country’s value-added gold sector.

The Association was launched on Wednesday by the Ministry of Natural Resources in collaboration with the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) during a stakeholder meeting at Duke Lodge, Georgetown. The initiative forms a key component of the Government’s broader Guyana Gold and Jewellery Development Strategy Programme (GG&JDSP), which aims to build a modern, competitive and export-ready jewellery industry.

According to the Ministry, the establishment of the GJA represents a critical step toward unifying jewellers, goldsmiths, gemstone suppliers, retailers, and other sector operators under one umbrella body. This new institutional structure is expected to improve industry oversight, strengthen regulatory compliance, and support the development of high-quality Guyanese jewellery capable of competing on international markets.

Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat lauded the move, reaffirming the Government’s unwavering commitment to building out the gold value chain and supporting the businesses that depend on it. He emphasised that greater organisation, enhanced

standards, and stronger collaboration across the industry are essential if Guyana is to fully realise its potential in the value-added gold marketplace. “The Ministry stands ready to work alongside the Association as a strategic partner,” the Minister said, noting that the GJA will play a pivotal role in sector development and expansion.

Technical Consultant Dominic Gaskin presented the proposed framework for the Association, detailing its governance structure, membership categories, and operational objectives. Stakeholders were encouraged to provide feedback and identify areas requiring additional support as the organisation begins its establishment phase.

One of the highlights of

the event was the election of the inaugural nine-member Board of Directors, who will lead the Association through its initial development. The elected officers are Chairman Gowkaran Persaud, Vice Chairman Vade Persaud, Secretary Deborah Phillipe, Treasurer Rampersaud Gopaul, and Directors Raj Persaud and Stephen Naraine. In addition, three ex-officio members representing key Government agencies will sit on the Board to ensure continued alignment between the Association and national development priorities.

The launch drew strong participation from across the jewellery value chain, including jewellers, workshop owners, goldsmiths, retailers, equipment suppli-

ers, and representatives from the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ministry of Tourism, and the Guyana Gold & Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA).

According to the Ministry, this broad engagement reflects the sector’s readiness to adopt modern standards and move toward improved professionalism, better market access, and greater consumer confidence in locally manufactured jewellery.

The Ministry of Natural Resources welcomed the formation of the GJA and reaffirmed its intention to work closely with stakeholders as Guyana continues its push to develop a robust and competitive value-added gold and jewellery sector.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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A necessary step

The announcement of mandatory speed governors across the national trucking fleet marks a noteworthy course correction in Guyana’s road-safety governance. It is a timely acknowledgement that speeding, particularly among commercial trucks, has become one of the most dangerous and persistent threats on the nation’s highways.

The data presented by the National Road Safety Council (NRSC) is unambiguous. Truck-related incidents remain among the worst categories of road crashes, with dozens of major accidents each year and a consistent pattern of fatalities. The Council’s findings show that heavy-duty vehicles have accounted for nearly 40 per cent of road deaths over the past five years, an alarming percentage for a single class of vehicles. These are tragedies often defined by catastrophic impact.

In this context, the Government of Guyana’s decision to introduce the Auto Control Speed Management System (ACSMS) stands as one of the most forceful interventions yet in addressing road carnage involving trucks. This initiative responds to both statistical evidence and the lived experiences of communities along major highways, where speeding commercial vehicles have become synonymous with daily risk. The state’s commitment to curbing this trend deserves national recognition.

The ACSMS, built around the NXS-4 GPS-enabled speedlimiting device, represents a modern and systematic approach to ensuring compliance. Its tamper-resistant design, real-time GPS monitoring, and automated data transmission to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) shift enforcement from subjective roadside judgement to continuous, technology-driven oversight. By eliminating opportunities for manipulation and introducing transparent, automated reporting, the system directly addresses longstanding enforcement gaps. These gaps have widened as Guyana’s road network has expanded, placing increasing pressure on traditional policing methods that cannot adequately track high-volume commercial traffic.

Moreover, the initiative confronts an uncomfortable but critical truth: many imported trucks arrive with regulated speed controls, only to have those systems disabled for profit-driven reasons. Incentive structures within the trucking sector have historically rewarded faster trips, contributing to a culture of reckless driving. By removing drivers’ ability to override speed limits, the Government is dismantling a clear and present danger on the nation’s roads.

The challenges of Guyana’s expanding infrastructure further support the need for mandatory speed governance. Key corridors, including the East Bank and East Coast Highways and the Georgetown–Soesdyke corridor, carry heavy industrial traffic linked to mining, construction, and energy development. These routes also suffer from uneven surfaces and limiting lane widths. Combined with limited night time visibility and high traffic volumes, the risks are compounded when large vehicles travel at unsafe speeds. A technology-driven solution is not merely appropriate; it is essential.

Crucially, the rollout of the ACSMS is being supported by a coordinated, multi-agency framework. The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken the lead in policy direction, while the GPF Traffic Department will manage installation, compliance verification, and enforcement. The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) will certify devices and installers, ensuring that implementation meets strict technical requirements. The National Data Management Authority (NDMA) will oversee data security, transmission, and integration, an important safeguard in a system that relies heavily on digital infrastructure.

Legislative amendments, guided by the Attorney General’s Chambers, will provide the legal backbone needed to enforce the system. Ongoing stakeholder consultations with truck operators and industry representatives further reflect a commitment to transparency and collaboration, even as some operators express concerns regarding operational costs and trip-based earnings.

As national infrastructure expands and commercial activity accelerates, the preservation of human life must remain paramount. Economic progress cannot coexist with unchecked danger on public roads. The introduction of mandatory speed governors signals a shift toward a safer, more disciplined transport sector, one capable of supporting national growth without sacrificing public safety.

The Government’s move is bold, necessary, and commendable. It sets a new standard on the nation’s roadways and reinforces the principle that public safety is non-negotiable.

Tribute to Teacher Jerome Bernard and student Jodea Seline

Dear Editor,

On Friday, November 21, the country was shocked, and we, the members of the Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee (MJVC), were shocked and heartbroken at the sudden and untimely death of Jerome Bernard of Brighton Village on the Corentyne and Jodea Seline of Limlair Village, also on the Corentyne.

As we understand it, Jodea Seline and Jerome Bernard lost their lives in a tragic road accident at No. 63 Public Road on the Corentyne. Jerome, the driver of the bus, along with Jodea and her 13-yearold sister, Jennia Seline, and other schoolmates and teachers were returning from a school sports event when the fatal accident occurred.

We mourn their passing, and our hearts bleed for the injured as we pray for their full and speedy recovery.

Sixteen-year-old Jodea Seline was a very brilliant, cheerful, academically inclined and athletically driven student of Central Corentyne Secondary School. And 31-year-old

Jerome Bernard was a dedicated, ambitious, motivated and jovial teacher from the same secondary school.

Their untimely deaths have cast a deep sorrow across the school fraternity and almost everyone in the country. We share in grief and mourn their loss with their relatives, friends, and the school community.

Jerome was a founding member of the Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee (MJVC), and his death has left its members distraught, inconsolable and in deep anguish.

The members of the Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee (MJVC) did not know Jodea Seline personally, but the grief and sorrow we felt at her passing were great. It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the tragic death of the young and beautiful Jodea.

Jerome Bernard, our beloved colleague, was not only a dedicated, honest and steadfast volunteer and member of the Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee, but he was also a bright and vibrant colleague within the Macedonia Joppa district.

Known for his charm, warm humour, optimism and sincerity, Jerome had a deep and genuine love and compassion for people and was always willing to offer advice and assistance. His presence in the organisation has lifted us, and his kindness, respect and empathy have reminded us of what it means to care. He was a handsome and creative young man and a wonderful human being who enjoys life. His passing would be deeply felt by the members of MJVC, and it would no doubt leave an immense void.

Both Jerome Bernard and Jodea Seline were exceptionally young and were in the very prime of their lives when so tragically struck down. Those who would rationalise sorrow and grief in circumstances like these would offer the profound comfort that only the good die young. But that is poor consolation indeed for a country deprived of a talented and exceptional student and a gifted and inspired teacher. And although it is true that some versed in the field of philoso-

phy put forth the proposition that “to live is to die, and to die is to live,” we lesser mortals feel very keenly the capricious cruelty of death. We had hoped that they would have lived to see the fulfilment of their lives and what they would have achieved. But it did not happen. So we should dry our eyes and reassure ourselves that they live and it is death that is dead, not them.

We pray that the families and friends of both Jodea Seline and Jerome Bernard find strength, comfort and peace and hope that their memories shine a bright light during this difficult period. We extend our deepest sympathy to their families, friends and all who were blessed and fortunate to know them. May their souls rest in eternal peace, and may their loved ones be granted courage and healing during this very sad time.

Yours sincerely, Dr Asquith Rose Chair, MJVC Ms Vanessa RossAlbert Public Relations Director, MJVC

Educating Region 6

Dear Editor,

The “Ancient County” of Berbice is on the rise, and this is nowhere more so than in Region Six. At the leading edge of this economic and cultural renaissance is the education sector. During the Office of the President outreach last week, President Ali made it clear that the Mahaica Bridge is no longer the outer limit of educational excellence. And indeed, how propitious it was that only two weeks ago, the University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC) celebrated its 25th anniversary.

The UGBC is not an isolated entity because next door in Port Mourant is the Guyana Technical Training College Inc. GTTCI offers an 18-month Advanced Diploma in Oil and Gas and has a state-of-the-art facility with simulators to provide hands-on training for the offshore sector. It is a world-class facility by any measure. 104 students have already graduated, and another 28 are in training now. These are more than graduates. They are the material expression of an idea – where every child in this land will be included as the nation rises.

Soon a specialised school for training in tourism and hospitality will open in Port Mourant. This school will go a long way in advancing the national development agenda of diversifying our economy in a massive and

sustained effort to push back against the pressures of the resource curse and Dutch Disease. The school will also become a training ground for those who will enter the Orange Economy.

Not far away, the New Amsterdam Nursing School is making a name for itself. Right now 186 nurses are being trained, along with 66 nursing assistants and 21 midwives.

The Ministry of Education has been hard at work in Region Six. This has resulted in 1445 trained teachers, with another 813 currently moving towards graduation. By next year, Region Six will have the distinction of having a teaching staff with 100 per cent trained teachers. That is what human development and human security look like.

Education, innovation, and transformation go hand-in-hand. In this regard, the Guyana Digital School (GDS) will allow students and other learners to leapfrog the more traditional forms of education delivery. Geography and class will become almost irrelevant, because the GDS will be available 24/7, and students will work at their own pace and in the circumstances of their own choosing. 608 students from Region Six have been enrolled to date, and that number will grow when Grades Seven to 11 students are admitted in 2026.

45 Region Six students were recently admitted to engineering programmes, and 15 were admitted to study medicine. By January 2026, 100 students will have the opportunity to do pre-med, again right there in Region Six.

Students come from diverse backgrounds and learn differently. In this context, readers should note that 117 special needs students are enrolled in the SEND school programmes. New SEND centres were recently opened at Overwinning Primary, No. 48 Primary, Skeldon Secondary, and Port Mourant Secondary.

The philosophy of no child left behind is real. Inclusive excellence is a key element of the PPP/C’s commitment to democratic governance.

The American philosopher of education John Dewey once said, “Education is not a preparation for life; education is life itself.” Dewey believed that learning is not confined to the classroom, nor limited to youth. It is a continuous, democratic act, the means by which human beings grow in judgement, participation, and shared responsibility. Region Six today is now fully ensconced in the participatory development model in Guyana.

Yours sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud Office of the President

2025 mid-year report highlights several gains for the working class

Dear Editor, The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has recently reviewed the recently released 2025 mid-year report. The document highlights Guyana’s economic and financial progress while considering our social advancement. The report reviews the developments that have followed the historic 2025 National Budget, which continued to focus on comprehensive development and improvement. The Union believes that the report is a must-read given its focus on several significant issues.

Central to the report’s thrust and focus was the disclosure that the economy had grown by 7.5 per cent in the first half of the year. Notably, the non-oil economy grew by as much as 13.8 per cent. In our view, it demonstrates that the economy is much more than oil and gas. Significantly as well, we took note of the nearly 140 per cent expansion in the sugar sector. We anticipate that the growth realised will be sustained over the short and medium term as the industry is steered to viability. As President Irfaan Ali shared during his post-cabinet media briefing on November 21, 2025, greater emphasis will be placed in the coming period on management effectiveness and efficiency, as more efforts are being made to-

wards mechanisation. These efforts, the President disclosed, will seek to reverse past bouts of mismanagement, especially during the sojourn of some who claim to come with clean hands and hearts.

