Guyana Times - Tuesday, October 13, 2026

“Not starting is not an option” – Minister urges Local Govt staff to take initiative P 15

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 6605

THE BEACON OF TRUTH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

Nearly 30% of Development Bank applications target agriculture – Pres Ali

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Police destroy $26.8M worth of ganja at Wiruni P9

See story on page 7

Private poultry investor to P12 triple capacity with new plant – Head of State

FACT STEM P16 programme records major academic gains among Berbice students

…as commercial banks move to offer agri loans at preferential rates See story on page 3

17-year-old shot dead by 21-year-old boyfriend in murder-suicide MV Barima CoI members meet survivors, families ahead of formal hearings

New equipment, faster response times strengthening firefighting capacity – P11 Walrond

Page 8

Page 14

MV Barima tragedy

State opposes defence’s bid to halt murder case, Magistrate to rule on application on Oct 19 See story on page 2

Guyana building legal framework for deepwater port, modern harbour, gas sector P10

2 NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MV Barima tragedy

State opposes defence’s bid to halt murder case, Magistrate to rule on application on Oct 19

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he Prosecution has filed its response to an application seeking to halt the murder proceedings against three Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) employees charged over the July 18, 2026 MV Barima disaster, with Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir set to deliver his ruling next Monday. Prosecutor Mandel Moore handed over the State’s reply when the matter was called on Monday at the Charity Magistrate’s Court. After confirming that the submissions had been laid over, Magistrate Mohabir scheduled October 19 at 10:00h to determine the application. The application was brought by Defence Attorney Dexter Todd, who represents Captain Kevin Price, also known as “KP”, 40, of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, and goods superintendent Delon Granderson, 33, of Fellowship, West Coast Demerara. Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts, 42, of Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara, is represented by Attorney Everton Singh-Lammy. The three accused appeared virtually

Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir

via Zoom and were further remanded to prison until the next hearing. Todd is seeking a stay of the prosecution on grounds of abuse of process, arguing that the circumstances surrounding the disaster raise legal questions about the relationship between criminal proceedings and marine casualty investigations. The defence has pointed to legislation, including the Shipping Act, which it contends governs the investigation of marine casualties. Todd previously argued that his clients had not been able to benefit from, or be guided by, the relevant investigations and should be afforded the protections available

under the law. He has also indicated that the application rests on several legal grounds and draws on legislation and case authorities concerning marine casualty investigations. The challenge, he suggested, could have wider implications for how such matters are addressed within Guyana’s legal system. The case is at the preliminary stage, with paper committal proceedings scheduled to begin on November 16. Magistrate Mohabir has previously indicated that he intends to conclude the process by the end of November. During a paper committal, the Magistrate examines written statements and other documentary evidence to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to send the accused to the High Court for trial. Witnesses do not ordinarily give oral testimony or face cross-examination during this process. At a September 9 hearing, Moore told the court that the State had completed full disclosure of the evidence and material information gathered during the investigation. The defence was subsequently given time to review the material

Captain Kevin Price

and to decide whether to file statements on behalf of the accused. The three men were jointly charged with murder following legal advice from Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar AliHack, SC. The DPP’s office has maintained that the decision followed an assessment of the evidence and applicable legal principles, including case law from the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth jurisdictions, authorities from the European Court of Human Rights and public policy considerations. Price, Roberts, and Granderson first appeared before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on July 28, 2026. They were not required to plead to the indictable charges and were remand-

Goods superintendent Delon Granderson

Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts

ed before the case was transferred to the Charity Magistrate’s Court. Police allege that the men murdered passengers aboard the MV Barima when the vessel capsized on July 18, approximately 9.3 nautical miles off Devonshire Castle on the Essequibo Coast. Following the tragedy, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips disclosed that two crew members had tested positive for marijuana during medical examinations conducted after the sinking. The passenger and cargo ferry had left the T&HD Kingston Goods Wharf, Georgetown, around 15:15h, for its scheduled journey to Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini). At approximately 23:01h, it transmitted a dis-

tress signal after encountering difficulties near the mouth of the Pomeroon River. There were 179 people aboard, including 18 crew members. The disaster claimed 73 lives, while 76 persons survived. Approximately 30 others remain unaccounted for. The criminal case is proceeding alongside a separate Government-appointed five-member Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the tragedy. The DPP has maintained that the two processes can run concurrently because they serve different legal purposes. The CoI is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the sinking, including regulatory oversight and the emergency response, and recommend measures to prevent a similar disaster.

3 Commercial banks move to offer agri loans at preferential rates P NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENING

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, October 13 – 05:30h–07:00h and Wednesday, October 14 – 05:55h-07:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Early-morning sunshine is expected followed by thundery showers. Clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius. Winds: East-North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres. High Tide: 17:45h reaching a maximum height of 2.71 metres. Low Tide: 11:23h and 23:45h reaching minimum heights of 0.62 metre and 0.51 metre.

referential interest rates for agricultural loans could be announced this week, as the Government continues negotiations with commercial banks to make financing more affordable for farmers seeking to expand into medium- and large-scale production. This was revealed by the Head of State, Dr Irfaan Ali during the opening ceremony of the Agriculture Ministry’s Farmers’ Conference on Monday, held as part of activities for Agriculture Month 2026. Addressing farmers at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, the President stated that the initiative is aimed at ensuring that those seeking to venture into medium- and large-scale agricultural production can access loans at affordable rates, similar to the incentives offered for low-income housing.

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COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil

US$ $105.60/barrel

Rough Rice

$304.38/ton

London Sugar

$560.70/ton

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Change %

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$4156.50 $4218.10

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Bid/Ask

He also disclosed that Republic Bank has already committed to setting aside resources for agricultural loans at preferential interest rates, with negotiations ongoing to determine the rate. “Here’s some other exciting news that will come in the course of this week. We have brought all of the commercial banks together, and we are currently negotiating with them to offer the same type of incentive that we offer for low-income housing to the banks for loans to agriculture, so that those who want to go into more medium- and large-scale production can get those loans at affordable rates,” Ali said. To applause from the crowd that was present, the President added that this was part of a multi-pronged approach aimed at bringing together multiple agencies and stakeholders to address the challenges faced by farmers and ultimately improve the agricultural sector. “And let me tell you, already we have the commitment from Republic Bank that they’re going to set

President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at the Agriculture Ministry’s Farmers’ Conference on Monday

aside resources for agricultural loans at a preferential rate, and we’re negotiating that rate, which I hope can be announced even before the end of the conference at

the end of this week. And already, Demerara Bank is offering poultry loans at five per cent. We’re now negotiating to even bring that lower through these incentives

that we’re going to offer,” he said.

Best possible benefits

According to the President, the measures being implemented by the Government are directly aimed at supporting farmers and ensuring they receive the best possible benefits. “That is what we do every single day for farmers. We work hard. We try to bring the Private Sector along. We include the financial sector, so that we can tackle the challenges farmers face in a multidimensional way,” he said. Comparing the current situation with that of 2020, the President noted that large farmers and producers were scaling back their investments, while many medium-sized operators, particularly in the rice and poultry industries, were leaving the sector. TURN TO PAGE 7

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

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Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Making quality care the standard, not the exception

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he Health Ministry’s decision to introduce random checks at hospitals and healthcare facilities is a practical step that can help strengthen the delivery of health care across Guyana. The initiative, announced by Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, will see teams from the Ministry randomly reviewing patient records to determine whether doctors and nurses are adhering to established clinical guidelines, including those for common conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. This approach is important because clinical guidelines exist for a reason and they provide healthcare professionals with evidence-based standards to guide diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. While individual patients may require different approaches, there must be a consistent standard of care against which healthcare delivery can be assessed. The proposed checks should not be viewed simply as an exercise in finding fault since their greater value lies in identifying gaps in practice and providing an opportunity for those deficiencies to be corrected. Dr Anthony explained that facilities found to be compliant will receive recognition, while those with deficiencies will be informed of where improvements are required and given time to address them. Follow-up checks will then determine whether corrective measures have been implemented. That creates an important cycle of assessment, correction, and improvement. It also provides an opportunity to strengthen accountability without making accountability synonymous with punishment. A professional healthcare system must be able to identify shortcomings honestly and respond to them systematically. Where standards are being met, that performance should be acknowledged. Where they are not, the objective should be to ensure that the necessary improvements are made. There is value in applying this principle across the public service, as only a few weeks ago, Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud made a similar approach in her ministry, with checks designed to assess how services were being delivered. That exercise yielded results, demonstrating that direct oversight can help identify weaknesses, encourage compliance and improve the experience of citizens accessing Government services. The lesson is applicable to health care, where the consequences of inconsistent service can be particularly significant. Guyana has invested substantially in healthcare infrastructure, including the construction and upgrading of facilities and the expansion of medical services. Those investments are important and necessary. However, modern infrastructure can only achieve its full value when supported by strong clinical practices and a workforce committed to maintaining professional standards. A new hospital cannot, by itself, guarantee better health care; neither can modern equipment. The ultimate measure is whether patients receive timely, appropriate and professional treatment from trained personnel who follow established procedures. This is why the emphasis on continuous professional development is equally important. Medical knowledge and best practices evolve, and healthcare professionals must continue to update their skills and apply what they learn. Training has limited value if the knowledge acquired is not reflected in everyday patient care. Patients do not encounter the healthcare system as statistics or medical records; they encounter it as people seeking assistance, often at difficult moments in their lives. The manner in which they are treated, therefore, forms an important part of the quality of service. Improving health care consequently requires attention to both clinical competence and the human side of service delivery. Random checks can help bring these elements together by establishing a mechanism through which actual practices are assessed rather than assumed. They can also provide policymakers and health administrators with useful information about where additional training, resources or management intervention may be necessary. Importantly, this should be implemented consistently as the objective should ultimately be straightforward – better care for patients. As Guyana continues to build out its healthcare infrastructure and expand access to services, the focus must increasingly shift to ensuring that every investment translates into quality outcomes. A healthcare system worthy of the country must be one in which quality is not left to chance.

People perform mashal raas in Ahmedabad, India during the nine-night annual Hindu festival Navratri (Ajit Solanki photograph)

When AI is subject to less regulation than your fridge, something is startlingly wrong By Richard Hermer

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n my two years as attorney general, I spent more time working on national security than any other issue. The range and gravity of the threats posed to our nation are multifold, from terrorism, armed conflicts and nuclear proliferation to the impacts of financial insecurity and the climate crisis. All profound challenges, yet ones our superb intelligence and defence communities are well placed to counter. The risk from AI is of an altogether-different magnitude, not only in scale, but also because there is a limited time window to address it. The risk is difficult to overestimate: it poses an existential risk to humanity. The lights are flashing red and we must act now before it’s too late. Although the extraordinary threats posed by AI have long been flagged by those closely involved in its creation, it was not until very recently, after the disclosure of the Hugging Face hack and the resignation of Jacob Coxon from Anthropic, that the issue at last started to gain traction in the public discourse. This moment is an opportunity, and to capitalise on it we desperately need increased urgency in international coordination to regulate frontier AI. There must also be meaningful public engagement with how AI should be shaped to benefit humanity, rather than entrench the power of a few. We cannot leave this to China, the US and big tech – we must all demand a voice in the debate. AI has enormous potential benefits for us all. It will be the source of mind-blow-

ing advances in science and medicine, and offers hope for empowerment of some of the world’s most dispossessed people. Yet the risks we are now facing are truly staggering. I would put them in two very broad categories. The first is existential risk: quite literally the possibility that AI could kill billions, either because it enables terrible people to do terrible things – such as design and deploy biological weapons – or because AI itself determines it is more efficient to dispense with humans. The second category is existential challenge – that, left unchecked, the development of AI will deprive billions of us of meaningful agency over our lives, with utterly profound consequences for economies, national security and human happiness. As Bill Gates recently wrote, the AI era will herald “one of the most turbulent times in human history”, noting that it will either be the greatest equaliser ever invented or the worst source of injustice. He is right. On its current trajectory, it risks simultaneously revolutionising the meaning and availability of productive work, while placing unimaginable power in the hands of not only two states (the US and China), but also a small number of individuals who control the tech giants. The plain fact is that we really don’t know what the precise degree of risk is, or the full panorama of the challenge. Part of the problem is that AI is rapidly developing to a level that humans simply do not understand and will reach a point at which – even if they do – they will no longer have the means to con-

trol it. Recall that the 2008 financial crash was caused in part because no humans really understood the web of financial transactions that were leading inexorably to disaster. What we face today, though, is on a different scale in terms of the complexity of the systems and the human agency over them, as well as the level of devastation that might be wrought. The startling levels of risk we are discussing should be completely unacceptable to all of us. In today’s age it is unthinkable that the manufacturer of a toaster would be allowed to market a product with a 10 per cent chance of electrocuting you. The case for slowing down frontier AI before we are clear that the risks can be managed is blindingly obvious. AI needs rigorous regulation now. There is more regulation governing the safety of your fridge than the work being undertaken by frontier AI labs that threaten to wipe out your family. It is ludicrous to suggest the industry can be left to regulate itself. The AI companies and the financial markets underpinning them are incentivised to develop new iterations as quickly as possible, all of this fuelled by the geopolitics of the race between China and the US for dominance. The sight of President Trump and Elon Musk on the White House Lawn brandishing a “voluntary code” provided little in the way of reassurance. It will be international law that matters. While the United Kingdom has shown sterling leadership (started by Rishi Sunak, embraced by Keir Starmer and now reflected in Andy Burnham’s

promotion of Kanishka Narayan to Cabinet), the scale of the challenge requires international cooperation to have any effect. Tragically, this moment of peril arises at the very time in which the international rules-based order is under strain as never before. We need to double down on our engagement with the US and China while simultaneously developing our work with coalitions of like-minded States, as well as the tech sector, to address the threats. Democracy demands that we have an urgent public debate about what lies on the horizon in order to retain agency over our own futures – rather than allow them to be determined by the tech sector. None of this needs be inevitable. There is still time for Governments and individuals to shape AI, ensuring it serves the public good. Since the Industrial Revolution, modern political movements have been moulded by the dynamic between the “means of production” and the interests of the people. We need new governing theories of who should control AI, how it is regulated, and most importantly who it serves. We need urgent public conversations about the values that should guide decision making. We must shape the benefits of technological advances for the benefit of the many, rather than abdicate our future to the few. Leave it much longer and AI itself may deprive us of that power. (The Guardian) (Richard Hermer is a Labour life peer. He is a former Attorney General for England and Wales and former Advocate General for Northern Ireland)

