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

Issue No. 6564

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Service providers must invest more in hinterland regions – President Ali Page 3

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

PAS Cargo makes history as 1st Guyanese firm to secure IDB Lab financing P13 GGMC warns P2 against illegal sale, transfer of mining lands

Contractor shot P8 during robbery at Conversation Tree Linden-Mabura Road project P14 nearing completion, Govt eyes next phase

…expresses dissatisfaction with services being provided Motorcyclist Cuban worker electrocuted, 2 injured at Houston …clears way for committal proceedings to resume tomorrow construction site CCJ rejects US-sanctioned Mohameds’ latest bid to halt extradition proceedings Page 7

Page 11

P10

drops 133 rounds of ammo during Police chase

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GGMC warns against illegal sale, transfer of mining lands …urges pursuit of lawful joint ventures

he Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) is moving to clamp down on the practice of selling or purporting to sell mining lands issued by the Commission and is cautioning stakeholders against undertaking such unauthorised transactions. In a statement on Tuesday, it was noted that this issue is seriously engaging the attention of the Commission. “The GGMC will continue to monitor this matter and will take such regulatory and other appropriate action as may be necessary to safeguard the integrity of the mining sector and protect persons from entering into unauthorised or

irregular transactions involving mining lands,” the missive detailed. According to the GGMC, mining lands and related tenures are granted to individuals and entities specifically to undertake mining activities as represented in the application process, and in accordance with the applicable laws, reg-

ulations, terms and conditions governing the grant of such tenure. To this end, it advised tenure holders against the sale, assignment, or purported transfer of mining lands in circumstances where such transactions are not authorised under the applicable legal and regulatory framework.

Moreover, the Commission is also discouraging the use of Irrevocable Powers of Attorney (IPOAs) as a means of effecting or facilitating the purported sale, transfer, or acquisition of mining lands. It pointed out that an irrevocable power of attorney, in itself, is not acceptable proof of ownership or lawful tenure of mining property, as such individuals are therefore urged to exercise caution when entering into arrangements involving mining lands on the basis of such instruments. “The GGMC therefore reiterates its advisory to all tenure holders: mining lands granted for mining purposes should not be sold or purportedly sold, and irrevoca-

ble powers of attorney should not be treated as proof of ownership or lawful tenure,” it noted.

Legitimate opportunities

Meanwhile, the GGMC went on to recognise, however, that there are legitimate opportunities for investors, miners, and other stakeholders to collaborate in the development of mining properties. According to the Commission, “…persons who wish to develop or participate in the development of mining properties are encouraged to explore legitimate joint venture arrangements and other lawful mechanisms through which parties can collaborate in mining operations and achieve beneficial occu-

pation and productive use of the property.” Such arrangements, it stated, should be properly structured, documented, and submitted to the GGMC for consideration and approval. The GGMC further urges all individuals contemplating transactions involving mining lands to seek clarification from the Commission before entering into any agreement or making financial commitments. It added that persons should not rely solely on private agreements, powers of attorney, receipts, or other instruments as evidence that an individual has the legal right to sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of a mining property. TURN TO PAGE 5

NEWS 3

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS BRIDGE OPENINGS The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, September 2 – 07:25h–08:55h and Thursday, September 3 – 08:10h–09:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny skies are expected during the day, followed by clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres. High Tide: 07:42h and 19:56h reaching maximum heights of 2.57 metres and 2.60 metres. Low Tide: 13:30h reaching a minimum height of 0.71 metre.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2026

LOTTERY NUMBERS M

FREE TICKET

2 Bonus Ball

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

DAILY MILLIONS

10 14

LUCKY 3

Afternoon Draw

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

11 15 21

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9554

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COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$95.64/barrel

+1.05

Rough Rice London Sugar

$284.04/ton $534.00/ton

-0.28 +3.81

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask Low/High

$4311.00 $4286.90

$4343.00 $4462.40

Change

-17.10

-0.38%

Service providers must invest more in hinterland regions – President Ali …expresses dissatisfaction with services being provided

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has called on telecommunication providers in Guyana to invest more in improving services being offered to hinterland communities across the country. The Head of State made this remark on Tuesday evening during the Amerindian Heritage Cultural Extravaganza, which was held to usher in Indigenous Heritage Month 2026. Expressing his dissatisfaction with the existing services being provided, President Ali lamented that "it cannot be that right on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway… that they can’t put in the towers.” To this end, the Guyanese leader encouraged local providers, including Digicel, One Communications and ENet, to make the necessary investments to better serve Indigenous communities. According to Ali, Prime Minister (PM), Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips, who has responsibility for the country’s Information Communication and Technology (ICT) sector, has already engaged the service providers on this. “We are dissatisfied with Digicel and the GTT and all the other service providers. ENet and everyone. They have to make more investments in the hinterland… They have to bridge the communication divide. And I call upon them to make the investments… They must make the investments,” the President declared. In fact, he pointed out that the Government is already doing its part to bridge that digital divide by investing some US$19.6 million in the ICT sector, directly benefitting more than 140,000 citizens in the hinterland. These investments have seen 179 low-Earthorbit satellite terminals providing high-speed internet connectivity in various hinterland communities, while another 253 villages are currently benefitting from high-speed connectivity. Additionally, over 230

President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing the gathering at the Amerindian Heritage Month 2026 launch held on Tuesday evening at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, Greater Georgetown

ICT hub managers have been trained, and more communities have benefited from this training to serve the almost 200 ICT hubs completed across the country. He added too that some 2850 hinterland residents have been certified in basic digital literacy, with women accounting for approximately 75 per cent of those trained. This call for improved private investments in the ICT sector comes on the heels of the Head of State pushing for lowered domestic airfares to ease the burden of travel to hinterland regions as well as cushion the high cost of living for residents in those areas. Despite making billions in investment to improve hinterland airstrips and other infrastructure, the Head of State had expressed his disappointment just last month over the continued high domestic airfares that are not only affecting travel, but also impacting food prices in riverine and hinterland communities.

ICT investments

Nevertheless, during Tuesday evening’s heritage event, President Ali went on to point out that just like in the ICT sector, his Government has also heavily invested in other sectors to enhance the lives of the country’s Indigenous peoples, injecting in excess of $41.7 billion in their communities. This is in addition to another $12.7 billion in the Amerindian Development Fund. “Today, you have not

only village shops, you have sawmills, ecotourism facilities, you have bus service, you have modern agriculture, and you have every single facet of national development existing in your villages,” Ali stated. Moreover, the President highlighted that over the last five years Amerindian communities also benefitted from some $14.2 billion under the Low Carbon Development Fund. With the Government's investments in every sector, the Guyanese Leader posited that Indigenous lives have improved in areas such as education, healthcare, tourism, energy, security, infrastructure, water and access to various Government and commercial services, among others. In fact, he noted that the ICT investments have allowed Amerindians to

enhance themselves and build capacity without having to leave their homes. “You have doctors, medics, nurses, teachers, soldiers, Police Officers [and] fire officers right from your village, serving your regions and serving your communities… We have made those investments so that your children can become trained teachers right in their villages. And thousands of your children are now becoming trained teachers in your villages… We have invested in you so you can stand tall. You can stand proud. You can stand with dignity. You can stand with honour," the Head of State declared. Despite these investments, however, President Ali recognised that more work needs to be done to further enhance the lives of the country’s first peoples. Reflecting on the advancements over these past few years, the Guyanese Leader contended that the governing People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) is the only “trusted partner” that can deliver this kind of development. “There is still a lot more to get done. There are still a lot more roads, a lot more schools, a lot more hospitals, a lot more investment in ecotourism, a lot more investment in the children, women, and families of the Indigenous community… You know that we will make those investments for you,” he declared.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 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

Emerging El Niño conditions

uyana’s emerging El Niño conditions present a serious test for the resilience of the agriculture sector, water-management systems, energy infrastructure and national food supply. With conditions expected to persist through the remainder of 2026 and potentially into the first quarter of 2027, preparedness can no longer remain confined to forums, forecasts and advisories. The priority must now be sustained implementation of measures capable of protecting production and livelihoods. The reported possibility of up to 80 hot-spell days during 2026, nearly three times the historical average, underscores the seriousness of the situation. Extreme heat and reduced rainfall can place pressure on irrigation systems, water supplies, crop yields, and livestock. The consequences can extend beyond farms, affecting food prices, household expenditure, and national food security. Agriculture remains particularly vulnerable because production depends heavily on reliable access to water. The immediate challenge, therefore, is not simply the availability of infrastructure but the capacity to operate, maintain, and coordinate that infrastructure effectively. The construction of high-level canals in Regions Five and Six is an important intervention. Designed to improve drainage while also providing storage capacity for irrigation, such infrastructure could become increasingly valuable under drier conditions. Water conservation must consequently become a central component of the national response. Available water must be stored where feasible, allocated according to agricultural needs and protected from unnecessary losses. Irrigation systems require regular inspection, while farmers need timely information on water availability and practical guidance on efficient use. The situation also highlights the importance of translating climate information into decisions that can be acted upon at the farm level. Weather forecasts have limited value if technical information does not reach farmers in a clear and understandable form. Communication must provide practical guidance on planting periods, crop selection, irrigation requirements, crop duration, and anticipated weather conditions. The development of digital tools capable of providing information on planting periods, irrigation availability, pests and diseases offers an opportunity to place useful information directly in the hands of farmers. Such tools will be effective if they are properly explained and supported by reliable technical services. Farmers facing unusual weather conditions require regular contact with agricultural officers who can assist with interpreting forecasts, adjusting production practices, identifying risks and responding quickly when conditions change. The rice sector has already received guidance concerning irrigation, drainage, planting schedules and crop duration. Extreme heat can affect animal health, productivity and feed intake. Adequate water, shade, ventilation and nutrition must be part of livestock preparedness rather than being treated as secondary considerations. Agriculture does not operate independently of the electricity and water sectors. Prolonged heat can increase electricity consumption, placing additional pressure on the national grid. Higher temperatures can increase demand for cooling, while agricultural operations may require greater pumping capacity for irrigation. The reported decision to encourage large electricity consumers with self-generation capacity to reduce reliance on the national grid during peak periods illustrates the interconnected nature of climate preparedness. Energy conservation and agricultural water management must be considered alongside each other because both are affected by extreme weather. The current circumstances should not be interpreted as a reason to reduce agricultural production. Rather, the conditions reinforce the need for smarter and more efficient production. Climate-smart agriculture, improved water storage, better irrigation management, accurate weather information and stronger extension services can reduce vulnerability while maintaining output. El Niño is a climate phenomenon, and its consequences are shaped by preparedness, planning and execution. Early action, as being highlighted by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, can reduce disruption; delayed action can increase costs.