The report’s economic data highlighted the robustness of the economy and the gains in several other sectors. Apart from that, we noted inflation was recorded at 2.9 per cent up to June 2025. This outcome, we are aware, cannot be separated from several government policies aimed at mitigating the full impact of global economic turmoil and upheavals.

Additionally, as a union representing thousands of Guyanese workers, we also noted the mid-year report's highlighting of several laudable achievements during the first half of 2025. Some highlights for us were as follows: Health sector spending of approximately $53B – paving the way for the commissioning of six regional hospitals, advancing other health facilities, and increasing training of health professionals, among other things.

• In education, we note the expenditure of approximately $82 billion, which led to the opening of new schools in several villages, improved textbook availability, and the pro-

vision of cash grants to all school-aged children. In housing, the report highlights that approximately $58 billion was spent, resulting in the allocation of around 10,000 house lots during the period, with development works ongoing in over 100 housing schemes.

• In water, approximately $6.2 billion was spent on the commissioning of water treatment plants that benefit around 75,000 Guyanese, while works to improve water distribution were advanced in several villages.

Collectively, these efforts, along with many others, have contributed to improving the well-being of Guyanese workers and their families, making a tangible impact on their lives for even brighter days ahead. The 2025 midyear report demonstrates that Guyana’s future is secure and assured. It reveals that a strong foundation is being laid for a modern, prosperous Guyana. But, most importantly, it speaks to a policy-driven agenda that ensures no Guyanese, whether on the coast or in the hinterland, is left out of the ambitious yet realistic development programme.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine President – GAWU

Page Foundation

Complementary and Supplementary Angles

When two angles are paired, then there exist different angles, such as

• Complementary angles

• Supplementary angles Linear Pair

• Adjacent angles

Supplementary Angles

When the sum of two angles is 180°, then the angles are known as supplementary angles.

• Vertically opposite angles

Complementary Angles

When the sum of two angles is 90°, then the angles are known as complementary angles.

In the above figure, the measure of angle BOD is 60°, and angle AOD measures 30°. By adding both of these angles we get a right angle of 90°; therefore, BOD and AOD are complementary angles and are called complements of each other.

In the above figure, the measure of angle AOC is 60°, and angle AOB measures 120°. By adding both of these angles we get a straight angle of 180°. Therefore, AOC and AOB are supplementary angles, and both of these angles are known as a supplement to each other.

The differences between these angles can be easily remembered by the details on the table below:

Instructions

1. Prop up the flat surfaces so they are in a

stops movement between the two objects.

• Small Toy Car or Ball

Place the toy car or ball at the top of a ramp and let it roll down the ramp. Observe how fast it goes.

4. Repeat step 2 with each surface type. What did you observe? Did the car or ball roll down each ramp at the same speed? Was

hypothesis correct?

happening? The grooves in the rough ramp and even the small dips in the lightly textured ramp slow down the motion of the toy car or ball because of friction. This is different from the smooth ramp, which allows the toy car or ball to move with less friction. Hiking boots have thick rubber soles with deep treads. This helps protect your feet and prevents slipping on slippery surfaces because it increases the friction with the ground. Where else do you think you can find this happening? (childsci.org)

By RaBindRanath tagoRe

If people came to know where my king's palace is, it would vanish into the air.

The walls are of white silver and the roof of shining gold.

The queen lives in a palace with seven courtyards, and she wears a jewel that cost all the wealth of seven kingdoms.

But let me tell you, mother, in a whisper, where my king's palace is.

It is at the corner of our terrace where the pot of the tulsi plant stands.

The princess lies sleeping on the far-away shore of the seven impassable seas.

There is none in the world who can find her but myself.

She has bracelets on her arms and pearl drops in her ears; her hair sweeps down upon the floor.

She will wake when I touch her with my magic wand and jewels will fall from her lips when she smiles.

But let me whisper in your ear, mother; she is there in the corner of our terrace where the pot of the tulsi plant stands.

When it is time for you to go to the river for your bath, step up to that terrace on the roof.

I sit in the corner where the shadow of the walls meet together.

Only puss is allowed to come with me, for she know where the barber in the story lives.

But let me whisper, mother, in your ear where the barber in the story lives.

It is at the corner of the terrace where the pot of the tulsi plant stands.

[Source: Poetry (December 1912)]

Describe each day of the week as if it were a person. Give each one personality traits, a job, and a goal. Write a story about them.

Tourism Ministry introduces 7 new tourism experiences

– sector aims to deepen how visitors connect with Guyana

Guyana’s tourism sector continues its steady expansion with the launch of seven new tourism experiences designed to deepen how visitors connect with the country’s people, culture, cuisine, and natural landscapes.

The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, in collaboration with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), unveiled the products during an Immersive Tourism Product Launch and Cocktail Evening on Tuesday at the Arthur

Chung Conference Centre. The event brought together operators, partners, and key industry stakeholders to showcase the growing innovation and diversification within the tourism sector.

Delivering the feature address, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Hon Susan Rodrigues, spoke of the ongoing transformation of Guyana’s tourism landscape and its increasing potential to become a major pillar of the national economy. She reaffirmed the

Government’s commitment to supporting tour operators as small businesses, noting that this approach aligns with the administration’s broader policy of small business development.

“We are investing this time because we want to really grow Guyana’s tourism experience, elevate our visibility on the global platform, welcome our visitors and give them a truly immersive experience,” the Minister said.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul

Construction, machinery highpotential investment...

As I've been coming here on the last five years on this yearly cycle with the different trade delegations, and we come and the roads have been built, the bridges have been built, the hotels have been built, the oil gas to shore pipeline has been built, new hospitals have been built. It's impressive,” he said with optimism.

Bennet linked the size of this year’s delegation to heightened investor confidence, enthusiasm about Guyana’s trajectory, and the recognition that the UK holds clear competitive advantages in specialist-skill transfer, advanced equipment deployment, and infrastructure-driven commerce.

With this in mind, he shared several specialist sectors open to investment in Guyana, which have the potential to boost partnership between the two nations.

Baksh, also addressed attendees, emphasising the Authority’s focus on product development and its continued drive to expand experiential tourism across the industry.

As part of the programme, operators introduced their new tourism products, which included Bush Bar & Bites by Touring Guyana; Kumerau Expedition by Blackwater Adventures; Essequibo Got Taste by Eco Destination Tours Guyana; Kids Botani Tour by Trail Masters Adventure Tours; Cook Like a Guyanese Tour by Wanderlust Adventures; Celebrating the Coconut by Eco Destination Tours Guyana; and the Guyana Flying Dress Experience by Wanderlust Adventures. These additions reflect a wider national effort to diversify tourism offerings,

support community-led development, and create meaningful, immersive experiences for both locals and international visitors.

A highlight of the evening was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Wanderlust Adventures GY and the Carnegie School of Economics, a partnership aimed at further advancing culinary tourism in Guyana.

November is being observed as Tourism Awareness Month under the theme “Tourism: A Transformational Pillar of Guyana’s Economy”.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to building tourism as a transformational pillar of Guyana’s economy, Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues said that tour-

ism is fast emerging as a key contributor to national growth and community development.

Highlighting the major strides made in connectivity and infrastructure, she had previously pointed to Guyana’s strengthened air links with the world. She noted that over the past year, the Ministry has strengthened Guyana’s international connectivity through several new and expanded airline routes.

Collectively, these developments are expected to boost visibility, expand access, and create new opportunities for Guyana’s tourism sector.

The Minister added that this progress is complemented by ongoing investments in people and communities, which she described as “the heart of Guyana’s tourism product”.

“Because of the nature of what's happening here in Guyana, we can see that there are specialist areas where perhaps the UK can bring specialist equipment, specialist skills, financing for some of the projects that you want to undertake. And we've brought a number of companies that are involved in the construction space or infrastructure space, companies including Reed Steel, Rainbow, ITT, Agreco, Ellipse and NSG. And you'll find there's a very helpful brochure talking about all of them, which is free to access at the end if you're interested.”

reach of ordinary Guyanese people to give them the skills and qualifications they need to operate in the economy of the future. And so those two companies are NCUK and Rosetta Stone,” he explained.

“The other area of major success in Guyana has been through investment in people, through education and a meaningful local content law. And we're bringing with us two companies from the education space, which can bring new global best-in-class training and educational opportunities for within the

As British firms pursue expanded footholds, Bennet pointed to one critical marker of success already evident: 40 percent of UK companies currently operating in Guyana are not only thriving but have already secured local partners and established formal in-country operations, strengthening long-term commercial integration and investment permanence.

Bennet closed by reiterating that with direct shipping services now active and air routes connecting the UK and Guyana like never before, the partnership is closer than ever, and the environment for investment is blossoming.

Guarding…

…from within

Well… It looks like “boat gone a watah” on the Electronic Data ID Cards (E-ID) promised a couple of years ago as one of the innovations to signal our progress into first world status!! It’s interesting we did it with the assistance of Abu Dhabi – which started out like us in the 60s, dirt poor, but zoomed to the top by investing their oil funds strategically!! So, imagine that… Abu Dhabi is now providing cutting-edge electronic thingamajigs!! There’s hope for us, no??

And what will this card do, you ask, dear reader?? According to VP Jagdeo, who’d made the original announcement, a chip embedded in the card will “store a lot of the biometric data. Blood type, data for driver’s licence, GRA, your TIN number, etc.” Duncan – the bell crier from the PNC – just said they feel the system ought to be under the purview of Parliament!! Now, the moment your Eyewitness read the “etc.” bit, his paranoia antenna had snapped to attention. With his experience of the Burnhamite dictatorship – which had spread its tentacles into every facet of Guyanese life to control us –he immediately assumed this E-ID could give Big Brother – predicted in Orwell’s “1984” – a free pass into all his affairs!!

And nothing that’s happened with these smart computers and phones has diminished your Eyewitness’ paranoia. Imagine just the other day, he and the Missus were talking casually about buying a shirt for one of the young’uns, then presto!! Ads for shirts started popping up like Jumbie Umbrellas on his smartphone!! Ever since then they’ve had to adopt the strategy they used when the kids were small – don’t say anything sensitive around them unless you want to have it blurted out to any visitor to the home!! In the case of the E-ID card – which would have to be accessible to the smart devices – all his life details would literally be available to “Big Brother”!!

He just saw that over in Old Blighty – which is also trying to get with it in this Brave New World by introducing E-IDs – a former head of their spy agency MI-6 has expressed an additional concern to your Eyewitness’. Said the spook, “When you aggregate data into one massive base, of course it immediately becomes a target for the country’s enemies. You therefore must be sure that the citadel is impregnable. However secure you believe the system to be, quantum computing, when it arrives, could render redundant your defences.”

Now your Eyewitness knows these innovations like E-IDs are inevitable in the new seamless world opening up to us moving from a sh*thole country to having the highest growth rate in the world!! But we gotta take precautions!!

Hope our IT boffins are brushing up on their antiquantum computing hacking skills!!

…against new exploitation

The altercation between Guyanese workers and Chinese bosses at the Aurora Gold Mine was as inevitable as the sun rising in the east. Over the last decades, we’ve read of the horrible Chinese record in mining in so many African countries. Take, for instance, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to one investigative team out of the Netherlands, “For two decades, China’s state-owned mining companies have held a nearmonopoly over mining in the DRC. That dominance has allowed Chinese companies to operate with near impunity as they drive corruption, displace communities, and promote illicit mining.” Why’d we think it would be any different here??

While we may need FDI to exploit our resources, we gotta have monitoring systems in place to ensure all forms of exploitation are controlled. Our default position must be that there’s gonna be exploitation – especially by the Chinese. Just look at how they treat their employees in their supermarkets!!

What about mines in the bush?!!

…our borders

With some sorta US military operation to take out Mad Maduro imminent… Shouldn’t we be posting our GDF troops along our NW border to ensure we aren’t overrun by his minions fleeing retribution from those they’d trampled on for years??

Guyana leads Caricom in securing UNFPA backing to tackle sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment

Guyana has become the first Caribbean Community (Caricom) nation to receive technical support from the United Nations

tors of society. She pointed out that the new seal is not symbolic but rooted in measurable standards and practical requirements that organisations must meet to transform workplaces.

“This gender seal is not merely a policy; it is an actionable programme where there are measurable indicators,” the Minister said. She explained that the initiative was specifically tailored for both public and private sectors, taking into account the differences between them while maintaining the core objective of ensuring safe workplaces.

ing sectors to adopt the seal with seriousness, consistency, and genuine dedication, reminding stakeholders that meaningful workplace transformation can only be achieved through continuous and collective effort.