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

5

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate, Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Untenable ‘suspicions’ equal a lot of lies Dear Editor, GHK Lall’s latest column, “MV Barima CoI in ICU”, is an absolute exercise in prolix grandiloquence –a piece of sheer verbiage that requires laborious parsing just to extract what ultimately amounts to ungrounded suspicions and partisan fumes. This phrase-monger boldly asserts that the Guyanese public has zero trust in the nation’s leadership, claiming the commissioners must have noticed this “low gutter” of trust while interacting with grieving communities. He then slide-steps into near-litigious territory, intimating that while Chairman Justice Godfrey Smith promised to place responsibility wherever it belongs, doing so would mean “biting the hand that feeds him.” This is a direct, unsubstantiated slur, implying the Commission is being ‘bought off’ to shield the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Administration. For GHK Lall, the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) has been declared a failure even before it has even properly begun. It is clear that no matter the outcome, he has pre-programmed

himself to view this genuine vessel for accountability as a political tool. I hope he soon tires of his own self-inflicted ennui. Let us contrast Lall’s gobbledygook with the incontrovertible facts. First, unlike those who hide behind a façade to mask past Gold Board scandals, questionable ties to wealthy families, or unverified Wall Street credentials, the appointed Commissioners are international figures of transparent, unassailable integrity. This five-member panel blends the absolute pinnacle of legal, technical, and maritime engineering expertise from across the Caribbean and Europe: • Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith, SC (Belize) — Chairman: A highly distinguished jurist serving as Caricom’s High-Level Representative for Law and Criminal Justice, and an Ad Hoc Justice of Appeal for the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal. • Dr Andrzej Jasionowski (Poland) — Naval Architect & Marine Engineer: A worldrenowned authority on maritime safety

and ship stability who specialises in forensic casualty investigations for major global maritime disasters. • Captain Hamada Fouda (Jamaica) — Senior Maritime Surveyor: A veteran compliance auditor with the Maritime Authority of Jamaica. • Ms Nyree Dawn Alfonso (Trinidad and Tobago): A prominent Attorneyat-Law specialising exclusively in Admiralty and Maritime Law. • Rear Admiral (Retired) Hayden Pritchard (Trinidad and Tobago): A retired military commander and veteran of regional naval defence and security protocols. This panel is meticulously qualified for every single aspect of this inquiry. For an ink hornist like Lall to cast spidery aspersions on their character is pure effrontery – especially given the glass house of his own disputed academic, ecclesiastical, and professional claims. A sham is a shame, and he should stay quiet. Furthermore, Lall’s claim that the CoI is stagnant or “in ICU” is a flat-out lie. The Commission

is operating in overdrive. It has already proactively completed physical inspections of dry docks and maritime facilities along the Demerara River. The Commissioners are moving swiftly ahead of their legally scheduled public evidentiary hearings, which begin this Wednesday, October 14, 2026. I now come to President Ali and his administration, as they have been bold, transparent, and broadbased in establishing the parameters of this probe. Invoking the Commissions of Inquiry Act, the President mandated a “comprehensive, independent, and impartial” investigation covering six expansive areas: 1. Seaworthiness and Safety of the Vessel 2. Passenger and Cargo Operations 3. Crew Competence and Conduct 4. Search, Rescue, and Recovery Operations 5. Regulatory and Institutional Oversight 6. Systemic Reforms To completely disarm political opportunists, Chairman Justice Godfrey Smith has explicitly clarified the legal boundaries of the Terms of Reference (ToR).

The CoI is not a criminal court and cannot sentence individuals, though it holds the power to refer criminal evidence directly to Prosecutors. Additionally, it does not award financial compensation. It is a strictly factual fact-finding mission currently based at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Finally, President Irfaan Ali took the most ethical, legally-sound route possible by bypassing the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). While MARAD typically handles routine casualty investigations, the unprecedented scale of the MV Barima tragedy – which claimed 73 lives – demanded a shift away from internal State actors. Because MARAD regulated the vessel, it could not legally or ethically audit itself. By bringing in independent, unaligned global experts to investigate State oversight impartially, President Ali has guaranteed a transparent process. This fact alone should permanently silence GHK Lall and his echo chamber. Yours truly, Somar Sahadeo

I am one of those pensioners

Dear Editor, Christopher Ram and others have raised the matter that the National Insurance Board has failed to pay the minimum old-age pension in accordance with the “NIS Benefit Regulations.” As it happens, I am one of those pensioners. The Regulations require that the minimum pension paid must not be less than half (50%) of the Public Service minimum wage. However, the Public Service minimum wage has increased since 2021 but the minimum old-age pension has not accordingly increased as required by the Regulations. For me, it seems a simple enough matter to fix, and the National Insurance Board should take immediate steps to do so. It should not have been necessary for this matter to have gone to Court. Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

Double standards & admin failures depict former EPA Head

Dear Editor, I am compelled to ask “Who in the world is former EPA Head Dr Vincent Adams, and what in the world is he saying?’ I was livid when I flagged his latest concoction in the press, where he claimed that the “Govt. breached environmental law with Wales gas project” (Oct 11, 2026) I must remind Guyanese that Dr Adams’s own air is murky, and so too are his pronouncements. While he postures as an authentic ‘champion of environmental law’ and ‘regulatory purity’, the public needs to be instructionally reminded of his actual dismal track record. No question about it – His tenure as Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the APNU+AFC coalition administration was marked by the very political compromises, administrative failures, and procedural breaches he now seeks to condemn, as his assump-

tions convey the impression, that Mr Khemraj (and by extension, the PPP,) is perpetuating what used to be Adams’ norms. Let me illustrate a few of these well-documented failures, starting with financial and procurement breaches and irregularities. We all recall that under his watch, established state procurement and financial procedures were severely compromised. Clandestine ways of doings things were the norm. Most notably, we recall how internal audits highlight that over US$47,000 of the EPA’s state funds was improperly approved and surreptitiously diverted to cover the private medical expenses of an entity official. This ghost remains totally ensconced. Furthermore, there was that heinous complicity during the 2020 election crisis. Dr Adams still serves as a high-ranking executive member of the Alliance For Change (AFC), and critics and citizens well remember

his complete failure to condemn documented attempts by coalition officials to derail the democratic process during the tense, five-month post-election standoff in 2020. This overt political alignment heavily and permanently compromised his ‘claimed objectivity’ as an independent public servant. He now is most caustic, seeking to condemn what he cannot prove, thinking that maybe the public has forgotten his duplicity. We must necessarily also examine his environmental double standards. Dr Adams has morphed into a dis-liker of the PPP Government. He is now ‘weaponising environmental laws’ only after losing his state apparatus position. During his actual leadership under the APNU+AFC administration, he repeatedly failed to aggressively enforce statutory rules or challenge omissions occurring under his own government. His environmental “crusade” only materialised after his con-

tract was terminated in late 2020. Pathetic! Finally, there was a stark failure to build up the agency capacity, but yet he is frequently criticising the current EPA’s technical competence. In fact, Dr Adams left the agency virtually unchanged. He failed to legally structure or expand the EPA’s human and technical capacity, leaving it entirely dependent on foreign interventions to audit complex offshore operations instead of establishing true local institutional independence. Therefore, I urge the public to view Dr Adams’ current commentary not as objective technical analysis, but as highly politicised rhetoric. It is designed to distract from his own historical failures and administrative shortcomings. He is part of a cabal, whose members, after failing, are now condemning. Yours truly, Jaideo Jairam

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 0:00 Sign Off 6:00 Islam for Guyana 6:30 TVG Devotional Hour 7:00 Evening News (RB) 8:00 HGTV 10:00 Stop Suffering 11:00 Documentary: Nat Geo Animals 12:00 Movie - The Crossword Mysteries: A Puzzle to Die For (2021) 13:30 Movie - Two Tickets to Paradise (2022) 15:00 Cartoons 16:00 Indian Soaps 17:00 The Young & The Restless 18:00 TVG Music Break 18:30 Teaching the Truth in Love 19:00 The Evening News 20:00 Stop Suffering 20:30 GIT Perspectives 21:30 Movie - Notes from Dad (2013) 23:00 House of Cards S6 E4

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

Foundation ◄

Page

guyanatimesgy.com

Line segments and rays

By Adrienne Su Continued It went against everything she’d ever professed.

A line segment is a specific part of a line. It ends at two identified points.

She had become one more idiotic princess wanting to be overpowered, wanting to be undressed.

Were people animals? She had always known the misfortune of her brother, whose bovine

A line segment is named by its two end points. Segment AB = Segment BA. AB = BA

half had led to bloodshed. To be all human

A ray is a part of a line that extends from a specific point in only one direction. The specific point of a ray is called a vertex or an endpoint. However, to identify a ray, you must use one other letter along the line’s path.

was fortunate, although it made her susceptible, impulsive—smart, but less mental than physical. Her fingers had trembled as she passed the fateful

ball of twine to her soon-to-be lover, her betrayer. Ray RS does not equal Ray SR, because the first point named in a ray shows the vertex, and Ray SR goes in the opposite direction of Ray RS.

She’d felt her childhood slide out from beneath her, then be replaced by the prospect of adventure,

How craters are formed space science experiment In this fun and easy space science experiment, we’re going to demonstrate how craters are from on the moon. Important: this experiment is not edible – do not consume

Materials:

Flour Baby oil Small rocks or pebbles Round cake pan Mixing bowl Measuring cups

Instructions:

Mix ½ cup of baby oil with 4 cups of flour. Put the flour mixture into the round cake pan. Level out the mixture. This will represent the surface of the moon for this demonstration. Place the cake pan on the ground. While standing over the cake pan, drop a rock onto the flour mixture and observe what happens.

How it works:

The mixture is used to represent the surface of the moon. The rock represents an object impacting the surface of the moon and will leave a crater for you to investigate and explore.

with its oversize happiness and oversize dread and her hope that the Fates, choosing what lay ahead, would view her kindly, since they, too, dealt in thread.

(Source: Poetry [October 2026})

Make this a science project:

Try different sized rocks and observe the changes in the crater size, shape, and depth. (sciencefun.org)

Spin the globe and see where it takes you. Immortalise that place.

WORD SEARCH

THE MOON

FAR SIDE

EARTHSHINE

CRATERS

NEAR SIDE MARIA

ECLIPSE

WANING

CRECENT

SUPERMOON

LUNAR

SYZYGY

MICROMOON

GIBBOUS

WAXING

PERIGEE

NEWS

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Nearly 30% of Development Bank applications target agriculture – Pres Ali

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resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday disclosed that nearly 30 per cent of applications submitted so far to the Guyana Development Bank since its launch last week are from the agriculture sector. He made this disclosure at the opening of the Farmers’ Conference, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, where he added that these applications reflect growing interest in the agriculture sector, which contributes six per cent of Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and accounts for one-fifth of the country’s non-oil GDP.

“Not only have we brought back production and instilled confidence in the system, but we are nurturing a new generation of young Guyanese who see a future in agriculture, who see a future in investing in agriculture. We have been able to build the consortiums of young people, now in poultry,” the President said. He encouraged those present to listen to the stories of young agricultural entrepreneurs, noting that the growing interest in the sector indicates that the Government’s policy direction is generating renewed

enthusiasm for agriculture. “You should listen to their stories. And if there is one indication as to how the policy direction is leading to a new wave of excitement, a new wave in agriculture,” he said. “It’s a fact that almost 30 per cent of all the applications so far in the Development Bank are in the agricultural sector. Almost 30 per cent are in the agricultural sector. That is productivity. That is in production. And once we have people interested in the production of goods, especially in the agricultural sector, then what the IMF report is

Commercial banks move...