Performers dressed in their traditional attire showcase Guyana’s rich Indigenous culture during the launch of Amerindian Heritage Month at the Sophia Exhibition Site (DPI photos)

False claims regarding electricity and water access at Swan Recent claims by the Leader of the Opposition, Azruddin Mohamed, regarding access to electricity and water in the community of Swan are false, misleading, and another unfortunate example of political rhetoric being presented as fact, then repeated wholesale by sections of the media without basic verification. What makes this particularly troubling is that the evidence contradicting this narrative is contained in the very reporting being used to advance it. Residents quoted in an online pseudo-journalism entity specifically spoke about households being “disconnected”, the difficulties being experienced by families currently without electricity and the need for assistance with “restoring electricity services”. Obvious questions, therefore, arise: How can residents be disconnected from an electricity service that supposedly does not exist, and how

can they seek restoration of a service to which the community supposedly never had access? The facts are straightforward. The community of Swan along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway has access to the national electricity grid, and residents are able to access formal electricity services. For households that were not yet ready to transition to the formal grid, solar panels were provided to ensure that they continued to have access to electricity. The situation with water is similar. Swan has access to a formal water supply system. Individual households may experience issues with connection, service, payment or other circumstances that affect their access at a particular time, but that cannot honestly be transformed into a claim that the community has no access to water. The Opposition leader has manipulated and repackaged the information to create

the false impression that basic infrastructure has not been extended to Swan. This episode is increasingly indicative of the approach being taken by the leader of the Opposition and, regrettably, certain sections of the media, where a claim is made, a political narrative is constructed around it and it is then repeated and amplified with little attempt at verification, even when the evidence contradicting the narrative is sitting in plain sight. The Government will continue working closely with the residents of Swan to support their formal connection to electricity and water services, and much of this work is already advancing, with ongoing efforts to bring more households fully onto these established systems. Office of the Minister of Information and Public Affairs

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

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

Joint statement about nothing: Why this Opposition is demonstrating its unfitness to govern

Dear Editor, The joint statement issued by WIN and APNU after such a long wait should concern every serious-minded Guyanese, not because of the nothingness it announces, but because of what it unintentionally reveals. After the Opposition's so-called "high-level meeting" between Opposition parties aspiring to exercise national leadership, the document concludes with the extraordinary admission that “no final decisions were taken on the substantive matters discussed". The statement, after the meeting, largely repeated the disputes that brought the parties together without resolving them. That is not an achievement. It is an indictment of political preparedness. The issues identified – GECOM representation, electoral scrutineers, the Region Ten RDC impasse and Local Government Commission nominations – are matters largely concerning the Opposition's own political relation-

ships and representation. Yet the people now presenting themselves as an alternative Government could not settle even among themselves the principles governing their cooperation. If an Opposition cannot efficiently negotiate its own internal political arrangements, Guyanese are entitled to ask a much more fundamental question: how can it credibly claim readiness to manage a country undergoing one of the most consequential economic transformations in the world? I have said it on numerous occasions: national leadership requires considerably more than Opposition to the Government. It requires competence, institutional respect, economic judgement, diplomatic credibility, policy coherence and the capacity to make difficult decisions. Guyana today is managing petroleum revenues, infrastructure expansion, energy security, agriculture, education, healthcare, regional in-

tegration, border security, and complex international relationships. Government cannot operate by perpetual consultation about when another consultation should begin. There is an even more consequential question surrounding the leadership of this Opposition. Mr Azruddin Mohamed remains designated under the United States' Global Magnitsky sanctions programme, which is a targeted framework used to impose visa bans and asset freezes on individuals and entities responsible for human rights abuses and significant corruption worldwide. The US Treasury officially sanctioned Mohamed and associated businesses in June 2024. He has subsequently been federally indicted in the United States on allegations involving money laundering and wire fraud arising from an alleged gold-export scheme. Those charges remain allegations, and he is entitled to the presumption of innocence.

GGMC warns against illegal sale...

“The Commission remains committed to ensuring that mining lands are utilised in accordance with their intended purpose, that the integrity of the mining tenure system is maintained, and that Guyana’s mineral resources are developed in a transparent, responsible, and sustainable manner,” Tuesday’s missive detailed. This move to crackdown on the unauthorised resale and transfer of mining lands comes as part of a series of initiatives undertaken by the Guyana government, through the Natural Resources Ministry and the GGMC, to streamline the local mining industry. Already, several decisive actions have been taken to curb illegal mining and gold smuggling under its zero-tolerance policy as well as to increase production and declarations. In fact, only last month, six foreign nationals were arrested after they were found conducting unauthorised operations in Guyana. At least five Brazilians and one Chinese national were detained

on Thursday, August 20, over illegal mining activities in one of the local mining districts, the Natural Resources Ministry said. Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat had previously stated that the crackdown on illegal activities has yielded results, with gold declarations increasing by 25,000 ounces during the first six months of 2026. During an appearance on the Starting Point podcast in July, Bharrat had revealed that the industry reached its budgeted target of gold declaration for the halfyear period with some 233,000 ounces of gold. According to Bharrat, the industry had not recorded such outstanding performance since 2016, when large companies such as the Guyana Gold Fields and Troy Resources were actively operating here. Since then, there had been a dip in declaration until 2024, when a slight increase was recorded compared to the previous year. In 2025, there was an increase of some 52,000 ounces in produc-

But political suitability for the highest executive office is a different question from criminal guilt. Guyana must ask whether someone simultaneously confronting sanctions, a US federal indictment and extradition proceedings represents the kind of diplomatic and institutional position from which this country should ever chance to be led. That question has become more, not less, serious following judicial scrutiny. Recently Guyana's Court of Appeal unanimously rejected the Mohameds' challenge to the Authority to Proceed, and in July 2026 Guyana’s apex court, the Caribbean Court of Justice, dismissed their subsequent appeal, allowing the extradition proceedings to continue. And herein lies APNU's profound political contradiction. A party that once presented itself as a Governmentin-waiting is now attempting to construct political cooperation around

a leader carrying unprecedented international legal and diplomatic complications, while the parties themselves struggle to agree on comparatively elementary questions of Opposition representation. This joint statement therefore inadvertently provides the country with something valuable: a demonstration of the difference between wanting power and being prepared to govern. A credible Opposition should challenge the Government vigorously. Democracy requires it. But criticism is not a governing philosophy; anger is not an economic programme; social-media popularity is not statecraft; and a coalition united principally by its desire to remove the incumbent Government is not automatically a credible alternative Government. Guyana's future is simply too important for experimentation with leadership that has not demonstrated the institu-

tional discipline, political coherence or international standing required by the presidency. If WIN and APNU require days of negotiation to produce a statement announcing that they agreed on virtually nothing substantive, Guyanese should contemplate what would happen if these same forces were required to make decisions affecting nearly 800,000 citizens, billions of dollars in national resources and Guyana's standing before the world. The document was intended to demonstrate Opposition cooperation. Instead, it may have produced the strongest argument yet for why this political configuration and, particularly, its present leadership is profoundly unsuited to govern Guyana. Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira Former Member of Parliament

FROM PAGE 2

tion for the entire year. But the natural resources Minister noted that, “…last year, ending in June, we were 25,000 below what we have now. Right now, we’re close to 240,000 ounces that have been declared over this period of time. Mind you, the weather conditions [were] not favourable to us.” Nevertheless, Bharrat had attributed this mid-year increase in gold declarations to the government’s serious crackdown, which heightened earlier this year, on miners and mining companies that did no or limited declarations last year. “We had caused them not to renew some of their licences and permits,” the Natural Resources Minister stated. “We had to blacklist some of the non-nationals, whose declarations were very low or non-existent… They cannot come back to the country and engage in the mining sector. And we have been on a serious campaign since then – a zero-tolerance approach to illegal activities in the mining sector.”

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 00:00 Sign Off 06:00 Islam for Guyana 06:30 TVG Devotional Hour 07:00 Evening News (RB) 08:00 HGTV 09:00 Stop Suffering 10:00 Food Network 12:00 Movie - Marmaduke (2022) 13:30 Movie - Jungle Beat: The Movie (2020) 15:00 Cartoons 16:00 Indian Soaps 17:00 The Young & The Restless 18:00 Documentary: Nat Geo Animals 19:00 The Evening News 20:00 Stop Suffering 20:30 Movie - Bridal Wave (2015) 22:00 Movie - Safe Haven (2013)

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Foundation ◄

Page

Perimeter

The perimeter of a two-dimensional shape is the sum of the lengths of each of the sides. It is commonly shows using the letter P. Let’s find the perimeter of a triangle.

all the sides of the square. Since a square has four side lengths that are the same measurement, you can add: 7+7+7+7=28 The perimeter of this square is 28 units. Another way to find the perimeter of a square is to multiply the length of one side by 4. P = 4×7 P = 28 Let’s find the perimeter of a rectangle.

The perimeter is found by summing the lengths of all the sides of the triangle. P = 5+12+13 P=20 The perimeter of the triangle is 20 units. Let’s find the perimeter of a square.

The perimeter is found by summing the lengths of

The perimeter is found by summing the lengths of all the sides of the rectangle. 8+8+3+3=22 The perimeter of the rectangle is 22 units. You can also use a formula to find the perimeter of a rectangle. P=(2×length )+(2×width ) P=2l+2w P=2(8)+2(3) P=16+6 P=22

BY Ron Silliman

Cast flesh as the song into the room is cast wholly: no man wanders life untouched: if I lie it is the sadness in me that is refusal: if it is the city life, no matter, there are walkways, paths between gardens and into gardens, there is even the center in the night built upon silence: the violins I never understand or the flutings, such narrowness of caution, pitch: books are real, they can drown: how in the harbor the moon is enough, how the street is plenty: these fine walls we give to the buildings, the windows built therein. (Source: Poetry [January 1969])

Write a story from the perspective of a magical being or creature.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS 7

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CCJ rejects US-sanctioned Mohameds’ latest bid to halt extradition proceedings …clears way for committal proceedings to resume tomorrow

he Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on Tuesday rejected the latest attempt by United States-sanctioned and indicted Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his father, businessman Nazar Mohamed, to halt extradition proceedings against them. The development clears the way for the committal proceedings before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman to continue on Thursday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Guyana Times was reliably informed that the Mohameds had applied to the CCJ for special leave to appeal the August 27 ruling of the Court of Appeal, which allowed the extradition committal proceedings before the Magistrates’ Courts to continue. The application comes as the Court of Appeal considers their constitutional challenge to certain provisions of the Fugitive Offenders (Amendment) Act. The CCJ dismissed the application for special leave and refused the other reliefs sought by the father and son. The decision follows several unsuccessful attempts by the Mohameds to have the extradition proceedings suspended at the Magistrates’

