Guyana Times - Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Savita Singhbecomes 1st female to win T&T Chutney Soca Monarch

conferred with Brazilian State of Roraima’s highest award

GECOM publishes Revised List of Electors for public scrutiny

Over 5lbs of ganja found hidden in haversack at Hadfield St

Man acquitted of gang-related Linden murder

$78M set aside to operationalise Guyana Technical Training College Mash vending spot sales delayed, now set to begin Wednesday More parental oversight needed as young motorcyclists flout road safety laws – Traffic Chief

Pres Ali conferred with Brazilian State of Roraima’s highest award

President Dr Irfaan Ali was on Monday conferred with the State of Roraima’s highest award, the Order of Merit Forte São Joaquim (Medalha Forte São Joaquim) in Boa Vista, Brazil. The conferment, at the highest degree of the Grand Cross, took place at the Augusto Cardoso Noble Hall at the Senator Hélio Campos Palace. The Order was presented to the Head of State by Governor Antonio Denarium in recognition of the strengthening economic ties between the two countries. In his acceptance speech, the President

affirmed that Guyana and the Federative Republic of Brazil will continue to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly through Roraima, which borders the Rupununi region. President Ali noted that the complementary development trajectories of Guyana and Roraima present strong opportunities to expand trade and investment, especially in key areas such as agriculture, transportation and logistics, energy collaboration and the easier flow of goods, services and people across borders. He further pointed to Brazil’s strategic importance in strength-

ening links between South America and the Caribbean, characterising the country as a natural ally for Guyana due to its economic strength, technical expertise and leadership within the region. Against a backdrop of increasing global protectionism, President Ali emphasised that deeper South–South partnerships are critical to safeguarding the interests of developing nations in the international trading system. Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud and several members of the business community accompanied the President. In a citation, Governor Antonio

Denarium of the State of Roraima, Federative Republic of Brazil, on the award inscribed “in recognition of the exceptional merits and significant services rendered to the State of Roraima, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, was invited, in his capacity as Grand Master of the Order of Merit Forte São Joaquim, to receive the highest distinction granted by the Government of Roraima, in honour of the growing economic relations between the two nations.”

BRIDGE OPENING

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, February 10 –10:25h-11:55h and Wednesday, February 11 – 11:55h-13:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected in the early-morning to early-afternoon hours, followed by sunny conditions. Clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.13 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 10:05h and 22:48h reaching maximum heights of 2.18 metres and 2.03 metres.

Low Tide: 16:14h reaching a minimum height of 1.07 metres.

2026 Budget makes provision for Local Govt Elections

…e-ID will not replace voter ID cards – Teixeira

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is preparing to fill several high-level vacancies as funding has been approved in the 2026 National Budget to support the hosting of Local Government Elections. The matter was raised on Monday during the examination of the 2026 budget estimates in the Committee of Supply of the National Assembly, where allocations for constitutional agencies were reviewed.

During the deliberations, opposition parliamentarians questioned the absence of several officials within the elections body, including the Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) and the Assistant Chief Elections Officer (ACEO). Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister, Gail Teixeira in response confirmed that both posts remain vacant but are provided for in the budget. Additional queries were raised regarding other unfilled senior positions at the commission. Minister Teixeira informed the House that vacancies also exist for the posts of Legal Officer, Information Technology (IT) Manager, Research Officer, Security Manager and Chief Accountant. It was confirmed that the approved budget includes allocations to facilitate the staging of Local Government Elections in 2026 and according to Teixeira, funding has been earmarked to meet the full range of operational requirements associated with the elections. These include the engagement of temporary election-day staff, the procurement of election materials, printing services, transportation, staff training and payments to scrutineers. The Minister noted that while the overall allocation for GECOM in 2026 is marginally lower than the previous year, the difference reflects the fact that Local Government Elections are less costly than General and Regional Elections. She also pointed out that some materials purchased in 2025 will be carried over into the current year, reducing the need for additional spending. During the session, parliamentarians also raised questions about the possible use of biometric technology at polling sta-

tions as a means of enhancing transparency and oversight during elections. Teixeira stated that any move toward the introduction of biometrics would require a formal decision by the GECOM. She added that, should the commission approve such a measure, additional funding would have to be sought through a supplementary budget. Concerns were also expressed about GECOM’s capacity to produce national identification cards throughout the year. In response, Teixeira said the commission has indicated that it has sufficient materials to continue issuing ID cards during 2026. Will not replace Opposition members further sought clarification on the Government’s proposed National Electronic Identification (e-ID) system and its relationship to GECOM-issued ID cards. Teixeira made it clear that the electronic ID card will not replace the GECOM ID card for electoral purposes, particularly for the upcoming Local Government Elections. She explained that the two systems serve different functions and will operate independently. According to the Minister, the National e-ID card is designed to store a broad range of personal information, including medical records, driver’s licenc-

es and other official data, with the aim of improving access to public services. She noted that the system will be implemented gradually and remains voluntary at this stage. Teixeira also assured the House that safeguards are being put in place under the Data Protection Act, and confirmed that a Commissioner of Data Protection has already been appointed. She stressed that citizens will not be denied essential services such as healthcare or education if they do not yet possess an electronic ID card. She added that while uptake may be optional initially, the e-ID system is expected to become more widely used over time as public services increasingly transition to digital platforms. The Committee of Supply subsequent-

ly approved more than $6.9 billion in appropriated current expenditure for GECOM, covering its operational needs and the conduct of Local Government Elections in 2026.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Stronger parental oversight

The persistent danger posed by reckless motorcycle riding continues to exact a heavy toll on Guyana’s roads, demanding urgent and coordinated national attention. Warnings from Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mahendra Singh emphasise a troubling pattern that young motorcyclists, often unlicensed and undeterred by traffic laws, are engaging in behaviour that places lives at risk and undermines public safety.

Motorcycles remain an essential mode of transportation, particularly for young people seeking mobility, independence, and economic opportunity. However, the benefits of this accessibility are being overshadowed by a growing culture of indiscipline and lawlessness on the roads. The removal of motorcycles from crash scenes, intimidation of other road users, and deliberate attempts to evade Police scrutiny denote a traffic violation but as well an erosion of respect for the rule of law.

National statistics reinforce the seriousness of the issue. Despite a reduction in the overall number of road collisions in 2025, fatalities increased, with motorcyclists accounting for a significant proportion of deaths. This trend indicates that while crashes may be fewer, their severity has intensified. Speeding, dangerous overtaking, failure to wear helmets, overloading, and riding without proper training or licensing continue to feature prominently in fatal incidents. Pillion riders, often overlooked in road safety discussions, are increasingly among the casualties, highlighting the wider social cost of unsafe riding.

The Guyana Police Force has not been idle as enhanced enforcement measures, including roadblocks, helmet and licensing checks, and the deployment of the Safe Road Intelligence System, show a desire to address traffic violations through technology and visibility. These initiatives are necessary and must continue. Yet enforcement, by its nature, is reactive. It addresses violations after risk has already been introduced onto the roadways. On its own, it cannot transform behaviour that is shaped long before a rider encounters a Police checkpoint.

At the heart of the problem lies a gap in responsibility and accountability, particularly where young riders are concerned. Many are introduced to motorcycles without adequate training, supervision, or appreciation of the risks involved. In too many cases, access to a motorcycle precedes the acquisition of a licence, protective gear, or basic road safety education. This sequence normalises illegality and reinforces the perception that traffic laws are optional rather than mandatory.

Parental and guardian involvement is, therefore, not a peripheral issue instead it is a central pillar of any meaningful solution. Road safety begins at home. The decision to allow a young person to operate a motorcycle carries with it an obligation to ensure that the rider is licensed, trained, and properly equipped. Failure to enforce these basic standards contributes directly to the cycle of crashes, injuries, and deaths now evident in national data. Stronger parental oversight is not about punishment or restriction, but rather safeguarding life and instilling respect for shared public spaces.

Beyond the household, broader societal attitudes toward road use must also be confronted. Reckless riding is often glamorised or excused as youthful bravado, while compliance with traffic laws is portrayed as inconvenience. This mindset has deadly consequences. Roads are shared environments, and every act of negligence endangers not only the rider but drivers, pedestrians, and passengers who have little control over the actions of others.

Education must, therefore, complement enforcement, and sustained public awareness campaigns, integration of road safety education into schools, and community-based outreach targeting young males, the demographic most at risk, are essential. Licensing processes should be rigorously enforced and, where necessary, strengthened to ensure competence before riders are allowed onto public roads. Consideration should also be given to holding guardians accountable where underage or unlicensed riding is facilitated.

The rising severity of road accidents serves as a stark warning that each statistic signifies a life lost and a family changed. Addressing dangerous motorcycle behaviour calls for a cultural shift grounded in responsibility, discipline, and respect for life.

Epstein was not ostracised for his crimes. To some powerful men, he became even more appealing

…the latest tranche of files expose how he was viewed as a sexual svengali – and an expert on dodging the #MeToo movement

By Moira Donegan

Anewtranche of Epstein files has blasted its way through the worlds of media, politics, tech, academia, finance and Hollywood. Highprofile individuals have once again been forced to explain their relationship with the billionaire financier – and why exactly they sent that email, or what they were doing in that photo, in that place, at that time. There have been resignations in Norway, Slovakia, France, the United Kingdom and on Wall Street. Each individual scandal matters. But take the files as a whole and a new picture forms: of Jeffrey Epstein as a man who was seen to survive a sexual abuse scandal, and who was then feted as a sexual svengali and a valuable ally in navigating allegations of sexual abuse amid the #MeToo movement.

The 3.5 million documents that have thus far been released to the public – out of a reported 6 million documents pertaining to Epstein in the US Justice Department’s possession – paint Epstein as someone for whom elites, and particularly elite men, often felt a sense of camaraderie and affection, maintaining intimate and friendly relationships long after his 2008 conviction on child sexual abuse charges. And their content implies that, in some cases, this was not simply a case of them turning a blind eye to their friend’s sexual crimes: the powerful actively approached Epstein for sexual and romantic advice, and saw him as a thrower of “wild” parties and a listening ear in whom they could confide their anxieties about the excesses of the #MeToo movement.

Elon Musk in a 2012 email to the financier tried to arrange a visit, asking: “What day/night will be the wildest

party on your island?” (having written last September on X, his social media platform, that “Epstein tried to get me to his island and I REFUSED”).

Some went to him for dating advice. Larry Summers, the economist who served as Treasury Secretary under Bill Clinton and was the President of Harvard University from 2001 to 2006, exchanged a series of emails and text messages with Epstein in 2019 about a younger female economist that Summers was aiming to cajole into a sexual relationship. The men refer to the woman, who was born in China, as “Peril” – possibly a reference to “yellow peril”, the racist 19th-century epithet for Asian immigrants.

“Odds of success. I think another encounter at some point one third. Sustained series one fifth. Best shot for me. She gives up on marriage. Finds me invaluable and interesting and get her to conclude she can’t have it without romance/sex without deciding I’m weak or vengeful,” Summers wrote to Epstein, apparently gaming out with the paedophile how to get sex from a woman. “Over time. She is doomed to be with you,” Epstein replied. Epstein exchanged several emails with Steve Tisch, the scion of the wealthy Tisch family and the owner of the New York Giants football team, in which Tisch asked whether several of the women Epstein had introduced him to were sex workers. Tisch repeatedly asked Epstein to connect him with various women. “Pro or civilian?” Tisch asked of one. In another exchange, Epstein says that he has a “present” for Tisch; the gift turns out to be a woman. She is, “tahitian speaks mostly french, exotic,” Epstein says. When Tisch asks if she is a “working girl”, Epstein replies: “Nwver” [sic]. (Tisch has expressed re-

gret over his “brief” association with Epstein, who he described as “a terrible person” and says he never accepted Epstein’s invitations.)

Epstein believed the #MeToo movement increased his cachet among certain powerful men. “With all these guys getting busted for harassment , i have moved slightly up on the repuation ladder and have been asked everday for advice etc,” Epstein wrote to the Japanese technologist and venture capitalist Joi Ito in November 2017. Lawrence Krauss, a prominent physicist and atheist leader, relied on Epstein for help navigating sexual misconduct allegations against him investigated by the university where he was a professor, along with public reporting about his alleged sexual misconduct. (He denied the allegations, but the university concluded that he had grabbed a woman’s breast at a conference). At one point, Krauss went so far as to ask his lawyer to work with Epstein directly. “Jeffrey is not only friends with most of the famous people from finance, to business, to Hollywood, who have either been brought down during #metoo and he also speaks regularly with people ranging from the awful white house people, who he is friends with, to ken starr etc,” Krauss wrote to his attorney.