Addressing the wider issue of violence in Guyana, the Minister rejected the notion that responsibility lies solely with any single entity or group. Instead, she called for a national, unified approach.

officially launched the initiative during a ceremony at Roraima Duke Lodge, bringing together senior Government leaders, private sector bodies,

Population Fund (UNFPA) to address Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH)

through a national workplace certification programme – a landmark achievement unveiled on Wednesday with the launch of the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal. The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security

and representatives of the UNFPA. Among those in attendance were Minister of Labour and Manpower

Planning Keoma Griffith, Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally, Permanent Secretaries, members of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Private Sector Commission, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and UNFPA representatives.

Delivering the feature address, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud emphasised that advancing gender equality and ending gender-based violence demand a united effort across all sec-

“We have taken a mega step today because we have managed to bring together two critical driving forces in our country – the private and public sectors.”

Minister Persaud further underscored the importance of engagement that includes all genders, stressing that the commitment to empowerment must involve boys and men as well.

“We need to have our boys equally walk this path. When we speak of empowerment, and they hear it, they should not only hear females… As we embark on this journey, it will change the way we assess ourselves.”

She urged participat-

“There is an expectation that the responsibility is entrusted to a particular agency or specific people. I want to say no. It cannot and must not be seen as this. It requires us to re-educate, reimagine, and rededicate ourselves. We need to work in unity to counter violence.”

The launch of the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal marks a ground-breaking step in Guyana’s efforts to advance dignity, safety, and equal opportunity in workplaces. With UNFPA’s support, Guyana now positions itself as a regional leader in strengthening protections from sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment while pursuing comprehensive gender justice across all sectors.

7-year-old among 4 injured in crash near Berbice River Bridge

Four persons, including a seven-year-old, have been hospitalised after an accident near the Berbice River Bridge.

Police in Regional Division # 6 say they are investigating the serious accident that occurred on Monday, November 24, about 23:59h on the Berbice River Bridge access road, Palmyra, East Canje, Berbice.

The accident involved motor car PAJ 1625, driven by a 57-year-old male of Martin Luther Housing Scheme, New Amsterdam,

with three occupants.

Initial inquiries revealed that the vehicle was proceeding east along the northern drive lane allegedly at a fast pace when the driver reportedly lost control and hit a culvert on the southern side of the road.

As a result of the impact, the driver and occupants received injuries about their bodies.

The injured persons included a 30-year-old female of Islington Village, East Bank Berbice (EBB); the seven-year-old student, also of Islington Village, and a

66-year-old female of South Ozone Park, New York, USA.

They were assisted by public-spirited citizens and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), and transported to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where they were treated.

Three of the injured were admitted for fractures and other injuries, while the 30-year-old female was receiving treatment for soft-tissue injuries.

The vehicle has since been impounded as investigations continue.

GDF honours international military partners at 60th anniversary event

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Tuesday hosted a Military Partners Day at the Officers’ Mess, Base Camp Ayanganna, to recognise and celebrate the long-standing relationships Guyana shared with its international defence partners.

The event formed part of the GDF’s 60th anniversary observances and brought together representatives from Belize, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, France, India, Suriname, the United Kingdom, the United States, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, and the Regional Security System (RSS). Ambassadors, defence attachés, Branch Heads, Senior Officers, and Warrant

The ceremony featured presentations reflecting on decades of diplomatic and military cooperation, including training exchanges and capacity-building programmes that continue to strengthen the professionalism and operational readiness of the Force. Several beneficiaries of these programmes shared brief accounts

of how international collaboration has enhanced their expertise and broadened the GDF’s technical capabilities.

Omar Khan, MSS, emphasised the importance of principled security partnerships in his remarks. He noted that these relationships supported conflict prevention, encouraged knowledge-sharing, and facilitated the exchange of critical information necessary to combat drug trafficking, transnational crime, and terrorism. Brigadier Khan also underscored the value of cooperation in natural-disaster response and in building a proactive, resilient regional security framework.

He reaffirmed that mutual respect for sovereign space and a shared commitment to democratic values remain central to Guyana’s defence partnerships.

As the GDF commemorates 60 years of service, Tuesday’s gathering highlighted the continuing role of international partners in advancing national security, regional stability, and the ongoing professional development of the Force.

The evening concluded with an opportunity for partners to socialise and strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties.

GPF, French military authorities advance bilateral security cooperation

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) and senior French military and security officials have taken another significant step toward strengthening bilateral security collaboration following a high-level meeting on Tuesday. Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken and senior GPF officers met with a French delegation led by Olivier Plançon, Ambassador of France in Guyana, and including French Commander of Police Jean-Michel Canestrier and his collaborator, Maxence Kauffmann. The discussion centred on expanding operational cooperation and identifying new avenues for strategic partnership between the two Police forces.

Commander Canestrier, the French Regional Security Adviser responsible for Guyana and Suriname, joined GPF leadership in indepth discussions aimed at reinforcing existing operational ties. Both sides noted the already strong and effective working relationship, citing the recent successful handling of a case involving French fake passports as an example of productive joint action. The meeting underscored the importance of continued cooperation in tackling shared security challenges.

A key item on the agenda was the proposed signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the French and

Guyanese Police Forces. The agreement, once finalised, would formalise the framework for cooperation and support long-term joint initiatives in priority security areas.

The two sides also examined ways to strengthen operational coordination, including real-time information sharing, cross-border alerts, and enhanced investigative support. These measures aim to bolster joint responses to criminal activities affecting both jurisdictions.

Plans were discussed for reciprocal visits to Police facilities and services in Guyana and French Guiana. Such visits would allow both sides to strengthen understanding of each other’s sys-

Edghill highlights investment opportunities in port development, infrastructure sector at meeting with UK businesses

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill on Wednesday met with members of the United Kingdom Business Mission to Guyana and Suriname for a high-level strategic discussion aimed at deepening partnerships and identifying new opportunities for two-way trade, investment, and project collaboration.

The meeting, held in the Ministry’s boardroom, forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between international firms and Caribbean counterparts across multiple sectors.

tems, operational capacities, and best practices, ultimately improving joint operations.

Another major focus was digitalisation and modernisation of policing. Discussions explored the use of investigative technologies, digital data management systems, and border security tools to support modern policing efforts in both countries.

Training and capacity building featured prominently in the meeting. Both sides agreed to begin with training on the detection of fake documents. This initial training will cover the security features of Guyanese, French, and European Union identity and travel documents; techniques used in producing fraudulent doc-

uments; and investigative approaches for document fraud cases. A broader training plan will be developed subsequently.

Officials on both sides acknowledged that Guyana and France (through French Guiana) face similar threats across the Guyana Shield, including narcotrafficking, gold smuggling, human trafficking, arms trafficking, and illegal immigration. The meeting also noted that illegal migration risks may increase with the new direct flight between Georgetown and Amsterdam Schiphol, one of Europe’s largest airport hubs. Strengthened cooperation between the forces will improve their ability to detect, prevent, and investigate these cross-border crimes.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Commissioner (Administration) Ravindradat Budhram; Finance Officer and Senior Superintendent Bharat Persaud; Head of the Strategic Planning & Implementation Unit for Police Reform and Senior Superintendent Dr Nicola Kendall; and Second-inCommand (Administration) and Superintendent Jewel Sullivan.

The Guyana Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to strong regional and international security partnerships and expressed optimism about deepening cooperation with French authorities as both sides continue to confront shared transnational threats.

Motorcycle enforcement campaign nets 19 violations in Division 4C

AThe UK Business Mission featured a broad cross-section of companies and organisations, including the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI); BritCham Guyana; Smart Suriname; Kestrel (shipping and logistics); Aggreko (energy solutions); Cura Terrae (environmental services); Ellipse Projects (technology and project development); I.T. Transport TT; Mowlem (engineering); NCUK; NSG Exports Limited; Rainbo Supplies; REIDsteel; Rosetta Stone, and SiriusInsight.

Both sides expressed optimism about future areas of collaboration, noting that stronger partnerships could support capacity building, improve regional connectivity, and promote innovation across key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and ICT. Minister Edghill high-

During the engagement, Minister Edghill emphasised the Government of Guyana’s commitment to fostering a business environment that encourages technical advancement, sustainable growth, and collaborative development. Representatives of the mission were given the opportunity to discuss their potential roles in Guyana’s rapidly-developing energy, infrastructure, logistics, and environmental sectors.

lighted Guyana’s significant investment potential, particularly in areas aligned with national development priorities, including port development, renewable energy, infrastructure modernisation, and technological integration.

As Guyana and its regional partners continue working to expand investment opportunities and build resilient, future-ready sectors in collaboration with international stakeholders, the meeting concluded with an agreement to maintain communication as discussions move towards tangible outcomes.

The delegation was led by British Member of Parliament for Birmingham, Paulette Hamilton; UK High Commissioner to Guyana and Ambassador to Suriname, Jane Miller; and Regional Director for the Commonwealth Caribbean, D’Jamila Ward, among others.

motorcycle enforcement campaign conducted across several East Coast Demerara districts resulted in 19 traffic violations as Regional Division 4C intensified its road safety operations for 2025–2026 under the theme “Careful Driving Saves Lives”.

The exercise, carried out on Tuesday, was led by Assistant Superintendents S Gobin and I Grandison, along with Inspector T Payne and Sergeants Phillips, Robin, Kendall, Fraser, Hemerding, and Simon. Ranks were deployed across the areas covered by the Mahaica, Sparendaam, Beterverwagting, Vigilance and Non-Pareil Police Stations.

During the operation, officers found six motorcyclists riding without reflecting mirrors, while one rider was seen transporting a pillion rider without a safety helmet. Five others were caught riding without helmets of their own. Two motorcycles had obscured iden-

tification marks, and three riders were found in breach of their provisional licences. Additionally, two motorcycles were discovered without silencers. Altogether, the enforcement effort uncovered nineteen violations.

Division Four C noted that the campaign was not only about identifying infractions but also about engaging with riders to emphasise the importance of responsible riding, the proper use of safety gear, and adherence to the country’s traffic laws. The Division said it remains committed to strengthening road safety measures and reducing the number of accidents on the nation’s roadways through continuous enforcement and public education.

Earlier this year, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) launched a major motorcycle road safety campaign in response to a sharp rise in motorcyclist fatalities, which reached 30 by June 19, 2025 – a 50 per cent increase from the previous year, with most victims not

wearing helmets.

Unveiled at the National Road Safety Stakeholders Forum, the campaign, titled “Ride Smart, Stay Alive: Your Life, Your Ride!”, aims to reduce deaths and injuries by promoting helmet use, responsible riding, and safer behaviour among riders, especially young and inexperienced motorcyclists.

Key efforts include hazard perception training, defensive riding education, impaired riding awareness, and helmet and protective gear demonstrations, along with initiatives addressing distracted riding and motorcycle maintenance.

The GPF will also increase enforcement of helmet laws and speeding violations while pushing for improved road infrastructure that prioritises motorcyclist safety. These initiatives will be widely promoted through PSAs, social media challenges, community outreach, and partnerships with medical professionals and local organisations.

67 CSHE students certified across 5 skillbuilding programmes in food, decor, beauty

The Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) marked another milestone in vocational excellence last Thursday as it hosted its 2025 Graduation Ceremony at CSHE at the National Cultural Centre, under the theme: “Shaping generations with creativity and skills – 93 years of transformation in education and training.”

A cohort of 67 students earned certification across five accredited, skill-building programmes designed to strengthen Guyana’s emerging workforce. The graduating class completed training in practical and

high-demand disciplines, including commercial food preparation, garment making, cosmetology, interior decoration, and catering and hospitality – fields spanning the food, decor, and beauty sectors. This year’s results reflected a notable rise in pass rates, supported by expanded industry collaborations and the school’s continued application of competency-based education and training aligned with CANTA occupational benchmarks. Student internships were facilitated through well-regarded hospitality, garment-production and cosmetology

establishments, several of which have already translated into formal job placements for new graduates, signalling a strong transition from training to employment.

The ceremony also highlighted the national drive to broaden equitable access to technical and vocational learning in support of the Government of Guyana’s vision for a rapidly expanding and more diversified economy. Officials reaffirmed that continued investment into vocational education remains a priority pathway for strengthening sustainable careers, fostering local talent, and

accelerating national development.