Courts, High Court, Court of Appeal and, most recently, the CCJ. Their latest application arose from a constitutional challenge filed with the Court of Appeal to aspects of the Fugitive Offenders (Amendment) Act, following a February ruling by Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh. In that ruling, Justice Singh found that Section 8(3)(B) of the Act was inconsistent with the Constitution of Guyana, while upholding the constitutionality of the other provisions challenged by the Mohameds. The father and son subsequently returned to the Court of Appeal seeking a stay of the proceedings before Magistrate Latchman pending determination of their substantive constitutional appeal. At that hearing, Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, who represented the Mohameds, argued that

an interim stay was necessary to ensure their appeal could be meaningfully heard without their liberty being affected before the constitutional questions were resolved. The State, led by Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, opposed the application and urged the Court of Appeal to allow the extradition proceedings to continue. The State opposed the application on the basis that allowing the Magistrates’ Courts proceedings to continue would not undermine the Mohameds’ constitutional appeal or result in their immediate surrender to the United States. It argued that the men would retain access to legal safeguards, including appellate review, habeas corpus and bail, while another stay would cause further delays to the already interrupted extradition proceedings. The Court of

Appeal subsequently allowed the committal proceedings before Magistrate Latchman to continue, but barred her from making any final disposition in the matter pending the determination of the constitutional matter. The latest development before the CCJ now removes another attempt by the Mohameds to interrupt those proceedings. The CCJ had previously granted an interim stay on March 25, 2026, temporarily halting the extradition proceedings while it considered the Mohameds’ appeal challenging the Authority to Proceed (ATP) on grounds of alleged political bias. The stay remained in effect until July 29, 2026, when the CCJ dismissed the appeal and discharged the interim stay, clearing the way for the proceedings before the Magistrates’ Courts to resume. The extradition proceedings stem from a formal request made by the

US-sanctioned and indicted Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed

United States in October 2025 for the surrender of Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed. A US federal grand jury in Florida indicted the two men on allegations including wire and mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy and customs violations. The US is seeking their extradition to face prosecution on the federal charges. The allegations are linked to an alleged US$50 million gold export and tax-evasion scheme.

US prosecutors have alleged that the men evaded taxes and royalties on more than 10,000 kilograms of gold through falsified customs declarations and the reuse of export seals. The Mohameds have denied the allegations. They have remained on $150,000 bail each since their arrest in October 2025, with conditions requiring them to surrender their passports and report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station.

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Canal Polder driver gets $500K bail for causing death charge Keeping… A …up traditions W desh Mohan was on Monday granted $500,000 bail for causing the death of Carl Cummings following an accident on March 5, 2026, on Canal #2 Public Road, West Bank Demerara (WBD). He appeared before Magistrate Rondell Weaver at the Wales Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty, and as such, was granted $500,000 cash bail, and the matter

was adjourned to October 12, 2026. It was reported that the accident involved motor car PWW 7682, which was at the time driven by Mohan, and motorcycle CJ 4015, driven by Carl Cummings, who died as a result of injuries sustained in the accident. Meanwhile, as part of his bail conditions, Mohan is required to report to the Wales Police Station on the first Friday of every month until his next court day.

Charged: Adesh Mohan

Contractor shot during robbery at Conversation Tree

olice in Regional Division 4A are investigating an armed robbery during which a 33-year-old contractor was shot in the left thigh on Monday. The incident occurred at about 11:00h on Conversation Tree Road, Bel Air, Georgetown. According to Police, the contractor was seated in the front passenger seat of a motor bus which had stopped at a traffic light when two men approached on a black and red motorcycle. Police said the pil-

lion rider dismounted, drew a handgun and demanded the victim’s grey haversack, valued at approximately $5000, which contained personal documents. The victim reported-

ly refused to hand over the bag, prompting the suspect to allegedly discharge a round that struck him in his left thigh. The suspect then snatched the haversack

and re-joined the motorcycle rider before both men escaped south along Conversation Tree Road. The injured contractor was taken to a private medical facility for treatment. His condition was listed as stable. Detectives who processed the scene recovered a spent warhead from the front passenger seat of the bus. The motorcycle allegedly used in the robbery was subsequently found abandoned. Police are reviewing CCTV footage as part of the investigation.

3 Venezuelans fined $300,000 for trespassing on Lethem aerodrome

Fined: Cruz Jose

Fined: Linsey Maria

Fined: Xavier Alexander

hree Venezuelan nationals were each fined $100,000 after pleading guilty to trespassing

on the Lethem, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) aerodrome. Fined are 44-year-

old Linsey Maria, 40-year-old Cruz Jose and 39-year-old Xavier Alexander. They were arrested on August

28, and subsequently charged with trespassing on an aerodrome, contrary to Section 83(1) of the Civil Aviation Act 2018. They appeared before Magistrate Nikkisha Logan at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where they each pleaded guilty to the charge. The court imposed a fine of $100,000 on each defendant, with an alternative sentence of two months’ imprisonment.

ell, one thing your Eyewitness knows is that if this is September, then “school open”, and it’s Amerindian Heritage Month!! On the former, parents are now breathing great sighs of relief that the “apples” (mangoes?) of their eyes are now out of their hair – for at least seven hours every weekday!! With our newfound wealth as the fastestgrowing economy in the world and everybody owning a car, your Eyewitness had noticed a new tradition developing – drivers bemoaning the reappearance of the ubiquitous school buses on the road clogging up traffic!! But September ain’t just kids continuing another term – it’s a whole new school year with a new cohort entering different grades and, for the wee ones, entering school itself for the very first time!! And since we know that even as adults new situations create tensions and anxiety, let’s spare a thought for how our kids are dealing with their new pressures!! Your Eyewitness has been reading a lot about how the nature of education itself is changing radically at this time – with AI just ONE of the novelties – creating another source of anxiety!! Especially for teachers who’re gonna have to figure out whether ChatGPT or some other bot is submitting homework – rather than their charges!! One of the sadder new developments that your Eyewitness noticed in our schools is the “gang” violence that’s erupting across our fair land! Now, whenever you put kids together, you’re gonna have beefs developing between some of them – who didn’t witness or participate in one dustup or another after school?? But today, knives, and even guns have entered the picture, and if this continues, there’s gonna be little difference between schoolyards and prison yards!! In your Eyewitness’s estimate, parents MUST play a much greater role to steer their kids into the productive paths that schools were supposed to provide! Then we come to the second fork of September – Amerindian Heritage Month!! When your Eyewitness was a wee lad (and you can tell he went to a Church of SCOTLAND School!!) this wasn’t around!! Sadly, the only thing he knew about our native peoples was a poem – “There was an Indian" – which started out by claiming the poor fellow had “known no change”!! That Amerindians were living in a state much as they had done through the millennia – an uncivilised state!! Well, looking around today, things have certainly changed, haven’t they?? Rather than living in the forests and being seen as “backward”, they’re praised for “sustaining the environment” – and getting big bucks for doing so!! The PPP has given titles to Amerindian lands and schools; hospitals and community centres now anchor their villages!! Not to mention new employment opportunities!!

…up a new tradition

When the British saw that the West Indian Federation they’d created with their colonies in this neck of the woods – in which we chose to stay out – wasn’t going nowhere, they decided to give them “independence”!! Yes, “give” – so let’s not get too carried away with those claiming one or the other of our leaders FOUGHT for independence!! This can be gleaned from the fact that Trinidad and Jamaica became independent in 1962, while ours didn’t come till 1966!! The British had to twiddle their thumbs for a bit while the Yanks figured out how to get rid of Jagan, whom they decided was an unacceptable “commie”!! Anyhow, ever since then the Trinis have cultivated a sneer towards us – which their oil helped to grease!! With that as background, you can hopefully appreciate our Warriors absolutely TROUNCING the T&T Knight Riders last Monday night – in T&T and ON their Independence Day!! That the victory came off the back of a scintillating hundred by the now somewhat erratic Hetmyer made it all that sweeter!!

…PNC alive

Yesterday your Eyewitness wrote about the GY$6.7 BILLION taxes the PNC owed the City on their Sophia HQ!! Well, he just learnt that the PNC-controlled City Council just forgave the PNC’s debt by collecting just GY$30M!! Political incest!! 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

9 Construction worker nabbed with ganja NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

27-year-old construction worker was arrested on Monday, following the discovery of over 100 grams (g) of cannabis during a Police operation at Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). Police said that at about 11:08h, ranks attached to the Onderneeming Sand Pit Police Outpost were conducting an operation along the Onderneeming

Sand Pit Access Road when they observed the suspect riding a motorcycle. According to Police, the man attempted to turn around upon seeing the ranks, but was stopped. A search was conducted, during which ranks allegedly found a trans-

The cannabis found by Police at Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast

parent plastic bag concealed on the suspect containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. Police said further investigations led ranks to a residence, where the suspect reportedly pointed out an area in which another bag containing suspected cannabis was

found. The suspect was arrested and taken to the Suddie Police Station. The cannabis found on the man weighed four grams, while the quantity recovered at the residence weighed 101.5g. The suspect remains in Police custody pending charges.

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Motorcyclist drops Police track stolen motorcycles 133 rounds of ammo across Berbice during Police chase T …security guard intercepted at Church St with gun and ammo

Police pursuit along the Mabura Trail, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), has resulted in the discovery of 133 rounds of live ammunition and a motorcycle on Monday. Based on reports received, on the day in question at about 22:40h, ranks on a Police operation near Block Yard, Wismar, Linden, observed a masked male driving a motorcycle bearing registration number CM 84 without taillights. At the time, the driver, who was

The ammunition recovered during the chase

dressed in dark-coloured clothing, was carrying a grey haversack and was proceeding west along the Mabura Trail Access Road. Upon seeing this, the ranks signalled the motorcyclist to stop, but he continued his journey, prompting a pursuit. During the chase, the motorcyclist reportedly fell and escaped into thick vegetation, leaving the haversack and motorcycle behind.