Other men, including the writer Michael Wolff, who published Fire and Fury, an explosive book about Donald Trump, wrote to Epstein, the billionaire convicted paedophile, about what they perceived to be the excesses of #MeToo. The linguist Noam Chomsky called the movement “hysteria”. Epstein, for his part, decried the claims of “feminazis” in an email evidently discussing strategies on how to deal with a campus rape case with the former solicitor general and Clinton im-

peachment prosecutor Ken Starr.

Women, too, sometimes sought out Epstein to decry the supposed injustice of the #MeToo movement. Soon-Yi Previn, wife and former stepdaughter of the film-maker Woody Allen, emailed Epstein repeatedly about #MeToo, and called a 15-year-old girl who made an allegation of sexual abuse against former congressman Anthony Weiner a “despicable and disgusting person who preys on the weak”. The two also discussed the misfortunes of Bill Cosby, the comedian who was alleged to have drugged and raped several dozen women. The publicist Peggy Siegal repeatedly referred to #MeToo as a “witch hunt”. And Kathy Ruemmler, the former Obama White House counsel who is now the general counsel of the financial juggernaut Goldman Sachs, emailed prolifically with Epstein, casting aspersions on women who came forward with allegations of sexual abuse and expressing sympathy with him for having his own abuse discovered and judged by the public.

The sheer number of Epstein’s connections to the rulers of our world is dizzying. So, too, reading the emails, is the willingness of his circle to continue their relationships with him despite his convictions for sex crimes – even, in some cases, to view them as a source of expertise. Seeking his advice and friendship was seemingly far more important than the rape and assault endured by powerless girls. “Just as the MeToo movement has gone too far so has Botox,” Soon-Yi Previn wrote to Epstein. To which one might counter that what has really gone too far is these people’s impunity. (The Guardian) Moira Donegan is a Guardian US columnist

Silly supporting of squatters uncalled for

Dear Editor, I was quite aghast when I read the headline that “Sophia squatters hold protest outside National Assembly.” This kind of silly and wasteful exercise is totally uncalled for. It has no merit, as squatting, like the term implies, is illegal, and also it is the avenue to all kinds of health and environmental problems. What irks me is that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic has been, from inception, going way out to help squatters relocate, in order to bring dignity, orderliness and growth in their livelihood. I ask, who, in their right minds, will not subject themselves to this kind

of operation?

I go back to one example, late last year. It was when Housing Minister, Collin Croal, explained in detail to the families occupying a government reserve at Success, East Coast Demerara, that the land regularization process takes time, but it is assured. On that occasion, it was clearly spelled out that “… the government is committed to addressing squatting in a structured manner.” Look at what was clearly communicated: “Some of you have occupied these lands for more than 20 years. We are mandated to address squatting, and we are working. We have completed log-

ging of squatting areas in Region Three and will soon commence this exercise in Region Four”

The plan is actually a national one, and it is designed to empower the homeless nation-wide. I mean how gullible can some people be? I iterate that there was no need for these squatters from a section of Sophia in Georgetown to hold this two-day protest outside the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Their grouse is uncalled for. I mean everyone ought to know that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government in Guyana has been and still is actively conducting land regularization and

formalizing informal settlements (squatting areas) across several regions, with a focus on Regions 3, 4, 6, and 10 as of late 2024 and 2025. In fact, since 2020, over 1,571 housing lots in 17 areas have been regularized. The goal is so wholesome, as it is about providing land titles, improving living conditions, and granting access to public utilities. The overall policy however is that the government will not recognize new squatting areas, focusing instead on existing ones. As a needful caveat, lot allocation is a well-established phenomenon in Guyana, and there is no moratorium on that.

A word of shame then

on Member of Parliament, Coretta McDonald, and her few colleagues, who stood in solidarity with residents of Sophia. When these had a chance to do something about housing for squatters, they proved abysmally woeful, uncaring and oblivious. Now they are chief agents provocateurs and firebrands.

Editor, illegal squatting presents many severe dangers to property owners, communities, and the squatters themselves, ranging from significant financial losses and legal entanglements to physical safety hazards. In terms of health, it presents health hazards of all types, to both the occupiers and the surrounding community due to unsafe, unhygienic, and often hazardous living environments. These include, but are not limited to, exposure to infectious diseases, structural dangers, lack of basic sanitation, and environmental hazards. I ask therefore that these squatters ‘smarten up.’ They need to ‘get with the programme’ and in time, they will be better off-physically, financially, and environmentally, and as a matter of fact, a salubrious milieu is beckoning.

Yours truly, HB Singh

PNC/APNU a party of unrecognisable minority

Dear Editor,

There is no doubt that Election 2025 has changed the political landscape in Guyana, for example, there is no PNC/APNU as opposition and a new party has taken its place. This is a notable change that cannot be ignored or glossed over by any stretch of the imagination, so let us review the salient facts that has brought us to this point in our history.

The WIN Party, was a step in the original plan to

unseat the PPP/C from office. United States indicted Azrudin Mohammed was brought into the political arena with the sole intention to win PPP/C voters over to him and win the presidency. This plan is a picture-perfect representation of the 2015 election, when the three Indians were brought into the opposition’s plan in that coalition to unseat the PPP/C, here again in 2025 a similar plan was hatched wherein “another Indian”

was encouraged into the run for office.

That other Indian, Azrudin Mohammed took up the challenge and ran, however things did not turn out the way APNU had planned it, Azrudin Mohammed did not break the PPP/C’s hold on to power, but instead swept

away most of the PNC’s Vote and relegated then to a minority in parliament. The shift in voter loyalty was so shocking, that the PNC/APNU were buried into a party of unrecognizable minority in the Parliament.

In the first place this latest plan was fundamen-

tally flawed right from the beginning, reasons being, Guyanese do not trust the PNC/APNU and bringing in a fugitive felon into the race did not help their cause either. Fresh in the minds of Guyanese is the horrible way the electorate was forgotten; their hopes and aspirations thrown into the dustbin, Guyanese

were determined never to allow that situation to raise its ugly head again. In my next article, I will explain away Plan B in that bogus poll that was conducted by known “On the fence pollster.”

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Page Foundation

Conversion Graphs cont’d

Example 3: using a conversion graph to estimate larger amounts

The graph shows the conversion between centimetres and inches.

Use the graph to convert 300 centimetres to inches.

Locate the values on the axis representing the unit you wish to convert.

Centimetres are represented by the vertical axis, however, the 300 centimetres is not in the range of values available on the vertical axis. Instead, we can use another value that is a factor of 300. It’s best to use the largest one available, so 20 centimetres is a good value to use.

These eye-catching hearts are lovely to hang about your home this Valentine’s Day or give away as heartfelt gifts.

Handcrafted from beautiful pastel cardboard, they add a soft touch of colour and charm to any space. Perfect for spreading love and cheer wherever you place them.

What you'll need

Pastel coloured cardboard (six different colours)

Cord

Scissors

Glue

Stapler

Pencil

Draw a perpendicular line from the value on the axis to the conversion line.

Draw a horizontal line from 20 centimetres to the conversion line.

Draw a line from the conversion line perpendicular to the other axis and read off the conversion value. Now draw a vertical line to the horizontal axis and read off the value.

20 centimetres is approximately 7.9 inches 20×15=300, so to convert 300 centimetres into inches, we must work out 7.9×15.

This gives 118.5, therefore, 300 centimetres is approximately 118.5 inches.

How to make

Step 1: Cut out strips from six pastel coloured cardboard ranging from 3 inches long to 6 inches long in half-inch intervals — you’ll need two strips of each colour.

Step 2: Go around the strips with a pen, then layer one of each colour together, arranging them from longest to shortest.

Step 3: Gently bend each strip to form the heart shape.

Step 4: Staple the ends together, then repeat these steps to make another heart for the other side. Once you have two halves, join them together — sandwich the strip with a hole in between, and glue or staple them to secure.

Step 5: Finally, add a hanging string and hang the hearts around your home. (Adapted from bakerross.co.uk)

By SUSAN HOWE

To Fanny Howe

Left the body

Drowsd a little

Done with soul

What to think

Dusting up crown

Garment mirror Pull me close

Quietness and calm

Rest and rejoice

No more doubt Astonishing!

Bird and pencil dining Bird and pencil dining

Special visitors

Walking on stilts in snow

On the subject of assurance

I should have I should have

Self-scrap

Imagination on the bias

Language of cold

Sitting beside sleep

Body as empty shell

When I came home it was very late

There was little in work but did go on

Civil fortification years awayaway whishth chipping

(Source: Poetry [September 2025])

Write a poem about running away to join the circus.

14,000 newly eligible adults to benefit from upcoming $100,000 cash grant

Prime Minister (PM)

Mark Phillips has said that that an estimated 14,000 additional Guyanese who recently reached the age of 18 will qualify for the Government’s upcoming $100,000 cash grant. The disclosure was made on Monday in the National Assembly as the House sat as the Committee of Supply to examine Budget 2026. Phillips explained that more than 600,000 individuals were registered under the first phase of

the cash grant programme, which was rolled out over a year ago.

The cash grant distribution is expected to begin shortly after the budget receives parliamentary approval. During the deliberations, questions were raised by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Vinceroy Jordan regarding the basis used to determine the $100,000 payment amount. Jordan cited current economic pressures

and the cost of living, asking what analysis supported the continuation of the figure into 2026. PM directed attention to the national budget presentation delivered by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, noting that the speech outlined a range of initiatives aimed at easing financial pressures on citizens.

Phillips said the cash grant forms part of a broader package of measures designed to provide economic relief and promote shared

prosperity, adding that the budget contains several other interventions addressing household and national economic concerns. According to the PM, the existing beneficiary database will undergo verification to remove the names of deceased persons. Once this process is completed and new eligible recipients are added, the total number of Guyanese aged 18 and older who qualify for the payment is projected to rise to approximately 716,000.

$78.3M First Lady budget to fund orphanage care, menstrual health, community parks

…as $900M for Men on Mission in 2026 Budget

The National Assembly on Monday approved a $78.3 million allocation for the Office of the First Lady and a $900 million subvention for the Men on Mission (MOM) programme as consideration of the 2026 Budget estimates began before the Committee of Supply. Both allocations fall under the Office of the President and were presented by Minister of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs, Gail Teixeira. The estimates came under scrutiny from opposition members during the examination process, particularly the increase in funding for the Office of the First Lady. Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Tabitha SaraboHalley questioned the Office of the First Lady’s budget, which reflects a 62 per cent increase over the previous year’s allocation. In response, Minister Teixeira explained that while the programme for 2026 amounts to more than the approved subvention, a significant portion of the funding is expected to be raised independently. “The 2026 programme comes up to $78,300,000. We expect to spend that in the fiscal year 2026, of which $44 million is allocated for projects and programmes and the shortfall of $34.3 million which will be funded through fundraising events by the Office of the First Lady,” Teixeira said. She outlined the continuation of several initiatives planned for 2026 under the Office of the First Lady, including an “Adopt an Orphanage” programme, which will benefit a number of institutions across the country. These include Hararuni Girls Orphanage,

A Sanctuary Children’s Home, Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre, Bless the Children Homes, Hope Children’s Home, Joshua House Children’s Home, Prabu Sharon Orphanage, Red Cross Convalescence Home, Shaheed’s Girls Orphanage, Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage, and others. A total of $5.5 million has been budgeted for this initiative.

The Office will also continue its Menstrual Hygiene Initiative, launched more than two years ago, which distributes sanitary pads to high school girls across all 10 administrative regions. The programme is allocated $12 million, including $2 million for transportation. Additionally, $3 million has been set aside for workshops on sexual and reproductive health in various communities, bringing the total allocation for those initiatives to $15.2 million. Another key component of the Office’s work is its inclusivity programme targeting persons with disabilities. According to Teixeira, $5 million has been earmarked for counselling services administered through the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, with 100 persons expected to benefit. A further 120 persons with disabilities will receive skills training at the Centre for Equity, Opportunity and Innovation at the Empower Guyana building in Palmyra, Berbice. Training will be provided by the Carnegie School of Home Economics, the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and private instructors. Donations of assistive devices such as canes and other aids are

also included.

The National Beautification Project accounts for the largest share of the Office’s allocation, with $35 million assigned. Teixeira said this will support the construction and maintenance of parks and recreational spaces in several communities, including Den Amstel, Sans Souci, Diamond Grove, Bath Settlement, Number 63 Beach in Region Six, Kato in Region Eight, Wismar and Spikeland in Linden, Region 10. Maintenance work will also be carried out on existing parks in Regions Two, Three, Four and Six. Financial assistance will also be provided to vulnerable Guyanese in the form of backpacks, school supplies, children’s toys and hampers.

“The budget they will be getting is $78 million, and this will probably cost much more than that, but that’s why I said there’s also expected that a $34.3 million shortfall, which will be funded by the different fundraising activities sourced by the First Lady. These dinners and stuff like that, to supplement their subvention from the Government,” Teixeira stated.