FROM PAGE 3

President Dr Irfaan Ali interacting with young people at the opening of the Farmers’ Conference, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Monday

He said production has since recovered, with young people now forming consortiums to invest in poultry and other agricultural businesses. Demerara Bank already offers poultry loans at five per cent. The President said the Government was working to bring those loans under the new incentive arrangement as well. Meanwhile, Ali also

pointed to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) latest report on Guyana, which found that agriculture has grown by an average of 10 per cent annually since 2022 and now accounts for six per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), or one-fifth of non-oil GDP. “The IMF report has stated that food represents one-third of Guyana’s consumer price basket. So, ev-

ery time the consumer looks in their basket of goods, they see the farmer, food production, and what the farmer produces. They see the investment that we make in agriculture because onethird of that consumer basket is represented by food,” the President said. He also highlighted other major improvements in the agriculture sector from 2020 to date.

saying about us today will continue to expand and continue to grow,” he added. The Guyana Development Bank is now operational, marking the fulfilment of a key commitment to expand access to financing for entrepreneurs and small businesses across Guyana. The new institution will provide up to G$3 million in zero-interest, zero-collateral financing, creating a new avenue for Guyanese seeking to establish or expand their businesses. At the launch last week, President Ali highlighted that the bank is intended to

address the financial barriers that have long prevented aspiring entrepreneurs, including young innovators, single mothers, farmers and skilled tradespeople, from accessing the resources needed to start or grow their enterprises. This publication reported that with an initial capital of US$100 million, the State-backed financial institution offers loans of up to G$3 million to citizens and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across a wide range of sectors, without requiring collateral or charging interest. Over the past few

months, the Government has been ramping up its public education programme to sensitise citizens across the country about the financial institution. In addition to zero-interest and zero-collateral loans, the bank will also offer business support and mentorship services. In a message marking the operationalisation of the bank, President Ali said its establishment fulfilled a commitment made in the People’s Progressive Party’s 2025 manifesto to create an inclusive financial system in which no citizen is left behind in the nation’s transformation.

8 NEWS 17-year-old shot dead by 21-yearold boyfriend in murder-suicide Checking… A TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

17-year-old student and her 21-year-old boyfriend were killed in a shooting at Block 22 Squatting Area, Wismar, Linden, on Monday afternoon. Dead are Toisha Andrew, a student of the Linden Technical Institute, who resided at Block 22 Squatting Area, and Anthony Kellon Malachi Cato, a 21-year-old 10-day worker of Phase 3, Murphy Street, Amelia’s Ward, Linden. According to preliminary information, Andrew had just returned home from school at about 16:30h when Cato approached her armed with a handgun. Cato reportedly discharged one round, striking Andrew to her forehead, causing her to fall to the ground. He then turned the firearm on himself and discharged a round before falling to the ground and becoming motionless. Andrew was taken to the Linden

Y

Dead: Toisha Andrew

Dead: Anthony Kellon Malachi Cato

Hospital Complex, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Cato’s body remained at the scene, with a handgun reportedly found

next to it. Police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

…south

our Eyewitness has been following the elections in our southern neighbour – where the son of the jailed ex-President Jair Bolsonaro’s headed for a runoff with President Lula. For Guyana, a Flávio Bolsonaro triumph would bring more than a change of portraits in the presidential palace – it could dramatically rearrange the diplomatic triangle connecting our giant neighbour, our powerful American partner and our increasinglyimportant Chinese investor!! While there would be opportunities, there would also be challenges with other folks’ quarrels!! The immediate change would be warmer relations between Brasília and Washington – since Flávio has aggressively cultivated ties with the Trump Administration!! For our already-deepening American partnership, this could make cooperation with both capitals easier – but we gotta be aware that political friendship doesn’t automatically produce compatible trade policies or identical security interests!! On Essequibo, Bolsonaro should continue Lula’s opposition to Venezuelan military action even more aggressively by reinforcing Brazil’s northern frontier – while seeking closer security coordination with the US!! But while Brazil’s enduring interest is stability along its northern border, ours is protecting our territory and the peaceful resolution of the controversy through the ICJ – even as our interests overlap!! The larger economic opportunity remains the road south where the Linden–Lethem corridor and Atlantic deep-water harbour can connect northern Brazil with our expanding economy. These projects have commercial logic that should survive either candidate’s victory so Prezzie should be crafting financing proposals, construction schedules and workable customs arrangements for joint projects!! Closer Brazil–US relations could also help us attract American participation in regional infrastructure – where Washington’s involvement already extends beyond oil with their EXIM financing the Wales Gas-to-Energy project and discussing further energy and port financing! China, however, is where the maths becomes more interesting since a Bolsonaro presidency could bring greater suspicion of Chinese influence – and more pressure to favour American partners in sensitive sectors!! But China’s Brazil’s largest trading partner – and Brazilian exporters can’t deposit anti-communist speeches in the bank!! Trade with China actually grew during Jair Bolsonaro’s presidency – so ideological enthusiasm has a way of discovering commercial restraint when the invoices arrive!! We gotta absorb that lesson – Chinese commerce and investment are substantial here, while American security cooperation and financing carry considerable strategic weight!! Our challenge is to negotiate useful relationships with both while anticipating pressure over particular projects!! We shouldn’t assume an unavoidable, wholesale choice between Washington and Beijing!! Pressie should, therefore, pursue three concrete objectives with whoever wins – sustained Brazilian support against threats to Guyana’s territory; practical progress on transport and trade; and room to maintain diversified international partnerships!! We got enough development challenges of our own without becoming the referee in others’ scraps!! …on CCJ Judges The CCJ seems to be developing a new jurisprudence “Judge, and ye will not be judged”!! An attractive doctrine – especially particularly when you occupy the bench and discover that scrutiny has wandered upstairs. Seems one CCJ Judge complained that enquiries into his PRIVATE affairs during an investigation into leaked correspondence have left him feeling harassed and bullied!! Imagine that - a judge demanding that the JUDGES investigating him establish their lawful authority!! Somewhere, an ordinary litigant is whispering, “Welcome, Your Honour.” We must, of course, hear the other side – the investigating SENIOR Judge has rejected earlier allegations of manipulating panels and influencing judgments – while acknowledging some matters could’ve been handled differently. Fair enough…Judges, too, are entitled to due process – but your Eyewitness hopes they can arrange some without needing several adjournments and a loan!! We may interpret our constitutions, develop our jurisprudence and complete our emancipation from colonial tutelage by not imposing a dress code!! Judge, and ye will not be judged!! …our vegetables Researchers have found that the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables has fallen by up to 50 per cent since the Sixties because of declining soil quality!! So we now gotta consume twice the amount of vegetables to get the same level of minerals, etc!! The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police destroy $26.8M worth of ganja at Wiruni A

12-hour drug eradication exercise at Wiruni, Upper Berbice River, on Sunday has led to the discovery and destruction of four cannabis fields measuring approximately seven acres in total. The first cultivation measured approximately two

acres and contained about 15,000 cannabis plants ranging between four and six feet in height. A makeshift camp containing approximately 40 pounds of dried cannabis was also discovered. The second cultivation measured approximately one acre and contained about 4000 ganja plants ranging between five inches and one foot in height. The third field measured approximately two acres and

contained about 10,000 cannabis plants ranging between five and six feet in height while the fourth farm measured approximately two acres and contained about 8000 cannabis plants ranging between six inches and two

feet in height. The cannabis plants, dried cannabis, and makeshift camp, valued at $26,832,112, were destroyed by fire. At the time of the operation, no arrests were made. Investigations are ongoing.

10 NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana building legal framework for deepwater port, modern harbour, gas sector …sweeping amendments coming for community concerns – AG As the Guyana Government actively pursues the development of a deepwater harbour and modern port facilities, the legislative architecture to govern these operations is already being built out. This is according to Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall during an appearance on a recent episode of the Starting Point podcast. “Every aspect of Guyana is under transformation and we have legislations moving with the state of development. For example, the President [Dr Irfaan Ali] would have spoken at length about the deepwater harbour, about modern port facilities. We don’t have the legislative and architecture to govern those undertakings. We are working on that right now,” he stated. Currently, the Government is upgrading the Parika Ferry Stelling into a modern, state-of-theart port and waterfront development, and the works are already advancing. Set for completion in 2028, the US$20 million Parika Modern Port and Waterfront Development Project will transform the old Parika Stelling into an international port of entry and a major regional hub for tourism, agriculture, and shipping. On the other hand, the Government has also been

ture, energy, telecommunications, water treatment and sanitation, and agriculture. Already, the US financial institution has injected some US$527 million into the transformative Gasto-Energy (GtE) Project, which is being executed by Houston-based contractor Lindsayca Inc at Wales, West Bank Demerara. The GtE project comprises a 300-megawatt power plant and a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility, utilising gas that will be piped onshore from the Stabroek

tion that is completed and is going through some final stages of consultation that will regulate that sector,” he indicated during the podcast. Nandlall was at the time speaking about the slew of legislative reforms that were introduced over the years to complement, and in some cases support, Guyana’s unprecedented economic development. “We have no choice but to have a legislative agenda that is commensurate with and consistent with that developmental agenda of the Government as it is unfolding. And of course,

Block. With the gas being produced, Government plans to set up a cooking gas bottling facility and a fertiliser plant. In fact, AG Nandlall says that legislation is also being finalised to govern the use of the country’s natural gas resources. “[For] the natural gas plant that is being constructed, we have a legisla-

we also have to keep our focus on the social issues that are important to people. Oftentimes, our ordinary citizens may not be able to relate to the mega concepts that we speak about. They are more concerned about garbage dumping in front of their homes, their drains are being clogged, their neighbours playing music or cre-

Legislation for gas sector

ating an environment that’s creating noise nuisance to them. Those are issues that we are alive to as well,” the Attorney General asserted.

Community issues

Against this backdrop, the Legal Affairs Minister disclosed that his office has completed a series of legislative updates that seek to address concerns within communities ranging from noise nuisance to garbage collection. “The Attorney General chambers have completed a wide menu of amendments that are going to speak to noise nuisance, garbage col-

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall

touting the establishment of a deepwater port in Berbice, Region Six. A study is currently being undertaken by the United States-based Bechtel Corporation on the proposed Berbice deepwater project. That study is expected to be completed in the coming months after which Government will determine how to move forward with the project. Just last month, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat had told Guyana Times that an Expression of Interest (EOI) is among the options Government is considering in order to ascertain the potential interest from local and foreign investors. In fact, he noted that

there has already been significant interest in the project from international investors as well as Guyana’s Private Sector. In fact, the US ExportImport (EXIM) Bank has already offered to finance the deepwater port facility – a project that the Guyanese Government has been pushing in recent years to position the country as a major regional hub. The EXIM Bank is the official export credit agency of the US. Back in July 2022, Guyana and the EXIM Bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for financing of up to US$2 billion for projects in several sectors, including infrastruc-

lection, dumping of debris and placement of garbage on public roadways, etc.,” Nandlall stated. According to the Minister, these comprehensive legislative amendments will be punitive in nature, attracting penalties that will include community service. These concerns were among the issues residents had raised during the widespread consultation President Ali had led for his Model Village initiative. Launched in August 2026, the Model Village is aimed at transforming communities across Guyana by improving infrastructure, public spaces, safety and the overall quality of life of residents. In the current pilot phase, the project is being rolled out in some 23 communities across Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six. However, the Government plans to eventually implement this initiative in every community across the country so that citizens can benefit from cleaner, greener, safer and more aesthetically pleasing environments. Nandlall was among the team of Government Ministers who had accompanied President Ali during a series of public consultations to discuss with residents the vision under the Model Village Initiative as well as get feedback from them on other improvements they would like to see in their surroundings.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

New equipment, faster response times strengthening firefighting capacity – Walrond T he Guyana Fire Service (GFS) marked its 69th anniversary on Monday with a route march through Georgetown,

as Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond highlighted investments in equipment, infrastructure and training to strengthen the Service’s emergency response capabilities. The march commenced at the Square of the Revolution and proceeded

along Brickdam, where firefighters and other ranks rendered the traditional “Eyes Right” salute to Minister Walrond, before conclud-

ing at Ashmin’s Building on High Street, Georgetown. Speaking to reporters following the parade, Walrond commended the men and women of the Fire Service for their professionalism, discipline and willingness to risk their lives to protect others.

She said the anniversary was an opportunity to recognise the sacrifices made by firefighters, noting that she had witnessed their response to emergencies firsthand. The Minister also outlined investments in firefighting resources, including the acquisition of new fire tenders, trucks and a fireboat, which she said were intended to improve response times and reduce the loss of lives and property. “It’s not just so we could have a glorious parade,” she remarked, explaining that the investments were aimed at strengthening the Service’s operational capacity. Walrond cited a recent fire at a children’s home in Sophia, where firefighters from the newly-established Campbellville Fire Station arrived in under two minutes. She said the station’s proximity to the incident facilitated a swift response, while no injuries were reported. The Minister also point-

ed to improvements in the Service’s ability to contain fires, particularly in commercial areas where buildings are closely situated. Recalling a time when fires along Regent Street, Georgetown could spread across entire blocks, she said improved equipment,

involves restoring existing hydrants and installing new ones in expanding communities to improve water access during firefighting operations. While acknowledging the importance of equipment and infrastructure, she stressed that the train-

Meanwhile, Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham said the Guyana Fire Service planned to install approximately 2000 additional fire hydrants across the country next year to improve water access during firefighting operations. Wickham said the

access to water and additional firefighting resources had strengthened the Service’s ability to contain blazes.

ing and development of firefighters remained central to the Service’s effectiveness. “The Government has done tremendous investment in the assets, but our greatest investment has been in our young people and in the training,” she stated.