The gun and ammunation that were found in possession of the security guard

A search of the haversack unearthed 33 live rounds of .223-calibre ammunition, 100 live rounds of 9mm bullets, and several pieces of clothing and other personal effects. The ammunition, motorcycle, and other items were taken to the Wismar Police Station as investigations continue. Meanwhile, a 40-year-old security guard was taken into custody following the discovery of a Glock 17 pistol, along with a magazine containing seven live 9mm rounds and one spent shell. According to information, at about 00:10h on Tuesday, ranks in a Police operation intercepted the security guard, who was at the time driving a motor scooter along Church Street, Alberttown, Georgetown. Upon questioning, the suspect admitted that he was not the holder of a firearm licence. As such, he was arrested and taken to the Kitty Police Station, where he remains in custody pending charges.

he repeated theft of motorcycles across Berbice, particularly Honda XR models, has become an increasing concern for Police. Intelligence indicates that some stolen bikes are being moved between Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). Region Six Police Commander, Assistant C o m m i s s i o n e r Shivpersaud Bacchus, told Guyana Times that investigators have received intelligence suggesting motorcycles stolen in Region Five are being transported into Region Six, while motorcycles stolen in Region Six are also being moved into Region Five. One of the examples of motorcycles being moved from the area where they were stolen dates back to 2016. A motorcycle belonging to Gibran Rawlins was stolen from beneath his

Afraud Khan, called Afraz or “Buckman”

Fardeen Bacchus, called “Killa”

home at Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, East Canje, Region Six. Days later, Rawlins’ brother spotted the motorcycle at Mahaica, Region Five, while travelling towards Georgetown. Police intercepted the rider, Rayan Bynoe, who allegedly told investigators that a man known as “Lil Zip” had given him the motorcycle. He was to take it to Georgetown, where it was to be sold, and he

would receive a share of the proceeds. Bynoe was subsequently charged. A similar cross-region connection has surfaced this year, and Police allege that a motorcycle valued at $319,000 was stolen from Ramdeo Samdeo of Bath Squatting Area, Region Five, between June 4 and 5. The accused, Afraud Khan, called Afraz or “Buckman”, is from Fyrish Village, Region Six. TURN TO PAGE 14

NEWS 11

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Cuban worker electrocuted, 2 injured at Houston construction site

Cuban national, working in Guyana, was electrocuted to death on Tuesday morning, while two others were injured after they came into contact with an electricity power line at a new development in Houston, near Caneview Avenue. Dead is 36-year-old Yardon (only name given), a Cuban national. One of the injured men, 29-year-old Troy Estriado, also known as “Labba”, of Kuru Kuru, Linden-Soesdyke Highway, remains in a critical condition, while another injured man is also said to be in a critical condition. Based on reports re-

Representative of building, Andrew King

the

ceived, the men were working on a scaffold when it reportedly tilted and came into contact with overhead power lines. The Cuban national

was pronounced dead at the scene, while the injured men were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where they are currently receiving treatment. Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL), in a release, stated that it is aware of the tragic accident that occurred in The scene of the electrocution the New Houston area, where scaffolding reportedly rolled away from a building and came into contact with one of its 13.8 kV primary distribution lines. “GPL extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time. GPL also expresses sympa-

thy to those injured and hopes for their full and speedy recovery,” the release from GPL added. GPL reminded contractors, workers and members of the public to exercise extreme caution when operating near the company’s electrical lines, poles and other network infrastructure. TURN TO PAGE 14

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GPL, City Council strike land deal for Princes St substation

GPL Head Kesh Nandlall and Town Clerk Candace Nelson sign the Memorandum of Understanding for the proposed conveyance of municipal land at Princes Street for the construction of a new electricity substation. Mayor Alfred Mentore was also at the signing

uyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) and the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown (M&CC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the acquisition of municipal land for the construction of a new electricity substation at Princes Street. The MoU was signed on Tuesday by Town Clerk Candace Nelson and Head of GPL’s Executive Management

Committee Kesh Nandlall in the presence of Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore. Under the agreement, approximately 0.97 acres of vacant municipal land at Princes Street is proposed to be conveyed to GPL for the construction and operation of a 69 kV/13.8 kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) Substation. The conveyance remains subject to the necessary statutory approv-

als and completion of the required legal processes. The agreement also provides for the two entities to reconcile outstanding financial obligations. GPL will determine electricity charges owed by the M&CC for its buildings and street lighting, where applicable, while the M&CC will determine outstanding rates and taxes owed by GPL in relation to its properties. The value of the

Princes Street property will be determined by the State Valuation Department of the Finance Ministry and credited against the reconciled balance. The respective amounts owed by the entities will then be offset, with any remaining balance to be settled through a method mutually agreed upon by GPL and the M&CC. The proposed Princes Street Substation will be part of GPL’s ongoing

national transmission and distribution expansion programme and is expected to strengthen the electricity network in Georgetown. Nandlall said the development of electricity infrastructure must also focus on the capital city, noting that the Princes Street location would allow the new substation to be interconnected with the existing New Georgetown and Kingston substations. “I am happy that we

can do this. Importantly, as we continue to develop our infrastructure, we also have to develop the infrastructure within the city,” Nandlall said. The signing is part of ongoing efforts by GPL to expand and modernise the national electricity transmission and distribution network, with the stated aim of improving the reliability and resilience of electricity service to customers.

Schools, PTAs raise concerns over Woolford Avenue vendors

ocal Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand on Tuesday met with head teachers, school board chairpersons, and heads of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) as consultations continue on the future of vending along Woolford Avenue, Georgetown. The meeting, which was also attended by Permanent Secretary Miguel Choo-Kang and senior Ministry of Education officials led by Principal Education Officer Immanuel Bridgewater, followed Monday’s engagement between the minister and vendors operating

Some of the representatives at the meeting on Tuesday

along the corridor. The consultations are aimed at developing an arrangement that balances the interests of roadside vendors, school canteens, students, and parents following infrastructure upgrades along Woolford Avenue.

During Tuesday’s meeting, school administrators and canteen operators were given an opportunity to raise their concerns and provide recommendations before any final arrangements are made. The discussions also

highlighted concerns from school officials about some roadside vending operations, including reports of unlawful and disrespectful behaviour which they said could negatively affect children. Manickchand said these concerns, along with issues previously raised by vendors, will be considered as the Government works towards a new system for vending along the upgraded corridor. She stressed that any new arrangement must be structured, with clear standards governing the operation of vendors, particularly because of their proximity to schools and chil-

dren. The issue of vending along Woolford Avenue arose following the first phase of infrastructure upgrades, which included an expanded roadway and improved drainage. Vendors who were removed during the works had raised concerns about the impact on their livelihoods. At Monday’s meeting, Manickchand told vendors that their removal was not the objective of the infrastructure project and that the Ministry was seeking to reorganise vending to accommodate persons who depend on the activity for their income, while preserving

the improvements made to the area. Discussions at that meeting included the possibility of introducing more organised and standardised vending structures and addressing the relationship between roadside vendors and canteens at nearby schools. The Ministry said the ongoing consultations are intended to inform an arrangement that addresses the interests of all affected parties while maintaining safety and order along Woolford Avenue. No final decision on the new vending arrangements was announced following Tuesday’s meeting.

NEWS 13

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

PAS Cargo makes history as 1st Guyanese firm to secure IDB Lab financing …other Guyanese companies urged to tap into funding opportunities

hipping firm PAS Cargo Guyana Incorporated is the first Guyanese company to secure financing from IDB Lab – the innovation and venture arm of the Inter-American Development Bank. The loan agreement was signed by Executive Director of PAS Cargo, Shridat Narine, and General Manager of IDB Lab, Graham Macmillan, on Tuesday at the Finance Ministry in Georgetown. The signing was witnessed by Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, and other officials. Established in 2012, PAS Cargo Guyana Incorporated provides logistics and freight-forwarding services, including cargo handling, customs broking, warehousing and last-mile delivery. According to the Finance Ministry in a

statement on Tuesday, the company’s operation is IDB Lab’s pioneering loan to a Guyanese Private Sector company and marks an important milestone in the bank’s support for locally led innovation and enterprise growth. Speaking during the simple signing ceremony, Singh congratulated PAS Cargo on this breakthrough. The Finance Minister further used the opportunity to reiterate his support for such ventures, reminding that the Government continues to encourage and support more Guyanese companies to engage with the IDB Lab and the Private Sector arms of other international financial institutions to get funding. Reflecting on PAS Cargo’s experience, Narine explained that it was refreshing for the company to gain this success through the loan ap-

plication process and receiving positive feedback from the IDB Lab, recalling that the bank’s team assisted the company through all of the stages. He added that this resonates well with the company and is a breakthrough for them since the company’s 14 years of establishment in Guyana, even before the country was producing oil. Significant deal Meanwhile, also delivering remarks prior to the signing, Macmillan posited that with PAS Cargo being the first Guyanese company to have such a loan approved, he was happy to be part of this significant deal. The IDB Lab General Manager further used the opportunity to express hope for many more such deals to come. In fact, prior to Tuesday’s loan signing, Minister Singh and his

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh and other officials witnessed the signing of the loan agreement between Executive Director of PAS Cargo Guyana Inc, Shridat Narine and IDB Lab General Manager Graham Macmillan on Tuesday in Georgetown

team held discussions on this with the IDB Group officials, including the visiting IDB Lab General Manager and Country Representative for the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Group in Guyana, Lorena Solórzano-Salazar. The two teams discussed how they can continue to work together to broaden the bank’s pri-

Young artists paint vision of a plastic-free Guyana

assy Stores Guyana has recognised six young artists who participated in its “Two Sides of Tomorrow” Visual Arts Competition, which challenged participants to use art to highlight the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of environmental responsibility. The competition, held under the theme “Paint for a Plastic-Free Planet”, was launched on World Environment Day on June 5 and closed on July 31, attracting 19 entries from young artists between the ages of 10 and 18. Participants competed in two categories, Junior Impressions, for ages 10 to 14, and Young Visionaries, for ages 15 to 18. They were asked to depict two possible versions of the future: one affected by environmental neglect and plastic pollution, and another shaped by recycling and responsible choices. The entries were judged anonymously, with judges assessing the artwork and accompanying descriptions based on creativity, interpretation of the theme and the strength of the environmental message. A People’s Choice Award was also presented in each category based on public voting. Each winner received a $10,000 Massy

Winners of Massy Stores Guyana’s “Two Sides of Tomorrow” The Visual Arts Competition poses with representatives of the company during an awards ceremony at Massy Stores Mega on Friday

Stores gift card. In the Junior Impressions category, Thierry Grant placed first and received $50,000, while Pavni Singh placed second and received $35,000. Sophia Miranda captured the People’s Choice Award. In the Young Visionaries category, Joanna Manauf secured first place and received $60,000, while Darshanie Tickapersaud placed second and received $40,000. Anliya Chatoor won the People’s Choice Award. The winners were recognised during a ceremony at Massy Stores Mega on Friday, where they discussed the inspiration behind their artwork and the environmental messages they sought to communicate. Marketing and Promotions Coordinator at Massy Stores

Guyana, Chrystel Taylor, said the competition demonstrated that young people have perspectives on environmental issues that should be heard. “Through their art, they have shown us that children are not only the leaders of tomorrow – they already have important ideas and perspectives that deserve to be heard today,” Taylor said. General Manager of Massy Stores Guyana, Christpen BobbSemple, highlighted the company’s other environmental initiatives, including its reusable-bag campaign and the introduction of electronic shelf labels at Massy Stores Mega. He said he hoped the competition would help maintain public discussion about plastic pollution and encourage greater attention to environmental protection.

vate footprints in Guyana through financial assistance for more Private Sector projects countrywide. Macmillan is on his first official visit to Guyana, and during that engagement on Tuesday, Dr Singh welcomed and congratulated him on his appointment. IDB Lab is the innovation and venture arm of the IDB, focusing on entrepreneurship and technology to cocreate solutions for development challenges and spark new industries for growth in Latin America and the Caribbean. It supports high-impact startups and the innovation ecosystems they need to thrive through flexible financing, practical knowledge, and global connections. The Government of Guyana has been encouraging IDB investments in the country to assist with driving economic growth. This aligns with its broad-based strategy that promotes and supports growth in the nonoil economy across key sectors, including construction, agriculture, tourism, mining, manufacturing and logistics, which include companies such as PAS Cargo. In fact, back in April, IDB Invest – the Private Sector arm of the regional bank – had indicated its intention to expand its investment portfolio in Guyana, eyeing opportunities in an expanded range of sectors, including agribusiness, tourism, infrastructure and tele-

communication, among others. Following the regional institution’s announcement of a capital increase at its annual meeting in February, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IDB Invest, James Scriven, during a subsequent visit to Georgetown, disclosed that he has already set his eyes on new opportunities north of US$300 million in Guyana. Since then, IDB Invest has been engaging the local Private Sector to explore opportunities for deeper collaboration aimed at supporting Guyana’s rapidly growing Private Sector. During one such engagement in June, IDB officials and representatives from the Private Sector Commission (PSC) met to discuss expanding access to financing, strengthening business competitiveness, and identifying strategic interventions to support sustainable economic growth. IDB Invest had highlighted its commitment to providing innovative financial solutions, advisory services, and technical support to help businesses scale and access new opportunities. Also, in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting and signing ceremony were Chief Planning Officer at the Finance Ministry Dr Tarachand Balgobin, Guyana’s Counsellor to the IDB Board Navita AnganuRamroop, and Private Sector Development Consultant at IDB Lab, Maria Niles.