Men on Mission

Meanwhile, the Committee approved a $900 million allocation for the MOM programme, which operates with a staff of four. Providing background on the initiative, Teixeira said the programme is aimed at addressing deep-rooted cultural attitudes that contribute to abuse and domestic violence. “It takes a long time to change people’s cultures and habits. It doesn’t happen overnight. Cultural

abuse, and acceptance and intolerance of our society for abuse and domestic violence, it takes a long time to change,” she said.

She noted that MOM focuses on changing men’s attitudes toward women and children and positioning men as agents of change within their com-

munities. In addition to workshops and community meetings, the programme has also focused on assisting vulnerable families through housing support.

“There is a slow turn in the society to do with not tolerating the level of violence abuse that we used out before, so although domestic

violence continued, there is less tolerance as expressed in the media and expressed in the judiciary in terms of dealing with cases under protection of the victims,” Teixeira added. The consideration of the remaining estimates continues in the National Assembly today.

Over 5lbs of ganja found hidden in haversack at Hadfield St

Aquantity of cannabis weighing more than five pounds was discovered during an operation conducted on Sunday night, at an apartment building on Hadfield Street, Lodge, Georgetown, resulting in one woman being taken into custody. According to police, the operation was carried out at about 19:30h by ranks in Regional Division #4 ‘A’ (Georgetown). During the exercise, officers conducted a search in the yard of the premises, where they discovered seven large transparent plastic bags containing leaves, seeds

and stems suspected to be cannabis. Police said the narcotics were found concealed inside a haversack hidden among several plants at the back of the yard. A 36-year-old female security officer, who resides at the apartment and was present at the time of the operation, was arrested and taken into custody pending investigations. The cannabis was weighed in her presence and amounted to 5.70 pounds before being lodged as evidence. Police said the woman remains in custody as investigations continue. This comes just a day af-

ter police reported on that Sunday, a separate operation in Regional Division 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) led to the discovery of firearms, ammunition and narcotics at a residence in Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden. Acting on information received, ranks conducted a search of a motor lorry parked in the yard of the residence. During the search, a haversack was found behind the driver’s seat containing several parcels of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. Further checks resulted in the discovery of three

9mm pistols and nine .32 rounds of ammunition concealed among the suspected narcotics. A 42-year-old businesswoman of Central Amelia’s Ward was arrested and taken into custody. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of a 36-year-old male driver from Bamia, SoesdykeLinden Highway, at his residence. The cannabis was weighed in the presence of the suspects and amounted to 4.536 kilograms (kg). The firearms, ammunition and narcotics were later lodged pending further investigation.

Man acquitted of gang-related Linden murder

Samorea Mitchell was on Monday unanimously acquitted of the 2021 mur-

der of 23-year-old Delroy Anthony McKenzie, following the conclusion of a high-profile trial be-

fore the Demerara High Court. Mitchell, who had been charged with orchestrating McKenzie’s killing during an alleged gang-related ambush in Linden, was found not guilty by all 12 jurors after the case was heard before Chief Justice (ag) Navindra Singh. He was represented by counsel, while the prosecution was led by State Counsel Christopher Belfield, assisted by State Counsel Geneva. The charge stemmed from the July 17, 2021, fatal shooting of McKenzie at Sunflower Street, Wismar, Linden, an incident the State had described as a calculated execution linked to gang rivalry. According to the prosecution’s case, Mitchell, McKenzie and several associates had al-

legedly planned to attack members of the MOB Gang during a barbecue event in Linden on the day in question. However, prosecutors alleged that Mitchell secretly disclosed the plan to a member of the rival gang, resulting in a counter-plot to lure McKenzie to Sunflower Street under the guise of discussing the original attack. The State contended that when McKenzie arrived in Linden, Mitchell directed him to the location where he and four other individuals were waiting inside a vehicle. As McKenzie approached the car with his friend, Calvin Daly, the occupants allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding McKenzie and injuring Daly.

Passing…

…the (Budget) line items

If, Dear Readers, you – like most of those newbies in WIN! – thought they were done and finished with Budget 2026, you – and them – got another think comin’!! They had to meet yesterday at the Convention Center-cum National Assembly – to perform one of the most tedious tasks invented by man – making watching grass grow seem positively hair-raising! – scrutinising the $1.558 TRILLION Budget items contained in SIX VOLUMES – line by mind-numbing line!! Volume 1 alone has 757 pages!! Remember that line by Thomas Paine when the Yanks declared independence from Britain?? “These are the times that try men’s souls”!!

A lot of souls will be tested in this last part of the Budget Process!! As Paine warned, “The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman”!! Let’s see who’s gonna come out of this process separating the men and women from the boys and girls!! The entire contingent of 65 MPs will first be baptised by the Speaker and henceforth called “The Committee of Supply” – with him now becoming the Chairman!! They’ll scrutinise the Budget Estimates, Supplementary Estimates, and Statements of Excesses.

The Speaker-cum-Chairman will read out each line item of spending – say Region 1: Barima/Waini’s $2,457,912 for the Current Expenditure for this year. Above this line will be all the specifics such as Telephone & Internet Charges, Electricity Charges, Water Charges, Security Charges etc. The comparative charges for 2024 and 2025 will also be listed and the MPs can object, suggest reductions or increases, etc. Then finally, the Speaker-cum-Chairman will intone – “All those in favour of the stated line item say “AYE”. And the Government MPs will dutifully intone sonorously “Aye!!” The Speaker-cum-Chairman will then in a voice that will be now redolent of ennui “All those NOT in favour of the stated line item say “Nay”.

And he will not even lift up his eyes to watch, much less count the nays – since he knows by the very structure of the composition of the National Assembly, the Government MPs gonna always outnumber the Opposition’s!! And so he’ll automatically drone, “The Ayes have it”!! And then proceed to the ten thousand or so other lines!! The acid test in this segment not surprisingly will be how many heads will bang their desks as Hypnos, the Greek God of sleep, would’ve been invoked by all the droning!! And finally, they’ll then be done, right??

No Siree Bob!! There now gotta be an Appropriations Bill introduced – to approve the amended line items!! And the dazed surviving lot stumbles home!!

…the Coastlands

From the boom in construction in houses, factories, hotels – in addition to increasing lands for farming, we gotta be fast running out of coastlands!! So, we better come up with a plan to satisfy the new demands arising out of the trillions and trillions in the Government’s developmental plans!! Well, to your Eyewitness, the solution’s pretty simple: just as the US invented the slogan “GO WEST, YOUNG MAN!!” when their East Coast started getting crowded, we can encourage everyone needing land to “GO SOUTH, YOUNG MEN ANS WOMEN!!”

Now your Eyewitness is aware that our eco-friendly policies warn against cutting down our interior forests –which we’re committed to preserving. But hey!! Down south ain’t all forests, is it?!! There’s the sand and clay belt where Silica City’s being constructed; then the vast intermediate savannahs where we’re planting soya and corn. Not to mention the Rupununi Savannahs that can swallow Jamaica without even burping.

After the Linden-Lethem highway’s finished, we just gotta build more roads and railways to those areas!!

…the Gringos

The Super Bowl’s the biggest thing on the American social calendar. For their half-time entertainment, they invited the Puerto Rican, Spanish rapper Bad Bunny.

In calling out the “United States”, he enumerated all the countries in South and Central America!!

SRIS camera recordings Cops under probe after 800 traffic offences discarded – Traffic Chief

Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mahendra Singh, has revealed that the Traffic Department is currently investigating police officers responsible for managing the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS) after approximately 800 traffic offences recorded between December and the present were rejected. Singh made the disclosure during an interview with this publication. “I was reliably informed by officials who are managing this system with us that they have discovered more than 800 offences that were committed and subsequently rejected by police officers,”

ted or rejected the violation, allowing investigators to trace responsibility.

“Some police officers have been overlooking these offences and not approving them, but the system allows

ables us to identify these officers and we will identify those who internally rejected these offences. They will be dealt with.” The traffic chief stated that investigators will review the backend of the system to identify those responsible and ensure that they are held accountable. He noted that the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) smart camera system allows authorities to remotely detect traffic violations, including dangerous driving and the use of the third lane. Singh emphasised that the integrity and accountability of the system are protected, as authorised ranks who monitor the footage cannot approve or reject

he said. He explained that even when offences are not approved, the SRIS backend records the username of the individual who omit-

us to know exactly who the user was at the time,” Singh added. “There is a specific username format that en-

offences based on personal bias. Singh also stated that there is no opportunity to contest offences captured by the SRIS system, as the

and precise, particularly in cases involving dangerous driving. He

stressed that these measures are necessary to reassure the public that the

GECOM publishes Revised List of Electors for public scrutiny

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has published the Revised List of Electors (RLE) for a period of 21 days, effective from February 7, 2026, to allow stakeholders to examine the list and verify the accuracy of their registration records.

According to GECOM, the RLE is being displayed at two designated public locations in every registration division across the country. In addition, the list is available online on the Commission’s official website to facilitate wider access and review. Persons who registered or conducted transactions during the recently concluded Claims and Objections exercise are being urged to carefully

review their information. According to GECOM, registrants who identify any discrepancies or have concerns about their details as reflected in the RLE are advised to report these matters to the Registration Officer at the Registration Office responsible for their area of residence. GECOM stated that the publication of the RLE is part of its ongoing efforts to ensure accuracy and accountability in the electoral process. The Commission reiterated its commitment to a transparent system that operates in accordance with the law and allows for scrutiny of all registration transactions by representatives of parliamentary political parties. The Revised List of Electors will remain

available for public review throughout the 21-day publication period.

In January, during the Claims and Objections exercise Attorney General (AG) and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC, renewed his call for opposition parties to use the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)’s Claims and Objections period to address any concerns and claims about the Official List of Electors (OLE) being bloated. Over the years executives and supporters of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and newcomers We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) and the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) have

continually alleged that the OLE created by the GECOM is exceedingly bloated, with claims that that list could contain as many as hundreds of thousands of dead and overseas voters. During the Claims and Objections period, persons can challenge the inclusion of any names on the existing OLE. Nandlall is calling on the opposition

to rise to the occasion and capitalise on the opportunity to prove their claims.

“Go now and remove the bloat,” Nandlall had challenged the Opposition during his weekly programme ‘Issues In the News”. However, Nandlall reasoned that notwithstanding his prompting, he does not believe that the opposition members will

submit any objections this go around, any more than they were able to in “Claims and Objection” cycles in the past. “They will not go, but once the occasion rises… and it’s an opportunity for them to make ridiculous allegations, they will make it all over again, and here it is: the law is providing an opportunity to remove this bloat,” Nandlall had said. “I hope that the election observers who spoke about this in their report are hearing me. I hope that they hear that I’m calling on the opposition, who told them that the list is bloated by tens of thousands… When I hear about this bloated list of allegations being made, I am going to refer to my statement and my public invitation urging for it to be done. It’s not going to be done, and I know that,” he had noted. The National Registration Act provides for two periods during the year where the National Register of Registrants (NRR) is to be stopped for claims and objections to be carried out.