Service currently has at least 5000 hydrants across the 10 administrative regions, with another 120 expected to be installed before the end of 2026. He added that investments in new fire tenders and boats have also strengthened the Service’s operational capacity

Fire hydrants

Walrond further highlighted the ongoing fire hydrant programme, which

Guyana Fire Service marked its 69th anniversary on Monday with a route march through Georgetown

12 NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Private poultry investor to triple capacity with new plant – Head of State A private poultry investor is set to commission a new processing plant in Guyana that will triple its processing capacity, President Dr Irfaan Ali disclosed on Monday, pointing to growing Private-Sector investment in the country’s agriculture sector. The Head of State made this announcement during the opening ceremony of the Ministry of Agriculture’s Farmers’ Conference, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre as part of activities for Agriculture Month 2026. “One of the private investors in poultry is about to commission a new, large poultry processing plant that will triple their processing capacity here in Guyana. That is happening as we speak,” the President said. President Ali did not identify the investor, but underscored the significance of the investment, noting that the Government’s initia-

ers today have a government that believes in them,” he said.

Hatching eggs

tives are helping to guide investors towards expanding their operations in Guyana’s growing economy. He said the investment was evidence of the growing confidence in the Government’s efforts to

strengthen the agriculture sector, particularly through infrastructure development and other initiatives aimed at supporting farmers and expanding production. “These investments are not accidental; they are

following the lead of the Government and the investments we are making in infrastructure, because farm-

Meanwhile, the Head of State highlighted the Government’s target of producing 50 per cent of the country’s hatching eggs locally by the end of 2027, with the aim of moving closer to 100 per cent local production by the end of 2028. “By the end of next year, we are targeting 50 per cent of our hatching eggs will be produced locally. By the end of next year, 50 per cent of our hatching eggs that we import will be produced locally. And then by the end of 2028, we will move closer to 100 per cent.” The Head of State also stressed the importance of building resilience within the poultry industry, noting

that some level of imports would still be necessary for security reasons. “But in this sector, we need to have resilience, so there has to be some amount of import. That is because of security reasons,” he said. He added that the Government is investing in agricultural education to ensure that farmers and students are exposed to modern farming methods and technology. “All of that is going on. All of these things, all of these investments, we’re investing in the agriculture school. We’re investing in the agriculture school so that we can teach agriculture, not only in the traditional way, but also showcase agriculture using this technology,” the President said.

ANSA McAL commits $20M to youth, education programmes

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NSA McAL and the ANSA McAL Foundation have committed $20 million to support Three Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) implementing youth development and education programmes in communities across Guyana. The awards were presented on Tuesday at Cara Lodge by ANSA McAL Country Head for Guyana and Suriname, Troy Cadogan, following a national call for social investment proposals in May that attracted more than 40 submissions. The selected organisations are Project New Nation, Tamùkke Feminists and Blossom Inc, which will receive funding to implement programmes targeting vulnerable youth, career guidance and the empowerment of young

women in Indigenous communities. Project New Nation received $5 million to roll out a youth career-guidance programme in Bartica, Region Seven, aimed at supporting young people as they consider their future career paths. Blossom Inc will receive $10 million to implement a year-long education-equity initiative for vulnerable young people between the ages of 12 and 26 in Region Seven. The remaining $5 million will go to Tamùkke Feminists to produce a video series designed to strengthen the voices of young women in the Wapichan

Indigenous community in the South Rupununi. According to the organisations, the awards followed a selection process that included site visits to shortlisted NGOs and a capacity-building workshop. Guyanese social development consultant Tiffany Kirton supported the site visits and workshop as part of the process. The investment, the company said, is intended to support programmes that address education and youth development needs, with the selected organisations expected to carry out their respective initiatives in the communities they serve.

NEWS

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

From motorcycle stunts and Police dog, house and SWAT displays to greasy pole climbing and bun-eating, Regional Police Division Seven brought the action and laughter to Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Sunday as Gymkhana 2026 delivered a day of fun, friendly competition and community (GPF photos)

14 NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MV Barima CoI members meet survivors, families ahead of formal hearings A

head of the commencement of formal hearings on Wednesday, the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the sinking of the MV Barima visited Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini) on Monday to hear firsthand from survivors and encourage them to give evidence before the Commission. During the community engagement at the Narei Extension Centre, Commissioners assured survivors that appropriate arrangements would be made for those who choose to testify at the hearings in Georgetown. According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, while the meeting was not a formal hearing or a session for taking testimony, it allowed survivors and bereaved families to meet the five Commissioners, discuss the inquiry’s objectives and raise questions about the investigation. About 36 persons from Mabaruma and surrounding communities in BarimaWaini attended, some travelling long distances. Among them was Andre Cox, Toshao of White Water, who raised questions on behalf of families he said were unable to attend. They wanted to know how long the investigation would

take and when the sunken vessel would be raised. The DPI reported that Commission Chairman, Justice Godfrey Smith said the team anticipated taking about six months to complete its findings and submit a report to President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Raising the MV Barima, however, was outside the commission’s responsibility, he explained, noting that it as a matter rested with the Government. Cox also asked what was planned for those who had been aboard the vessel and remained unaccounted for. Justice Smith acknowledged the question, but said

Leroy Jerome’s visit coincided with a painful milestone: his son, who died when the Barima sank, would have turned three on Monday. Jerome travelled from Barima to paint his son’s tomb and meet the Commissioners. He said he was “happy that the Commissioners came to meet the survivors and families”. Maria Bowring and her husband, Albert Wells, lost their daughter and her children. They said their daughter, who had lived in Georgetown for years, was coming to visit them. She

derstand the circumstances surrounding the sinking and its impact. During the Mabaruma visit, Commissioners also conducted a walkthrough of the wharf and cargo area before returning to Georgetown. The MV Barima departed Georgetown on July 18, bound for Mabaruma before continuing to Port Kaituma. The journey from Georgetown to Mabaruma usually takes between 14 and 24 hours. The vessel sank late that night. Justice Smith, of Belize,

and how it happened,” adding that he “was pleased that they came”.

never made it home. According to the DPI re-

a former Justice of Appeal, chairs the five-member in-

For fellow survivor Ormon Cox, the memories were of long hours in the water, surrounded by pitch darkness. He described removing his belt and using it to strap empty plastic bottles together to help him stay afloat. After the meeting, Cox said recounting the ordeal often brought on intense headaches. Even so, he felt it was important to meet the Commissioners. He said he had much more to tell them and looked forward to giving testimony before the inquiry.

port, at the close of the engagement, many stayed behind to personally thank the Commissioners for undertaking the investigation. Several pledged to attend the hearings in the coming weeks, if not to give testimony, then to show their support. Appointed by President Ali, the Commission is tasked with investigating what went wrong and recommending measures to prevent a similar tragedy. Its community engagements and facility visit form part of its work to better un-

quiry. Serving alongside him are Captain Hamada Fouda, an Egyptian residing in Jamaica and a maritime surveyor and safety specialist; Nyree Dawn Alfonso of Trinidad and Tobago, an attorney specialising in maritime law; Dr Andrzej Jasionowski of Poland, a naval architect and marine engineer; and retired Rear Admiral Hayden Pritchard of Trinidad and Tobago, an expert in maritime operations and security. The Commission is scheduled to visit Port Kaituma today.

COI Commissioners during the Mabaruma, Region One (BarimaWaini) visit on Monday

he did not have an answer. The Toshao told Commissioners that a psychologist visits White Water every Monday to provide support to survivors and affected families. Alongside questions about the investigation came deeply personal accounts of survival and loss. Leon Murray, the DPI reported, recounted his struggle to survive that night. He pointed to his son, seated at the back of the room, who had also survived. His wife and other children did not. His voice cracked as he spoke, and many in the room could not hold back their

tears. Commissioners listened attentively, took notes and asked questions to clarify de-

tails. Asked afterwards about the visit, Murray said he “thanked God they came to investigate what happened

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

AG blasts Opposition over failure to address national issues …criticises silence on policy alternatives on cost of living, climate change, Venezuela threat

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ttorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall has criticised Guyana’s parliamentary Opposition, describing it as the most inexperienced in the country’s history since Independence and accusing its members of failing to address major national issues while concentrating on allegations and personal attacks. Speaking on the Starting Point podcast over the weekend, Nandlall said the Opposition had demonstrated ineffectiveness and incompetence, arguing that its members had failed to understand the responsibilities that come with their positions and to offer constructive criticism or guidance on matters of national importance. He said an effective Opposition was essential to democracy and should provide policy alternatives, scrutinise Government decisions and demonstrate the capacity to serve as an alternative Government. “I am a passionate believer that we must have an effective and competent Opposition,” Nandlall said.

“It is an important component of democracy.” However, he argued that the current Opposition had fallen short of that responsibility, pointing to what he described as its failure to meaningfully engage with issues such as the cost of living, the Venezuela border threat, climate change, and regional food security. On the cost of living, Nandlall questioned whether Opposition members had presented substantive proposals apart from calls for salary increases, arguing that such measures required an understanding of their wider implications. He also criticised the Opposition for its silence on Venezuela’s recent statements at the United Nations, which he said had serious implications for Guyana, as well as on climate change and food security. Guyana’s vulnerability to climate change, given that much of the country’s coastal population and infrastructure are situated below sea level, made the issue particularly important, he said. Nandlall further noted

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

that Guyana had been identified as having a significant role to play in ensuring food security across the region, while oil production and environmental concerns continued to shape national and international discussions. He argued that these matters required sustained engagement from Opposition parliamentarians, rather than allowing their attention to be consumed by isolated complaints about roads, private

“Not starting is not an option” – Minister urges Local Govt staff to take initiative

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ocal Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand has urged Ministry staff to take initiative, work collaboratively and pursue solutions to improve service delivery, emphasising that progress should not be delayed while waiting for ideal conditions. Addressing staff at a management meeting on Monday, Manickchand said the Ministry had significant opportunities to improve its work and encouraged employees to adopt a more proactive approach to their responsibilities. “There’s so much we can do from this Ministry that we mightn’t have done before,” she told staff, urging them to remain motivated and committed to their work. The Minister also highlighted the importance of collaboration across departments, noting that practical solutions could emerge from discussions with colleagues who work in different areas. “Talk to each other too, because sometimes you’re talking to somebody who has nothing to do with sanitation, and you get the solution from that person, just from hearing their practical experience in their home,” she said. Manickchand said improving the Ministry’s per-

Local Govt and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand

formance would require a change in attitude, while maintaining a strong focus on getting the work done. She also cautioned against using the absence of ideal working conditions as a reason to delay projects or initiatives, pointing out that progress could be made with the resources currently available. “We can’t wait for perfection too. I gotta get a perfect office. I gotta get a perfect number of staff,” she said. The Minister acknowl-

edged that the Ministry was working with what it had, but expressed confidence in its ability to deliver results. She encouraged staff to begin initiatives, assess their progress and make improvements along the way rather than postpone action until every requirement was in place. “You start, and you push, and you perfect as you go along, and you try to make it work, because not starting is not an option,” Manickchand said.

property, fencing and pump stations. While acknowledging that allegations of corruption and concerns about local infrastructure were legitimate areas for scrutiny, the Attorney General said they should not constitute the Opposition’s entire agenda. “Those things may be important, but they cannot consume the parliamentary Opposition of a country. You are the parliamentary Opposition of the country. You are the alternative Government,” he said. Nandlall urged Opposition members to provide the public with substantive arguments on how the Government could improve its decisions and management of national affairs. He also criticised what he described as an increase in vulgarity, personal attacks and abusive language

in political discourse, particularly on social media. According to Nandlall, the platform had been transformed into an environment characterised by crude and abusive exchanges, which he said had contributed to a deterioration in political debate. He maintained that his comments were not intended simply to attack the Opposition, but to highlight the need for a more responsible and effective political alternative.

Inability to get international respect

The Attorney General also turned his attention to the circumstances surrounding United States-indicted Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, referring to US criminal charges, an extradition request and sanctions imposed by the United

States Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Nandlall argued that the Mohamed is unable to command international respect as Opposition Leader. He also referred to a Reuters report that implicated Mohamed in alleged serious criminal activity. The Attorney General stated that Opposition members had a responsibility to the tens of thousands of Guyanese they represent, regardless of political differences, and should bring a higher standard of leadership to the National Assembly. He said Guyana needed an Opposition capable of engaging meaningfully with the country’s most pressing challenges and holding the Government accountable through informed, constructive and policy-focused debate.