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Linden-Mabura Road project nearing completion, Govt eyes next phase

orks on the first section of the Linden to Mabura Hill Road in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) is nearing completion, according to the Ministry of Public Works. In an update on Tuesday, the Ministry said that project is nearing 80 per cent overall completion status. “This significant advancement along Guyana’s main hinterland corridor accounts for the completion of pavement construction, earthworks, subgrade preparation, and asphaltic works, with substantial sections of the roadway now at an advanced stage of completion,” it noted. With the project now moving beyond its major earthworks phase, the new focus is that of finishing works and the installation of associated road infrastructure and signage. The Linden-Mabura Road project underscores Government’s broader commitment to put improve connectivity between the coast and hinterland communities, strengthen access to the interior and enhance the movement of people and goods. The upgraded corridor is also expected to support economic activity and improve transportation links to the country’s interior regions. “With overall progress now at 79 per cent, works continue toward the completion of the re-

A fully-paved section of the Linden-to-Mabura Hill Road

maining components of the project,” the Public Works Ministry stated. Linden to Mabura Hill Road Project is the first phase of the much larger Linden to Lethem Road Project. Under Phase One, some 121 kilometres (km) of asphalt road is being built from Linden to Mabura Hill. These works are being carried out by Brazilian-based contractor, Álya Construtora – an international infrastructure company specialising in civil works, heavy infrastructure projects and road development in complex environments. The contractor was initially expected to wrap up works by the end of August 2026. However, no date has been given for the full completion of the project. Nevertheless, as construction on this first section near completion, the Guyana Government is already moving towards the next phase

Police track stolen...

He appeared before Magistrate Shareefa Parks on July 31. He was granted $150,000 bail after being charged with simple larceny. A Honda XR150 was reported stolen from Number 72 Village, Corentyne, during the Easter period; another XR150 was reported stolen from Cotton Tree; and there is another case in which Police allege that Fardeen Bacchus, called

“Killa”, attempted to steal a black Honda XR150 valued at $520,000 from rice farmer Indradeo Kissoon at Johanna South, Black Bush Polder, on August 21. Bacchus appeared before Magistrate Michelle Matthias on August 27 and was remanded to prison until September 15. Motorcycle thefts have also been reported from Bath Settlement, West Coast

with discussions already underway to advance the Mabura Hill to Kurupukari section. Just last month, Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, disclosed that talks have commenced on the next phase of the road project, that is, 30km from Mabura Hill towards Kurupukari. “We are now negotiating to continue from Mabura Hill towards Kurupukari. The first 30 kilometres is being discussed right now and we are continuing that,” the Minister said, according to a report from the Department of Public Information (DPI). Contacted by Guyana Times to clarify whether the negotiations for the new phase are with the same Brazilian contractor or a new company, the Public Works Minister opted not divulge this. He indicated to this newspaper that once the negotiations are finalised, the details will

FROM PAGE 10

Berbice (WCB); Number 48 Village, Corentyne; and Chesney Housing Scheme, also on the Corentyne, among other communities. In some instances, the motorcycles were recovered, while other investigations resulted in arrests and criminal charges. Police also recovered a motorcycle during a cordon-and-search exercise at Fyrish on August 21.

be made public. It was also reported in August that preparations are advancing for the construction of the Kurupukari Bridge. According to Edghill, 48 bridges have already been completed along the Linden to Lethem corridor, while the proposed Kurupukari Bridge is expected to span between 700 and 800 metres. Previously, there were talks of using sections of the now decommissioned Demerara Habour Birdge (DHB) to connect the Kurupukari crossing. However, subsequent studies have found that this was not feasible. Taking into consideration the heavy rapids, rocks and the need to accommodate extra-long grain trucks and trailers from neighbouring Brazil, the Government has since decided that a new high-span fixed concrete bridge will have to be constructed at Kurupukari. Bridging the Kurupukari crossing is a major component of the highly-anticipated Linden to Lethem Road Project. The Linden to Mabura Hill phase is being done to the tune of US$190 million and is funded through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) via a US$112 million loan, a grant of £50 million (US$66 million) from the UK Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF), and an input of US$12 million from the Guyana Government. President Dr Irfaan

Signage being installed as the Linden-to-Mabura Hill Road nears completion

Ali had previously hinted at tapping into the £3 billion available under the United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) to possibly fund the remaining section of all-weather road upgrade. In fact, back in January, former British High Commissioner to Guyana Jane Miller had revealed that the Guyanese Government was already in discussions with a number of British companies on this critical road project. Currently, this road network is being utilised by an estimated 50,000 travellers who transport goods from the coast to the inland regions of Guyana and

even into neighbouring Brazil. The previous condition of this road had posed significant challenges for commuters and transport operators. Heavily laden lorries frequently toppled off the roadway, and deteriorated bridges required manual alignment of boards for crossings, often with unsafe outcomes. However, when completed into an all-weather road, this pertinent piece of infrastructure would significantly improve connectivity, reduce travel time and open up new commercial and trade opportunities especially between Guyana and Brazil.

Cuban worker electrocuted...

FROM PAGE 11

Meanwhile, a representative of the building, Andrew King, which is 90 per cent completed, recalled the initial circumstances surrounding the accident, saying that he received a phone call during the morning hours from the contractor, who reported that a serious accident had occurred. “We were in the process of expanding the business when this tragic accident occurred. I

got a phone call from the contractor, whom I had just left at the job site, and he said that they had had a really bad accident. It sounded like everyone died, but it turned out not to be so.” The supervisor was Guyanese and was injured, while the other workers were Spanish speakers. Meanwhile, in terms of safety measures, King claimed that the site upholds all safety proto-

cols. Only in July, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), in collaboration with the Labour Ministry, launched a four-day project and workshop initiative aimed at modernising and strengthening Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) systems across Guyana.

NEWS 15

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Works advancing on Resource curse has not engulfed extending Ogle-Eccles Guyana – Bloomberg is wrong Highway to Providence T Ramsammy’s Ruminations

here is a group of anti-PPP Government naysayers who would celebrate if Guyana was taken over by the oil curse or by the Dutch disease. There are international players who also would like this to happen so that they can say “we told you so”. In the case of the international naysayers, they come from that group who think that the developing world is incapable of managing their development. These are people who believe that the underdevelopment in the Global South is because we are all corrupt and incompetent. In part, that has to do with racism. The local anti-PPP Government naysayers embrace this international group as convenient allies. Dr Leslie Ramsammy A recent Bloomberg article opined that Guyana, rich with oil money, is trapped in a “resource curse”. The Bloomberg article comes from the group who believe that it is impossible for developing countries like Guyana to utilise our resources in a manner that leads to overall development. In their eyes, all resources from our natural resources are bound to be squandered. It is why the Dutch disease or resource curse only applies to developing countries; it never applies to the developed world. For the developed world, their natural resource is a blessing; for developing countries like Guyana, our natural resource is a “curse”. Bloomberg and others of their ilk internationally find strong allies in the Opposition parties of Guyana and the usual suspect, the small anti-PPP Government cabal. These are people who go to bed every night praying that Guyana will fail, that Guyana will be consumed by the “resource curse”, the “oil curse", or the “Dutch Disease”. This was the mindset that drove some of the local anti-PPP Government naysayers in 2020 and afterwards to demand Guyana stop oil production, arguing that Guyana is being morally bankrupt by helping to propel climate change, etc. For them, it is better that Guyana remains poor forever. These same local naysayers now want Guyana to waive its right to mine for uranium, making the same argument that mining for uranium will destroy the environment. After more than five years in Government, President Irfaan Ali and his PPP Government have steered Guyana forward with one of the most exciting development transformations that have been seen this century so far. Guyana is the fastest-growing economy in the world right now, with a GDP growth of almost 20 per cent in 2025. In fact, Guyana has held this title for the last five years. It has moved from a low middle-income country to a high-income country. In contrast to Bloomberg’s conclusion that Guyana is trapped in a resource curse, the IDB’s latest report on Guyana speaks of a total transformation, praising Guyana for policies and programmes that have placed Guyana on economically sound ground. Following a GDP growth of more than 43 per cent in 2024, GDP growth in 2025 was 19.3 per cent, and it is expected to maintain similarly high GDP growth rates for several more years, at least until 2030. But as impressive as these growth rates are, the non-oil GDP tells a more impressive story. The non-oil economy grew in 2025 by about 15 per cent, is expected to grow at a similar rate in 2026 and has been steadily increasing since 2020 at double-digit rates. This is the same economy that could not increase outside of the range of two per cent to six per cent since the 1990s, and which grew at negative rates for the whole of the 1980s. Clearly, as the IDB has reported, the oil resources have been effectively utilised to propel the traditional economy. Not only has the traditional economy improved, but the non-oil economy has considerably expanded. Manufacturing and the service industry have grown, a fledgling orange economy is taking hold, and small and medium-sized enterprises are sprouting every single day. With Guyana’s oil now producing near one million barrels per day, and with Guyana’s 50 per cent profit share and two per cent royalty growing from about 14.5 per cent to about 40 per cent of the total oil revenues, the transformation of the economy, Guyana’s infrastructure and people’s lifestyle are set to become one of the globally remarkable achievements of the 21st century. There is a reason why more than 10,000 additional vehicles are added to the roadways every eight weeks at the moment, why thousands of Guyanese families are building new homes, why thousands of SMEs are established every year, and why energy consumption has risen from less than 100MW to more than 246MW. It is not just about the GDP; it is that Guyana is expanding education and training to reach citizens everywhere. Guyana today is one of only a handful of countries that can say it provides universal access to primary and secondary education. In the 1990s, UG had fewer than 2000 students. That reached about 7,000 in 2010 and stayed around that in 2020. It is likely that the 2026-2027 student population at UG will be about 15,000. More students are registered in engineering, medicine, and legal education than ever before. There are more and better hospitals and health centres. For the first time, patients in the public sector have access to free MRIs at GPHC. For the first time, CT is accessible to patients in at least 10 public hospitals and expected to be in at least 15 of these hospitals by 2030. As part of the people-centred development, Guyana is experiencing an unprecedented housing and construction boom. More than 50,000 house lots have been distributed to Guyanese families in the last five years, and another 30,000 house lots are expected to be distributed by 2030. In addition, almost all streets and roads in every housing scheme, old and new ones, have been upgraded. Recreation grounds are being rehabilitated and upgraded, with floodlights in many of them. President Irfaan Ali is personally spearheading a modernising community project, with convenience and security as foundations. This is not a country that is trapped in a resource curse, as Bloomberg and local naysayers want us to believe. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