Cutlass-wielding attack inside Parika Police Station under investigation

Aconfrontation inside the Parika Police Station, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) compound, is under investigation following an early morning incident on Sunday, which resulted in one man being taken into custody. According to police, the incident occurred at about 03:00h. Enquiries revealed that a man had gone to the station to make a report of an alleged assault when another man entered the compound, forcibly confronted him and began assaulting him. Police said ranks who were present at the time immediately intervened, restrained the aggressor and brought the situation under control. The suspect, a 33-year-old vendor from Farm, EBE was escorted to the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, where he was examined by a doctor and subsequently returned to the Parika Police Station and placed into custody pending investigations. Police further stated that the other individual, who had gone to the station to make the report and was assaulted, left the scene before investigators could obtain a statement. Efforts are ongoing to locate him, Police said. However, video footage seen by this publication circulating on social media was recorded by a civilian and shows a chaotic sequence of events. The footage shows a man dressed in a black T-shirt

and a cap running into the police station and grabbing another man who was inside the building. The man is then seen pulling the individual outside into the compound, where he appeared to be armed with a cutlass and began swinging it at the victim. The video further captures two other men running into the station compound shortly after. One of the men was dressed in a yellow T-shirt and black pants and appeared to be armed with a cutlass, while the other was dressed in an orange T-shirt and blue three-quarter pants, also

armed with what appeared to be a cutlass. Both men were seen storming into the compound as the confrontation escalated. During the altercation, a police officer is seen intervening and separating the men in an effort to bring the situation under control. Police have since confirmed that the entire incident was captured on closed-circuit television cameras attached to the Parika Police Station and that the footage, along with the civilian-recorded video, is being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

US extradition request for Mohameds Law allows extradition hearings to proceed despite illness – US Prosecutor

…Magistrate adjourns case to Feb 16

The law permits a Magistrate to proceed with extradition proceedings even where an accused person is absent due to illness, once specific legal conditions are satisfied, reporters were told at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday after the extradition committal hearing of United States (US)-indicted businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed. This was highlighted by Attorney Glenn Hanoman on Monday, following the adjournment of the US’ extradition proceedings against Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed, after the elder Mohamed fell ill and was unable to attend. The Criminal Law Procedure (Paper Committals) Act has outlined provisions to be followed in the event an accused cannot make a court appearance due to illness. The law states that a Magistrate may proceed with a paper committal in the absence of the accused if “the accused cannot be present for reasons of ill health but is represented by an attorney-at-law and has consented to the evidence being tendered in the absence of the accused…” Attorney Hanoman, prosecutor for the US, told reporters that the law makes provisions for the proceedings to continue in the absence of the accused. In fact, Attorney Hanoman said he will request that the court makes the necessary provisions for the elder Mohamed to make virtual appearances if his health challenges persist. “In July 2024, normal preliminary inquiries were abolished and now all these types of matters have to be done by way of

Paper Committal. Under the Paper Committal Act, there is an allowance for the absence of an accused person for the proceedings,” the lawyer highlighted. “I don’t think that the lawyer for Mr Mohamed may be have been able to get his consent to appear for him today [Monday] in his absence, but it would be helpful if that lawyer requests that consent in time for the next set of proceedings,” he added. On Monday, Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman adjourned the matter for one week after the elder Mohamed failed to appear in court, citing medical reasons. The case has been rescheduled for February 16, when a medical report is expected. Mohamed’s Attorney, Siand Dhurjon, told the court that his client was ill and unable to attend the scheduled continuation of the hearing. The extradition proceedings arise from an indictment unsealed in October 2025 by a US federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida, charging Nazar and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, with a string of federal offences including wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, aiding and abetting and customs-related violations tied to alleged financial crimes involving the export and taxation of gold. During Monday’s hearing, Attorney Hanoman acknowledged the court’s sympathy for Mohamed’s condition but emphasised the logistical strain that repeated postponements place on judicial resources. “There is a cost every time this happens. Even the court has to mobilise itself from a different jurisdiction to

be here. Prosecutors have to be here,” Hanoman told reporters outside the courthouse. Outside the courtroom, Nazar’s son also indicted by the US, Azruddin, who is also facing the same indictment, spoke briefly with reporters claiming his father has a heart complication, high blood pressure and diabetes. The extradition process in Guyana is governed by the Fugitive Offenders Act, as amended, pursuant to an extradition treaty between Guyana and the US. Under the Criminal Law Procedure (Paper Committals) Act, a Magistrate may proceed with preliminary matters in the absence of the accused if ill health prevents attendance and the defendant has consented through counsel. The Mohameds were first arrested in late October 2025 after the US Government formally requested extradition following the unsealing of an 11-count federal indictment. The charges allege that between 2017 and June 2024, the father-son duo engaged in a scheme to evade taxes and duties on gold exports, using falsified customs declarations and reused export seals on shipments totaling over 10,000 kilograms (kg) of gold, causing an estimated US$50 million in lost revenues. In addition to the federal indictment, the pair were sanctioned in June 2024 by the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which accused them of tax evasion, tradebased money laundering and gold smuggling. The US Government’s extradition request triggered legal filings in

Guyana’s courts, where the Mohameds’ lawyers have at times challenged aspects of the process, including the constitutionality of amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Act and the procedures under which extradition hearings are conducted. The extradition case has unfolded amid tension between legal and political narratives in Guyana. In January 2026, Azruddin, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party, was appointed Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly even as the extradition committal hearings continued. Prosecutors in the US allege both father and son conspired to defraud the Governments of Guyana and the US through complex gold export and financial schemes; if convicted, the charges each carry potential decades-long prison sentences and significant fines.

$78M set aside to operationalise Guyana Technical Training College

…instructor hiring ongoing

The sum of $78 million has been allocated in the 2026 National Budget to operationalise the Guyana Technical Training College at Port Mourant in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne)

The allocation came under scrutiny on Monday as revisions of estimates in the National Assembly.

APNU Member of Parliamentarian Ganesh Mahipaul sought clarity on how the funds will be utilised.

The sum of $78 million has been allocated in the 2026 National Budget to operationalise the Guyana Technical Training College at Port Mourant, Region Six

(East Berbice-Corentyne), with the bulk of the funds earmarked for consultancies to develop and deliver an advanced diploma programme.

During consideration of the current expenditure, Mahipaul pointed to line item 6321 relating to the technical training college and questioned whether the institution had secured the eight instructors it was reportedly seeking to ensure it becomes fully functional this year.

“There’s a budgeted sum here of 78 million dollars,” Mahipaul said. “I did read in the press that this college is expected to be fully functioning from January. May I ask the Honourable

Minister if they were successful in terms of the eight instructors that they were seeking to have to train the students there from this allocated sum?”

Responding, Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister, Gail Teixeira explained that $70 million of the allocation is intended for consultancies aimed at programme development rather than direct employment of instructors at this stage.

“$70 million of this will be for consultancies aimed to develop and deliver an advanced diploma in building and construction at the institute, $5.5 million for the general operation ex-

penses of the secretariat and $2.5 million for the rental of the professor’s residence,” Teixeira told the House.

Asked further on whether the eight instructors had been engaged, the minister clarified that the recruitment process is still ongoing.

“No, they’re not at this moment… the eight consultants have not been awarded as yet, they’re in the interview process,” she stated.

Teixeira added that once the consultants or instructors are formally appointed, funding for their salaries will be provided through the Ministry of Finance.

The Guyana Technical Training College, located at Port Mourant on the Corentyne, is expected to offer an Advanced Diploma in Building and Construction.

The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader push to expand techni-

cal and vocational education and strengthen local capacity within the rapidly growing construction sector.

The establishment of the institution is seen as a significant development for Region Six, particularly as large-scale housing and infrastructure projects continue across the country, creating increased demand for skilled workers in building and construction.

Man acquitted of gang-related...

Evidence led at trial revealed that McKenzie sustained nine gunshot wounds, with bullets travelling from back to front. Investigators recovered 27 spent shells and two 9mm bullets from the scene, while ballistic examinations reportedly indicated that at least two firearms were used in the shooting. The prosecution further alleged that the vehicle used in the attack had been stolen from Georgetown and later abandoned at Kuru Kuru Junction, before being transported to Linden. It was later burnt and abandoned at Blue Lake, one day after the killing. Following the incident, Mitchell was accused of fleeing to Mahdia on July 18, 2021, before returning to Linden. Despite

allegedly knowing he was wanted by the police, prosecutors said he remained in hiding until September 3, 2021, when he turned himself in at the Mackenzie Police Station in the presence of his attorney. During the investigation, Police conducted several video-recorded interviews and confrontations with Mitchell and other suspects. While Mitchell denied involvement, prosecutors claimed that on September 7, 2021, he requested to speak “off camera” and later gave a caution statement detailing the events surrounding the killing. However, the State said Mitchell refused to sign the statement, citing fear of being labelled a “snitch” and concerns for his safety. Mitchell has consistent-

ly denied the prosecution’s claims, disputing that he never confessed or admitted involvement in the murder. A post-mortem examination conducted on July 19, 2021, by forensic pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh, confirmed that McKenzie died from haemorrhage and shock due to multiple gunshot injuries. The examination revealed extensive internal bleeding, with approximately 2,000 cubic centimetres of blood found in the thoracic and abdominal cavities. Despite the detailed evidence presented by the State, the jury returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty, bringing the nearly five-year-long matter to an end. Mitchell was freed following the verdict.

President Dr Irfaan Ali was on Monday conferred with the State of Roraima’s highest award — The Order of Merit Fort São Joaquim (the Medalha Forte São Joaquim) in Boa Vista, Brazil (President Dr Irfaan Ali/Facebook)

Linden students explore modern farming techniques at Christianburg farm

Students of the Linden Foundation Secondary School participated in their first practical and theoretical training session at the Christianburg Demonstration Farm shade house. According to a social media post by the Agriculture Ministry on Monday, during the ses -

sion, students were exposed to key topics, including transplanting and shade house management. The exercise was a collaborative effort between the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Agriculture and Rural Development Programme.

More parental oversight needed as young motorcyclists flout road safety laws – Traffic Chief

Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner of Police Mahendra Singh on Monday highlighted ongoing concerns about the dangerous behaviour of young motorcyclists, calling for stronger parental enforcement and involvement. Singh told Guyana Times that many young riders operate without valid licences and engage in reckless driving, often removing motorcycles from crash scenes to avoid police scrutiny. “They are riding recklessly and without licences,” Singh said. “When they crash, some of them threaten other drivers and remove the motorcycles from the scene. We had one such case last night, the rider broke traffic laws, crashed into a motor vehicle, and his friends removed the motorcycle from the crash scene before police arrived. They even threatened the other driver with violence.” The warning comes amid

national statistics showing the continued risks posed by unsafe motorcycle riding. In 2025, 53 motorcyclists lost their lives in road accidents, according to the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Although the total number of road collisions fell to approximately 2,177 in 2025, the number of fatalities increased to 137, compared with 132 in 2024, indicating that crashes are becoming more severe and deadly. The GPF has repeatedly identi-

fied young riders, particularly males, as a high-risk group. Police investigations frequently reveal speeding, dangerous overtaking, lack of helmets and overloading as common factors in fatal crashes. Pillion riders, or passengers on motorcycles, are also increasingly affected, often suffering serious injuries or death. In response, traffic ranks have intensified enforcement efforts, including roadblocks, helmet and licensing checks

and the use of the Safe Road Intelligence System (SRIS) to monitor speeding and other violations. However, Singh emphasised that enforcement alone cannot curb reckless behaviour. “Riding responsibly is not optional, it is a duty to yourself, your family and every other road user,” Singh said. He urged parents to take a more active role in supervising young riders to reduce accidents and fatalities on Guyana’s roads.

Mash vending

spot

sales delayed, now set to begin Wednesday

As preparations for the Mashramani celebrations continue, the Georgetown Mayor and City Council officials have provided an update on the selling of vending spots this year.

During a statutory meeting on Monday, the delay in vending spot sales was discussed. City officials explained that ongoing road work required a redo of the spot numbering, which prevented sales from beginning as planned on February 9. It was confirmed that vending spots will be available for sale starting February 11. Vending spots are being demarcated along Vlissengen Road, from Guyana Water Inc (GWI) to Barr Street, Kitty, Georgetown to ensure an or-

derly layout for the upcoming Mashramani celebrations on February 23, 2026. In addition to Vlissengen Road, Merriman’s Mall will again serve as a hub for vending and picnic activities, directly overseen by the City Council. The area will also host games and other recreational elements as part of the Council’s efforts to ensure safe and enjoyable celebrations. Vendors will only be allowed on the side of the road opposite to the floats and masqueraders to ensure smooth procession movement. Post-Mashramani cleanup is also vital, with City Council teams assigned to remove all garbage along the route once celebrations have ended.

71-year-old pensioner dies in Pomeroon River boat collision

Police in Regional Division Two are investigating a river mishap that occurred on Monday at Kabakaburi, Upper Pomeroon River, Essequibo, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) which resulted in the death of 71-year-old pensioner

Felix Smith of St Monica Village. According to police, enquiries revealed that Tressa Williams, 36, of Karawab Village and attached to the Karawab Village Council, was head-

ing home in a wooden boat powered by a 200 HP Yamaha outboard engine at about 15:30h, which she captained and had

two passengers. Williams told investigators that she stopped at the Kabakaburi Mission to pick up two schoolchildren and after

leaving the stelling, she proceeded on the right side of the river. While negotiating a turn, she observed another wooden boat approaching from the opposite direction on the same side of the Pomeroon River. The other vessel coloured red, white and black, was powered by a 15 HP Yamaha outboard engine and was captained by Felix Smith. Williams told investigators that in an effort to avoid a collision, she steered closer to

her right-hand side, but Smith also moved in that direction, causing the two boats to collide. After the impact, Williams said she observed Smith lying face down and unconscious in his boat, while his wife, Telouis Smith, was in the water holding onto nearby trees along the riverbank. Another boat responded and assisted in transporting Felix Smith and his wife to the Karawab Health Centre. They were later transferred to the

Charity Cottage Hospital for further medical attention. Felix Smith was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. Police said that a detective examined the body and observed injuries to the left side of Smith’s face. The body is currently at the Charity Cottage Hospital mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination. Tressa Williams is presently in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations.