Fridges in French supermarkets hit by cyber attack

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undreds of French supermarkets have been hit by a cyber attack that caused their fridges and freezers to heat up, spoiling fresh and frozen food estimated to be worth millions of euros. Hackers gained control of the software that regulates the temperatures of the refrigeration units, forcing some to warm to 50C (120F) overnight, according to one supermarket chain affected. The chief executive of Coopérative U said several of its supermarkets had been hit by the “extremely serious and unprecedented” attack. More than 100 of the chain’s supermarkets were targeted, while 180 stores from Intermarché and its Netto brand were affected, with a spokesman saying that another 100 shops were urgently disconnected from the internet to prevent the same thing happening to them. Other major food retailers including Carrefour, Monoprix and E.Leclerc were also hit by the attack, which targeted software provided by Danish engineering firm Danfoss. The software allows retailers to manage their cold units remotely. Normally, supermarket freezers go through a short period of defrosting overnight, in which temperatures rise slightly. But the hackers ordered the units to heat up and stay hot, although Danfoss did not confirm any reports about just how warm the fridges and freezers could become in that process. Danfoss said the affected cold units were older models whose security software could not be updated to ward

off a risk they had identified. The firm added in s statement that it had “long advised” businesses to keep supported systems up to date. “Reliable refrigeration is critical to our customers’ operations, and we remain committed to supporting our customers and helping them maintain secure and reliable systems they are used to.” The full scale of the attack is unclear, but figures supplied by individual chains suggest about 400 stores were affected out of 15,000 or so overall in France. Carrefour said fridges in 80 of its 6,000 stores were hacked, while Monoprix said 5% of its 400-plus stores had been hit, with food removed from sale if its condition could not be guaranteed. In a statement to the BBC, Mousquetaires Group - which owns Intermarché and Netto - said some fresh and frozen food display units remained out of service on Monday afternoon. The stores had “taken all necessary precautions to remove the products from these units”, it said, adding that staff were working to restock the shelves “as soon as possible”. Intermarché said its fridges had heated up to 50C for six hours overnight into

Monday, and the retailer had thrown away all the affected food to avoid health risks, the Reuters news agency reported. As a result of the attack, managers arriving at branches of several supermarket chains on Monday morning were hit by a wave of hot air from the freezers. In some places there were even small fires. French broadcaster BFMTV published an image showing a freezer in an ice cream aisle displaying a temperature of 26.5C. Two supermarkets in the Alsace region reported losses of €270,000 (£228,000) between them, the broadcaster added, meaning the nationwide total could run into the millions. French prosecutors have opened a specific cyber-crime investigation into the incident, which the Paris prosecutor’s office called a “largescale cyber-attack affecting the refrigerators of several major food retail chains across France”. European Food Commissioner Christophe Hansen condemned the hack in a post on X and added: “Food security requires more attention at all levels. Because the weaponisation of food has become a reality.” (Excerpt from BBC)

16 NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FACT STEM programme records major academic gains among Berbice students …27 Grade 6 candidates secure secondary school placements …CSEC students obtain passes in 5 to 17 subjects

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tudents enrolled in the Family, Awareness, Consciousness, Togetherness (FACT) Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) after-school programme at Skeldon, East BerbiceCorentyne, have recorded encouraging academic improvements, with organisers reporting that marks among previously struggling learners have risen from as low as 25 per cent to more than 50 per cent, with some results reaching 89 per cent. The achievements were highlighted on Sunday during the programme’s graduation and orientation ceremony, where organisers celebrated the progress of children enrolled during the past academic year and welcomed another group of participants. According to FACT Executive Director Annette Jaundoo, 162 children were enrolled in the programme during the previous academic year, with all 27 students who sat the National Grade Six Assessment securing secondary school placements in Regions Four and Six. Students who wrote the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations also obtained passes ranging from five to 17 subjects. Jaundoo attributed the achievements to sustained academic support and the efforts of teachers who work closely with children experiencing difficulties with their schoolwork. “We have some slow learners that we have special teachers working with them,” she explained during an interview following the ceremony. She said some children who previously obtained marks of 25 and 42 per cent had subsequently improved their performance, with results exceeding 50 per cent and reaching as high as 89 per cent. The programme caters for children between the ages of seven and 17, providing after-school instruction alongside opportunities to develop practical skills and explore career options. Jaundoo explained that classes are conducted four days weekly, with two days allocated to primary school students and two to those attending secondary schools. Additional mathematics and English instruction is provided four days weekly for Grade Six and Grade 11 students preparing for their respective examinations. She said many of the teachers involved in the programme also teach at schools attended by participating children, allowing them to identify weaknesses and provide targeted as-

A section of the gathering at the after-school programme graduation at Skeldon, East Berbice-Corentyne on Sunday

sistance. This arrangement, she explained, enables the programme to reinforce classroom instruction while helping students overcome difficulties that might otherwise affect their academic performance.

Expanding opportunities

Apart from the examination results, FACT has been expanding opportunities for students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Participants are introduced to robotics, technology-based activities, lifeskills training and career guidance intended to help them make informed decisions about their futures. Jaundoo said one of the important developments during the past year was the introduction of job-readiness training for students completing secondary school. The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with ExxonMobil Guyana and CIDAR, was intended to help young people prepare for employment and further training. FACT has also been encouraging students to explore technical and vocational education, with former participants pursuing studies at institutions including the Government Technical Institute, the New Amsterdam Technical Institute and the University of Guyana. Jaundoo highlighted the BuildHer initiative, which exposed young women to opportunities in engineering and other technical fields, as another example of the programme’s efforts to broaden career choices.

Personal development

For former FACT student Kiara Solomon, the programme has provided benefits extending well beyond academic instruction. Solomon, a former Berbice High School student who is now pursuing English Literature at the University of Guyana, told the gathering that her in-

volvement had contributed significantly to her personal development. “I would say the person I was before starting, the person I am today, is two completely different persons,” she declared. She recalled the challenges of travelling from school in New Amsterdam to attend programme activities at Skeldon, but said the experience had been worthwhile. Solomon credited the organisers and facilitators with providing encouragement and guidance throughout her educational journey. She also revealed that four of her five younger siblings are currently enrolled in the programme, reflecting her family’s continued involvement in the initiative. Parents attending the ceremony similarly expressed appreciation for the additional educational support provided to their children. One parent reported noticeable improvements in reading and spelling, particularly among children who had previously experienced learning difficulties. Another parent highlighted the confidence children had developed through participation in the programme, explaining that some who were previously reluctant to speak publicly had become more comfortable interacting with others. The parent said children had also benefited from opportunities to socialise and participate in organised activities outside their regular school environment.

ExxonMobil & STEM education

ExxonMobil Guyana Community Relations Advisor Ryan Hoppie reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting educational opportunities for young people. Speaking at the ceremony, Hoppie congratulated the graduating students and welcomed those preparing to begin the programme. He emphasised that STEM education was not

limited to preparing students for careers in science and engineering but also involved developing abilities that could be applied across numerous professions. “It’s about thinking critically. It’s about problem solving. It’s about working together with other people,” Hoppie told the gathering. He encouraged students to recognise that the skills developed through the programme could help them pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including technology, agriculture and business. Hoppie also acknowledged the contribution of FACT’s organisers, teachers, mentors and volunteers, noting that partnerships were important to expanding educational opportunities within communities. He commended the organisation for working with other agencies and institutions to provide addition-

al services for students and their families.

Remain focused

Assistant Chief Education Officer for Secondary Education Sherwyn Blackman also congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to remain committed to their educational ambitions. Blackman emphasised that academic achievement should be accompanied by personal development, positive values and the ability to interact effectively with others. He noted that education should prepare children not only to pass examinations but also to become responsible and productive members of society. Addressing students who might not have achieved their preferred examination results or secured places at their first-choice schools,

Blackman urged them not to allow setbacks to determine their future. “A delayed start is never a denied victory,” he reminded them. He explained that students could still achieve their ambitions even when their educational journeys did not begin as they had hoped. Blackman also highlighted the importance of family support and encouraged parents to remain actively involved in their children’s education. He commended FACT for providing an environment in which children could receive academic guidance while benefiting from mentorship and other forms of assistance.

Support

Meanwhile, Jaundoo explained that FACT’s approach also involves identifying challenges affecting the families of participating children and connecting them with agencies capable of providing assistance. The organisation works with partners to facilitate training opportunities for parents, including computer training and commercial food preparation. Some mothers who benefited from these opportunities have become involved in activities supporting the programme. FACT also provides meals and transportation for participating children, helping to ensure that they can attend after-school sessions safely.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

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17

Regional

2 deaths reported as storms US detains man accused in multi-billion Venezuelan money-laundering scheme batter Mexico’s coast

Simon caps a Pacific season of record-breaking intensity, as deadly storms wreak havoc from Hawaii to Mexico (Christian Ruano/Reuters photo)

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t least two persons have died in Mexico after Hurricane Simon and former tropical storm Rachel brought torrential rain and catastrophic flooding to Pacific coast communities. At a Monday news briefing, Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado confirmed that a 71-year-old man had died during Hurricane Simon after a retaining wall collapsed under the weight of intense precipitation.

According to the Guerrero-based news agency IRZA, the man, identified by his family as Albino Moreno Jimenez, had been feeding his animals on the western outskirts of Chilpancingo when a wall came crashing down on him. A second death was announced later in the day in the state of Baja California along Mexico’s western coast. There, Governor Marina del Pilar said that a young girl had died from

the effects of what was once Hurricane Rachel, which peaked in early October as a Category Three storm. At least 10 more people remain missing in Baja California, according to the governor. Eight were reported missing in the city of Ensenada, on the Pacific coast, and two in the fishing town of San Felipe on the Gulf of California. The figures remain preliminary, with local newspaper La Jornada reporting a higher death toll of two in Baja California and 11 missing. Rachel made landfall in the Mexican state as a post-tropical cyclone, and its remnants have travelled north through southern California in the south-western United States. Hurricane Simon, meanwhile, has churned off the coast of Mexico since the weekend. By late Monday morning, it had weakened from a powerful Category Four storm to a Category Two. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

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Colombian man wanted for allegedly laundering money that had been illegally syphoned off a Venezuelan Government welfare plan has been detained in the United States. The US Department of Justice said Álvaro Pulido, 62, had been arrested during a Homeland Security Task Force operation on Sunday, but did not provide further details as to how he ended up in US custody. Pulido had been in jail in Venezuela since March 2023 accused of diverting profits from the State-run oil company PDVSA.

The US Drug E n f o r c e m e n t Administration (DEA) and State Department had been offering a reward of US$10 million for information leading to his arrest. He is due to appear in court today, according to a statement released by the US Attorney’s Office. Pulido’s arrest comes just two months after Alex Saab, another Colombian businessman with close ties to the Venezuelan Government, pleaded guilty to money laundering charges in a US court. The US State Attorney’s Office said that Pulido had been charged in two sep-

arate federal indictments “involving the alleged laundering of more than US$2 billion in connection with Venezuelan Government bribery schemes”. US prosecutors say Pulido, along with four other co-defendants, bribed Venezuelan Government officials to secure contracts to provide poor Venezuelans with food and medicine. They accuse Pulido of wildly overcharging the Venezuelan Government and laundering the profits through bank accounts abroad, including in the US. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Cuba denies involvement with islandbound fuel shipments seized by US

UN allocates extra US$75M for violencehit Haiti, calls for more funding

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he United Nations on Monday said that there has been an allocation of an additional US$75 million to support people affected by violence and displacement across Haiti. “The funding will support 10 projects in the Ouest, Centre and Artibonite departments, reaching more

than 500,000 people with assistance, including clean water, health care and shelter,” said UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric. “Part of the funding will go directly to local Haitian organisations, including a women-led consortium that is working on the front lines of the violence,” he added. Dujarric said, however,

that humanitarian needs remain immense and that more than six million people in Haiti require assistance and 1.5 million have been displaced. “With the Humanitarian Response Plan still less than half funded, we continue to call for more funds,” he added. (Excerpt from CMC)

Cuban Minister of Energy and Mines Vicente de la O Levy speaks during an interview with Reuters amid an ongoing US oil blockade that has strangled the island of fuel, contributing to blackouts, water shortages and growing social unrest, in Havana, Cuba, October 9, 2026 (Reuters/Norlys Perez photo)

Paraguay, Belize Ministers sanctioned C by China over Taiwan ties

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hina has sanctioned Paraguay’s Communications Minister and Belize’s Foreign Minister over ties to Taiwan. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the announcement on Monday, citing the safeguarding of China’s national sovereignty and opposition to Taiwan separatist activities as the reasons behind the measures, which went into effect the same day. The measures against Paraguay’s Communications Minister, Gustavo Villate and Belize’s Foreign Minister, Francis Fonseca include the freezing of their assets in China and the denial of entry visas to Hong Kong and Macau. The sanctions also prohibit Chinese organisations and individuals from engaging in transactions, cooperation or other activities with the Ministers. The Foreign Ministry said that “certain anti-China politicians” who are “driven by self-interest” have pushed their nations to maintain dip-

Taiwan’s flag is carried across the sky during National Day celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, on October 10, 2025 (Ann Wang/ Reuters photo)

lomatic relations with Taiwan. Beijing said the Ministers had “taken a series of egregious actions and statements”, which are “damaging China’s core interests”. Paraguay and Belize are two of 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan. China views Taiwan as its territory, a view the island’s Government strongly rejects. The measures come two days after Taiwan’s National Day celebration. In a National Day speech outside the Presidential Office on Saturday, Taiwan President William Lai Ching-

te said the island “cherishes peace” and will “not give up our freedom”. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office condemned Lai’s speech, saying it “disregards facts, distorts the truth, misleads the public, and reveals ulterior motives”. Earlier this month, the US, which does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is bound by law to provide the island with the means to ‌defend itself, delivered two fighter jets to Taiwan as the island seeks to build its defence capabilities to deter a feared attack from China. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

uba’s top energy official denied any link between the nation’s communist-run Government and shipments of Cuba-bound biodiesel seized in September by US authorities, rejecting US claims that the island nation was involved in those deals. The US said last week that it had seized 90 separate shipments of biodiesel worth nearly US$3 million under contracts involving a sanctioned Cuban State energy trader known as

ENETEC, part of a crackdown on what the US alleges are illegal shipments of fuel to the island. Cuban Minister of Energy and Mines Vicente de la O Levy said he had no knowledge of any of the shipments intercepted by the US Department of Homeland Security. “We can assure you that there was no contract of any kind with ENETEC S.A.,” de la O Levy told Reuters in an exclusive interview at his Havana office. “No Cuban State-

owned company has managed to secure a fuel contract, whether for small or large quantities.” The oil blockade imposed by the US — initiated following the detention of then Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January — have vastly worsened Cuba’s existing energy crisis. Fuel, water and electricity shortages, combined with soaring prices, have brought the island to the brink of a humanitarian crisis. (Excerpt from Reuters)

10 dead after van falls off cliff precipice in Bolivia

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en persons died and four more were injured when a van plunged off a cliff in a mountainous region of western Bolivia on Monday, Police reported. The accident occurred in the early morning on a dirt road near the town of Irupana, east of the capital La Paz. Images of the wrecked

vehicle at the bottom of a cliff circulated on social media. “So far, we have 10 fatalities,” Police Chief, Colonel Ricardo Terrazas told the private television station Unitel. Four more persons with injuries were taken to hospitals in the capital, Terrazas said, adding that the cause of the accident

remained unknown and was under investigation. Most of the victims worked in a mine nearby, according to local press reports. Around 1400 persons die on Bolivian roads every year, mainly as a result of reckless driving and mechanical failures, Interior Ministry data shows. (Excerpt from AFP)

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

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Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS

Saudi Arabia faces new missile and drone fire after major attacks on airports

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audi Arabia said ​it was facing a new barrage of incoming fire on Monday and that Riyadh airport would remain shut f‌or now, days after Saturday’s deadly missile strike on a departure terminal that was claimed by Yemen’s Iranallied Houthis. Incoming drones and missiles were reported by the Saudi-led coalition backing Government forces in Yemen, though there was no immediate news of whether they were intercepted. The Houthis have been attacking Saudi airports and oil f​acilities since last week as part of a rapidly-escalating conflict that has spilled over from the wider region-

Surveillance footage shows people reacting amid smoke at the moment of an attack at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 10, 2026, in this frame from a handout video (Saudi Ministry of Media/Handout via Reuters)

al ​conflagration between the United States and Iran. Those attacks have shut down parts of Saudi airspace, suspending opera-

Indian Opposition marches to Supreme Court, seeks suspension of voter list changes

tions at Riyadh ⁠airport, and largely emptying the skies over the capital even as the city hosts a major energy conference.