ith the aim of further easing traffic congestion, construction works are progressing on the new connector road linking Providence on the East Bank Demerara (EBD) corridor to the Ogle-Eccles Highway. This is according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who shared a video of the ongoing road works to his Facebook page on Tuesday. The approximately two-kilometre bypass road will continue from the Ogle end of the highway and connect to the Heroes Highway at the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge roundabout, thus creating a smoother link for commuters. The project is being undertaken by Indian firm Ashoka Buildcon Limited, which constructed the Ogle-Eccles Highway. But even as the construction works are progressing, the Ministry of Housing is currently engaging over a dozen households in Providence that will have to relocate to facilitate the new road link. This project forms part of the government's expanding road network aimed at improving connectivity and easing traffic congestion along the East Bank corridor, which takes off traffic coming from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA); from Region Three (Essequibo Island-West Demerara) via the Demerara River Bridge; and from other hinterland regions as

Works advancing to extend the Ogle–Eccles Highway to the Heroes Highway at Providence, EBD

well. In fact, the Housing Ministry has constructed two slip lanes along the Heroes Highway to facilitate traffic coming from and going onto the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge. Already, the metal barriers have been installed from the Eccles end of the western “slip lane” that runs from the Demerara River Bridge access road to the Haags Bosch Road. When completed, this lane will facilitate traffic coming off from the bridge and taking it directly onto the Haags Bosch Road, which connects to the East Bank Public Road. On the eastern side of the Heroes Highway, the additional lane has already been completed and opened up for public use, adding a third lane to accommodate traffic from the Eccles Roundabout, which con-

nects to the Ogle-Eccles Highway, to the roundabout at the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge access road. In Budget 2026, some $13 billion was earmarked to advance the Ogle-Eccles Highway to Providence connector road, which will also be further extended to Diamond, EBD. Additionally, another $28.6 billion has been allocated to continue the Heroes Highway from Buzz Bee Dam to Land of Canaan. Eventually, this highway will extend to the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Meanwhile, $8.4 billion has also been set aside to continue the upgrade of the Good Success to Timehri Road on the EBD, while some $13.1 billion has been allotted to advance works on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

T&T marks 64th Independence Day with US Energy Secretary to messages of international, regional solidarity travel to Venezuela as oil arrangement moves forward

nited States Energy Secretary Chris Wright is set to travel to Venezuela after the South American country has approved a deal that will see the US seize effective control of a large portion of its oil reserves. An anonymous US official told reporters that Wright will travel to Venezuela on Tuesday, as the Administration of President Donald Trump presses forward with the controversial energy deal. Details are still emerging about the arrangement, likened by

critics to deals imposed by colonial powers. Still, the interim Government of Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez has defended the agreement as a boon to her country’s beleaguered economy. The National Assembly, led by her brother Jorge Rodriguez, voted to back the measure on Tuesday. While details about the arrangement are still emerging, the deal is slated to give the US access to 65 billion barrels of proven oil reserves in Venezuela, about onefifth of the country’s total.

As part of the deal, the US is expected to enter into a partnership with a private company to extract fuel from 17 large Venezuelan oil fields. The lease over the oil fields will run 100 years, according to reports. The White House confirmed on Monday that it is partnering with North American Blue Energy Partners, helmed by Venezuelan businessman Alejandro Betancourt, who is a former ally of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Honduran court drops charges against former President pardoned by Trump

US President Donald Trump

Honduran court has dropped charges against former President Juan Orlando Hernandez over fraud and money laundering, judiciary authorities said on Tuesday, nine months after he was freed from prison in the United States. Judiciary spokesperson Carlos Silva told local media that the Judge concluded Hernandez was not responsible for budgetary decisions at the time of the crime and that it could not be con-

firmed that embezzled funds had been channelled into his 2013 Presidential campaign. Hernandez returned to the Central American nation in late July after being extradited to the US in 2022 on drug trafficking charges. Two years later, he was convicted and sentenced to 45 years in US prison but pardoned by US President Donald Trump late last year. Trump's pardon of Hernandez was announced two days before Honduras' November Presidential vote, in

a move widely seen as an effort to influence the country's election. Trump also said at the time that he would cut funding to Honduras should the candidate for Hernandez' rightwing National Party – now President, Nasry Asfura – not win the election. After being freed from US prison, Hernandez continued to face charges of fraud and money laundering in Honduras as part of a sprawling corruption investigation, known as Pandora II. Prosecutors had accused Hernandez and other high-profile officials of diverting nearly $11 million in state funds to political campaigns between 2010 and 2013. Some of this money allegedly was used for Hernandez's first Presidential campaign. (Excerpt from Reuters)

King Charles III (then Prince Charles) and Queen Camilla (then Duchess of Cornwall) during an official visit to Trinidad and Tobago in March 2008

rinidad and Tobago (T&T)’s 64th anniversary of independence on August 31 has drawn congratulations from King Charles III, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Caribbean leaders, who highlighted longstanding friendships, regional solidarity, and opportunities for deeper cooperation. In a message to President Christine Kangaloo, the King said he remained proud of the Commonwealth’s role in fostering “understanding, cooperation, and opportunity” around the world. He recalled his 2008 visit to T&T, particularly his

experience of the country’s biodiversity. King Charles and Queen Camilla extended their “very best wishes” to President Kangaloo and the people of T&T for a peaceful and prosperous year ahead. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated T&T on behalf of the United States. He said the relationship was “stronger than ever” as the countries work together to combat transnational crime, strengthen regional security and support energy resilience and cooperation. Rubio said the United States looked forward to continuing to advance shared priorities with T&T and building an even stron-

ger partnership in the years ahead. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley described Trinidad and Tobago as “one of the great pillars of our Caribbean family.” In a message on behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, Mottley said T&T’s “culture, creativity, enterprise and spirit” had enriched the region. V e n e z u e l a n Ambassador to T&T Álvaro Sánchez Cordero and his wife, Mónica Rey Jiménez, also extended greetings to T&T and attended the military parade at the Queen’s Park Savannah yesterday. (Excerpt from T&T Guardian)

St Kitts and Nevis PM arrives at undisclosed medical institution overseas

t Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister (PM) Dr Terrance Drew has arrived at an undisclosed medical institution overseas “without incident and is comfortably settled at the medical facility”, according to a Government statement. The statement from the Cabinet Secretariat did not disclose the facility or the country where the 49-year-old medical practitioner had been taken to but said that he had arrived at the facility “alongside his family, where he is currently undergoing scheduled diagnostic tests and specialist assessments”. Earlier, the

Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrence Drew

Government had confirmed that PM Drew had become “ill and was admitted to the Joseph N France General Hospital on the evening of Sunday, August 30, 2026”. Acting PM Dr Geoffrey Hanley said in

a nationwide broadcast on Monday night that he had spoken with the head of Government before he departed from the twin-island federation and that the “leadership team remains unified and focused, and the business of the Government and the nation continues without interruption”. In its latest statement, the Cabinet said, “The Prime Minister and his family wish to convey their sincere gratitude to the citizens and residents of Saint Kitts and Nevis, as well as regional and international partners, for the support and prayers extended to them.” (Excerpt from CMC)

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS

Nepal flood death toll crosses 1000; rescuers reach remote areas

he death toll from Nepal's devastating floods surpassed 1000 on Tuesday as rescuers deployed heavy machinery, helicopters and excavators to reach thousands still missing nearly a week after the Himalayan disaster tore through towns and valleys. Specialised rescue teams from China, India and Nepal built temporary bridges to reach remote areas and dug through the ruins of hydropower projects, using excavators to try to rescue nearly 300 workers trapped inside tunnels. A glacier collapse on August 26 sent a deluge of ice, rock and mud sweeping through the impoverished nation's border region with China. At least 639 persons remain stranded in devastated hydropower stations that have become the focus of rescue efforts, Nepal's disaster management authority

Oil settles up more than US$4/barrel on renewed US-Iran fighting

People scout for usable materials from debris after flash floods at Trishuli Centre in Nepal's Nuwakot district

said on Tuesday. The death toll rose to 1050, while about 4000 persons remain missing, including 583 foreign nationals. The disaster left at least 2.2 million tonnes of debris, according to a preliminary estimate by the United

Nations Development Programme (UNDP), including parts of buildings, rocks, and sediment. "The amount of debris shows the scale of the destruction and the challenge communities face as they clear homes, roads and public spaces

and begin to rebuild," it said. More than 11,000 persons have been rescued, and power and communication lines were restored in some areas, Prime Minister Balendra Shah said in a social media post on Monday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

il prices jumped more than US$4 a barrel on Tuesday, settling at a five-week high, as traders feared more supply disruptions from the Middle East due to renewed fighting between the US and Iran. Brent futures rose US$4.16, or 4.6 per cent, to settle at US$94.65 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose US$4.46, or 5.2 per cent, to settle at US$90.22. That was the highest close for Brent since July 24 and for WTI since July 23. Disruptions at refineries around the world, especially in the Middle East and in Russia, have caused diesel prices to spike. In the US, diesel futures jumped to a 52-month high on Tuesday after soaring 51 per cent over the past 10 weeks, boosting the diesel crack spread, which measures refining profit margins, to a record high of around US$107 a barrel, according to LSEG data. The oil market was watching ⁠for weekly storage reports from the American Petroleum Institute trade group on Tuesday and the US Energy Information Administration on Wednesday. Analysts estimated energy firms pulled 0.8 million barrels of crude from storage during the week ended August 28. If correct, that would be the first decline in five ⁠weeks and compares with an increase of 2.4 million barrels in the same week last year and an average decrease of 5.1 million barrels over the past five years (2021 to 2025). (Excerpt from Reuters)

US launches new airstrikes on Iranian targets as hostilities flare

Germany says Russia behind Leipzig airport drone attack T

ermany has said Russia was responsible for last month's drone attack at Leipzig's airport. A drone carrying an explosive device was discovered at Leipzig/ Halle Airport in eastern Germany, close to Ukrainian cargo planes, on August 4. It failed to explode as the detonator was apparently faulty, and investigators suspect a second drone collided with a cargo aircraft nearby. A third drone was reportedly found near the airport 10 days later. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the Leipzig airport attack followed the