210 upper ECD residents begin BIT skills training

Atotal of 210 residents from the Upper East Coast Demerara (ECD) are set to commence skills training today, through programmes offered by the Board of Industrial

Training (BIT). The training programmes were officially launched Monday at the Beterverwagting (BV) Practical Instruction Centre. According to the Ministry, in a social media post, the launch signalled

the start of seven training programmes designed to serve participants from the Beterverwagting occupational area. The programmes cover air-conditioning and refrigeration, plumbing, electrical in- stallation, agro-process- ing, commercial food

preparation, information technology (IT) and furniture-making. Of the total intake, 135 trainees will receive instruction at the BV Practical Instruction Centre, where they will gain practical, industry-relevant skills. Meanwhile, the Buxton Practical Instruction Centre will accommodate 75 trainees, offering training in Furniture Making, Electrical Installation, Commercial Food Preparation, and Information Technology. All programmes will be conducted over four months. During the event, trainees were encouraged to remain committed and disciplined throughout the programme, with the focus placed on the importance of acquiring new life skills.

53 persons dead or missing after migrant boat capsizes in Mediterranean

Fifty-three people are dead or missing after a boat capsized in the Mediterranean Sea off the Libyan coast, the UN migration agency said on Monday. Only two survivors were rescued.

The International Organization for Migration said the boat overturned north of Zuwara on Friday, in the latest disaster involving people attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing in the hope of reaching Europe.

In a statement, the IOM said: “Only two Nigerian women were rescued during a search and rescue operation by Libyan authorities.” It

added that one of the survivors said she lost her husband and the other said she lost her two babies in the tragedy.

The agency said its teams provided the survivors with emergency medical care upon disembarkation. “According to survivor accounts, the boat – carrying migrants and refugees of African nationalities departed from Al-Zawiya, Libya, at around 11pm on February 5. Approximately six hours later, it capsized after taking on water, IOM mourns the loss of life in yet another deadly incident along the Central Mediterranean route.”

The Geneva-based agency said trafficking

and smuggling networks were exploiting migrants along the route from

north Africa to southern Europe, profiting from dangerous crossings in

unseaworthy boats while exposing people to “severe abuse”.

It called for stronger international cooperation to tackle the networks alongside safe and regular migration pathways to reduce risks and save lives. The IOM fears that hundreds of people have died since the start of the year attempting to cross the Mediterranean amid harsh weather conditions on the dangerous crossing.

A spokesperson for the European Commission said Brussels was trying to address the root causes of irregular migration and promote legal, safe and orderly pathways to the European Union.

“These tragic events once again underline the need to intensify joint efforts with our partners, including Libya, to prevent such dangerous journeys and to combat the criminal networks of migrant smugglers that put lives at risk,” they told Agence France-Presse. Between the start of 2014 and the end of 2025, more than 33,000 migrants died or went missing in the Mediterranean, according to the IOM’s Missing Migrants Project. Last year, it recorded 1,873 missing or dead in the Mediterranean, including 1,342 on the central route. (The Guardian)

Commonwealth Law Ministers meeting opens with calls to make rule of law work for all

The Commonwealth Law Ministers meeting opened in Fiji on Monday with calls for sustained action to ensure the rule of law delivers progress and shared prosperity for the people of the Commonwealth in an increasingly uncertain world. More than 250 delegates, including Fiji’s Prime Minister (PM) Sitiveni Rabuka, Tuvalu’s PM Feleti Penitala Teo and Tonga’s Deputy PM Hon Viliami Latu, were welcomed to Nadi on 9 February 2026 with a powerful traditional Fijian ceremony. The meeting brings together justice Ministers and Attorneys General (AG) from the 56 Commonwealth countries to discuss responses to emerging legal issues affecting people’s lives and livelihoods. In his welcome address, PM Sitiveni Rabuka warned that the rule of law is under growing pressure around the world. He added, “When the law is weakened, un-

evenly applied, or unable to command public confidence, it is not abstract systems that suffer. It is ordinary people - real lives… This meeting is not merely a forum for discussion, rather it is a working meeting with real-world consequences.

“Your deliberations and

the practical measures you will advance, speak directly to the expectations our people hold of us. Justice that is dependable, institutions that are strong and laws that serve not only those who understand them best, but those who rely upon them the most,” he is quoted

Savita Singh becomes 1st female to win T&T Chutney Soca Monarch

Savita Singh captured the titles of Chutney Soca Monarch and Queen of Chutney Soca at the Grand Finals held last night at Skinner Park, San Fernando.

Women swept the top three positions in the competition, with Singh earning a top score of 813 points from the nine judges. Rasika Dindial placed second with

673 points, while Lady Lava secured third place with 662 points. Defending champion Machel Montano finished with 651 points. Fourteen contestants competed in the finals.

Singh became the first female artiste to win the top prize in the 31-year history of the competition. Dindial also received the Traditional Monarch title, which was in-

troduced this year.

The Chutney Soca Monarch finals, staged on a Sunday for the first time, drew one of the largest crowds recorded at Skinner Park.

Organisers said all contestants delivered elaborate presentations, with detailed stage set-ups at times causing delays in the programme. (T&T Guardian)

as saying a press release from the Commonwealth Media and Public Affairs Unit. Reflecting on the growing legal impacts of climate change, the PM urged Ministers to ensure the justice systems act as a shield for people and the planet. Rule of force edging out the rule

of law. Commonwealth Secretary-General (SG) Hon Shirley Botchwey said the meeting comes at a time when many people feel unsettled by political uncertainty, economic volatility and environmental threats. She added: “This is what happens when the rule of force begins to edge out the rule of law. That is why the work you as law Ministers and Attorneys General do matters so profoundly.”

“Over these days, you will shape action to strengthen democratic resilience. In doing so, you are helping to restore trust between institutions and the people they exist to serve. That is no small task. But it is a vital one. “History will remember not the turbulence of our times, but whether we had the courage to rise above the chaos and build a better world together.”

The SG continued that the Commonwealth’s new strategic plan responds to this urgency by prioritis-

ing targeted action to ensure the rule of law is felt not only in courts but in everyday life. Over three days, Ministers will work through an agenda focused on how the law shapes people’s experience of democracy, economic opportunity and environmental protection. Specific topics will range from safeguarding maritime rights as sea levels rise to the responsible use of technology to improve access to justice. The meeting will conclude on 11 February with the release of an outcome statement which sets out concrete steps Commonwealth countries will take to strengthen the rule of law for the benefit of their citizens. The meeting is being chaired by Fiji’s Minister for Justice and Acting AG, Siromi Turaga, under the theme ‘Anchoring Justice in a Changing Tide: Strengthening the Rule of Law for a Resilient Future’.

Venezuela’s Opposition says party leader kidnapped hours after being freed

Venezuelan Opposition

Leader María Corina Machado said her Opposition colleague Juan Pablo Guanipa has been kidnapped just hours after being released from detention.

The Nobel Peace Prize winner said on Sunday that Guanipa, leader of the Justice First party, was taken in the Los Chorros neighbourhood of the capital, Caracas.

“Heavily-armed men dressed in civilian clothes arrived in four vehicles and took him away by force,” she wrote on social media early on Monday.

A former Vice President of the National Assembly, Guanipa spent eight months in prison and was among several political prisoners released since the US seized Venezuela’s then-President Nicolás Maduro in January.

Guanipa’s centre-right party said he had been kidnapped by the “repressive forces of the dictatorship” while he was moving between locations.

They added that those accompanying him said weapons were pointed at the group before Guanipa was loaded into a car.

“We hold Delcy Rodríguez, Jorge Rodríguez, and Diosdado Cabello responsible for any harm to Juan Pablo’s life,” Justice First wrote on social media, refer-

3 of 10 kidnapped miners found dead in Mexico, mining chamber says

Three of 10 mine workers kidnapped last month from a mine run by Canada’s Vizsla Silver Corp in Mexico’s northern state of Sinaloa have been found dead, the country’s mining chamber said on Monday.

Ignacio Aurelio Salazar, Jose Angel Hernandez and Jose Manuel Castaneda were confirmed dead by local authorities, Mexican mining chamber Camimex said in a statement. Camimex called for an investigation to find who was responsible.

“We ask that the absolute priority remains locating our co-workers who are still missing alive so they

can return home with their families, where they belong,” Camimex added.

The group was kidnapped at the end of January from a silver mine in an area security authorities say is under the control of the Chapitos, a faction of the Sinaloa cartel led by the sons of ex-Mexican drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.

Vancouver-based Vizsla Silver said it was focused on the safe recovery of those still missing and supporting the affected families.

“We are devastated by this outcome and the tragic loss of life,” Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael Konnert said.

Vizsla Silver said it will provide further updates as it receives confirmations from Mexican authorities. Its Panuco mine has been closed since the kidnapping and company shares were down nearly six per cent in Monday trading.

Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said in a press conference on Monday that the federal government was in close contact with the workers’ families and the mining company. (Excerpt from Reuters)

ring to Venezuela’s Interim President, the National Assembly speaker, and the Interior Minister respectively.

The party also called on the international community to demand the “immediate release” of Guanipa and an end to the Venezuelan Government’s “persecution of the Opposition”.

Another key figure in Venezuela’s Opposition, Edmundo González, demanded proof of life, saying on X that the “absence of information” on Guanipa’s whereabouts “constitutes a forced disappearance”.

Just hours earlier, Guanipa’s son Ramón was celebrating his father’s release on social media: “Our entire family will be able to hug again soon.”

He subsequently posted a

video online, in which he demanded immediate proof that his father was still alive.

“I hold the regime responsible for anything that happens to my father. Enough of this repression,” Ramón Guanipa said in the video.

Meanwhile, he United States military has announced seizing a Venezuelalinked vessel in the Indian Ocean, a move that Washington said demonstrates its determination to enforce its oil blockade on the South American country even “halfway around the world”.

The Pentagon said on Monday that it captured the tanker as part of a campaign by US President Donald Trump to cut off Venezuela’s oil exports.

(Excerpts from BBC News and Al Jazeera)

Nicaragua scraps visa-free entry to Cubans

Nicaragua has ended visa?free entry for Cuban citizens effective Sunday, ending a policy that allowed thousands of Cubans to transit the Central American country in recent years on their journey north to the United States.

The Government confirmed the decision in a statement. People familiar with the move said President Daniel Ortega’s Administration appeared to be responding to pressure from Washington.

The United States under both the Trump and Biden Administrations has accused Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo of allowing Cubans and other nationals to pass freely through Nicaragua and contribute to illegal migration to the US.

A general view shows a section of Managua, Nicaragua July 4, 2022 (Reuters/stringer/file photo)

US pressure on Managua has intensified in recent weeks following the capture by US special forces of Venezuela’s President, Nicolás Maduro, a close ally of Ortega.

In January, Nicaragua’s Government announced it had freed dozens of people from its national penitentiary system, after the US demanded the release of more than 60 political prisoners in the country. The move came as Venezuela, also under US pressure, began releasing political prisoners. (Reuters)

US says it struck vessel in eastern Pacific, killing 2

T he US military on Monday said it launched a strike on a vessel in the eastern Pacific, killing two people and leaving one survivor, the latest such incident.

President Donald Trump’s administration has touted its success in recent weeks at taking out suspected drug trafficking vessels.

The military said in a

post on X that the vessel was “engaged in narco-trafficking operations.” Reuters could not immediately verify the information. (Reuters)

Cuba says airlines can no longer refuel on the island as US blockade deepens energy crisis

Cuban aviation officials have warned airlines that there is not enough fuel for airplanes to refuel on the island, the latest step in its moves to ration energy as the Trump Administration cuts the Caribbean nation off from its fuel resources.

The Government of Cuba published the notices to airlines and pilots on Sunday night, warning that jet fuel would not be available at nine airports across the island, including José Martí International Airport in Havana, starting Tuesday and continuing until March 11.

Political pressure from US President Donald Trump on Latin America has effectively severed Cuba’s access to its primary petroleum

sources in Venezuela and Mexico.

In late January, Trump signed an executive order that would impose a tariff on any goods from countries that sell or provide oil to Cuba, a move that could further cripple an island plagued by a deepening energy crisis.

While the rationing may not disrupt shorter regional flights, it presents a significant challenge for long-haul routes from countries like Russia and Canada — a critical pillar of Cuba’s tourism economy.

On Monday, Air Canada announced it was suspending flights to the island, while other airlines announced delays and layovers in the Dominican Republic before flights continued to

Havana. One pilot added that while refuelling issues have occurred before, an official announcement of this scale is extraordinary even for an island accustomed to perpetual crisis. The last time such cuts occurred — more than a decade ago — aircraft bound for Europe refuelled in Nassau, Bahamas, the pilot recalled. Now, regional airlines could avoid problems by bringing extra fuel, while others could refuel in Cancun, Mexico, or in the Dominican Republic. It remains unclear how long the notice will remain in effect and Cuban officials have made no public comments on the matter. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Chaguaramas businesses shut down operations for week after fete traffic chaos

Several marine and tourism-related businesses in Chaguaramas have been forced to close during this week’s intensified Carnival festivities, following the severe traffic congestion linked to the Stink and Dutty fete at the Heliport in Chaguaramas.