Principal Dr Sharmaine Marshall delivered passionate remarks championing student resilience and adaptability, qualities she said will serve graduates as they step into new opportunity arenas. She extended appreciation to the Ministry of Education – Guyana, partner companies, families, teaching staff and school personnel for their continued contribution to student success and programme longevity.

“In today’s world these skills are incredibly important. I was listening to Dr Carpen the other day, and he spoke about us developing nationally as per capita but regressing in terms of health because there is a direct correlation: the more money you acquire, suddenly home-cooked food is not appealing… As graduates, you are not simply receiving a certificate or diploma; you are equipped with a skill that will enable you to contribute meaningfully in society,” the principal said.

Marshall noted that as the school approaches nearly a century of influence in national skills formation, the 2025 cohort stands as a testament to the ongoing transformation of ordinary learners into certified professionals equipped for growing industries, future

innovation, and meaningful participation in Guyana’s development story.

“Whether you choose to work in catering, hospitality, or interior design, household management, or your own enterprise, your training has given you the tools. More importantly, you have demonstrated commitment, discipline and perseverance to get to walk the stage today, and those are qualities that will serve you well,” she added.

The Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) has been at the forefront of vocational and technical education in Guyana for over 90 years, shaping generations of skilled professionals. Established to

provide practical training in areas that support both personal development and the national workforce, the school offers programmes in commercial food preparation, garment making, cosmetology, interior decoration, and catering and hospitality. With a focus on hands-on learning, creativity, and industry-relevant skills, CSHE equips its students to succeed in diverse careers, contribute to their communities, and meet the evolving demands of the modern workplace. Over the decades, the institution has built a strong reputation for excellence, producing graduates who are both confident and capable in their chosen fields.

Guyana, UK advance talks on enhanced public health partnerships

inister of Health

MDr Frank Anthony on Wednesday met with British High Commissioner to Guyana Jane Miller, along with a representative of the fifth Batch of the UK Trade Mission to Guyana, to discuss strengthened collaboration and emerging opportunities within the public health sector.

The engagement, held at the Minister’s Office in Brickdam, also included the participation of Dr Narine Singh, Chief Medical Officer of the Ministry of Health, and Robbie Rambarran, Chief Executive Officer of the Georgetown Public

Hospital Corporation (GPHC), among other senior technical officers. During the meeting, the British High Commissioner reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Guyana’s ongoing social and economic transformation through sustainable investment, technology transfer, and enhanced trade relations.

The Minister welcomed this commitment and noted that such partnerships can significantly enhance healthcare delivery, improve hospital services, and foster innovation across the health sector.

UG, Embassy of Colombia host cultural exchange programme –

strengthen regional cultural ties through partnership

The University of Guyana, in collaboration with the Embassy of Colombia and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, successfully hosted a cultural exchange programme titled “Sounds and

for cultural diplomacy and education.

Over the three-day programme, participants examined the role of storytelling and performance in preserving collective memory and strengthening

Stages of Origin: Weaving Cultural Networks between Colombia and Guyana.”

The events were held at the World Trade Centre, the Theatre Guild and the National Cultural Centre on October 27, 28 and 29, respectively.

The initiative explored the shared Caribbean heritage of both nations and brought together artists, educators and students. It featured renowned Colombian playwright and actress Marilyn Leonor Biscaino Miller, who led interactive workshops, creative sessions and performances in Georgetown.

Miller’s visit marked the beginning of a formal artistic collaboration between Guyana and Colombia, with a focus on theatre as a tool

cross-cultural understanding.

Activities commenced with an opening ceremony at the World Trade Centre, continued with a creative workshop at the Theatre Guild of Guyana and concluded with a dynamic public performance at the National Cultural Centre.

During the opening ceremony, Ambassador of Colombia to Guyana and CARICOM, Graybern Livingston, reflected on the deeper significance of the collaboration, stating, “Culture is diplomacy in its most human expression... Through theatre, music, and storytelling, we connect communities, preserve memories, and build trust that sustains friendship among people.”

Representing Guyana’s theatre community, Guyana Prize-winning writer Mosa Telford charted the evolution of local theatre, highlighting key periods, figures and movements that shaped the dramatic arts from the colonial era to contemporary times.

Bonita Hunter, Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Education and Humanities, delivered remarks on behalf of the University of Guyana, underscoring the importance of the initiative to the university’s cultural and academic mission. “The University of Guyana is honoured to be part of this collaboration,” she stated. “Through the arts, we nurture critical thinking, creative expression and intercultural understanding, key components of our vision to develop graduates who are both culturally grounded and globally engaged,” she noted.

A major highlight of the exchange was the Collective Creation Workshop held on October 28 at the Theatre Guild. Young artists, educators, theatre practitioners and university students collaborated to produce an

original short play titled “Awee Culture,

During the four-hour workshop, participants examined themes of Guyanese identity and the influence

movement, breath work and voice work. Participants utilised emotion, memory, rhythm and embodied exercises to shape both the narrative and the performance

side Miller’s acclaimed monologue “Comeback… Comeback”, which celebrates the resilience and spiritual strength of Raizal women from San Andrés.

of technology on young people, using storytelling, folklore, cultural forms and rural family life as key points of reflection. The play emerged through a process grounded in improvisation,

style.

The play was dramaturgised by participants in collaboration with Ms Marilyn Miller. It was later showcased at the National Cultural Centre along-

The Embassy of Colombia noted that this initiative represents the first phase of a broader cultural collaboration. Later this month, the partnership will continue with a music exchange, uniting Guyanese and Colombian musicians for another joint performance and workshop. The University of Guyana, in the release, noted that it remains deeply committed to fostering artistic innovation, intercultural dialogue and meaningful community engagement. The collaboration formed part of UG’s broader goal of establishing four Centres of Excellence in the Humanities within the Faculty of Education and Humanities. The centres aim to advance education and deepen cultural diplomacy through creativity, research and regional and international partnerships.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2025|

A TribuTe by NeAz SubhAN

There were many things that were and will still be said about the cinema legend from Bollywood, India, Dharmendra Kewal Krisha Deol. We here in Guyana fondly refer to him as “Dharamji”. However, we all latched on to the moniker “He Man”, not because we were influenced by the constant bombarding of information on Bollywood films in the times of “Radioland” decades back, but because we were convinced by our eyes. Being one of the most handsome men in the world, brawny and with that signature Greek-God-like look, brought tremendous pressure on our young male souls to emulate.

I believe it was a fruitless escapade through self-imposition for many boys then, here and across the globe. We wanted to be a “He-Man”. That self-inflicted pressure was “inspired” by cinema, a most potent phenomenon in a past era devoid of the technological advances which today have become fused to everyday living. In my boyhood days, my circle couldn’t have envisaged today’s lifelines like the internet, computers, cellphones and artificial intelligence, but that’s a different story.

Then, we were occupied primarily with what was coming at the silver screens in those now non-existent

No. Despite his global influence and seventeen consecutive hits, he was soft: the romantic hero. Dharmendra “knocked hard”; action was guaranteed. In the cinemas, we felt the power of his punches as they landed on the “scamp men”, e.g., Baldhead Shetty, and, often, freed the captured heroine and family members. In reality, those duels were “soothing” to us; our solace and enjoyable reward for doing our schoolwork and chores. In many ways, cinema in general shaped us, including instilling that discipline to complete all tasks before our parents permitted us the op-

film, “Dil Bhi Tere Hum Bhi Tere” (“My heart is yours, I am also yours”) in 1960 and followed up with a few others. It didn’t matter even after I was enlightened. For me, he, Amitabh Bachchan, Feroz Khan and Vinod Khanna were the star boys of choice, given their powerful fists. Of course, Dharmendra didn’t disappoint, for he was known to possess the most powerful pair of fists fit for taking revenge, especially for his mother.

With that automatic adrenaline rush, both on screen and in our bodies, the crescendo was anticipated and “typecast”, for it

cinema halls. Yes, our cinema-stricken preoccupation in our time competed with schoolwork and mandated chores, but that was inescapable. Regrettably, we were not interested in the then and first Bollywood superstar, Rajesh Khanna.

portunity to feast our eyes on the silver screen. Yeah, it sounds ironic.

We were transformed by the excitement, especially Dharmendra, totally oblivious that he also started as a romantic hero in his first

stayed within expectations. That was motivation to visit again, for our parents were seemingly assured that the chores were already done without fuss. Despite the harsh economic challenges then, somehow efforts to

get a cinema “bill” were generally successful. When the parents were unable, there was a dependable grandparent.

With the incredible impact of this “He-Man” on us

ten regarded as the greatest film made in Bollywood, remains a reservoir of comfort and motivation. Smitten by Basanti, played by Hema Malini, whom he eventually married, and his relent-

8. Life will always be that foremost enigma. While his forte was the action genre, he excelled at comedy, and his humorous attempts to dance will forever evoke laughter. From all reports, even before his death, the character Veru was in many ways a reflection of who Dharmendra was in person: altruistic, devoid of any semblance of ego and selfless in his efforts to assist and lift others up. Having ventured into politics, he left after a brief stint, citing that he was an emotional person and that may not be a quality required for that endeavour. Much was said in that statement, confirming what others know of him: magnanimous and unpretentious. It was therefore no surprise that he was treasured even before his death, as vindicated by the innumerable tributes from across the globe and from all strata of society. With his death being one of the lead stories on the BBC and other international news agen-

boys and the “drooling” of girls across the globe, with some, according to reports, sleeping with his photographs under their pillows, we better understood why my mother and neighbouring ladies spoke adoringly about the thespian, Dilip Kumar, and his fellow actor, Dev Anand. That was an era before us, and I am sure that their gathering in the great beyond would make for good “cinema” still.

While I am tempted to venture into more details about the impact of Bollywood on our generation and era, for those who are still around, the influence and memories of Dharmendra are foremost. His unforgettable performance as the lovable Veru in the emblematic cinematic masterpiece, “Sholay”, of-

less efforts to win her heart, he provides much courage to the timid boys.

Alongside Jai, a completely opposite character to Veru and played by Bollywood Badshah (King), Amitabh Bachchan, and taking revenge on the iconic villain, Gabbar Singh, as excelled by Amjad Khan for Thakur Baldev Singh as effortlessly and skilfully portrayed by Sanjeev Kumar, “Sholay” will remain that legendary classic not just for cinema, but for Dharmendra too. It will be re-released in December 2025. Sadly, Dharmendra will be absent. Who knows, there might be a “special reunion” up above with him and both Sanjeev Kumar and Amjad Khan. He will also not be with us for his 90th birthday on December

cies, there is no disputing the global impact he had in many countries he never visited and on millions of people he never met. That is what makes a legend, in both life and death: a legend as reflected through the versatile Dharmendra, Dharamji. Despite two of his sons, Sunny and Bobby, being seasoned and respected actors, I believe that Dharmendra's shoes will remain unfilled.

Cinema, and, of course, India, has lost an icon, a standard bearer and a humane mortal. We are comforted knowing that with technology, we can still enjoy his efforts through the treasure trove of movies he left us and be reminded by the multitude of those named after him, including in Guyana.

Concerns over animals on Corentyne Highway renewed

...as recent student, teacher fatalities a result of animals on road

Residents and frequent commuters along the Corentyne Highway are again raising concerns about the growing number of animals roaming freely on the roadway, warning that the situation poses a serious threat to motorists, especially at night. From grazing cattle to horses and donkeys, the presence of these animals has become a daily hazard and has contributed to several fatal crashes within the past year.

In early 2024, a motorcyclist from Whim died after slamming into a cow that wandered onto the highway just outside Adventure. A few months later, another fatality occurred at No. 62 Village, when a hire car crashed into a loose horse, leaving the driver dead at the scene. And most recently, in mid-2025, a father of two from Bloomfield lost his life after colliding with a donkey while heading home late at night.

Drivers say the problem is particularly severe in areas between Fyrish and Lancaster, where large herds are often seen crossing or resting on the road. With holiday traffic expected to increase, residents are urging authorities to enforce existing laws requiring livestock owners to secure their animals.

They warn that without stronger enforcement and cooperation from owners, the Corentyne Highway will remain a deadly stretch for unsuspecting road users.

cle, it may happen like that.”

Most recent fatalities

The most recent was a crash last Friday, which claimed the lives of a young secondary school student and a teacher who was driving the minibus at the time of the crash.

The bus, carrying 18 people, toppled several times after the driver tried to avoid three horses.

Among those calling for intervention is Brenda Lewis, aunt of 31-year-old Jerome Bernard, the driver of the Route 63 minibus who lost his life in last Friday’s crash at Number 63 Village. She said the family has a long history in cattle rearing but stressed that responsible owners do not allow their animals to roam freely.