US immigration agents search Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s home

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The protests erupted after the Indian Express newspaper ​reported last month that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s two deputies raised several concerns internally about voter list revisions, r​ egistration procedures and digital systems

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housands of Opposition demonstrators marched to India’s Supreme Court on Monday and petitioned it against ‌ a revision of voter lists that has sparked days of unrest in the Indian capital and challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Opposition parties and supporters of the “cockroach” youth movement have rallied almost daily this month to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the revision that critics say benefits Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The change, which started last year, ​led to over 130 million names – more than the population of Japan – being struck from voter lists, including 28 million who died, ​63 million who relocated, and 30 million who could not be traced. The Opposition group’s petition is expected to be heard by the Supreme Court

today. The petition, whose signatories include Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi, seeks an audit of voter deletions, safeguards against deletions without notice, a hearing, and an interim suspension of the revision nationwide. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Saudi Arabia now faces a ​ nightmare predicament, having re-entered Yemen’s civil war to push the Houthis from the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait oil route and stop the ​ group making further gains after its sudden advances in September. With the Yemeni forces Riyadh supports having made some gains against the Houthis around Bab el-Mandeb but still on the back foot on other fronts, Yemeni military sources said, any pressure on the Houthis could take time to pay off. Saudi Arabia’s ​long-time regional rival Iran offered to mediate between its Houthi allies and the kingdom. (Excerpt from Reuters)

S immigration agents have searched the home of Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar as part of a criminal investigation. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents “executed a judicially-authorised search warrant” for the property in the Washington DC area, a US Justice Department spokesperson said. The search “is part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation”, the spokesperson said, but no further details were given. The US Congress is currently out of session and it is unclear if Omar was at home. Omar, a Democrat and outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, described the search as “an attempt to target political enemies and weaponise federal law enforcement”. “For 10 years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns,” Omar said in a statement. “This is just the latest es-

calation in his campaign of political intimidation. I will not be silenced.” Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump said he had “nothing to do” with the Justice Department’s investigation into Omar, while describing her as a “complainer” and a “terrible person”. The Republican President said of the Somalia-born Congresswoman: “She comes from a country that is a non-country. “And then she comes over here and she complains about our Constitution.” News of the search was first reported by Fox News, which said the investigation was about immigration paperwork filed by her late father when Omar was a child. The timing of the raid – 22 days before the November midterm elections, which will decide the balance of power in Congress for the next two years – raised concerns from Omar’s fellow Democrats. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Oil rallies, sending dollar higher on expectations of higher US rates

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il prices climbed on Monday as attacks on Saudi Arabia overshadowed hopes for supply i​mprovements, and expectations for higher US interest rates to fight inflation drove the dollar higher on a narrowly-mixed day ‌for global stocks. The action came after US President Donald Trump hailed fresh Russian diesel exports and a Russia-Ukraine energy ceasefire. The dollar’s rise in recent months has been driven in large part by expectations that high prices for energy and other goods will force the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates at a time when US growth is ​stronger than other rich economies’. This could expand the rate differentials that drive currency movements. While the US bond market was closed f​or the Columbus Day holiday, investors were cautiously waiting for September inflation data and the third-quarter earnings season, which ⁠begins today with earnings from major US banks. In energy markets, US crude rose 1.9 per cent to US$93.55 a barrel and Brent rose 1.7 per cent to US$106.52. In precious metals, spot gold fell ​ 0.62 per cent to US$4167.98 an ounce. (Excerpt from Reuters)

6 Ukrainian energy sites hit by Russia since Trump announced ceasefire, Zelenskyy says

Ukrainian rescuers work at the site of a Russian drone strike on a residential building in Kharkiv, north-eastern Ukraine on Monday [EPA photo]

R UK blames Iran for airbase plot, sanctions 2 Iranian nationals

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ritish Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said that a suspected plot targeting Royal Air Force (RAF) base Fairford was “almost certainly” directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), raising the diplomatic stakes over the largely-unexplained incident for which Tehran has denied any responsibility. “We will not tolerate these threats on our soil,” Burnham told Parliament on Monday, adding that the Government, “will crack down on Iran’s use of criminal networks, using

our full range of powers to target them and their funding streams”. “We will bring further sanctions to restrict the capacity of Iran and the IRGC to do us harm”, he said. The incident near the airbase in southern England occurred in the early hours of September 27 when five British men in their 20s were arrested on suspected “terrorism” and explosives offences. They were later released without charge on ‌‌‌‌policebail “under stringent condi-

tions”. Last week, Counter Terrorism Policing arrested a 22-year-old British national on suspicion of a “terror” offence linked to the security incident. Earlier this month, a 25-year-old British-Iranian man was arrested in London. In a statement on X, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said Britain was sanctioning two Iranians for their “role in facilitating or engaging in hostile activity on behalf of the Iranian regime”, without specifying their identity. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ussia struck six Ukrainian energy facilities hours after US President Donald Trump announced the two countries had agreed to an energy ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said. Despite Trump stating on Sunday the truce would be “effective immediately”, the Ukrainian President said Russia had hit “our gas stations, energy infrastructure, and other facilities”. There were blackouts in the city of Izyum after a Russian strike destroyed power grids, Ukraine’s state news agency Ukrinform said, while energy and railway infrastructure in western Ukraine was also targeted overnight.

On Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Ukraine does not deserve the “respite” a ceasefire would bring. Zelenskyy said 33 persons had been injured in the strikes on energy facilities across the country. He told Fox News: “We did not attack, while Russia attacked our gas stations, energy infrastructure, and other facilities.” “I think it was Putin’s answer to President Trump,” he added. Global conflicts have pushed fuel prices higher ahead of the US midterm elections and on Friday Trump announced a plan to import Russian diesel into the US. (Excerpt from BBC News)

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

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ARCHIE

DAILY HOROSCOPES Let your creativity flow when dealing with financial and physical changes you want to make. Enhance your looks and lifestyle through learning and finding out how to reach your goals.

(March 21-April 19) Put your energy into something constructive. If you let anger mount or do things that exhaust you mentally or physically, you’ll pay a price. Nurture meaningful relationships.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

A change of plans or direction will turn out better than anticipated. Throw yourself into projects that make you feel grateful. What you do to help others will open doors to new adventures, job prospects or friendships. You’ll get caught in the middle if you interfere in someone else’s business. Distance yourself from drama and people likely to blame you for what goes wrong. Look inward.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Redirect your energy to ensure you make the most of your day. Learn something new, be a good listener and explore how you can use what you discover to make your life and your relationships better.

(July 23-Aug. 22) You can’t monitor changes if you don’t have a seat at the table. Having a laidback attitude and a detailed assessment of the decisions others make will turn you into the go-to person.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Indulge in something that makes you feel grateful and good about who you are, what you represent and what you do to help those less fortunate. Address your concerns through kind and thoughtful gestures. Taking care of your needs or spending time with someone you deem special will help you put your worries aside and gain perspective on any situation that’s causing you grief.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Reorganize your space to fit your needs. Put your energy into handling your investments and finances better. Downsize or decrease your overhead by canceling services you don’t use.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Spend more time doing the best job possible and taking care of situations that require your expertise and leadership ability. Steer clear of those eager to lead you astray.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Getting along, compromising and working to resolve pending issues will help you let go of the past and head in a direction that offers less stress and greater freedom to do as you please.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Pay attention to how you look, feel and present yourself. Engage in talks that offer insight into what’s possible and the changes that will help you reach your objective.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

Kashif and Shanghai football set to reignite intense football rivalry as media launch held

The main principals of the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation, Co-Directors Kashif Muhammad and Aubrey “Shanghai” Major on Saturday hosted the media at the launch at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, along with representatives of the eight clubs outside of the host Association, Upper Demerara. Muhammad gave the attendees a brief history of the tournament, which is being held this year under the theme, “Destination Linden/Football means Business”, and how it all

started way back in 1989, and highlighted the clubs that will be participating. From the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA), the clubs are Capitol FC, Topp XX, Eagles United, Milerock FC, PDEY Stars, Botofago FC, Aroaima United, and Winners Connection. The clubs invited from outside of the UDFA are: from Georgetown – Rhythm Squad, Beacons FC, and Pele FC; from West Demerara Football Association – Pouderoyen FC; East Bank Football Association

– Timehri United; East Demerara Football Association – Buxton Stars; Berbice Football Association – Cougars, and Bartica Football Association – River’s View. Each club would be receiving support for their preparation to the tune of $150,000, but those which were tardy in not attending Saturday’s launch would not be enjoying the full amount. Muhammad was clear in stating that the K&S Organisation, MS, has enjoyed a long history of setting a high standard and timeliness was part and parcel of that legacy. “We will not tolerate any club not adhering to being on time. We have always prided ourselves on upholding high standards and this has contributed to our success over the years. As we are about to restart this much-lookedforward-to championship, our high standards remain the same and we will not compromise in this regard,” he declared. Muhammad also shared that

play tricks. After South Africa’s batters wasted relatively benign conditions on day three, variable bounce and significant turn have been evident although the surface is not a minefield. Opener Ryan Rickelton avoided a pair with a tight single off the first ball of the innings, but he did not offer much resistance after edging a superb high bouncer from Josh Hazlewood. Markram and David Bedingham had produced South Africa’s best partnership of the first innings, worth 84 runs, and they again combined well to at least momentarily defy Australia’s push. Bedingham, who top-scored with 49 in the first innings, has enjoyed his elevation to number three – a position he had never previously fulfilled in his Test cricket – and stroked a gorgeous boundary through midwicket off Cummins’ first delivery. Cummins was inspirational with the ball on day three, but could not recapture his brilliant best as he leaked four boundaries in his opening two overs. With the surface wearing as expected, Cummins deployed offspinner Nathan Lyon in the 10th over, but Bedingham and Markram blunted his effectiveness. Bedingham looked in serene touch until once again falling agonisingly short of a half-century when on 46 he was trapped lbw by a Hazlewood delivery that angled into the stumps. Cummins eventually had an impact when he nicked off Tristan Stubbs as South Africa lost wickets in clumps in familiar woes to their tame first-innings effort. Steven Smith did not take to the field after being hit in the

helmet by a fierce short ball by quick Anrich Nortje earlier in the day and will undergo further concussion assessments. Australia’s dominance of the final session puts them in position to wrap up the Test early on day five before the unknowns of the afternoon weather. Each of the first three days ended early in the final session owing to bad light amid thickening dark clouds that gather like clockwork in Durban at this time of year. However, the ground was bathed in sunshine on the day, which went the distance. Wary of the weather conditions, Australia had earlier pummelled South Africa, scoring at 5.41 runs an over to ensure they had enough time to win the Test match. Australia’s platform was laid by new opener Nic Maddinson, who set the tone in the morning session with an aggressive approach. Maddinson, a shock selection having not played FirstClass cricket since March 2025, made a breezy 38-ball 48 in a major relief after his excruciating 33-ball duck in the first innings. Australia resumed their second innings at 33 for 0 after just 5.4 overs were bowled before the familiar bane of bad light prematurely ended day three. Maddinson hoped to continue his momentum from the previous afternoon, where he avoided a pair with a first-ball boundary. Maddinson was in an attacking mood, a far cry from the first innings where he looked so tentative, pouncing on width to crack several blows through the off side to quickly overtake his highest Test score of 22. He overshadowed Travis