This was confirmed Sunday by Marine Services Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MSATT) President Jesse James, who said at least 40 businesses were forced to shut down on Saturday due to the traffic snarl related to the event. He said business owners have decided it is better not to operate than to face more severe inconvenience with other events planned in the peninsula before Carnival culminates on Monday and

Tuesday next week.

James said the scale of disruption has reached a point where some business owners now plan annual closures from the Friday before Carnival straight through to Carnival Monday, citing uncertainty, staff access issues and repeated financial losses.

“Yesterday’s (Saturday) event showed where this peninsula was actually gridlocked — shut down!” James said.

“Businesses were not opening because staff couldn’t get there, reservations had to be cancelled, and there was real uncertainty about whether operations could function at all.”

James, who represents the marine business community operating in

Chaguaramas, described the situation as “a horrible scene” that he said should not be repeated.

“Businesses actually shut down. I spoke to a couple of our members just before this interview, and many of them have already decided that during Carnival, it just doesn’t make sense to operate. The workers simply can’t get down here,” he said.

James also highlighted the impact on residents Down the Islands, noting he also had discussions with the Island Property Owners Association president, whose members live on the offshore islands and rely on access through Chaguaramas for daily life.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Shell needs big discovery or deals as oil, gas reserves dwindle

Shell needs an acquisition or exploration breakthrough to make up for an expected production shortage of 350,000800,000 barrels of oil equivalent (boe) per day by 2035 due to maturing fields unable to meet its output targets, the company and analysts say.

For years, oil majors have been restrained in topping up reserves, mindful that a swift industry transition to other sources of energy could curtail oil and gas demand.

However, with such a transition lagging and demand still climbing, the focus has swung back to those with enough in the tank.

Gap between output targets and what it can deliver

Shell’s portfolio is in the spotlight because its so-called ‘reserve life’ or how long its proven reserves can sustain current output levels is equivalent to less than eight years of production as of 2025, from nine a year earlier, which was its lowest since 2021.

This compares with over 12 years each at Exxon and TotalEnergies at the end of 2024, data by Wood Mackenzie shows.

A shorter reserve life increases pressure to buy assets or to have a big exploration success to grow or maintain production.

Shell has pledged to grow hydrocarbon output by one per cent a year through the decade while keeping crude volumes flat. It is betting long term on a huge liquefied natural gas market, aiming to boost its LNG sales by at least five per cent a year, albeit not necessarily underpinned by its own output.

Total reserves at Shell dropped to 8.1 billion boe, the lowest since at least 2013.

Chief executive Wael Sawan warned investors last year that declines across Shell s portfolio would leave a 350,000 boed gap by 2035 between its production goals and what its current assets can deliver.

Exit from US shale, Guyana hurt output prospects

The tightening resource base follows years of retrenchment, including Shell s exit from US shale in 2021 and from Guyana in 2014 two regions that underpin rival Exxon s growth plans.

I wish we hadn’t walked away from Guyana when we did, Sawan said on Thursday.

Indeed, Shell has already tried to bridge some of the expected shortfall in output.

In March, Sawan projected a 100,000-200,000 boed gap by 2030, as its mature fields are set to produce less.

The company says investments in US Gulf, Brazil, Nigeria, Angola, South Africa and Namibia, and field improvements have largely covered that near?term shortfall.

But Sawan offered no updated figure for the post?2030 gap, and Shell declined further comment.

Analysts are sceptical that incremental projects alone will get Shell to its desired production level. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Savannah Guthrie pleads for help as missing mother’s ransom deadline looms

US news anchor Savannah Guthrie has issued a new plea for help as the reported deadline for a ransom payment for her mother’s safe return loomed.

“We are at an hour of desperation, and we need your help,” she says in the video posted on Instagram on Monday afternoon.

Nancy Guthrie disappeared in the middle of night from her home in Tucson, Arizona, and was last seen on January 31. Authorities believe she was taken against her will. The FBI is offering a US$50,000 reward for information.

The family had earlier

indicated that they would be willing to pay for her safe return. A previous alleged deadline for ransom, which is meant to be paid in Bitcoin, passed on February 5.

Nancy Guthrie was discovered missing when she did not attend a Sunday church service on February 1 and other members grew concerned.

The family has released three previous videos saying they were willing to speak to the potential kidnapper, and asking to provide proof that her mother was alive. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Instagram, YouTube owners built “addiction machines”, trial hears

The world’s largest social media companies have been accused of creating “addiction machines” as a landmark trial began in California examining the mental health effects of Instagram and YouTube.

In his opening argument before Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Carolyn B Kuhl and a jury, Mark Lanier argued that his client, plaintiff “K.G.M.,” suffered from mental health issues as a result of her social media addiction.

“These companies built machines designed to addict the brains of children, and they did it on purpose,” Lanier said.

Lawyers for Meta and

YouTube told the jury that K.G.M.’s addiction stemmed from other issues in her life, not their negligence.

K.G.M. will be referred to by her initials, or as

Kaley G.M., because the alleged harms took place when she was a minor.

Lanier also charged that Meta and YouTube failed to warn of the dangers to

young users posed by the design of their platforms. Lanier underscored his opening remarks by speaking with a display of children’s blocks in front of him: the words “Addicting,” “Brains” and “Children” appeared next to the letters A, B, and C.

“This case is about two of the richest corporations in history who have engineered addiction in children s brains,” Lanier said. “I’m going to show you the addiction machine that they built, the internal documents that people normally don’t get to see, and emails from [Meta CEO] Mark Zuckerberg and YouTube executives”.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

King profoundly concerned as Police consider Andrew claims over Epstein

King Charles has made his first intervention in the latest round of revelations in the Epstein scandal, saying Buckingham Palace is ready to support the Police as they consider allegations against his brother Andrew MountbattenWindsor.

“The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr MountbattenWindsor’s conduct,” a Palace spokesman said.

“While the specific claims

in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect,” he said.

Thames Valley Police confirmed it is assessing whether there are grounds to investigate a complaint by the anti-monarchy group Republic, which reported MountbattenWindsor for suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets.

Emails from the recently-released batch of Epstein files appear to show the former Prince passing on reports

of visits to Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam and confidential details of investment opportunities.

After the trips, on November 30, 2010, he appears to have forwarded official reports of those visits sent by his then-special adviser, Amit Patel, to Epstein, five minutes after receiving them.

Under official guidance, trade envoys have a duty of confidentiality over sensitive, commercial, or political information about their official visits.

Meanwhile, Ghislaine

Maxwell, the convicted associate of Epstein, refused to answer questions from the US House Oversight Committee on Monday. Maxwell appeared virtually for a closed-door deposition from the Texas prison where she is serving a 20year sentence for sex trafficking.

Republican House Oversight Committee chairman James Comer said that “as expected”, Maxwell pleaded the Fifth Amendment, invoking her right to remain silent. (Excerpts from BBC News)

Arab States criticise Israel as it expands powers in occupied West Bank

Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) led regional states on Monday in condemning Israel’s move to ease settlement expansion and widen its powers in the West Bank, a step critics said went in the direction of annexing occupied land.

Sunday’s decisions by Israel’s security cabinet will make it easier for Jewish settlers to buy land in the

West Bank and give Israeli authorities more power to act in areas supposedly under full Palestinian control, two senior Israeli Ministers said.

One of them, ultranationalist Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, said in announcing the decisions that the Government would “continue to kill the idea of a Palestinian state”.

A joint statement by

Foreign Ministers of Middle Eastern and some other Muslim countries, including Egypt and Turkey, denounced the decisions as a violation of international law that would undermine the vision of a two-State solution as well as stability in the region.

They said the moves meant to entrench Israeli settlement of the West Bank, displacing Palestinians and

imposing unlawful Israeli sovereignty there. Annexing the territory has long been a priority of far-right parties in Netanyahu’s coalition. Jordan, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey all have diplomatic relations with Israel. Saudi Arabia has said it will not establish such relations until the formation of a Palestinian state. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Trump’s world order hangs over Europe on eve of key defence conference

It is one year since US Vice President JD Vance delivered a bombshell speech at the Munich Security Conference, castigating Europe for its policies on migration and free speech, and claiming the greatest threat the continent faces comes from within.

The audience were visibly stunned. Since then, the

Trump White House has tipped the world order upside down.

Allies and foes alike have been slapped with punitive tariffs, there was the extraordinarily brazen raid on Venezuela, Washington’s uneven pursuit of peace in Ukraine on terms favourable to Moscow and a bizarre demand that Canada should be-

come the “51st state” of the US.

This year, the conference which begins later this week once again looks set to be decisive. US Secretary of State and National Security Adviser Marco Rubio leads the US delegation, while more than 50 other world leaders have been invited. It comes as the security of Europe looks increasing-

ly precarious. The latest US National Security Strategy (NSS), published late last year, called on Europe to “stand on its own feet” and take “primary responsibility for its own defence”, adding to fears that the US is increasingly unwilling to underpin Europe’s defence. (Excerpt from BBC News)

SUDOKU

Turn your skills, experience, knowledge and drive into something tangible. Proceed with confidence, make cold calls and promote yourself and what you can do.

Pay attention, read the room and recognize when someone is going through tough times. A kind word can change someone’s day or demeanor. Don’t let anger set in when action is necessary.

Feelings can sway your perception and point you in the wrong direction. Think outside the parameters, and you’ll devise a plan that’s difficult for others to ignore.

Confusion will set in if you believe everything you hear. Take time to verify the information you receive and consider the source. Personal gain results from education and research.

Attend events that interest you. Mix, mingle and use your imagination to wow those you encounter today. Put your energy into bringing about positive change and forming close ties.

Embrace what life has to offer. Live, learn as you go and use your skills, experience and insight to harness what you want. Don’t hesitate to let someone know your intentions.

Take advantage of any opportunity you get to infiltrate a position you feel passionate about. Network, act and display what you can bring to the table, and don’t hesitate to toot your own horn.

Making choices will not be easy. You need time to think, analyze and adjust before you commit to something that doesn’t fulfill your desires. Acting out of spite will backfire.

Closely monitor others’ actions and words. It will substantially change the course you take and help you avoid a costly mistake. Focus on home, family and comfort.

Truth matters, and honesty will help you tackle opportunities and ignite ambition and success. Try to rectify a concern you have, and you will make a difference.

Being knowledgeable about the possibilities will help you excel and navigate toward stardom rather than gloom. Think outside the box when dealing with money or professional matters.

Plan carefully. Stick to your budget and refuse to let outsiders interfere with your plans. Follow the rules, pursue sound ideas and observe proper protocol.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

Markram, Ngidi help South Africa ease past dogged Canada

South Africa’s first T20 World Cup match since the heartbreak of the 2024 final proved a substantially-less fraught affair.

In the echoing environs of the Narendra Modi Stadium, they were made to work just hard enough by Canada in the first meeting between the two nations, eventually easing to a 57run victory thanks to Aiden Markram’s 28-ball fifty, and 4 for 31 from Lungi Ngidi.

Canada fought hard in patches, principally through Ansh Patel’s three wickets off wristspin, then a feisty half-century from Navneet Dhaliwal, whose 64 from 49 was the highest score of the match. Most of his runs came in a fifth-wicket stand of 69 with Harsh Thaker that cracked along at eight an over even as the rate continued to rise. By then, however, Ngidi had claimed three of his wickets in the power play to wreck any realistic hopes of an upset.

South Africa in their element

With its mix of red and black soil, Ahmedabad’s pitches can veer between extremes. But this offering, hard and lightly grassed, could hardly have been better suited to South Africa’s route-one methods.

Markram set the tone from the top of the order with a dominant 59 from 32 balls, Ryan Rickelton chipped in with 33 from 21, before Tristan Stubbs and David Miller brought up the rear in unbeaten knocks of 34 from 19 and 39 from 23 respectively.

Though no-one turned up for a statement display, none was really needed against enthusiastic but outclassed opponents whose fielding – despite one moment of individual brilliance – was consistently sub-par, and whose bowlers served up 13 extra deliveries across their innings, including nine wides and back-to-back no-balls on height in Kaleem Sana’s final over.

Ngidi heights Pace and bounce, and a hint of seam movement.

Ngidi does not need a second invitation to thrive in such conditions. With a hefty target of 214 on the board, he landed the first ball of Canada’s reply right

in the channel and found a thin snick off the edge of Dilpreet Bajwa’s bat, even

Shreyas Movva for pace to leave them teetering at 45 for 4, but with the dew fac -

Navneet Dhaliwal plays a fighting knock

as he tried to leave it alone.