“We are a cattle-rearing family… Our cattle don’t roam on the road,” she said. “But you get other cattle... I think the Government, the Minister, whoever is responsible should get them off the road. Because if a cattle run across from the other vehi-

Lewis said Bernard, who was unmarried and had no children, was deeply committed to building a stable life and had always planned to start his family “the right way”.

Meanwhile, one of the survivors of last week’s crash, 20-year-old Jaden Harte, was discharged from the hospital just three days ago. She is still nursing her injuries and said the experience has left her shaken, especially when she sees animals near the roadway.

“Animals being allowed to roam… especially on the Corentyne Highway… I really feel like we need to put precautions in place to keep them off the roadway. With what transpires, a lot more could have passed because of said animals,” she said.

Harte described experiencing panic on the day she was discharged.

“I remember… A set of cows out of nowhere just came out, and I began to tremble in the car. My aunt

Eccles salesman granted $500,000 bail for causing death by dangerous driving – family signals willingness to settle

An Eccles salesman was on Wednesday brought before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer a charge of causing death by dangerous driving. 35-year-old Mohammed Irshad stood before Magistrate Fabayo Azore, where he entered a plea of not guilty.

According to the allegation, Irshad, on January 30, 2024, drove his motorcar along Nelson Mandela Avenue in a manner deemed dangerous, resulting in the death of pedestrian Jerome Basdeo.

The prosecutor raised no objections to bail but urged the court to impose strict conditions. He requested that Irshad lodge his passport and report to the East La Penitence Police Station on the last Friday of every month.

Irshad’s attorney, Eden Corbin, in making a bail application, described his client as a devout Muslim who “has never consumed alcohol.” Corbin contended that

Irshad was not speeding and that Basdeo “ran into the right front” of the vehicle. He added that the traffic light was green at the time of the collision and that persons in the area suggested the deceased may have been under the influence of alcohol.

Corbin emphasised that his client has no prior encounters with the law, is aware of the gravity of the charge, and is seeking reasonable bail. The attorney also informed the court that Irshad’s side had reached out to the victim’s family regarding a possible settlement.

Basdeo’s sister, who attended the hearing, confirmed that contact was made and an offer extended. She told the court that while Irshad’s side proposed $2.5 million, she is prepared to settle the matter for $4 million, noting that her late brother has a family and the compensation would assist them. She stressed that she was being “reasonable”,

Mohammed Irshad

as other relatives were demanding a larger sum.

Magistrate Azore remarked to Corbin that he appeared to be dealing with “the most reasonable family member”. Corbin asked for additional time to consult with his client on the matter of settlement.

Bail was ultimately granted for $500,000, and Irshad was ordered to lodge his passport. The case has been adjourned to January 14.

had to hold me, flashbacks and paranoia by just even seeing the animals on the road,” she recalled.

She believes stricter enforcement and better management could save lives.

“Maybe keep them in the backdam areas… Or if they are on the road, owners make sure they are in the corner or take them home safely. Just off the roadway and out of danger,” she said.

Harte also supports penalties. “If that’s in place, it will definitely keep them off the roadway because there’s a consequence to face.”

She added that reintroducing the old “pound” system could help reduce the number of animals wandering freely.

Another survivor of the crash was 13-year-old Sodia George. Her mother, Abolia George, said she was told three horses ran across the road just before the bus toppled.

“She told me when she went to the hospital, they said three horses… but the bus wasn’t going speed,” the mother explained. “If the animals weren’t there, nothing like that would have happened.”

George believes owners must take responsibility by properly securing their animals.

“People who get the ani-

mals [must] take good care of them. Put them up and don’t – don’t leave them on the roadside. Take care of them at the savannah,” she urged.

She also supports stiff fines.

“Give them a higher penalty… because if they have to pay a lot of money, they’re going to keep good care of them,” she said.

George also said reviving the pound system is necessary: “Only that way they keep them off, because they don’t want to pound.”

The issue has also caught the attention of the Government.

During a press conference on Friday, President Dr Irfaan Ali said measures are being strengthened to bet-

ter manage stray animals, which continue to pose a danger on major roadways.

He said facilities are being developed to safeguard animals and reduce collisions, particularly in high-risk areas like the Corentyne.

A few months ago, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo also urged Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) to enforce existing laws that require owners to secure their livestock, noting that the lack of enforcement is contributing to fatal crashes – especially along major highways.

Until those systems improve, residents fear that the Corentyne Highway will remain one of the most dangerous stretches in the country.

2 construction workers charged with snatching gold chain in Tucville

Two construction workers were hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, jointly charged with larceny in connection with the snatching of a woman’s gold chain in Tucville.

18-year-old Randy Crossman and 23-year-old Chester Kidhar stood before Magistrate Fabayo Azore, both pleading not guilty.

According to the charge, the duo allegedly stole a gold chain valued at $240,000 from Toner Whittaker on Thursday, November 20, at Perry Street, Tucville.

The prosecution objected to bail, arguing that the

nature and seriousness of the offence required strict caution. The court heard that Crossman has ongoing matters of a similar nature, while Kidhar is “known to the Police” and had only recently been released from custody.

The prosecutor stated that the two men allegedly dismounted a motorbike, relieved the virtual complainant of her chain, and later, upon arrest, Crossman reportedly offered to compensate her. Prosecutors expressed concern that if released, the men were likely to interfere with the complainant.

Kidhar’s attorney coun-

tered, telling the court her client has a fixed address at Lot 19 Tucville and no previous convictions. She added that the complainant had indicated her willingness to settle the matter and be reimbursed for the chain.

Whittaker, addressing the court herself, confirmed she was prepared to settle for $560,000, the amount needed to cover the value of the chain plus the cost of having it remade.

Kidhar’s attorney said the men were prepared to pay half of that amount immediately and arrange a payment plan for the remainder.

Noting that settlement discussions were already underway, Magistrate Azore granted each accused $50,000 bail. The matter was adjourned to December 17.

Randy Crossman is no stranger to the courts. In August, he was jointly charged with two counts of robbery totalling $20.8 million in cash, alongside two other men. At that time, he appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh, pleaded not guilty, and was granted bail in the sum of $300,000 while awaiting trial.

COP30 Belém

Minister Bharrat reaffirms Guyana’s leadership, commitment to environment, energy transition

Minister of Natural Resources

Vickram Bharrat completed a series of high-level engagements at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, reaffirming Guyana’s leadership in global forest finance, jurisdictional REDD+, and a fair, science-based energy transition.

Minister Bharrat delivered Guyana’s nation -

al statement to the COP30 plenary, following and reinforcing the direction set by President Dr Irfaan Ali at the World Leaders’ Summit, which preceded COP30. According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, the Minister stressed Guyana’s commitment to a just energy transition grounded in climate science, sensible economics, and fairness, reflecting

the realities of developing countries and the urgent need for practical finance, technology, and cooperation to implement real solutions.

A central part of Minister Bharrat’s programme was leading a series of events for the Forest and Climate Leaders’s Partnership – nearly 40 countries working together to halt and reverse forest loss by 2030.

Minister Bharrat co-

Over 30kg of cannabis found during patrol at Mahaicony; 2 arrested

Alate-evening patrol at Harmony Hall Public Road, Mahaicony, led to the discovery of more than 30 kilograms (kg) of suspected cannabis and the arrest of two occupants of a parked motor car. The incident occurred around 21:18h on Wednesday, when ranks on duty observed a vehicle stationed on the northern side of the roadway. The team approached the car and made contact with the occupants – a 26-year-old gold miner from Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, and a 30-year-old nursing assistant from Rosignol, West Bank Berbice.

Searches were carried out on both individuals and on the vehicle. Nothing illegal was found on the occupants, but a search of the trunk revealed three black garbage bags containing sev-

en transparent compressed parcels filled with leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis. The items, along with the two suspects, were escorted to the Mahaicony Police Station, where the suspected narcotics were weighed in their presence. The parcels amounted to 30.625 kg. The suspected cannabis was lodged, and both individuals remain in custody as investigations continue.

jurisdictional REDD+ forest credits and advancing Brazil’s proposed Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF) as part of a broad suite of solutions for longterm forest finance.

ipated.

Minister Bharrat welcomed new members into the Partnership and underscored that the FCLP continues to grow as countries seek practical pathways to halt and reverse forest loss by 2030.

He spoke of Guyana’s ability to advance an ambitious forest agenda because of the value now being placed on Guyana’s forests by global carbon markets and emphasised that other forest countries must have access to finance that is predictable, fair, and aligned with development priorities.

Minister Bharrat highlighted continued progress on the Forest Finance Roadmap, which was produced by the FCLP in partnership with the Government of Brazil and supported by UNEP. The roadmap was shaped by the FCLP’s All-Members Meeting hosted earlier this year in Guyana, and it presents a menu of options for scaling forest finance, including expanding demand for high-integrity

At an event hosted by the Government of Brazil at COP30, Minister Bharrat joined UK Secretary of State Ed Miliband to underscore the importance of the roadmap as a practical tool to move from debate to delivery.

Throughout his programme in Belém, Minister Bharrat emphasised the central role of high-integrity, jurisdictional REDD+ as one of the most credible pathways for delivering forest finance at scale. Guyana remains the first country in the world to issue and sell national-scale ARTTREES credits, demonstrating how market-based finance can support development while keeping forests standing. Revenues generated from Guyana’s jurisdictional system are invested into the priorities of the LCDS 2030, with more than 20% flowing directly to Indigenous Peoples and local communities across the country – supporting health, education, livelihoods, and climate resilience.

“Stable, predictable finance allows countries and communities to plan for sustainability,” Minister Bharrat said. “And when that confidence exists, real results follow – for forests, biodiversity, and people.”

Minister Bharrat also outlined Guyana’s work to support a fair global energy transition through the delivery of the LCDS 2030 energy programme, which includes major solar farms, distributed solar systems for Indigenous communities, the forthcoming gas-to-energy project to reduce emissions and strengthen grid reliability, and preparatory work on future renewable opportunities such as hydropower.

The Minister emphasised that a credible global energy transition must be grounded in climate science, supported by sensible economics, and anchored in fairness for developing countries that need both energy security and pathways to decarbonise.

Minister Bharrat also held bilateral meetings with officials from Brazil, Belize, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and others. Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration around the Forest Finance Roadmap, advancing jurisdictional REDD+, and ensuring that forest countries speak with a stronger, more unified voice in global climate processes.

Speaking at an event at the conclusion of his visit to Belem, Minister Bharrat affirmed Guyana’s determination to help lead global ambition in the year ahead:

“We have workable solutions. The roadmap is clear. Jurisdictional REDD+ is proven. A just energy transition is essential. Now the international community must move from ambition to action. Guyana will continue to lead by example that is balanced and grounded in real-world experience.”

Building pathways for inclusive sports and research

– UG collaboration with Icelandic expert Dr Ingi Þór Einarsson aims to improve, build UG research, sports science capacity

Dr Ingi Þór Einarsson, from the University of Reykjavík, Iceland, on Wednesday, November 12, delivered a special lecture on “Physical Activity and Sport among Individuals with Disabilities” at the University of Guyana’s Early Childhood Centre for Excellence.

In his presentation, he discussed the reality of high-performance sport, particularly the toughness of elite sport, and aimed to dispel the idea that achieving success in the Paralympics is easy. Dr Einarsson noted that success in elite Paralympic sport requires dedicated coaches and support teams working together, just as in the Olympics. He clarified that elite sport is “tough” and “hard”, distinguishing it from recreational activities or rehabilitation.

He also asserted that more opportunities for physical activity must be provided to people with disabilities and that these opportunities should be impairment-specific. For example, in Iceland, Dr Ingi and his team offer weekend and after-school activities for the visually impaired, persons with cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, or those on the autism spectrum. These strategies are used to encourage more families to participate and to introduce

children to new activities.

Dr Ingi Einarsson also expressed his hope for further collaboration with the University of Guyana. He specifically mentioned plans to host students from the University of Guyana in Iceland to assist with research and other capacity-building opportunities. He believes this collaboration will be mutually beneficial and expressed encouragement at the academic brainpower he encountered at UG.

He is a professional expert whose career transitioned from coaching to academia. Dr Ingi was a swimmer himself, and his first swimming coach was the founder of Paralympic

swimming in Iceland. Early in his career, he became a full-time professional coach and was always willing to include athletes with disabilities in his group, including those with cerebral palsy, amputations, and intellectual disabilities.

Dr Ingi’s research focuses primarily on two areas within disability sports and health: the development of a classification system for elite athletes with intellectual disabilities and investigating the physical activity and lifestyle of young people with disabilities.