"well-established pattern of Russian hybrid operations in Europe" and the assumption was that Germany would be targeted again. The Russian embassy in Berlin said the allegation was "absurd". Dobrindt said examination of the equipment used along with intelligence findings proved Russian involvement in the attack. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who was standing beside Dobrindt at a press conference in Berlin, said he would order the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn, and the contract for the Russian House in

An investigator in protective gear stands next to a bomb disposal robot at Leipzig/Halle Airport

Berlin will also be terminated – which many observers have said has been used for espionage and to spread Russian propaganda. He also announced tighter entry controls for Russian nationals and vowed to increase pressure on Moscow's shadow fleet – old tankers used by Russia

to circumvent Western sanctions following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Wadephul said he had summoned Russia's ambassador to Germany, Sergei Nechayev. He was seen arriving at the foreign ministry shortly after the announcement. (Excerpt from BBC News)

he US launched new airstrikes on Iranian targets on Tuesday, quashing hopes that an exchange of fire last weekend might not presage a wider renewal of hostilities. Oil prices had already risen after that first exchange of direct attacks since July and after reports of two tankers being hit leaving the Strait of Hormuz, the global oil supply waterway that Iran has effectively closed to shipping. Tehran remained defiant, warning that it would prevent oil being exported from the Gulf, despite a threat by Donald Trump to hit Iran “hard” in response to the renewed Iranian strikes and a warning from Scott Bessent, the US Treasury secretary, that Washington was about to impose new sanctions. “Today at 12:00h ET, US forces began striking Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) tar-

gets in Iran,” US Central Command posted on X. “The strikes follow recent attempted attacks by the IRGC against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and against American service members deployed to the region.” Iran’s state broadcaster said there had been reports of explosions on Iran’s Qeshm Island, on the northern side of the strait. The state-linked news agency Nour News said there had been reports of explosions in the port city of Bandar Abbas and in Chabahar, a port on the southern coast. The six-month conflict had shifted into an economic standoff before the weekend strikes, in which US forces attacked Iran’s Larak Island on Sunday and Iran responded by launching missiles at two US airbases in Jordan. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Taking a creative approach will help broaden your scope and encourage you to step outside your comfort zone. What you embrace will resonate with people who have some(March 21-April 19) thing to contribute. Having consideration for others will help you gain respect and the help you need to get things done properly and on time. Giving a pep talk or taking the initiative to lead others will (April 20-May 20) boost your confidence. Change begins with you. Research and fill your head with ideas and solutions. Take a step forward with the intent of making a difference. Change your social circle to reflect your beliefs.

PICKLES

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Tidy up. Tuck things away, and clear your house and your mind of all the clutter. Take pressure off yourself so you can reclaim your freedom. Allow yourself the time to use your imagination. Be receptive to different lifestyles, new beginnings and shedding negative influences from your orbit. Change begins with you, and your happiness is your responsibility. Learn from the past. Your timing is essential. Refuse to let pressure push you to make a premature move. Do your homework. Put your energy into expanding your knowledge and gaining experience. A change at home will lift your spirits. Refuse to let extra energy stir up anxiety and disagreements with loved ones. Focus on progress and putting your house in order. Watch, wait and sum up what's happening before you engage. Refuse to let emotions take over and lead to regret. Follow the path that allows you to immerse yourself in creative endeavors. Keep your life simple, be a good listener and don't rock the boat. Too much of anything will lead to trouble. Focus on home, inner growth and having a healthy lifestyle. Pay attention to money matters and subscriptions you no longer use or want. Focus on bringing money in, not letting it slip through your fingers. Don't let anger grow.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

A long-overdue change is waiting for your go-ahead. Refuse to let emotions stand in your way or lead you astray. Put your heart and soul into what you want.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Attending networking events or getting together with people who share your interests will be rejuvenating and offer food for thought. Consider an idea that allows you to use your skills in a different industry.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Craig named Best Referee at prestigious PAL International Boxing Championships G

uyanese referee Germain Craig has received international recognition after being named the Best Referee at the 48th Annual National PAL International Boxing Championships in Oxnard, California. The prestigious tournament, held from August 24–29 at the Oxnard PAL Gymnasium, brought together some of the best amateur boxers in the United States and international competitors, with athletes between the ages of eight and 40 competing across novice and open divisions. The championships featured boxers representing 13 countries, while the officiating panel included referees from several parts of the world. Craig was the only Guyanese official selected to officiate at the tournament, making his recognition as

the competition’s outstanding referee a significant achievement for both the official and Guyana’s amateur boxing fraternity. Speaking following his return to Guyana, Craig said the award was a reflection of the work and dedication he has invested in developing himself as a referee while also acknowledging the role of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) in his progress. “All my officiating is finally paying off, but this is not the final stop for me as an official. I’m trying to reach the highest level in boxing, not in the Caribbean or Guyana only, but in the world,” Craig said. Craig was among a number of local officials who benefited from a referee and officials development programme hosted by the GBA with three-star referee assessor James Beckles.

He believes the regular training and exposure have played an important role in preparing Guyanese officials to operate at higher levels internationally. According to Craig, "This seminar that Mr [Steve] Ninvalle has every year with Mr Beckles is very important. He [Beckles] updates us on the new rules because things change in the world. So that training programme also helped to prepare me, because I left Guyana after the Caribbean School Boys and Juniors tournament and went to the tournament in the US, and it made things much easier for me.” Craig's ambitions, however, extend beyond his own development. He wants to see more Guyanese referees gain international exposure and believes local officials should be encouraged to pursue opportunities outside Guyana

Germain Craig was named the Best Referee at the 48th Annual National PAL International Boxing Championships

and the Caribbean. Meanwhile, GBA President Steve

Ninvalle congratulated Craig on the accomplishment, describing it

as an important achievement for the association and Guyana’s amateur boxing programme. Ninvalle hailed Craig as one of the country’s best referees and said he believes the official has a promising future in the sport. He noted that Craig has consistently demonstrated commitment to boxing and a willingness to learn and improve. The GBA President also expressed hope that Craig’s achievement will inspire other local officials to remain committed to their development and pursue opportunities on the international stage. Ninvalle said the GBA will continue to play its part in developing referees and other officials, recognising that strong officiating is an essential component of the continued growth and professionalism of amateur boxing in Guyana.

Ogle cruise to 4-wicket victory over LBI A

he East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) Naven’s Construction First Division 50 Overs Competition resumed over the weekend, with Ogle recording a convincing four-wicket victory over LBI A at the Ogle Cricket Ground on Sunday. LBI A, after winning the toss, elected to bat first but struggled against a disciplined Ogle bowling attack and was dismissed for just 99 in 16.1 overs.

N. Mathura provided the main resistance for LBI A, top-scoring with 38 runs, but the remainder of the batting lineup failed to make significant contributions. Inderjeet Nanan was the chief destroyer for Ogle, claiming four wickets for just seven runs from his three overs. Deion Thomas provided excellent support, taking two wickets for 13 runs from 2.1 overs as Ogle quickly wrapped up the LBI A

Inderjit Nanan had four wickets

innings. In reply, Ogle made light work of the modest target, reaching 100 for four from just 10 overs to secure victory with 40 overs to spare. Andrew Samaroo led the successful run chase with a well-played 34, while Michael Deonarine contributed 30 to ensure Ogle remained comfortably ahead of the required run rate throughout the innings.

N. Khan was the most successful bowler for LBI A, claiming three wickets for 30 runs from his three overs, but Ogle's batsmen maintained control to complete the four-wicket win. The result gives Ogle a positive start to the resumption of the East Coast Cricket Board's Naven’s Construction First Division 50-Overs Competition, while LBI A will look to regroup for their upcoming fixture.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Briton John dominates Flying Ace 20-lap cycle race B

riton John produced a commanding performance to win the Flying Ace Cycle Club’s 20lap road race around the outer circuit of the National Park on Sunday. Representing We Stand United (WSU), John completed the race in one hour, 52 minutes and 26 seconds. He also captured five prime prizes during the event, underlining his dominance. Continental Cycle Club junior Alexander Leung delivered an impressive ride to finish second overall, while Robin Persaud of AC Marriott Carlton Wheelers secured third place. Aaron Newton of KFC Evolution placed fourth, followed by

John and Alexander Leung led for more than half of the race en route to the top two podium spots Briton John (right) received his winner’s trophy, along with five sprint prizes and the winner’s purse

Kaieteur Attack Cycle

Club’s

Alex

Mendes

in fifth, and Paul DeNobrega in sixth. Defending champion Jamual John was unable to challenge

for consecutive honours. He does not ride or train regularly and could not match the pace required to retain

his crown. Leung’s strong showing also earned him first place in the junior category. Persaud topped the Veterans Open division, ahead of Mendes and Segun Hubbard. Ian Jackson won the Veterans Over-50 category, with Nigel London taking second. In the Category Four contest, Collis Williams claimed first place, Quincy Punch finished second and Kevin Seaton secured third. During the presentation ceremony, officials from race sponsor Farm Supplies Guyana Limited expressed satisfaction with the organisation of the event. They also pledged the company’s continued support for the race in the future.

CIC Insurance Brokers backs DCB T10 Young Warriors in winners’ row, mixed results for Port Mourant Fundraiser Tournament

IC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc has partnered with the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) for its upcoming T10 Fundraiser Tournament, which is scheduled for November 22 at the LBI Ground. The tournament will feature eight franchise teams battling for a first-place prize of $1 million, while also helping the DCB raise funds to support the continued growth and development of cricket across Demerara. The partnership was formally announced during a presentation ceremony at CIC Insurance Brokers' Lot A52, Barima Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown location. During the presentation, CIC Insurance Brokers General Manager Preneta Bharosay handed over the company's financial contribution to DCB

CIC Insurance Brokers General Manager Preneta Bharosay handed over the company's financial contribution to DCB Secretary Davteerth Anandjit

Secretary Davteerth Anandjit. Bharosay said the company's support for the tournament reflects its commitment to community development and initiatives that encourage resilience, teamwork and community pride. CIC Insurance Brokers is an insurance broking and risk management firm which also provides claims advoca-

cy services. The DCB welcomed the company as a partner and expressed confidence that the tournament will provide an entertaining day of cricket while promoting unity and contributing to the development of the sport. The presentation ceremony was also attended by Surendra Hiralal and Jiadavi Mohan.

he Port Mourant Cricket Club had a mixed weekend as they recorded a win in the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Under-23 but suffered a defeat in the 40-overs second division tournament over the weekend. In the second division quarter-final at Port Mourant, Young Warriors defeated the home team by seven wickets. Port Mourant opted to bat first and posted 134 all out in 28 overs. Balram Chapdell, 63, made a not out. Bowling for the visitors, Mark Jackman claimed 4-32 in eight overs, while Jermain Henry had 4-36 in seven overs. In reply, young warriors raced to 138-3 in 19.3 overs. Ricardo Ramdeholl led the way with an unbeaten 77 while Vishal Mahabir scored 36. In the earlier fixture during this weekend, Port Mourant Under-23 se-

Rampersaud Ramnauth

cured a comprehensive 10-wicket win against Bush Lot United. After winning the toss, Bush Lot United U23 elected to bat first and were bowled out for 136 runs in 30.2 overs. Akash Ramdewar and Saif Satar scored 33 each.