In Ngidi’s next over, the left-hander Yuvraj Samra was done in by one that left him a fraction, for Quinton de Kock to claim his second catch of the power play. And though Nicholas Kirton smashed his second ball through the covers for four, he then spliced his third to Kagiso Rabada at mid-on. Ngidi had 3 for 13 in two overs, and Canada’s challenge was faltering before it had begun. Rabada then beat

tor kicking in – as Canada’s Captain Bajwa had anticipated at the toss – further breakthroughs were put on hold as Dhaliwal and Thaker exploited the extra zip onto the bat, and across the outfield. But when Ngidi returned for his final over, Thaker failed to pick his looping slower ball, and Rabada at deep third clung on to the leading edge.

Ansh enjoys his homecoming

If South Africa felt at home from home in these

conditions, then Patel was literally so. Born in nearby Vadodara, he had moved to Toronto as a baby, but returned to Gujarat at the age of 10, when his father took a punt on his burgeoning cricket talent. A contract with Punjab Kings ensued in 2022, but a change in eligibility rules forced him home again, and into the midst of Canada’s return to the big time.

Ansh’s first act of his home-from-homecoming did not quite go to plan when he spilled de Kock at

short third on six. De Kock, however, did not quite make Canada pay. He had been ominously placed on 25 from 22 when he played over the top of a looping delivery from Bajwa, and lost his off stump.

That was the cue for Ansh to enter the attack.

With his energetic, lowslung, left-arm wristspin,

he provided the handbrake that Canada needed as he whirred through his repertoire to claim 3 for 31, all between overs eight and 16. He needed a moment of inspiration to ignite his display. Markram had been in ominous touch with 10 fours and a six, as he peppered the arc from cover to mid-on with his favoured range of drives. But, when he dragged Ansh’s googly a touch too straight, Dilon Heyliger was lurking at long-on with a sensational interception: a leaping, reaching take on the run to his left, capped with cool footwork as he kept his balance inches inside the rope. Rickelton was also done in while attempting a launch down the ground, a far more straightforward catch to Thaker at long-on, and Ansh made it three in nine balls when Dewald Brevis was deceived in flight to hoist a steepler to mid-off for a run-a-ball six. From 126 for 1 to 138 for 4, it was the start of a fightback … but only from South Africa’s impressively-stacked middle order. Though Heinrich Klaasen remains much missed since retiring from internationals, Stubbs and Miller are no mean combo for the death overs. Five sixes between them from the final 14 balls put the contest out of reach. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

South Africa (20 ovs maximum)

Aiden Markram (c) c Heyliger

b Patel 59

Quinton de Kock †b Bajwa 25

Ryan Rickelton c Thaker

b Patel 33

Dewald Brevis c Kirton

b Patel 6

David Miller not out 39

Tristan Stubbs not out 34

Extras (lb 4, nb 3, w 10) 17

Total 20 Ov (RR: 10.65) 213/4

Fall of wickets: 1-70

(Quinton de Kock, 6.5 ov), 2-126 (Aiden Markram, 11.3 ov), 3-137 (Ryan Rickelton, 13.1 ov), 4-138 (Dewald Brevis, 13.5 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Kaleem Sana 4-0-38-0

Dilon Heyliger 1-0-13-0

Saad Bin Zafar 3-0-38-0

Dilpreet Bajwa 4-0-40-1

Jaskaran Singh 4-0-49-0

Ansh Patel 4-0-31-3

Canada (T: 214 runs from 20 ovs)

Dilpreet Bajwa (c) c †de Kock

b Ngidi 0

Yuvraj Samra c †de Kock b Ngidi 12

Navneet Dhaliwal c Stubbs b Bosch 64 Nicholas Kirton c Rabada b Ngidi 4

Shreyas Movva † b Rabada 9 Harsh Thaker c Rabada b Ngidi 33

Saad Bin Zafar c Bosch b Jansen

Singh c Stubbs b Jansen

Heyliger not out

Kaleem Sana not out

Extras (nb 2, w 12) 14

20 Ov (RR: 7.80) 156/8 Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Dilpreet Bajwa, 0.1 ov), 2-22 (Yuvraj Samra, 2.3 ov), 3-26 (Nicholas Kirton, 2.6 ov), 4-45 (Shreyas Movva, 5.4 ov), 5-114 (Harsh Thaker, 14.2 ov), 6-133 (Saad Bin Zafar, 17.1 ov), 7-133 (Jaskaran Singh, 17.2 ov), 8-150 (Navneet Dhaliwal, 19.1 ov)

Munsey, Leask spoil Italy’s T20 World Cup debut

Scotland may have suffered a blip the last time they faced Italy in a T20 International (T20I), but ensured they picked up the first points of their 2026 T20 World Cup campaign after a dominant performance at Eden Gardens.

George Munsey’s 54ball 84, supported by cameos from Brandon McMullen and Michael Leask, followed by Leask’s four-wicket haul helped Scotland spoil Italy’s debut in the tournament. The 73run win gave Scotland two points after their defeat to West Indies in Kolkata two days ago.

Italy faced baptism by fire in their maiden outing, thanks to Munsey and Michael Jones adding 126 for the opening wicket. They were able to pull the game back a little with two wickets in two overs, but a strong finish took Scotland to 207 for 4 – the highest total by an Associate team at the men’s T20 World Cup, surpassing USA’s 197 for 3 in the previous edition.

After hammering 22 off 5 balls, Leask took figures of 4 for 17, includ-

ing a wicket off the first

ball of the chase. Italy had also suffered an early jolt when their Captain, Wayne Madsen suffered a shoulder dislocation in the fourth over of the game and could not bat.

Munsey, McMullen set the tone

It did not take long for Munsey, who has a reputation for giving Scotland rapid starts in the power play, to get going. He hit

three fours in his first eight balls, including two in the opening over from Ali Hasan, and then tore into Thomas Draca with a hattrick of fours in the fourth over. Among Scotland batters who have faced at least 100 balls in the power play, no one scores at a higher strike rate than Munsey’s 138.3. He got a reprieve on 41 when Anthony Mosca dropped a sitter at cover before racing to a 30-ball fifty. Munsey’s flier also allowed Jones time to get going, and their century partnership was the first for Scotland for any wicket in T20 World Cups.

Grant Stewart provided Italy the breakthrough when he had Munsey pulling to long-on in the 14th over. JJ Smuts followed by dismissing Jones in the next over. But McMullen never let the momentum drop. He hit four sixes in his knock, including two in a row off legspinner Crishan Kalugamage. By the time Leask completed his blitz, Scotland had scored 54 off the death overs (17-20) and there was a sense that they had already batted Italy out of the game.

Leask’s all-round show

One of the talking points in Scotland’s defeat to West Indies was Leask being sent in at number eight behind Mark Watt. Against Italy, he walked out after Scotland had lost two wickets in three deliveries, and with only five balls left in the innings. He pre-empted Draca’s line to put a full and wide one through covers before hitting a short ball through midwicket. When Draca went short again, Leask was into position early to pull over midwicket and raise Scotland’s 200. The last delivery of the innings was a full toss that he hit for six.

With momentum firmly with him and Scotland, Leask dismissed Justin Mosca first ball – a cut shot intercepted by a diving Munsey at backward point. Leask was then brought back when Ben and Harry Manenti’s partnership was flourishing. He had Harry caught at long-off to end the fourth-wicket stand and took two more wickets in his final over. With Italy’s asking rate nudging 13, Stewart and GianPiero Meade both holed out to long-off and long-on respectively to give Leask his best figures in T20 cricket.

Manenti brothers give Italy a glimmer

The only phase when Italy seemed to be on top was when the Manenti brothers were in the middle. Smuts had hit the first six for Italy in T20 World Cups when he sent Brad

Wheal into the deep backward square leg stands, but he soon perished. Anthony Mosca, who also hit Wheal for a six in the 23-run third over, did not last long. Harry and Ben Manenti got together in the fifth over with Italy on 40 for 3. Harry Manenti forced the pace by hitting left-arm spinner Oliver Davidson for two sixes in his first two overs. Ben Manenti also was brisk and Italy were 87 for 3 at the 10-over mark; Scotland were 91 for 0 at the same stage. The Manentis managed to score 13 in each of the next two overs to keep Italy abreast of the required rate. Ben Manenti soon completed his fifty off just 29 balls. But when both brothers fell in the space of 11 deliveries, the Italian challenge had ended, especially with Madsen not available to bat. (ESPNcricinfo)

aaa SCOREBOARD

Scotland (20 ovs maximum)

George Munsey c HJ Manenti

b Stewart 84

Michael Jones c HJ Manenti

b Smuts 37

Brandon McMullen not out 41

Richie Berrington (c)

c †Meade b Ali Hasan 15

Tom Bruce c J Mosca b Draca 1

Michael Leask not out 22

Extras (w 7) 7

Total 20 Ov (RR: 10.35) 207/4

Fall of wickets: 1-126 (George Munsey, 13.5 ov), 2-136 (Michael Jones, 14.5 ov), 3-184 (Richie Berrington, 18.5 ov), 4-185 (Tom Bruce, 19.1 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W

Grant Stewart 4-0-44-1

Thomas Draca 2-0-37-1

JJ Smuts 4-0-38-1

Ben Manenti 2-0-20-0

Harry Manenti 1-0-15-0

Crishan Kalugamage 3-0-32-0

Italy (T: 208 runs from 20 ovs)

Justin Mosca c Munsey

b Leask 0

Anthony Mosca c Munsey

b Watt 13 JJ Smuts c Berrington

b Currie 22

Harry Manenti c Munsey b Leask 37

Ben Manenti c Jones b Davidson 52 Grant Stewart c Munsey b Leask 2

Gian-Piero Meade † c McMullen b Leask 0

Crishan Kalugamage not out 3

Thomas Draca c McMullen b Watt 2 Ali Hasan c Berrington b Wheal 0 Wayne Madsen (c)

Xtra Energy/Team Spirit Futsal Championship launched

…set to kick off tonight at Gymnasium

The inaugural edition of the Xtra Energy/ Team Spirit Futsal Championship was officially launched on Monday at the Fireside Grill and Suites on Garnett Street, Georgetown.

The event, which commences this evening at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue, will feature 32 teams competing in a direct elimination format.

The winner of the event will pocket $1,000,000 and the championship trophy

while the second-, third-, and fourth-place finishers will pocket $500,000, $300,000, and $150,000 respectively and the corresponding accolade.

Individual prizes will also be presented to the standout performers.

Each match will be 30 minutes in duration, comprising two halves of 15 minutes.

Fixtures: 18:00h: Avocado Ballers v Stevedore A 18:45h: Gaza Squad v Good Vybz

19:30h:

20:15h: Family v Laing Avenue

21:00h: Tiger Bay v Stabroek Ballers

21:45h: North East La Penitence v West Ruimveldt

22:30h: Back Circle

v East Bank All-Stars

23:15h: Team Spirit v Tucville Ballers

Steve Bacchus, coordinator of the tournament, said that the promotional entity was pleased to host the championship and exciting

matches were anticipated throughout the entirety of the competition. He further stated that

the intent was to increase the prize money as the event progressed, noting that all the major teams have confirmed their participation in the tournament, which is expected to be an annual affair.

Young boxers make big statements at GBA U16 Developmental Tournament

Guyana’s emerging boxing talent was on full display on Saturday when the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) staged the Michael Parris Pepsi

Under-16 Developmental Tournament at the Andrew “Six Head” Lewis Gym and the Pace and Power Gym in Albouystown. The event brought together young prospects

and rising amateurs from several gyms, reinforcing the GBA’s commitment to rebuilding and strengthening the local boxing pipeline.

Nine bouts highlight-

Albion demolish Tucber Park in BCB T20 final

Guyana wicketkeeper-batsman Anthony Bramble rolled back the clock with a swashbuckling 136 to lead Albion Cricket Club to a 111-run win over Tucber Park Cricket Club. Playing at the Albion Community Centre Ground, in the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Ivan Madray First-Division T20 final, Bramble’s century led Albion to a massive 247-4 from their allotted 20 overs.

A decent crowd at Albion on a cool Sunday afternoon watched Bramble pepper the boundary 14 times with sweet sixes. He coupled that with nine fours during his 58-ball innings at the top of the order. The home

team, Albion, won the toss and batted first. Bramble was supported by Devendra Latchman, who came and added the finishing touches to the innings. Latchman struck 35 from 13 balls, while Damian Cecil scored 34 from 26 balls.

Part-time bowler

Malcolm Mickle was the pick of the bowlers with 2-33 from four overs. The other bowlers were taken to the cleaners. Micah Amsterdam was a student on the day as he had 1-41, while Kwesi Mickle had 1-64. First-class pacer Nial Smith looked in good rhythm, but was unlucky. In response, Tucber Park were out of the blocks early, adding 76 runs in the power play. They eventu-

ally lost their way to the spin-heavy Albion unit as they were bowled out for 136 in 14.1 overs.

Veteran leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo was the main destroyer with 4-25 from 3.1 overs. Damion Vantull looked to threaten with his big hits, but his innings was cut short at 25 when he was removed by Jonathan Foo. Garfield Benjamin played with a level head in his innings of 23, while Joemal LaFleur made 21. Gourav Ramesh had two wickets, while Veerasammy Permaul and Foo each had one wicket.