His early master’s work led to the core classification system now used for athletes with intellectual disabilities at the Paralympics.

His thesis proved that the technical skills of those with intellectual disabilities need to be developed using systematic training that considers central nervous system impairments. His later PhD research, which addressed public health issues, demonstrated that children with disabilities are significantly less physically active, more obese, and have worse fitness than their counterparts in Iceland, often relying solely on school and sports clubs for activity.

His work advocates for

institutional changes, increased training for coaches and teachers, and improved education for parents to increase physical activity opportunities for children with disabilities. He attempts to combine coaching and academic research in his work.

He prefers to function as the “puppet master behind the scenes”, using his research knowledge to advise coaches.

The University of Guyana’s collaboration with Dr Ingi is designed to bolster UG’s research output and

build local capacity in sports science methodologies for students with disabilities. It aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that all communities, including students with disabilities, receive enhanced, evidence-based support. It further underscores the work of the University of Guyana’s Early Childhood Centre for Excellence, which aims to establish and sustain a nationally and internationally recognised model for bridging research-to-policy gaps in early childhood development.

Scores gather for 100th birth anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Dr Ashni Singh, Minister of Finance, last Sunday attended the 100th Birth Anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, a revered spiritual leader and philanthropist, organised by Prema Nilayam Sai Centre in Georgetown, where he delivered the keynote address to an audience that included the Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang, who also

briefly addressed the gathering and extended greetings on behalf of the Government of India.

According to the High Commission, around 150 devotees from across Guyana participated in the spiritual programme, which included bhajans (devotional singing), satsang and prayer. The participants included prominent members of the diaspora and representa-

tives from various spiritual organisations in Guyana.

The event, it noted, highlighted teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, encompassing devotees irrespective of caste, religion or nationality.

In his keynote address, Dr Singh underscored the universality and timelessness of Sai Baba’s teachings, which focus on love, humility, service, and the spiritual

expressions through service to humanity. All of which are relevant in all eras, he noted while expressing confidence in the long-lasting impact and influence of those teachings beyond Sai Baba’s physical presence.

He noted too Sai Baba’s belief that service to mankind is service to God, a message well worth adoption by persons worldwide, and further extolled Sai Baba’s emphasis on both the spiritual

and practical aspects of life, including good education and free healthcare, among others, and noted that these practical aspects are at the core of improving the quality of life and joy for citizens worldwide.

In his brief remarks, the High Commissioner, Dr Amit Telang, underlined “selfless service” as the most important message of Sri Sathya Sai Baba in his teachings, since “service to

man is considered service to God”.

The High Commissioner also appreciated the contribution of devotees of Sri Sathya Sai Baba who are part of the Prema Nilayam Sai Centre in their efforts in promoting Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s message of love, kindness and service, besides cementing the warm and friendly ties between the people of India and Guyana.

T&T PM Kamla: Talks focused on regional security

Prime Minister (PM)

Kamla PersadBissessar met Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine at the Diplomatic Centre yesterday for talks focused on regional security and continued cooperation between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States.

According to a statement issued after the meeting, Persad-Bissessar outlined her Government’s position on matters related to narco-trafficking, human trafficking and transnational crime. She stated that Trinidad and Tobago remains committed to working with the United States to address these issues in the interest of citizens and the wider region.

Persad-Bissessar noted the long-standing ties between both countries and said the relationship has been shaped through ongoing diplomatic engagement. She added that the partnership now plays a role in efforts to protect the region through coordinated

security initiatives and information sharing.

The release said members of the Trinidad and Tobago delegation welcomed comments from Gen. Caine, who acknowledged the role the country continues to play in regional discussions on security and law enforcement. He also recognised the work of local agencies involved in joint operations with US counterparts.

The meeting formed part of continuing contact between the two

Governments as they address crime networks and movements linked to the Caribbean. Discussions also included future areas for cooperation and plans for follow-up engagement between teams from both sides.

The statement said Trinidad and Tobago will maintain dialogue with the United States as both countries look to support regional bodies and agencies involved in security matters.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Cuba condemns "aggressive" US stance towards Venezuela as tensions rise

Cuba has accused the United States of pushing towards the violent removal of Venezuela's leadership, warning that the growing deployment of US military forces in the Caribbean represents an "exaggerated and aggressive" threat to regional stability.

"We appeal to the people of the United States to stop this madness," Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said in a statement on Tuesday.

He cautioned that "the US Government could cause an incalculable number of deaths and create a scenario of violence and instability in the hemisphere that would be unimaginable", adding that

such actions would breach international law as well as the United Nations charter.

The condemnation comes as US President Donald Trump weighs additional actions against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, with the White House refusing to rule out more forceful measures.

The Trump Administration has repeatedly accused Maduro of leading a campaign to smuggle drugs into the US, even though it has not provided any evidence to back its claim.

The US military footprint in the region is now the largest it has been in decades, with roughly 15,000 US personnel stationed across the

Caribbean.

Trump has repeatedly insisted he is not seeking to topple the Venezuelan Government.

Still, recent developments have heightened concerns about potential US intervention. On Saturday, the Reuters news agency reported - citing four US officials - that Washington was preparing to enter a new phase of operations related to Venezuela, and two of those officials said the options included attempting to overthrow Maduro.

Trump told advisers on Monday that he intends to speak directly with Maduro at a date yet to be announced.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Peruvian ex-President Martin Vizcarra sentenced to 14 years in prison

APeruvian court has sentenced former President Martín Vizcarra to 14 years in prison for his involvement in a corruption scandal when he was the governor of the southern region of Moquegua.

In its decision on Wednesday, the court also penalised Vizcarra with a nineyear ban from running for office, as well as a fine.

He is expected to begin serving his prison sentence immediately. But Vizcarra indicated he plans to appeal the verdict against him.

“This is not justice; it is revenge,” Vizcarra wrote on social media in response to the verdict. “But they will not break me.”

He had been found guilty of accepting bribes worth more than $600,000 in exchange for awarding con-

tracts for large-scale projects in Moquegua.

Vizcarra, currently a leader in the Peru First party, led Moquegua from 2011 to 2014 before going on to serve as President from 2018 to 2020.

He joins three other Peruvian ex-Presidents who are currently serving prison sentences, a trend that experts say underscores endemic instability and corruption in the country’s political system.

Other former leaders are facing ongoing criminal charges. Peru has had six Presidents since 2018. Some have been forced from office through impeachment, while others have stepped down due to corruption scandals. Vizcarra himself came to the presidency after his predecessor, Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, faced impeachment proceedings. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Barbados, Nigeria sign landmark MoU

The Governments of Barbados and Nigeria today solidified a historic partnership to advance local pharmaceutical production, strengthen regulatory cooperation, and expand regional market access across the Caribbean, Latin America, ECOWAS, and the African continent.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Barbados Pharmaceuticals Inc (BPI) and Nigeria’s Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), establishing a comprehensive framework for collaboration in four areas: industrial capacity and human capital development; market access and market shaping; clinical trials coop-

eration; and regulatory, financing, and policy alignment.

The agreement follows months of high-level engagements, including Ministerial discussions held between Senior Minister of Health Dr Jerome Walcott and Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and builds on ongoing work with AMA Medical Manufacturing, a leading Nigerian biopharmaceutical company exploring the establishment of a manufacturing facility in Barbados.

Minister Walcott welcomed the partnership, noting that it aligns with the vision articulated by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, who has repeatedly called

for a transatlantic pharmaceutical bridge across Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

“This MoU represents a decisive step in strengthening health sovereignty for both regions,” said Minister Walcott. “Barbados sees Nigeria as a strategic partner in advancing industrial capability, technology transfer, and shared health security across the Global South.”

Professor Pate emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to expanding local production under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Executive Order aimed at achieving 70 per cent domestic production of essential medicines and medical devices by 2030.

(Excerpt from Barbados Today)

Donald Trump has warned Nicolás Maduro he can “do things the easy way … or the hard way” as Venezuela’s authoritarian leader responded to the growing US pressure campaign by urging followers to prepare to defend “every inch” of the South American country. Clad in woodland caMoUflage fatigues, Maduro told a rally in the capital, Caracas, it was their historic duty to

fight foreign aggressors, just as the Venezuelan liberation hero Simón Bolívar did two centuries ago.

“We have to be capable of defending every inch of this blessed land from any sort of imperialist threat or aggression, wherever it comes from,” Maduro declared in his Tuesday address to “the revolutionary people of Caracas”.

“I swear before our Lord Jesus Christ that I will give my all for the victory of

Venezuela,” Maduro said, vowing to protect the skies, MoUntains and plains of his country.

Speaking on Air Force One as he flew to Florida, Trump declined to explain the precise purpose of his four-month campaign against Venezuela, although many suspect it is designed to overthrow Maduro, who is widely believed to have stolen last year’s Presidential election. (Excerpt from The Guardian) Trump threatens

The Trump Administration announced Wednesday that it will terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, requiring Haitian nationals currently enrolled in the programme to leave the United States by February 3, 2026, unless they have another legal immigration status.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is offering those who leave voluntarily a free one-way flight, a US$1000 payment and “potential future opportunities” for legal immigration to the US.

The decision, posted in the Federal Register, follows a review by US Citizenship and Immigration Services and consultations with other Government agencies.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem concluded that Haiti no longer meets the statutory criteria for TPS, a humanitarian program that allows nationals from designated countries to live and work in the US if their home countries are facing conflict or disaster.

“Allowing Haitian nationals to remain temporarily in the United States is inconsistent with US national inter-

ests,” the notice stated. TPS was first extended to Haitians in 2010 following the catastrophic earthquake that killed hundreds of thousands and displaced millions. The programme has since been renewed multiple times in response to Haiti’s ongoing political instability, natural disasters and insecurity. The Biden administration expanded eligibility in 2021 following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and the August 2021 earthquake, bringing the total number of protected Haitians to an estimated 348,000. (Excerpt from The Haitian Times)

OIL NEWS

Oil edges up as investors await clarity on supply, Russia-Ukraine deal

Oil prices settled up on Wednesday, bouncing back from one-month lows in the previous session, as investors assessed prospects of oversupply and talks over a Russia-Ukraine peace deal ahead of the US Thanksgiving holiday.

Brent crude futures settled 65 cents, or 1.04 per cent, higher at US$63.13 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures gained 70 cents, or 1.21 per cent, at US$58.65.

US crude inventories climbed by 2.8 million barrels to 426.9 million barrels last week as imports surged, the Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday. Analysts had expected a 55,000-barrel rise.

"We are definitely on the road to a rather healthy supply glut, there is no doubt about it, and the crude build is indicative of that," said John Kilduff, partner with Again Capital.

US energy firms cut the number of oil rigs by 12 to 407 this week, their lowest since September 2021, energy services firm Baker Hughes said on Wednesday.

OPEC+ is likely to leave output levels unchanged at its meeting on Sunday, three OPEC+ sources told Reuters on Tuesday.

Offering some support to crude prices were rising expectations for a potential US Federal Reserve interest rate cut in December. Lower rates would stimulate economic growth and bolster demand for oil.

US President Donald Trump said he directed his representatives to meet separately with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian officials. (Excerpt from Reuters)

At least 36 killed in Hong Kong fire, with 279 still missing, authorities say

At least 36 persons were killed by a massive fire Wednesday that engulfed a high-rise housing complex in Hong Kong, city leader John Lee said.

Another 279 persons were reported missing.

Lee also said 29 persons remained hospitalised. He added that the fire was "coming under control" shortly past midnight.

Fire Services Department Director Andy Yeung said a firefighter is among the dead. In a press release, Yeung said the 37-year-old had been a firefighter for nine years.

"All of our colleagues are deeply saddened by the loss of such a devoted comrade," he added.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday expressed condolences to the firefighter who died and extended sympathies to the families of the victims, according to state broadcaster CCTV. He

also urged efforts to minimise casualties and losses.

Fire chiefs said high temperatures at the scene made it difficult for crews to mount rescue operations. It was not immediately known how the fire started, but officials said the flames started at the external scaffolding of one of the buildings, a 32-storey tower, and later spread to inside the building and then to nearby buildings, likely aided by windy conditions.

The blaze was first reported in the mid-afternoon and was upgraded by nightfall to a level 5 alarm, the highest level of severity, the Fire Services Department said.