Head, who on 11 tamely fell to Marco Jansen when a leading edge flew to mid-on. Head let out a groan knowing his fate while his middling away record in Test cricket continued, where he averages 31.6 compared to almost 52 in Australia. There will also be questions over whether he should switch positions with Renshaw and move back to number, with Head having a highest score of only 29 in his last six innings. Bavuma turned to spinner Simon Harmer early in the session, but Maddinson greeted him with a huge six down the ground as he moved to the brink of his halfcentury. However, he could do little against a superb yorker from Nortje that crashed into the stumps. Nortje could not sustain the pressure, with Smith shaking off the blow to his helmet by peeling off a trio of boundaries as the runs flowed. Bavuma deployed Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, who were ineffective with just one wicket between them in Australia’s first innings. Smith’s eyes lit up as he danced down the pitch to smash Harmer down the ground to raise his half-century partnership with Marnus Labuschagne. But he could not repeat the dose moments later, holing out to the towering figure of Jansen, who clung on at the second attempt. Labuschagne appeared set for his first Test half-century since the Brisbane Ashes Test last December, but he trudged off the field in frustration after hitting Maharaj to cover. He finished with the exact same score (37) off the exact same balls (58) in both innings. After runs flowed in the first

Kashif Muhammad (second right); Aubrey “Shanghai”’ Major (second left); Colin “BL” Aaron (left) and Franklin Wilson at Saturday’s launch

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fter about 11 years in the wilderness, Guyana’s premier knockout football championship, the Kashif and Shanghai Football Tournament is set to make a grand return from December 13, 2026 in the bauxite mining town of Linden. Sixteen of the best FirstDivision clubs in the country will battle in the invitational tournament which will be played at two international stadiums outfitted with the requisite lights and other amenities – the Bayroc and Mackenzie Stadiums.

they held an interaction with businesses in Linden and shared with them what the organisation is looking forward to in terms of high standards in every industry from hotels to restaurants, barbershops, saloons, vendors, taxi drivers and everyone who has a service to offer the thousands expected to visit the bauxite mining town for what will be a memorable December. Each team would be allowed to play three guest players who must also be division one players here in Guyana or overseas, if clubs are so inclined to shop. The winning team on January 1, 2027, will receive $3 million, and the losing finalists $1.5 million. The winners of the thirdplace match would pocket $1 million, with the fourth-placed team earning $500,000. The tournament MVP will ride away with a brand-new motorcycle while the Highest Goal Scorer will be $500,000 richer. Meanwhile, fans and patrons can also look forward

to a number of other events apart from the on-field action including a fitness walk set for Sunday, December 27 from 06:00h (route to be confirmed); the same day, an event dubbed Pan, Soca and Flavours will take place at the Mackenzie Stadium Tarmac in the evening while a Tour of Linden to historical sites is slated for Wednesday, December 30. The night of the final, January 1, 2027, there will be an afterfootball show at the Bayroc Stadium Tarmac. The Mackenzie Stadium will host the opening match day on December 13 and subsequent playing days on December 20; December 25 (Christmas Day) and December 29. Bayroc Stadium will host matches on December 18, December 22, December 26 (Boxing Day), and the final on January 1, 2027. The team brief and fixtures draw will take place on November 20, 2026.

session, South Africa attempted including three sixes off an over to slow down the scoring but from the hapless Harmer who Renshaw could not be contained. finished with 1-121 off 25 overs. He fittingly reached his half(ESPNcricinfo) century with a reverse-sweep to the boundary off Harmer, once again waving his bat to the sparse crowd. Renshaw appeared set to make it twin tons for the match until he was caught and bowled by Maharaj, who juggled the Nic Maddinson recovered catch low to the ground from a horror first innings with third umpire to score his first Test runs Richard Illingworth since December 2016 adjudicating that he got his fingers under the ball. Even a f t e r Renshaw was eventually dismissed, South Africa’s pain continued when Cummins threw the bat with great effect,

Australia 6 wickets away after dominant day

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att Renshaw’s torment of a beleaguered South Africa continued after dismissing skipper Temba Bavuma late on day four to claim his maiden Test wicket as Australia moved closer to a decisive series-opening victory in Durban. Set a record 421-run target, South Africa were in big trouble at 102 for 4 in their second innings as a first Test match defeat under Bavuma’s reign looks almost certain. Australia have produced a mighty performance ever since Renshaw came to the rescue on day one. Renshaw backed up his remarkable 190 in the first innings with a brisk 82 off 99 balls as Australia declared their second innings at 314 for 6 by tea. Renshaw was not nearly done. Having been wicketless from 30 deliveries in his Test career, Renshaw – a part-time offspinner with 20 First-Class wickets – was surprisingly handed the ball by skipper Pat Cummins late in the day’s play. But everything he touches right now turns to gold as Bavuma can attest to after he inside-edged onto his pads one that bobbed up to short-leg. Renshaw finished with 1 for 16 from 7 overs. South Africa’s slim chances of avoiding defeat likely rests with Aiden Markram, who finished 45 not out from 115 balls in a determined effort. He averages over 60 against Australia compared to his career mark of 35.5. It was a disappointment for South Africa, who hoped for a much more gutsy effort on a surface that had started to

aaa

SCOREBOARD Australia 2nd Innings

Nic Maddinson b Nortje 48 Travis Head c Bavuma b Jansen 11 Marnus Labuschagne c Bavuma b Maharaj 37 Steven Smith c Jansen b Harmer 27 Matt Renshaw c & b Maharaj 82 Alex Carey †b Nortje 24 Beau Webster not out 39 Pat Cummins (c)not out 32 Extras (b 4, lb 8, w 2) 14 Total 58 Ov (RR: 5.41) 314/6d Fall of wickets: 1-43 (Travis Head, 6.6 ov), 2-72 (Nic Maddinson, 10.6 ov), 3-125 (Steven Smith, 23.5 ov), 4-157 (Marnus Labuschagne, 28.6 ov), 5-205 (Alex Carey, 42.6 ov), 6-270 (Matt Renshaw, 54.5 ov) Bowling Marco Jansen Wiaan Mulder Simon Harmer Anrich Nortje Keshav Maharaj

O-M-R-W 8-0-45-1 4-0-24-0 25-1-121-1 12-1-56-2 9-0-56-2

South Africa 2nd Innings (T: 421 runs) Ryan Rickelton c †Carey b Hazlewood Aiden Markram not out David Bedingham lbw b Hazlewood Temba Bavuma (c)c Maddinson b Renshaw Tristan Stubbs c †Carey b Cummins Wiaan Mulder not out

2 45 46 1 1 5

Extras (nb 2) 2 Total 41 Ov (RR: 2.48) 102/4 Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Ryan Rickelton, 3.3 ov), 2-73 (David Bedingham, 22.6 ov), 3-82 (Temba Bavuma, 29.5 ov), 4-86 (Tristan Stubbs, 32.4 ov) Bowling Mitchell Starc Josh Hazlewood Pat Cummins Nathan Lyon Matt Renshaw

O-M-R-W 7-1-19-0 8-3-20-2 9-3-27-1 10-1-20-0 7-1-16-1

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

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Ramdin backs West Indies to make strong showing at Over-40s World Cup F

Denesh Ramdin will captain the West Indies at the Over-40s IMC World Cup

ormer West Indies wicketkeeper-batter and Captain Denesh Ramdin believes the upcoming International Masters Cricket (IMC) Over-40s World Cup presents an exciting opportunity for retired players to return to competitive cricket while backing the host team to make a strong impression. The tournament, which bowls off in Guyana on October 17, will bring together several former international players, including Ramdin, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Sewnarine Chattergoon and Devendra Bishoo, as the West Indies seek to make the most of home ad-

SVC/AJM crowned new One Guyana T10 Tapeball champions

vantage. Ramdin welcomed the opportunity for former players to return to the game, describing the competition as an exciting initiative that could help sustain their involvement in cricket. “Yeah, I think it’s an exciting time for players who have retired and still coming back home to get back to the game. A lot of past players like myself, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Devendra Bishoo and all those guys coming back to play in this tournament,” Ramdin said. He also acknowledged the support behind the initiative, expressing optimism that the tournament would be a fruitful venture moving forward. With the ultimate ob-

jective of winning the title, Ramdin stressed that the West Indies must approach the competition one match at a time, with adequate preparation playing a crucial role in their campaign. “Well, it’s important that we take one game at a time and see how that goes. Obviously, it’s winning the tournament, but winning the tournament, you have to win your first game, second game, and take it in strides,” he explained. The former international cricketer noted that the team would use the remaining practice sessions and warm-up matches to build match readiness, particularly by giving the bowlers sufficient time to find their rhythm and ensuring the players are pre-

pared to perform in competitive conditions. Ramdin is also confident that familiarity with local playing conditions could work in the West Indies’ favour, given the experience many members of the squad have accumulated at Guyanese venues over the years. “Being in Guyana, a lot of us have played in Guyana, it’s an advantage for us,” he said, while emphasising the importance of assessing conditions on each match day and adapting accordingly. The West Indies will hope to translate that experience, combined with their preparation and the quality of their former international players, into a successful campaign when the Over-40s World Cup gets underway.

Springer pinpoints missed opportunities in 14-run defeat

SVC/AJM CC put on a masterclass to crush Mahdia (Movements Family) by 67 runs in the grand finale to capture the Lotto/Let’s Bet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast title

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VC/AJM CC put on a masterclass at the Anna Regina National Stadium on Sunday, crushing Mahdia (Movements Family) by 67 runs in the grand finale to capture the Lotto/Let’s Bet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast title. In their first year, the rounded-up unit, led by Kemol Savoury, who was in his fourth final, won the $2 million top prize, courtesy of Star Rentals. Led by a scintillating Man-of-the-Final performance from Kevon Boodie, who smashed a blazing 67 off just 32 deliveries – anchored by five fours and six towering sixes – and a fluent 42 off 27 balls from Jonte Thomas, SVC/AJM posted a formidable 132-2 in their allotted 10 overs. The pair put on a match-defining 119-run partnership in just 8.5 overs, putting the game firmly in their control. In response, Mahdia’s chase never got off the ground as a disciplined SVC pace attack strangled the innings, restricting them to 65-8. Leon Swamy led the bowling effort with 2-3, ably supported by Ojay Shields (2-13) and Keyon Sinclair (2-14), sealing a comprehensive victory and leaving Mahdia to settle for the $1

million runners-up purse. Earlier, Mahdia steamrolled GrillMaster Sip N Play All-Stars by 100 runs in the first semi-final. Batting first, Mahdia posted a commanding 1575, powered by Ershaad Ali’s destructive 65 off 25 balls, including seven sixes and a boundary. Ali and Andy Lall (33 off 14) laid the platform with a blistering 72-run opening stand in 4.2 overs, while Yeudestir Persaud added a quickfire 23 off 13. Devon Wharton claimed 2-44 for GrillMaster. However, their batting line-up completely collapsed in the chase, bundled out for 57 in 9.4 overs. Junior Sinclair’s 19 off 12 was the only double-digit score, as Neiland Cadogan wreaked havoc with 4-11, backed by Persaud (2-6) and Orrin Gibson (2-9). The second semi-final proved equally one-sided as SVC/AJM brushed aside Lusignan Bulls DTP II by 78 runs. Powered by an unbeaten half-century from the inform Jonathan Fernandes (51), alongside vital contributions from Kemol Savory (27 not out); Jamar Ifill (15 not out) and Boodie (15), SVC posted 144-3. Joshua James took 2-54 and Dequan Bamfield claimed 1-21 for Lusignan,

but their reply faltered at 76-6. Veteran West Indies pacer Miguel Cummins starred with the ball, claiming 3-14, while Nial Smith (1-9) and Ojay Shields (1-18) tightened the screws, and Vishwanauth Ramalakhan top-scored with 20. As a result, both losing semi-finalists pocketed $500,000, matching the $500,000 awarded to each team that triumphed in their respective zone finals. The packed finals day also featured vibrant undercard action, highlighted by a high-scoring fiveover women’s clash where Tapakuma (Elite Warriors) defeated Capoey United by 59 runs. Tapakuma piled up an imposing 111-1, driven by Tramaine Marks’ sensational 58 off 17 balls and Shonette Belgrave’s 40 off 15. In reply, Capoey were restricted to 52-1, with Tapakuma collecting the $90,000 winners’ purse and Capoey taking home $60,000. Adding star-studded entertainment to the schedule, the President’s Exhibition Match saw the One Guyana XI – featuring Ministers Charles Ramson Jr and Steven Jacobs – defeat Team Eagles to cap off an unforgettable day of tapeball cricket in Essequibo.

West Indies’ Shamar Springer (left) celebrates after taking the wicket of India’s Abhishek Sharma (right) during the third T20 International cricket match

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est Indies all-rounder Shamar Springer believes the team has sufficient batting depth to recover from Sunday’s 14run defeat to India in the third T20 International (T20I), despite the failure of talismanic Captain Shai Hope to make a significant contribution. India took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series after posting 223 all out before restricting the visitors to 209 for seven in their 20 overs at Indore. Springer, who produced an unbeaten 35 off just 11 balls in a late attempt to revive the chase, pointed to the nature of the pitch and the absence of expected dew as factors that made batting difficult. “We thought the wicket would play a little better;

the ball kept a bit lower than we expected. Also, we thought there may be some dew in the second half, but there wasn’t really any dew,” Springer explained. He acknowledged that bowling in India presented a significant challenge, particularly because of the fine margins between executing a delivery successfully and being punished by the batters. “It is a new challenge, obviously my hardest challenge since. Bowling here is pretty tough,” he said, adding that bowlers must execute their plans consistently to avoid conceding boundaries. Despite Hope’s failure to make runs, Springer remained confident in the strength of the West Indies batting order, insisting that the responsibility

could be shared among the players. “I think that we have great depth in our batting line-up, so today wasn’t his (Hope’s) day, and it was an opportunity for someone else to step up,” he said. Springer believes the result could have been different had West Indies managed to find a few additional runs during the power play or middle overs. “We fell short by 14 runs, so I guess in the middle period and power play, if we had gotten six more runs in either phase, we probably could have gotten over the line,” he added. West Indies will now turn their attention to Wednesday’s fourth T20I, which they must win to keep their hopes of winning the series alive.