Bowling for Port Mourant Cricket Club U23

Gibran Yacoob was impressive with 4-27

in 10 overs. Doodnauth Seemangal had 3-24, while Salim Khan chipped in with two wickets. Chasing 137 for victory, Port Mourant made light work of the target, racing to 137 without loss in just 20.2 overs. R a m p e r s a u d Ramnauth led the way with a brilliant unbeaten 66, while Romeo Deonarine provided excellent support with an unbeaten 51.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Price Is Right T20 tournament…

No 72 All Stars dethrone 2-time champions Cut and Load to win title …champions pocket $600,000; Mathura named Tournament MVP

The 2026 Price Is Right Supermarket T20 champions, Number 72 All Stars

umber 72 All Stars ended the two-year reign of fellow Number 72 Village side Cut and Load to capture the 2026 Price Is Right Supermarket T20 title, completing an impressive run through the latter stages of the 24team competition. All Stars defeated the two-time defending champions in the final after Cut and Load, batting first, were restricted to 86 runs from their allotted 20 overs. Clint Beresford led Cut and Load’s batting with 39, but All Stars prevented the defending champions from building the larger total they would have wanted in the championship encounter. Omech Mathura led the attack with three for 25, a performance which earned him the Best Bowler of the Final award. Set 87 to dethrone the defending champions, All Stars success-

fully chased down the target to secure the championship. Ramesh Chatterpaul played a key role in the victory, scoring 31 and also claiming one wicket. His all-round contribution earned him the Man of the Match award. Beresford’s 39 earned him the Best Batsman of the Final award. The victory was particularly significant for All Stars given the route they were forced to take to reach the championship game. The competition, which began on August 2, attracted 24 second-division teams from across Upper Corentyne, including Black Bush Polder, and was initially contested on a knockout basis. The final three teams remaining, Cut and Load, Number 73 Young Warriors and All Stars, then entered a playoff to determine the two finalists.

Cut and Load defeated Young Warriors to secure the first place

championship game to end their hold on the title.

was adjudged the tournament's best batsman after accumulating 150 runs, while Samir Jameer captured the tournament's best bowler award after taking 16 wickets. Mathura completed an outstanding tournament by being named Most Valuable Player (MVP) after scoring 140 runs and taking 12 wickets during the competition. The MVP award gave Mathura his second individual honour at the presentation ceremony, having already collected the Best Bowler of the Final prize for his three for 25. The tournament was sponsored by Price Is Right Supermarket and organised by the Upper

Clint Beresford top-scored with 39

in the final, leaving Young Warriors and All Stars to battle for the remaining championship spot. All Stars won that elimination encounter, earning themselves another opportunity to face the champions. They made that second opportunity count, turning the tables on Cut and Load in the

At the presentation ceremony, All Stars received the championship trophy, $600,000 and medals for the players. Cut and Load collected the runners-up trophy, $300,000 and medals, while Number 73 Young Warriors received the third-place trophy and $100,000. Chaitram Arjune

Corentyne Cricket Association. Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) President Dr Cecil Beharry praised both organisations for staging the competition and said the support Price Is Right continues to provide extends beyond cricket. Beharry said com-

panies have a social responsibility to give back to the communities from which they operate and argued that Price Is Right has done more than its fair share for Upper Corentyne. He identified the Price Is Right T20 tournament, which residents look forward to on the Upper Corentyne’s social calendar. “So, we should all say a big thank you to Price Is Right for sponsoring this very wonderful tournament in the Upper Corentyne area,” Beharry said. He congratulated both finalists before reserving special praise for the new champions. “And the biggest congratulations to All Stars for winning this final. Kudos to you,” he said. Beharry also pointed to the large turnout for the championship match as evidence of the continued strength of the game in the county. “On behalf of the Berbice Cricket Board, I can safely say that cricket is alive and well in Berbice,” he told those gathered for the presentation. The BCB President also highlighted the county's performances in inter-county cricket so far this year, noting that Berbice had emerged champions at the under-13 and under-16 levels and runners-up at the under-19. He said those performances showed that Berbice cricket continues to be strong. However, the day belonged to the No. 72 All Stars. (G-4)

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Redford steers One Callendar embraces Guyana Racing team to pressure ahead of GT Challenge double

3rd consecutive Chess Olympiad

ill Redford and Peter Lewis Construction kept the Golden Arrowhead flying high over the weekend at the Bushy Park Circuit in Barbados, where the GT Challenge de las Americas Round Four took centre stage. Between the One Guyana Racing Team and Rameez Mohamed, it was a productive weekend for Guyana’s motor sport, which showed its class. Redford took the cake in the GTS class, claiming the chequered flag in both races. Steering the Peter Lewis Construction Mercedes-AMG GT3, Redford had a best lap of 58.061s in the first race for an overall time of 31:18.672 and the victory. He returned to race two to produce a best lap of 57.185s and an overall time of 31:52.709 in 31 laps for another first-place finish. On both instances, Trinidadian duo Zachary Boodram and Kristian Boodosingh claimed second place while Carlos Hernandez and Juan Diego Hernandez completed the podium. Following his second successive win at Bushy Park in Barbados, Redford reflected on the victory and shared which race is next on his radar. “Very sweaty, very

Will Redford takes a photo opportunity with his machine after back-to-back wins

tired, but could’ve done much more, I think. So, two wins, two fastest laps. Yeah, just relieved, happy, and thankful for the team, Peter Lewis Construction and everybody that’s put this programme together and everybody that’s trusted me along the way,” Redford shared in an interview. The British driver added, “Just can’t wait for more.” Turning his attention to the next stop of the Peter Lewis Construction’s agenda, Redford disclosed, “Next will be the clash in November. Of course, probably not doing it next go because we don’t want to risk getting the car stuck in between; coming back from Mexico to Guyana is quite a tight

turnaround. So, the car is going back to Guyana, and we’ll be ready for the clash in November.” Meanwhile, Rameez Mohamed also showed up for the Guyanese contingent. Steering his KTM X-Bow, Mohamed had a best lap of 1:03.547 and 32:30.549 overall for a second-place finish in his first GTS Turbo race. However, the Guyanese driver rebounded well, producing a best lap of 1:06.314 and, overall, 32.16.666 for first place in the second race. While Juan Diego Hernandez and Tatiana Calderon won the first GTS Turbo race, they had to settle for second in the following contest, behind Mohamed’s dominance.

The team behind Redford and the Mercedes-AMG GT3 celebrate their victory

oman Candidate Master (WCM) Jessica Callendar is aiming to make Guyana proud when she competes at her third consecutive Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan. Speaking to Guyana Times Sport, the 24-yearold described her selection as both a privilege and the rewarding conclusion of a demanding qualification process. Callendar played more than 40 games, many lasting over two hours, to prove that she deserved a place on the national team. “I always feel privileged when I am able to represent Guyana, but it is also incredibly cathartic,” Callendar said. “Having successfully done all that, it is cathartic to complete that process and see all of that effort culminate in a spot on the national team.” She explained that qualifying locally presents a special challenge because players are familiar with each other’s styles and approaches. This forces competitors to decide whether to adjust their plans for each opponent or trust their usual methods. Although earning selection brings satisfaction, Callendar understands that representing Guyana on the global stage carries even greater pressure. However, she said it is a challenge she willingly embraces. Her goal at the Olympiad is straightforward: win as many games as possible, help the national team, and reward the people who have supported her journey. “I am blessed with immense support from my family, federation, sponsors, Government, friends, students, and general fans of the game from across Guyana, and I hope to reward their faith in me with impressive results in Uzbekistan,” she said.

Callendar WCM Jessica Callendar is aiming believes her to make Guyana proud when she previous incompetes at her third consecutive ternationChess Olympiad in Uzbekistan al appearof improvement, includances have taught her that reputa- ing reaching an endgame tions and ratings should against a stronger player, never intimidate a player. earning a draw, managing She credited her training her time better, or identifyin Shotokan karate with ing a tactic she previously ISKF-Guyana, under the would have missed. Those milestones, toguidance of Kocho Sensei gether with encourageChristopher Chaves, for helping to shape that ment from senior players such as Yolander Sammy mindset. “Even when facing and Loris Nathoo, motivatstronger opponents, any- ed her to continue. Many one is beatable, but only if experienced players also you always show up ready offered advice after defeatto give 100 per cent of your ing her, helping to guide effort to every match,” she her development and, eventually, inspiring her said. Callendar added that a to become a chess coach. Callendar said karate player’s best performance remains the same regard- has remained an importless of the opponent sit- ant part of her success, ting across the board. She providing much of the disintends to approach every cipline, patience, determatch with confidence and mination and emotionthorough preparation, deal strength that she now spite facing some of the carries into every chess match. world’s leading players. The Olympiad atmosphere also holds special meaning for her. Having played chess for more than a decade, Callendar said it is inspiring to compete in the same venue as players she has admired throughout her career. She also values the opportunity to meet competitors from different countries and backgrounds who are united by their passion for chess. Callendar began playing at 11 and admitted that she never imagined she would eventually represent Guyana at numerous international tournaments. Her early years were difficult, with some competitions ending without a single victory. However, she learned to appreciate smaller signs

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

Amazon Warriors touch down for Republic Bank CPL home leg

resh off an emphatic nine-run victory via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method in Trinidad and Tobago on Monday night, the Guyana Amazon Warriors have touched down on local shores ahead of their home leg of the Republic Bank

Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The local franchise arrived on Tuesday afternoon ahead of their five-match home stretch, which will see them going into action against the Jamaica Kingsmen first on Friday, September 4. On Sunday,

September 6, the Amazon Warriors will take on the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots before turning their attention to the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons on Tuesday, September 8. The local franchise will close out their home stint with clash-

es against the St Lucia Kings on Wednesday, September 9, and the Trinbago Knight Riders on Friday, September 11. Amazon Warriors Captain Imran Tahir said on Monday night in anticipation of the team’s home leg, “We’ve been on the road; it’s not

easy. We know that, but these four games were really crucial for us, and I’m really proud of the boys; we won all four. So, going home is going to be a good joy, but like I said, we have to restart again.” The Amazon Warriors are currently unbeaten,

after recording four victories in as many games. They sit second on the points table with eight points and an impressive +2.604 run rate, behind the Falcons with nine points from eight games. The Kings and Kingsmen round out the top four, both with eight points.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026

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Amazon Warriors touch down for Republic Bank CPL home leg

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