Police have said they received multiple reports of people trapped in the affected buildings. Records show the housing complex consisted of eight blocks with almost 2000 apartments housing about 4800 persons. (Excerpt from CBS News)

Around the World

Russia says talks to end Ukraine war “serious”, but rules out concessions

Russia says the USbrokered talks to end the war with Ukraine are “serious”, but its officials caution that an agreement is a long way off and Moscow would offer no major concessions to Kyiv. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in televised comments on Wednesday that the negotiations were ongoing and “the process is serious.”

US President Donald Trump has put forward a 28-point plan, and is sending his top negotiator Steve Witkoff to Moscow in the coming days as his Administration pushes to end the nearly four-year war.

But Ukraine and its European allies had raised concerns that the US proposal endorsed several Russian demands, includ-

ing that Ukraine cede additional territory, curb the size of its military and be barred from joining NATO.

The plan has since been modified, with the emerging proposal reportedly accommodating some of those concerns.

Trump also later said progress was being made and Moscow was making concessions even though the war, which has seen

Russian forces advancing in recent weeks, was going to move only “in one direction”.

While welcoming the US efforts, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters on Wednesday that “there can be no question of any concessions or any surrender of our approaches to those key points.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Guinea-Bissau military takes

“total control” amid election chaos

Soldiers in GuineaBissau have announced they are taking “total control” of the West African country, three days after elections that both the two main Presidential contenders claim to have won.

Military officers said they were suspending Guinea-Bissau’s electoral process and closing its borders, in a statement read out at the army’s headquarters in the capital, Bissau, and broadcast on state TV. They said they had formed “the high military command for the restoration of order”, which would rule the country until further notice.

Earlier on Wednesday, shots were heard near the election commission headquarters, Presidential palace and interior ministry, although it was not clear who was responsible.

The military takeover is the latest in a string of coups and attempted coups in Guinea-Bissau since it gained independence from Portugal in 1974. The average yearly income in the country of 2.2 million persons was just $963 in 2024, according to the World Bank.

The UN labelled Guinea-Bissau a “narco state” in 2008 because of its role as a hub for the global cocaine trade. Situated be-

2 National Guard members fatally shot near White House with Trump in Florida

Two members of the National Guard were shot and killed in Washington on Wednesday near the White House, officials said, putting the building into lockdown with President Donald Trump away in Florida and drawing a massive law enforcement response to the area.

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey said in a post on X that both victims were members of his state's National Guard and had died from their injuries. The White House reposted his statement.

Police in Washington said one suspect was in custody and that the area was secured.

Trump is at his resort in Palm Beach ahead of Thursday's Thanksgiving holiday, while US Vice President JD Vance is in Kentucky.

In a social media post,

Trump called the suspected shooter an "animal" who was also "severely wounded". It was not clear how the suspect had been injured, but CNN reported the two Guard members engaged the attacker in gunfire before they were shot.

The shooting unfolded near Farragut Square, a popular lunch spot for office workers just a few blocks away from the White House. The park, whose light posts are wrapped in wreaths and bows for the holiday season, is flanked by fast-casual restaurants and a coffee shop, as well as two metro stops.

Trump, a Republican, has suggested repeatedly that crime has disappeared from the capital as a result of the deployment, which was heavily criticised by Democrats. (Excerpt from Reuters)

tween Senegal and Guinea, its coastline features numerous river deltas and the 88 islands of the Bijagós archipelago, which experts said had provided the natural, discrete drop-off points used by Colombian drug cartels. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Italian Parliament unanimously votes to make femicide a crime

Deputies in the Italian Parliament have voted unanimously to introduce the crime of femicide – the murder of a woman, motivated by gender – as a distinct law to be punished with a life sentence.

In a symbolic move, the bill was approved on the day dedicated to the elimination of violence against women worldwide.

The idea of a law on femicide had been discussed in Italy before, but the murder of Giulia Cecchettin by her ex-boyfriend was a tragedy that shocked the country into action.

In late November 2023, the 22-year-old was stabbed to death by Filippo Turetta, who then wrapped her body in bags and dumped it by a lakeside.

The killing was headline news until he was caught,

but it was the powerful response of Giulia's sister, Elena, that has endured. The murderer was not a monster, she said, but the "healthy son" of a deeply patriarchal society. They were words that brought crowds out across Italy demanding change.

Two years on, MPs have voted for a law on femicide after a long and passionately debated session of Parliament. It makes Italy one of very few places to categorise femicide as a distinct crime.

Introduced by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the law was backed by her own hard-right Government as well as opposition MPs.

From now on, Italy will record every murder of a woman that is motivated by her gender as femicide. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Control your emotions and gather facts. Taking the time to research, formulate your thoughts, and put a plan in place is essential if you want to move forward with confidence. Don’t fear being or doing things differently. Living life your way is what’s best for you. Follow your heart, ease stress, and you’ll gather momentum.

Refrain from making decisions while experiencing uncertain, emotional situations, and without enough information to make the best choice. Bide your time and reach out to those you trust to offer a different perspective or option. Partnerships and personal growth are on the rise and best handled with care, consideration, and caution. Avoid emotional spending.

Keep life simple. Don’t overload your plate, promise more than you can deliver, or let your emotions get you into trouble. Focus inward, choose healthy activities that help you look and feel your best. Personal gain is in your best interest, and your relationships and who you associate with today will determine the outcome.

Learn from experience. Don’t mix business with pleasure, or let your emotions interfere with your ability to advance. Put your imagination to work for you, and you’ll come up with a unique concept that will help you make your mark in a competitive market. It’s time to expand your interests, upgrade your skills, and challenge yourself.

Only change what’s necessary. Choose to fix what’s broken instead of spending money to replace it. Social events require careful planning and the proper attire. Don’t fall short because you didn’t take the time to prepare. Check off all the boxes before deciding or committing to something new. Participate and observe, but don’t make premature promises.

Choose your words and gestures carefully if you want to avoid interference, opposition, or rejection. Domestic problems will arise if you let your emotions take the lead. Concentrate on facts, figures, and possibilities, and you’ll discover a path that offers what’s important to you. Invest in yourself, your home, and your future. Romance is in the stars.

Share your insight but not your plans. It’s best to take a wait-and-see approach, especially when joint ventures, expenses, and partnerships are involved. Step into the limelight at social events and flirt with ideas someone offers that excite you. Hold onto your cash, protect your position and reputation, and live within your means.

Get out, plan to have some fun, and avoid emotional drama going on at home or with family. The time you spend with people who offer a unique perspective on life and the options you face will pay off. Love and romance, coupled with personal gains through creative productivity, will help you choose the path forward.

Channel your energy wisely. Take time to catch up and to get rid of the deadweight in your life. Sell off or donate items that no longer serve a purpose in your life, and put what you decide to keep where you can utilize them more effectively. Organize your surroundings to encourage better productivity.

Participating in groups dealing with matters that concern you will connect you to someone who can impact your life and how you choose to live. Getting together with old friends will be a wake-up call. Let go of the past and embrace the future with an open mind. Personal growth and romance are on the rise.

Travel, learning, and making lifestyle adjustments require thought, planning, and time to implement the changes that are best for you. Think twice, question your motives, and what others want or expect from you before making a move. Emotions will be close to the surface. Don’t reveal your next move prematurely. Focus on professional and financial gains.

Learn something new, and invest time and money in your future. Refuse to let a bully push you in a direction that doesn’t fulfill your needs. Trust your instincts and pursue what makes you feel good about yourself and the direction you head. Attend functions that present options and opportunities, and choose what makes your heart flutter.

Harmer's 6-for hands India

their biggest Test defeat and seals South Africa's 2-0 sweep

In front of empty stands in India's newest Test venue, South Africa completed their utter domination of the hosts with a whitewash and their heaviest Test defeat in terms of runs. More than just the order of session breaks was turned upside down in India's easternmost Test ground, where South Africa sealed their first series win in India in 25 years and India's second series defeat in 12 months after 12 years of a spotless record.

Simon Harmer outbowled by miles the home spinners in a country whose ordinary tour in 2015 resulted in a seven-year hiatus for him in Test cricket. No one has now taken more wickets at a better average in a series in India than his 17 wickets at 8.94. Marco Jansen was a little behind with 12 at 10.08, but he ended the series with yet another thing about which we can say, "Only Marco could have done that." A sensational catch over the shoulder, running back, diving and taking it one-handed. Just the kind of wicket Harmer won't mind being denied a maiden 10-for by.

This was the farthest result on India's minds when Shubman Gill joked after

losing yet another toss in Kolkata that it seems he will win only in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Since then, India lost Gill to injury three balls into his work and then both the Tests, leaving them a hill to climb if they want to entertain thoughts of the WTC final. They now have 48.15 per cent points halfway into their league matches. Historically, at least 60 per cent has been needed to get through to the final.

The defending champions, who had to deal with some elitist sniggering about their schedule in the last cycle, now have 75 per cent of their points. Temba Bavuma, the captain who brought home the mace, was still undefeated in Tests after 12 matches at the helm.

That Bavuma wouldn't lose this one had been clear halfway into this Test. Since then, South Africa played India out ruthlessly and started the fifth day needing eight wickets to take the full 12 WTC points from this match. This classic Indian Test pitch was now offering consistent turn and natural variation.

So a combination of Harmer and Jansen, who took a five-for and a 93 in the first innings, was al-

ways going to test India's resolve to bat the day out.

The overnight batters, B Sai Sudharsan and night watch Kuldeep Yadav, enjoyed some luck with one wicket denied by a no-ball and another by a drop at slip by Aiden Markram, who took

nings provided a counterpoint. Against a really slow off-break from Harmer, Pant was a sitting duck the moment he decided to offer a forward defensive. The extra bounce took the catch to Markram at slip, who was now moving rapidly towards

five catches in the first innings.

The luck ended around half an hour into the day. It had always looked a matter of time against Harmer's guile and persistence. Kuldeep was the first one to go, bowled by an off-break that didn't turn. You can't quite make an off-break not turn, but you can give it every chance to do so by changing the seam orientation, which Harmer did.

In the same over, Harmer completed the brace of dream dismissals for an offspinner. He had bowled KL Rahul through the gate on the fourth evening; now he took Dhruv Jurel's outside edge with drift and less turn than expected.

Rishabh Pant is often criticised for taking too many risks, but this in-

the world record for most catches in a match.

Sai Sudharsan enjoyed another dropped catch as he and Ravindra Jadeja took India into tea. Sai Sudharsan's luck ran out in the first over after the break, with Harmer getting a rest after having bowled through the entire first session. He defended a Senuram Muthusamy half-volley. It didn't turn, and Markram took another catch.

Adequately rested, Harmer came back from the other end than the one that had been giving him wickets and took out Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy in quick succession. With a softer ball now, he started to bowl quicker and took the edge from Washington with a 90 kilometer-per-hour off-break.

Markram took a sharp catch to go past Ajinkya Rahane's world record of eight in a match.

The right-hand batters were always going to struggle more now with three dismissals in play: bowled through the gate, outside edge and bat-pad catches. Reddy introduced the glove on the reverse sweep to give Harmer his best match figures, making him South Africa's most successful bowler in India and the most prolific South African bowler after 14 Tests.

Jadeja was the one India batter who swept well from the length that had other batters in trouble. He scored a consolatory half-century, read the room and shelved his sword celebrations, and was stumped when trying to take Keshav Maharaj on.

innings, then India's only half-centurion. Then he unleashed bouncers when the pitch was still flat, taking more wickets with bouncers than anyone has taken in an

The final moment, fittingly, belonged to Jansen. He scored quick runs when India were in control of South Africa's scoring in the first innings, when it seemed no one could dominate the bowling. His long levers, which made this possible, also created the wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal in the first

innings in India. By the time South Africa bowled the second time around, the pitch offered consistent turn and didn't call out for a superhuman effort from Jansen. Then again, why deny us when you can nonchalantly take an impossible catch to end the match and the series? Lest we forget. (ESPNcricinfo)

As the Republic Bank Secondary School Football League comes to a close on Sunday, November 30, with Round Seven action, there will be a lot at stake for the participating schools.

For West Ruimveldt Secondary, they are one result (win or draw) away from securing a spot in the KFC Goodwill International schools’ tournament next month, which is the ultimate goal.

Already completing half the job, with a tense 1-0 victory over South Ruimveldt on Sunday last, the school’s teacher-coach Leon Bishop has noted a great improvement in his team, highlighting the importance of picking up another win on Sunday.

“I’ve seen great improvement from this team.

West Ruimveldt 1 result away from KFC Goodwill spot

Last year we finished fourth; this time we have a chance to win the league. Mathematically, it will be difficult, but I mean, we’ve worked hard, and myself and the coach expect to see great performance outside on the field from the guys,” Bishop told Guyana Times Sport exclusively.