22 West Indies Masters strengthen World Cup preparations with 159-run warm-up victory W GUYANATIMESGY.COM

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

est Indies recorded a convincing 159-run victory over Rest of the Caribbean (ROTC) in a warm-up match at the Police Sports Club Ground ahead of the International Masters Cricket (IMC) Over-40s World Cup in Guyana. Imran Khan led the way with 129 from 80 balls and bowling figures of three for 26. Khan’s century ensured West Indies posted 285 after winning the toss and choosing to bat. Antonnel Atwell then claimed four wickets to help dismiss Rest of the Caribbean for 126 in 22.4 overs. The performance provided an encouraging outing for West Indies as preparations continue for the tournament, which begins on October 17. Khan’s innings contained 14 fours and six sixes. He received support from Sewnarine Chattergoon, who made 35 from 23 balls with sev-

en fours, while Captain Denesh Ramdin contributed 32 from 29 deliveries and Nickey Lathman added 31 from 40. Mahabeer was the leading wicket-taker for ROTC, finishing with four for 60 from eight overs. Jieunick Mingo supported him with two for 42 from seven. In reply, ROTC struggled to build a sustained challenge. Asif Chan topscored with 32 from 28 balls, including five fours, while Vinai Hingoo made 21. Andrew Lyght Jr contributed 16 and Captain Devi Maharaj scored 15. Atwell finished with four for 44 from 6.4 overs, while Khan followed his century with three for 26 from four overs to earn the Player-ofthe-Match award. Rakesh Maharaj also delivered an effective spell, taking two for 11 from four overs, including two maidens, as West Indies completed a comfortable vic-

tory. More warm-up matches are slated for later this week, with West Indies returning to action against India at Lusignan on Wednesday, while ROTC will look to improve in an outing against Australia on Thursday at GCC, Bourda. On the same day, India will face Namibia at Enmore while West Indies host USA at the National Stadium, Providence. The 2026 IMC Over40s World Cup will bring together 16 teams for 72 matches, with the final scheduled for October 31 at the same venue. Matches will be played 45 overs per side, and admission to all games will be free.

Strong Berbice turnout prompts Malteenoes, Bel Air Rubis and plans for annual drag race meet Police shine in GCA T20 action Imran Khan’s century ensured West Indies posted 285 after winning the toss and choosing to bat

Miguel Parks (left) and Gerald Montfort

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he Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)-Panther Security Inc Second-Division T20 competition continued across Georgetown over the weekend, with Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC), Bel Air Rubis and Police Sports Club recording victories. At the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) Ground, MSC defeated GYO Mystic Marvels Cricket Club by 34 runs, powered by Miguel Parks’ explosive batting and Gerald Montfort’s five-wicket haul. Batting first after winning the toss, MSC posted 184 for eight in 20 overs. Parks smashed 63 off 29 balls, including nine fours and three sixes, while

Captain Marcus Watkins contributed 34 off 18 deliveries and Dellon Moffett 28 off 13. Kevin Seeram claimed three for 45 for Marvels, who responded through Lawrence Pellew’s 32 off 19 balls and Terrence King’s 23 off 27. Thirteen-year-old off-spinner Deshawn Ramnauth tightened MSC’s grip with two for 20 from four overs, while Parks added two for 28. Montfort then dismantled the middle and lower order, taking five for 25 in three overs as Marvels were dismissed for 150 in 18.2 overs. At the Queen’s College Ground, Bel Air Rubis beat the University of Guyana

(UG) by 45 runs. Bel Air Rubis made 177 for five in 20 overs, led by Clint Jones’ 82 off 51 balls, featuring seven fours and six sixes. Aravinda Gainda added 20 off 15 deliveries, while Ajay Gainda scored 27 off 34. Akeem Lyght took three for 36 for UG. UG replied with 132 for nine, with Ravindra Singh top-scoring with 37 off 22 balls and Andrew Beckles contributing 25. Totaram Soohnanan and Ayodha Joseph claimed three wickets apiece for 12 and 15 runs, respectively, to seal the win. Meanwhile, Police Sports Club defeated Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) by five wickets at the Police Sports Club Ground. After electing to bowl, Police restricted GCC to 130 for eight. Timothy McAlmont led GCC with 33 off 28 balls, including four fours and a six, while Leon Johnson made 26 off 34. Dwayne Dick, Lennox Andrews, and Ameer Mohamed took two wickets each. Police completed the chase in 16.1 overs, reaching 133 for five. Pernell London provided the impetus with 39 off 17 balls, including five fours and two sixes, while Kyle Michael finished unbeaten on 30 off 32 deliveries, striking one four and two sixes. Dhanesh Persaud claimed three for 14, but Police secured the victory comfortably. (Gerald Montfort)

Drag racing action back in Berbice at the Rose Hall Airstrip (GT Tuners photo)

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housands of spectators attended Sunday’s Berbice Invasion drag race meet at Rose Hall Canje, prompting the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) to announce plans to make the event an annual fixture. The October 11 meet marked the first time the venue hosted time-bracket drag racing in the club’s modern history. According to the GMR&SC, the crowd was among the largest for any of its events held outside the South Dakota Circuit. Club President Mohamed Shairaz Roshandin said the response from fans, racers, and their families demonstrated strong support for motorsport in the Ancient County. “The support and love the Ancient County gave GMR&SC left me speechless; I and the team were heartened by the enthusiasm for the event,” Roshandin said. He added that the turnout had encouraged the club to return yearly. While ac-

knowledging some setbacks, he said organisers overcame them to complete a successful day of racing across the various classes. Competition produced winners in seven car brackets, a female category and three motorcycle classes. Imran Mohamed Ally won the nine-second class in his Tesla Plaid, car number 1998, while Paramdeo Seeram took the 11-second category in his Toyota Allion 4WD, number 216. Sayyad Ramcharran secured the 12-second title in a Toyota Corolla EE90, number 137, and Roshandin also enjoyed success on the track, winning the 13-second class in his Mitsubishi Evolution X, number 30. Romaine Henry claimed the 14-second category in a Toyota Celica, number 81. Ramesh Persaud won the 15-second class in a Toyota Corolla Fielder Wagon, number 484, while Afzal Maiku took the 16-second bracket in another Toyota Corolla Fielder Wagon, number 289.

Ashley PersaudJewanram won the female category in her Toyota GT86, car number 162. Among the motorcyclists, Shem Chattersingh claimed the 600cc Superbike title aboard a Suzuki GSX-R, number 1011, while Stephon Vishmon won the 1000cc Superbike category on a BMW 1000 RR, number 342. Steven Chung completed the winners’ list with victory in the 125cc–212cc motorcycle class on bike number 251.

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Guyana capture gold and silver at Mr Universe Colombia G

uyana’s bodybuilding athletes continued to make their mark on the international stage, capturing gold and silver medals at the Mr Universe Colombia Championships, held on October 10 and October 11, 2026. Shakeel Babb led the Guyanese contingent with a first-place finish in the Junior Bodybuilding category, delivering a strong performance against international competitors to secure the gold medal. Jonathan Jeffrey also produced an impressive showing, earning second place in the Men’s Physique Open Class to claim silver

and add another international achievement to his résumé. Jeffrey’s performance in Colombia came just one month after he won the Men’s Physique division at a competition in Guatemala in September 2026. His back-to-back podium finishes highlight his consistency and continued progress in international bodybuilding. G u y a n a Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) President Videsh Sookram accompanied the athletes and supported the Guyanese

contingent throughout the championships. The GBBFF congratulated both athletes on their performances, commending their dedication, discipline and efforts in representing Guyana and the Golden Arrowhead on the international stage. Babb’s junior bodybuilding title and Jeffrey’s silver-medal finish in the Men’s Physique Open Class represent another positive result for Guyana’s bodybuilding fraternity as the athletes continue to gain experience and recognition at international competitions.

Transport SC crowned Under-17 champions after beating DCC

Emmanuel Lewis being rewarded Player of the Match

Transport Sports Club (TSC) were crowned champions of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) Under-17 Eline Security Logistics competition after defeating Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) by 34 runs in the final at the Transport Sports Club Ground. After winning the toss, DCC elected to bowl and restricted the home side to 144 in 28.4 overs. Middleorder batsman Emmanuel Lewis led the TSC batting effort with a well-compiled 41 off 42 balls, striking three fours and three sixes. Shamar Apple contributed 24 from 35 deliveries, while Riaz Latif added 19 from 27 balls. DCC’s bowling attack was led by Kaylon Callender, who claimed three wickets for 34 runs, while Joshua Charles supported with two for 11 to

keep TSC to a modest total. In reply, DCC made a promising start to their run chase, with openers and top-order batsmen Lomar Seecharan and Nathan Bishop putting together a crucial 63run second-wicket partnership. Bishop scored 29 from 29 balls, including four fours and a six, before Latif broke the stand by trapping him leg before wicket. However, TSC regained control through the outstanding bowling of Shazim Mohamed, who dismantled the DCC batting line-up. Seecharan, who had played a valuable innings of 45 from 46 balls, fell as Mohamed began to turn the match decisively in the home side’s favour. Mohamed finished with impressive figures of five

wickets for 45 runs as DCC collapsed to 110 in 26.5 overs, handing TSC a memorable 34-run victory and the Under-17 championship title. Lewis was named Tournament Most Valuable Player (MVP) and also received the award for Most Runs, finishing the preliminary round with 447 runs, including five half-centuries and a highest score of 97. He also claimed the Best Fielder award after taking six catches and effecting two run-outs. Apple earned the Highest Individual Score award for his unbeaten 250 from 115 balls against Malteenoes at Malteenoes Ground, an innings that featured 22 fours and 20 sixes. Callender took home the Most Wickets award with 19 wickets, while his best bowling figures of four overs, one maiden, 12 runs and seven wickets against Queen’s College at the QC Ground earned him the Best Bowling Figures award. In the final’s individual awards, Callender was named Best Fielder after recording one catch and one run-out. Mohamed’s match-winning five-wicket haul earned him both the Best Bowler and Player-of-the-Match awards, while Seecharan received the Best Batsman award for his 45. TSC’s disciplined batting effort, backed by a decisive bowling performance from Mohamed, ensured that the home side finished their campaign on a high note, lifting the Eline Security Logistics Under-17 title in convincing fashion.

Shakeel Babb (left), Videsh Sookram (centre), and Jonathan Jeffrey (right) following their successful performances at the Mr Universe Colombia Championships

GFF Elite League Woodley treble power Western Tigers to 8-1 win; Slingerz beat Fruta

Veteran marksman Kevon Woodley scored a hat-trick as Western Tigers crushed Monedderlust FC 8-1

Veteran marksman Kevon Woodley scored a hat-trick as Western Tigers crushed Monedderlust FC 8-1, while Slingerz defeated Fruta Conquerors 5-2 when the Elite League continued on Sunday night at the National Training Centre, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Western Tigers built a commanding 5-0 half-time lead and added three more goals after the break, despite losing Cecil Jackman to a red card in the 66th minute. Hakeem Legall opened the scoring in the 12th minute before an own goal by Monedderlust’s Dane Johnson doubled the advantage four minutes later. Woodley scored his first in the 22nd minute, with Michael Junior Oie adding another in the 38th. Woodley struck again in the 40th minute to complete a difficult first half

The goalscorers for Slingerz FC: Darron Niles, Yusifu Kargbo, Yuri Vinicius Silva de Melo, and Kemar Beckford (Elite League photos)

for Monedderlust, who were unable to contain the Tigers’ attack. Jackman’s dismissal reduced Western Tigers to 10 men, but they continued to extend their lead. Woodley completed his hat-trick in the 79th minute before Shem Julius James scored in the 83rd. Substitute Darius Chester, introduced five minutes earlier, made it 8-0 in the 85th minute. Rayon Rose scored Monedderlust’s consolation goal in the 90th minute. In the other encounter, halftime substitute Yusifu Kargbo netted twice to help Slingerz secure a 5-2 victory over Fruta Conquerors. Kemar Beckford gave Slingerz the lead in the

36th minute, providing the only goal of the first half. Kargbo entered at the start of the second half and quickly made his mark, scoring in the 54th and 63rd minutes. Darron Niles extended the advantage to 4-0 in the 70th minute before Fruta responded with two goals in quick succession. Jamal Codrington converted a penalty in the 77th minute, and substitute Antwone Denny scored in the 80th to reduce the deficit to 4-2. However, Yuri Vinicius Silva de Melo restored Slingerz’s three-goal cushion in the 81st minute, completing the scoring and ending Fruta’s hopes of a comeback.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

SVC/AJM crowned new One Guyana T10 Tapeball champions

Pg 21

GFF Elite League

Woodley treble powers Western Tigers to 8–1 win; Slingerz beat Fruta Pg 23

Guyana capture gold and silver at Mr Universe Colombia Pg 23

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