Tucber Park were the defending champions of this competition, and Albion dethroned them.

ed the programme, with a mix of stoppages and closely-contested decisions underscoring both the raw power and growing technical ability of the country’s next generation of boxers.

The card opened with an all-Harpy Eagles Boxing Gym clash between Nathan Sugrim and Richard Da Silva.

Sugrim wasted little time asserting himself, forcing the referee to stop the contest in the opening round to claim an emphatic victory.

That early statement set the tone for an action-packed night. In bout two, Omar Barker picked up a similar win over gymmate Emmanuel Nelson.

Kelon Mullin and Donevan Choy, both from Harpy Eagles Boxing Gym, then went the distance in bout three, with Mullin winning on points after a

competitive exchange.

Another points decision followed in bout four, where Imhotet Vanderstoop (Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym) edged Dellon Andrews (Harpy Eagles Boxing Gym) with a disciplined performance built on clean scoring shots.

The Pace and Power Gym celebrated a hardfought win in bout five as Ishmael Ramsaroop defeated Trovalta Harris of Harpy Eagles Boxing Gym on points.

One of the standout performances came in bout six, where Andrew Lewis Gym’s Josh Chester secured a points victory over Derick Springer of Pace and Power Gym.

Chester’s poise and ring intelligence later earned him the tournament’s Best Boxer award in the U16 category, marking him as

one to watch for the future.

The Vanderstoop name featured prominently again in bout seven, with Itavius Vanderstoop of Andrew Lewis Gym stopping Kelon Pierre (Harpy Eagles Boxing Gym) in the first round after a dominant display.

Meanwhile, one of the country’s top youth boxers, Ken Harvey, was declared the winner in his contest after Izza Vanderstoop was unable to continue following the first round, resulting in a win by abandonment.

The final bout of the night saw Antwain Venture and Emmanuel Sandiford, both from Pace and Power Gym, deliver a closely-fought contest.

Venture emerged victorious on a split points decision (2-1), capping the evening with one of the most competitive match-ups on the card.

Kevin Issacs, from the Guyana Police Force Boxing Gym, was named Best Boxer in the elite category, in recognition of his continued excellence and leadership among the senior ranks.

NSC, Epilepsy Foundation to host groundbreaking workshop on epilepsy in sport

The National Sports Commission (NSC), will collaborate with the Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana (EFG), to take a major step toward inclusivity and athlete welfare when they host a one-day workshop titled “Epilepsy in Sport – Awareness and Management”.

The landmark event is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, from 10:30h at the National Racquet Centre on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown, and will bring together sports administrators, coaches, and athletes from various national associations and federations.

This initiative forms part of the NSC’s ongoing developmental agenda and aligns closely with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s drive to pro-

mote inclusivity across all sporting disciplines.

It also serves as a key component of the Epilepsy Foundation’s week of activities aimed at raising awareness about epilepsy in Guyana.

This will be the first workshop of its kind in Guyana to specifically address the intersection of epilepsy and sport, a topic that experts say has long been overlooked despite its importance.

Organisers believe the session will significantly benefit the local sporting fraternity by addressing common misconceptions and equipping participants with practical knowledge.

Epilepsy remains widely misunderstood, and athletes living with the condition often face unique challenges, including stig-

Bacchus blazes

Under bright sunshine and flow-

ing Aperol Spritz, Kishan Bacchus swung his way to first place at the ANSA McAL Guyana-

ma and uncertainty about participation in physical activity.

However, research consistently shows that individuals with epilepsy can safely engage in sports with proper medical management and informed support from those around them.

The workshop will, therefore, focus on empowering the sporting community with essential knowledge. Presentations and discussions will be led by EFG officials and several of Guyana’s leading neurologists.

Topics will include understanding the nature of epilepsy, identifying different seizure types and symptoms, administering immediate and appropriate first aid during a seizure, and managing the condition

over the long term within a sporting environment.

By building awareness, organisers hope to foster a safer and more supportive atmosphere for athletes with epilepsy.

Misunderstandings and fear can often lead to unnecessary discrimination, discouraging participation and limiting the athletic potential of those affected. Education, they say, is the key to breaking down these barriers.

Director of Sport (DoS), Steve Ninvalle described the workshop as a watershed moment for sport in Guyana, noting that it marked the first time such targeted attention is being placed on epilepsy within the local sporting context.

He stressed that inclusivity must go beyond simply opening doors, pointing

out that stakeholders must also understand what to do if an athlete experiences a seizure.

Ninvalle added that it was equally important for the public to recognise that people living with epilepsy can lead normal, active lives and should never be discriminated against because of their health condition.

Organisers are confident the workshop will help pave the way for a more inclusive sporting culture, one that places equal value on performance, health, safety, and understanding.

to victory at Aperol Spritz golf classic

sponsored Aperol Spritz golf tournament, topping the leaderboard with a winning net 66 after a fiercely-competitive and vibrant day on the course.

Played in bright, warm conditions, the tournament delivered both sharp competition and relaxed vibes, as golfers balanced

Schools Basketball League…

PC edge QC in thriller to claim top spot

The Schools Basketball League continued on Sunday with a blockbuster top-of-the-table clash as President’s College (PC) narrowly defeated Queen’s College (QC) 45-44 in a tense and entertaining encounter.

QC made a confident start to the contest, showing early composure and sharp ball movement to secure a 16-12 lead at the end of the first quarter. However, scoring proved difficult for both sides in a scrappy second quarter, allowing President’s College to claw their way back into the game. By halftime, the teams were locked at 20-20, setting the stage for a dramatic second-half.

President’s College reasserted their dominance in the third quarter, tightening their defence and capitalising on key possessions to outscore QC 13-6. That run proved crucial as it gave the home side a narrow cushion heading into the final period.

Queen’s College refused to go down quietly and mounted a spirited fightback in the fourth quarter, pressing aggressively and finding timely baskets to close the gap. Despite the late surge, President’s College held their nerve in the closing moments to secure a hard-fought onepoint victory.

Terron Mohabir led the way for President’s College

with an impressive allround performance, scoring 13 points and grabbing seven rebounds. Romarion Wolfe also made a significant contribution with 12 points. For Queen’s College, Darren Dublin delivered a standout display, finishing with a game-high 20 points and four rebounds.

The win moves President’s College to the top of the league standings with eight points, while Queen’s College suffered their first defeat of the tournament but remain second. With the competition heating up, Sunday’s thriller served as a reminder of just how closely matched the league’s top teams are.

focus on the fairways with refreshment breaks featuring the event’s signature drink. From booming drives to precision shots at the pin, the day featured standout moments and lively post-round cel-

the win with a gross score of 81 and handicap of 15 to lead the net standings.

Rakesh Harry followed in second place with the best gross score of the day, 78, finishing with a net 69 off a handicap of 9. Maxim

ebrations. Bacchus sealed

Mangra secured third place with a net 71 and also captured the Longest Drive prize with one of the day’s most powerful tee shots.

Speaking at the presentation, ANSA McAL Brand Manager Kristoff Stoll highlighted the brand’s social focus and partnership with the club:

“Congratulations to all the winners, and thank you to everyone who came out and participated in the Aperol tournament. This is what we’re about – being

part of social occasions and special moments. When the invitation came from the Lusignan Golf Club, we were proud to come on board, because this aligns with what we represent as a company, creating experiences people can enjoy. Congratulations again to the winners, and for those who didn’t win this time, it doesn’t end here. Spritz on, share a spritz moment, and come back even stronger next time.”

Aperol Spritz is known globally for its bright, citrus-forward aperitif and vibrant social lifestyle appeal. Players and guests cooled down after their rounds with refreshing spritzes, adding a festive finish to a sun-filled day of competition.

ANSA McAL Guyana is one of the country’s leading distribution companies, representing a wide portfolio of international beverage and consumer brands and consistently supporting sporting and lifestyle events that bring communities together. With competitive scores, high energy, and thirst quenched by Aperol Spritz, the tournament delivered a winning blend of sport, sunshine, and social celebration from first drive to final toast.

Hetmyer relishing number 3 role

Guyana and West Indies batsman

Shimron Hetmyer is back to where it all began: batting at number three and scoring runs consistently. Hetmyer scored a rapid 64 from 36 balls, an innings laced with six maximums and two fours in the T20 World Cup opener against Scotland in India. He earned a Player of the Match award on the back of his batting exploits, but his brilliance in the field added the finishing touch in West Indies’ win over Scotland.

Speaking at the postmatch briefing, Hetmyer said he has a preference for batting at number three. He also congratulated his countryman, Romario Shepherd, for his hat-trick and five-wicket haul.

“It’s fun (to bat at three), it’s something that I used

to do in the beginning, but I guess playing more T20s, finishing is also fun for me. But if I have to choose, I’ll stay up top. I guess it’s just about mindset (on batting at three), really. Batting at three, the ball just moves a little bit more, and it comes on to you a little bit faster than when you’re batting at five and six. So, it’s just for you to get into position as early as possible and just execute, basically,” Hetmyer said.

When asked what gave him more pleasure: the batting or the catch, he replied “honestly, I’d say the catch to be fair. I’ve been doing quite some work on my fielding for a while, and I haven’t really had an opportunity to take any catches, especially in the last series that we played. So, I’m happy to be able to contrib- ute to that win. (Was it his best-ever catch?) I don’t

think so. But it’s up there.”

The left-handed batsman had a bumpy road to India, as he missed the photo shoot and arrived late.

“I guess everything happens for a reason, like my wife said. I’m not really complaining. Thanks to the Almighty for giving me the strength and helping me to get here. From there, I guess when I got here, it was just to focus and put that behind and make sure that when I come out here today, I focus on the game ahead and on my batting, making sure that I give the bowlers either a good chance or a good score or chase it down.”

Speaking on his countryman Shepherd, Hetmyer said, “That was phenomenal. I actually thought he was going to get this (the Player of the Match award), to be fair. I told Carlos that

just now. You don’t often see a guy get five and a hattrick as well. But I’m excited for him. He’s really been working hard on his bowling, and I’m really, really proud of him and happy. I think we could be more than competitive, really.” Sharing his sentiments on the team’s chances in India at the T20 World Cup, he disclosed, “ We have the potential to actually go as far as the finals, but it’s just for us to take it one game at a time and not think too far ahead, and to make sure that when we’re on the field, we execute our plans as best as we possibly can.” West Indies will play England on Wednesday, February 11, in Mumbai. First ball is at 09:30h local time.

Honduras crush Junior Jags’ WC hopes in 4-2 affair

What began as a hopeful campaign for Guyana’s national Under-17 boys’ team, quickly became a case of broken dreams on Sunday night as the local boys relinquished an early lead, resulting in a 4-2 loss to group favourites Honduras in the CONCACAF U17 World Cup Qualifiers.

Competing for a chance to secure a spot at the FIFA U17 World Cup, Guyana began the all-important clash with a starting XI that comprising Captain Tamer Unver, goalkeeper Nyall Kendall, Joshua Morris, Maximus Cato, Malachi Patrick, Nyron Barrow, Jaden Tasher, Jeremiah Welcome, Mark Glasgow, Micaiah De Freitas, and Matthew Stewart.

After Kendall was forced into a few early saves, the hosts, Honduras, got ahead first in the 18th

minute at the Estadio Francisco Morazán. Milton Moya took advantage of a lapse in the Guyanese defence, sending a right-footed rocket from outside the box into the top left corner of the goal, escaping the grasp of a diving Kendall. However, the Junior Jags burst into celebrations minutes later when Barrow sent a cross into the box, meeting Stewart

smack in front of the goal. Stewart found the opposing keeper off his line, lobbing the ball over his head and into the net for the equaliser in the 23rd minute. The celebrations for the boys in yellow continued when Barrow and Stewart team up for Guyana’s second strike in the 32nd minute. Barrow’s thread through the defence al-

lowed Stewart a breakaway run and when met by the advancing Honduran keeper, the Guyanese striker held on to possession, tapping the ball in to

hand Guyana a 2-1 lead.

But the celebrations were short-lived as a volley off the boots of Eduardo Romero in the 38th minute, sneaked past Kendall

into the right corner of the goal.

With a 2-2 score at the half, it was still anyone’s game with World Cup qualification on the line. Two crucial substitutions for Honduras at the break brought not only fresh legs but perspective goal scorers, to bother the Guyanese defence continuously.

It was Honduras’ Denzel Arzu that broke the deadlock in the 68th minute, heading a cross into the bottom right corner to give the home team the lead once again. Josue Ortega later rewarded his coach for his halftime substitution, with a simple tap in for Honduras’ fourth in the 79th minute.

Guyana will have to await the result of the final Group H clash between Honduras and Bermuda on Thursday to know their fate.