He added, regarding Sunday’s upcoming fixture, “It’s very, very important because we know that it’s a fight between three teams for the second place, so we must come out and show up next Sunday.”

Quizzed about their recent successes, Bishop attributed his school’s performances to “teamwork”.

The West Ruimveldt teacher explained, “It’s been a teamwork, I would say. Coming from my head teacher right down to all

teachers and the students themselves. This school has been new to school football, school sports in general, and to see the progression is very exciting. It’s only better for the team going forward because we have a lot of our guys in third form; we have like four of the guys in fifth, but those will move on next year. Those youngsters that we have will really, really show off and show up next year, going forward.”

As such, the teacher went on to express what it would mean for his school to secure a spot in the highly sought-after KFC tournament.

Bishop expressed, “Well, it would mean a lot to this school. To have an opportunity to play against schools and players who would’ve played high-level football, and for a school of this nature, a small school, to qualify for this tournament would be great.”

“We have a lot of students come out to watch these guys because, I mean, they believe in the project that we have going on, so

Wiruni defeat Sand Hills by 7 runs to claim

Berbice

River T20 title

Wiruni were crowned champions of the Berbice River T20 competition on Sunday after holding their nerve to clinch a thrilling seven-run victory over Sand Hills in a closely-fought final.

Batting first, Wiruni posted a competitive 148 for 6 from their 20 overs, built on solid top-order contributions. Sheldon Bovell played a commanding innings of 54, while Melroy De Silva supported well with 47 to give their side momentum heading into the break.

Sand Hills’ bowling effort was led by Michael Caple, who delivered an impressive spell of 2 for 14, while Wakar McKenzie chipped in with 2 for 19 to help restrict

the flow of runs in the latter overs.

In reply, Sand Hills fought valiantly ,but were kept in check by disciplined bowling from Wiruni. Caple, following up his ear-

lier contribution with the ball, struck a determined 54, while Conroy Singh added 19 as Sand Hills kept the game alive deep into the final overs.

However, Wiruni’s bowlers held firm. Nelon Thomas produced a match-defining

spell of 3 for 20, while Bovell completed an outstanding all-round performance by taking 2 for 21. Sylvester Bourne was also instrumental, claiming 2 for 8 in a tight spell that applied crucial pressure during the chase.

In the end, Sand Hills closed on 141 for 8 from their 20 overs, falling just short of the target as Wiruni celebrated a hard-fought and well-deserved victory.

For his brilliant half-century and key wickets, Bovell was named Man of the Match.

The win capped off a competitive tournament, with both teams delivering spirited performances befitting a Berbice River T20 final. (Andrew Carmichael)

it would be exciting for the guys and for us as coaching staff.”

The teacher, who by now has a knack for nurturing strong teams, was further quizzed about the meaningful work he has been doing over the years.

Bishop responded, “Basically, I always say that once you give these

guys an opportunity, they will succeed, and that’s what I would’ve done when I went to West. I gave the guys an opportunity to play sports in general, not only football, cricket and other sporting disciplines. I always give them my all; I ask of them just to be disciplined, focus on academics and their sports, which will make them a better player. For me, it’s just joy. I just give what I’m being paid to do: teach and work with the guys to ensure that they become somebody in life.” Round Seven of the Republic Bank League will be staged at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground this Sunday, likely to kick off at 12:00h.

Bent St/VP “Champion of Champions” Futsal…

Bent St A, Back Circle book final spots

Tournament hosts Bent St A and the best of the challengers, Back Circle, will butt heads in the final showdown of the VP “Champion of Champions” Futsal Cup next Wednesday, December 3, following their respective semi-final wins on Tuesday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Homestretch Avenue.

In the first of the semis, Team Spirit’s run as giant killers was ended when they met Back Circle, who took a commanding win, 5-2. Amos Ramsay bagged a double in the second and 37th minutes, while Simeon Moore, Ravin Naughton, and Jermaine Beckles scored in the sixth, 11th, and 35th minutes, respectively. For the losers, Carl Griffith and Solomon Austin netted in the third and 24th minutes, respectively.

Meanwhile, experi-

Semi-final 1

ence trumped youth when Bent St A downed Bent St B by a 6-3 scoreline. Sean Taylor recorded a double, while Adrian Aaron, Jemar Harrigon, Tyler Lyle, and Colin Nelson scored one goal each. For the losers, Lennox Young, Orin Moore, and Tyrese Lyle scored one goal apiece.

The losers will compete in the third-place playoff.

The winners of the event will receive $1,000,000 and the championship trophy, while the second-, third-, and fourth-place finishers will pocket $500,000, $300,000, and $200,000, respectively, and the corresponding accolade.

Meanwhile, $150,000 will be given to the winners of the women’s section, while $100,000 will be awarded to the victors of the youth division. Both second-place finishers will receive $50,000.

Complete Results

Bent St A-6 v Bent St B-3

Bent St A scorers

Sean Taylor-2

Adrian Aaron-1

Jemar Harrigon-1

Tyler Lyle-1

Colin Nelson-1

Bent St B scorers

Lennox Young-1

Orin Moore-1

Tyrese Lyle-1

Semi-final 2

Back Circle-5 v Team Spirit-2

Back Circle scorers

Amos Ramsay-2

Simeon Moore- 1

Ravin Naughton-1

Jermaine Beckles-1

Team Spirit scorers

Carl Griffith-1

Solomon Austin – 1

After quite a few months without competition, the senior women’s national football team, the Lady Jags, will be back in action and on home soil, to boot, next Monday.

Billed for the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC), West Coast Demerara (WCD), the Lady Jags will take on Nicaragua in the first match of their CONCACAF W Qualifiers campaign.

Preparations full steam ahead as Lady Jags ready for Nicaragua clash

Now well into their preparations, Head Coach Omar Khan discussed the ongoing national team camp and one of his major priorities for the game.

“For this camp we have a lot of staff members on board, got the opportunity from the Federation to expand, not only in numbers but also in quality. So, we have coaches from all around. We’re working on strength and conditioning;

we’re working on all phases of play. So far, the camp can’t complain about anything,” Head Coach Khan shared.

The gaffer added, “The aim is also not only winning Monday but also getting the

CG United Regional Super50…

as a positive environment.

level up in April. So, the team that’s together now, if you come back, I did a good job, we did a good job, staff did a good job, if you can say in April, ‘Hey, they were better than November.’”

On a similar train of

GHE suffer blow of 3rd washed-out contest

Fortune was, again, not on the side of the Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE), who had to endure their third washed-out game in the ongoing CG United Regional Super50 tournament on Tuesday.

The Harpy Eagles were set to take on the Leeward Islands Hurricanes at the Queen’s Park Oval, in hopes of bouncing back after a loss to the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force two days prior.

However, not a ball was bowled in Tuesday’s contest that would have seen both teams walking away with two points. In fact, all three

Super50 games scheduled for Tuesday, featuring the Red Force battling the Windward Islands Volcanoes and the Jamaica Scorpions taking on the Barbados Pride, were washed out due to persistent rainfall in the twin-island republic.

Providing that good weather prevails, the Harpy Eagles will be back in action today, Thursday, November 27, going head-to-head with the Barbados Pride at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in St Augustine from 09:00h.

At the Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, the hosts, Red Force, will come up against the Leeward Islands Hurricanes, while the Jamaica Scorpions and Windward Islands Volcanoes do battle at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba, in a day/night clash from 14:00h.

Today’s games will be the final round of preliminary play before the top two teams move on to compete in the Super50 final on Saturday, November 29, set for a 14:00h start at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

Charles articulated, “The camp so far has been really good. The intensity of training has been amazing. Big, big positive. The coaching staff that we’ve had really allowed us to develop and grow. We’re able to work in smaller groups, focus on attacking, defending; it’s a positive environment, the girls are happy. You know, we’re friends; we’re having a lot of time to bond because it’s a community. So, it’s really nice to have everyone learn from each other.

“We just need the big win, so this is where it all starts,” Charles continued.

Sharing similar sentiments was local-based forward Lakeisha Pearson.

“The camp has been so great. We have a balance of mature and young players. The young players are bringing the energy, the mature players are showing their experience, giving exposure to the younger ones; it’s been awesome. Like Otesha said, the sisterhood in the camp has been great; everyone is bonding really well,” Pearson chimed in.

She turned her atten-

tion to the Lady Jags supporters and football fans, saying, “And we’re looking forward to you guys coming out and support on December 1st, the entire Guyana. Come and root for the Lady Jags, especially my Linden people, you guys come out and show that support for all of us.”

The Lady Jags’ battle with Nicaragua will kick off at 20:00h local time.

Guyana are in group B of the qualifiers alongside Jamaica, Nicaragua, Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda.

The W Qualifiers competition will feature 29 Member Associations – excluding the region’s two highest-ranked nations (the United States and Canada). At the conclusion of the CONCACAF W Qualifiers, the six group winners will join the United States and Canada in next year’s eight-team CONCACAF W Championship.

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

Sandiford leads I-CEE Grand Prix 2 Chess Tournament

…Joshi leads for women

The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) I-CEE-sponsored Grand Prix 2 Chess Tournament got underway last weekend at the School of the Nations, setting the stage for a dramatic final weekend of play. After four intense rounds in classical-style play, Keron Sandiford has established a decisive early lead in the open category, while Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Aditi Joshi heads the female category.

In the open category, from among 30 players, Sandiford continued his winning streak midway through the tournament after his match with Gilbert Williams last Sunday. Sandiford overwhelmed his fourth opponent with two unstoppable centre pawns, which were a major threat, forcing Williams to resign.

In the second and third positions are FIDE Masters (FMs) Anthony Drayton and newcomer Rawle Allicock, who are tied on 3.5 points. They were engaged in a fierce battle in the Fourth Round. Both players mobil-

ised their rooks, pawns, and queens within striking distance to attack each other's king. Faced with severe loss of material and on the verge of losing, Drayton held on tenaciously and courageously fought back. He advanced his active queen and rooks to threaten Allicock's king with checkmate. In a dramatic twist, Drayton offered his opponent a draw by perpetual check (continuously attacking Allicock's king without obtaining checkmate), and Allicock accepted. The two opponents shook hands and signed the truce after just over 40 moves.

Former Junior Champion Joshua Gopaul defeated reigning Junior Champion Kyle Couchman in Round Two in a marathon encounter. Gopaul gained a decisive edge with his stronger rook dominating Couchman's weaker bishop in an exciting endgame. Gopaul's rook created mayhem, although Couchman stubbornly resisted. The former junior champion eventually scored a breakthrough, trading his rook in exchange for Couchman's bishop and in-

troducing a new queen to checkmate Couchman's king and secure victory.

In the same round, Sachin Pitamber went down to Prince Dunn in a surprise defeat. Dunn's passed pawn, about to be promoted to a queen, sealed his win against Pitamber on move 46. Dunn's much stronger position left his opponent without many options, and he secured the win.

Following closely on the points table are Kyle Couchman, Joshua Gopaul, CM Sachin Pitamber, Leslie Campbell, and Micaiah Enoe, all on three points. Finishing off the top 10 are Shiv Nandalall and Kim Shing Chong, both with two and a half points.

On the distaff side, reigning Women's Champion WCM Joshi defeated three of her opponents and drew her match with promising young player Kataleya Sam. Joshi also defeated Ciel Clement, her fourth opponent on Sunday, in a gruelling endgame battle with both kings and a bishop each in battle mode to target the remaining pawns. With two extra pawns, the WCM consolidated her position to regain a powerful queen and a won position. Knowing the outcome, Clement conceded to her opponent on move 43. In the female category with 17 females, Joshi leads with 3.5 points but faces serious competition from the young star Sam, who secured

an impressive draw against Joshi to land in second place with three points. Treskolé Archibald and Ciel Clement are also tied on three points.

WCMs Jessica Callendar and Sasha Shariff are both tied on two and a half points, along with Italy Ton-Chung. Maliha Rajkumar, Parnita Kishun, Chelsea Harrison, and Saura Ruplall follow up with two points each.

The tournament, which boasts a total cash prize fund of $100,000, is set to conclude this coming weekend. The remaining four rounds are scheduled for Saturday, November 29th, and Sunday, November 30th, at the School of the Nations.

The top eight boards of the open category and top four of the female category are live-streamed on lichess.org by John Lee, FIDE Arbiter and Technical Director of the GCF. Full results and pairings can be viewed on Chess-results. com. The GCF has expressed gratitude to its dedicated sponsor, I-CEE, for its continued support of chess development in Guyana, and to the School of the Nations for providing the venue.