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The Court of Appeal, on Wednesday, heard oral arguments in the case filed by the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) against the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), challenging a High Court ruling that upheld the party’s exclusion from contesting in Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine during the 2025 General and Regional Elections.

The matter was heard before Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Roxane George  and Justices of Appeal Rishi Persaud and Naresh Harnanan.

Appearing on behalf of FGM candidate Krystal Fisher was Attorney Dr Vivian Williams, while GECOM was represented by Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan and Arud Gossai. Attorney General, Anil Nandlall is the second named respondent in the case. He appeared and was assisted by Shoshanna Lall and Raeanna Clarke.

All parties filed written submissions earlier but were permitted to make oral arguments in support of their positions during Wednesday’s hearing.

Fisher’s notice of appeal argues that Chief Justice (ag.) Navindra Singh erred in law when he held that placing a political party on the ballot in a geographic constituency where it did not field candidates, stating that would undermine the constitutional objective of inclusivity and representation of smaller or more remote communities.

She also contends that he erred in ruling that the omission of the FGM and the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) from ballots in certain constituencies was lawful.

During the Wednesday hearing, the court heard that the appellant has not paid the costs awarded by the High Court. As such, the acting Chancellor noted that while the appeal will proceed, the appellant should not disobey the court’s order.

Fisher is asking the Appeal Court to set aside that ruling, declare that the omissions were unlawful and unconstitutional, and direct GECOM to ensure that all qualifying political parties are included on ballot papers in every geographic constituency for future elections.

Chief Justice Singh had ruled on August 29, 2025 that GECOM was correct to enforce the requirement that political parties submit candidate lists for every district they intend to contest. Since FGM and ALP failed to do so in the three regions they were excluded. Dismissing the case in its entirety, Singh said GECOM acted within the law.

High Court: GECOM right to keep parties of Amanza Walton, Simona Broomes off the ballot in some regions

At Wednesday’s hearing, Attorney Dr Williams maintained that the Appeal Court has full jurisdiction to hear the matter, describing it as one concerning constitutional rights rather than election validity.

He argued that the Chief Justice’s ruling reversed an essential right entrenched in the Constitution. According to Dr Williams, had Fisher requests been granted, the elections could have continued without leaving any residual constitutional question as to whether they were lawfully conducted.

Williams further argued that Fisher was disenfranchised, that her constitutional rights were violated, and that the exclusion amounted to discrimination. He also reminded the court that the matter was filed after members of the Disciplined Services had already voted, though he stressed that this did not take away from the constitutional issues raised.

Responding, Senior Counsel Astaphan described the appeal as “extraordinary,” stressing that FGM had simply chosen not to contest three regions.

“The political party made a decision not to contest three regions. There is no other explanation. The constitutional and statutory right in Guyana is to vote for options on the list. If there is no choice, then that’s their loss. Nobody will be denied of their right to vote. Every individual has the right to vote for other parties on the list,” Astaphan said.

Nandlall argued that the matters raised in the appeal fall squarely under the jurisdiction of an election petition and not the Court of Appeal.

“They seek to challenge parts of the elections, parts of the electoral process. The High Court or Appeal Court can’t deal with these matters. The decision of GECOM cannot be questioned. The case has no merit. It should have never been filed,” Nandlall argued.

Oral arguments concluded on Wednesday. The Court of Appeal is expected to deliver its decision on Thursday.

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As climate change brings hotter conditions and dry spells across Guyana, the government is stepping up efforts to support farmers in hinterland communities should they face any serious water shortages.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Wednesday addressed the issue in an interview at the sidelines of an event.

He said the Ministry has been proactive in putting systems in place.

“We have been working with the farmers there. We are trying to avoid any drought-like problems… because over the last few years, we have done a lot of water catchment ponds in the hinterland communities.

“We haven’t received any complaints yet of water problem, but our officers, they are monitoring the situation, and we are working very closely with the village councils across the Hinterland Community,” the minister said.

In recent years, dozens of catchment ponds have been constructed in drought-prone villages, particularly in Region Nine, to store water during the wet season for use during dry periods. The Agriculture Ministry also expanded drainage and irrigation works and invested in new pump stations to support farmers on the coast.

Guyana has been experiencing longer dry seasons due to changing weather patterns and the effects of El Niño. While some areas have seen wildfires and water stress, the Agriculture Ministry says systems are in place to cushion farmers against major losses.

Potable water access in hinterland communities has also increased significantly through new wells and water infrastructure, providing relief to households that previously faced shortages.

Minister Mustapha noted that the government will continue to monitor conditions and respond where needed.

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Traffic congestion along the East Bank Demerara corridor remains a challenge, and motorists are being urged to exercise patience as major construction continues along the roadways.

Assistant Superintendent of Police, Michael Ramdas, is the Traffic Officer of District 4B.

His area of responsibility is vast, stretching from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri to the National Stadium at Providence, and covering both the old and new Harbour Bridges. He is familiar with the massive road work ongoing.

“The length of construction is very large and at different points.

“So I am asking persons who use the East Bank public road, obey the traffic laws, obey the traffic ranks directions and you will get there on time. Do not try to overtake, undertake or form another lane and then expect the Police to hoist your vehicle back into line,” Ramdas said.

He was at the time addressing the traffic woes during a recent episode of ‘Police and You’ programme.

According to Ramdas, the Soesdyke highway is a critical but narrow roadway. He said it is the only available route for traffic coming from Linden and the interior. With no diversion roads, he said patience and discipline are key.

“Persons need to stay in line and stop overtaking unnecessarily. If you have to reach in an hour, leave an hour before. That’s all I can ask you,” Ramdas said.

He also encouraged carpooling to reduce congestion.

Adding to the challenge are heavy-duty trucks moving construction materials.

Ramdas revealed that the Police have reached out to sand pit owners to ensure drivers properly cover their trays, but not all have complied.

“Those who fail to comply, when we catch them, we charge them and place them before the court. They pay a fine, but some return and do the same thing again. The most we can do is enforce,” he explained.

Ramdas also highlighted traffic enforcement at night, targeting vehicles with improper or dangerous lighting.

“To some extent, the bright lights install are at the rear of the vehicles. It’s dangerous. My advice to truck and lorry drivers is the law is the law. The law doesn’t say anything about fog lamps. My advice to them is to develop different and better driving habits,” Ramdas stressed.

Turning his attention to motorcyclists, who continue to lead road fatalities, Ramdas strongly urged riders to wear safety helmets and avoid reckless overtaking.

“Follow the rules of the road, follow the traffic laws. Please, I am begging motorcyclists, be careful on the roadways. Do not overtake as if you don’t care about your life,” he said.

Despite the frustrations, ASP Ramdas said arrangements are being made to ease the situation on the East Bank.

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Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha placed massive emphasis on Guyana’s rapidly developing agriculture sector at the launch of Agriculture Month 2025.

The month being observed under the theme: “Transforming livelihoods through Agri-food systems.” The ministry has a schedule packed with activities to highlight these advancements and the stakeholders.

Minister Mustapha said the government’s $104 billion budgetary allocation is driving growth across multiple subsectors, allowing the country to meet domestic demand while positioning itself to become the breadbasket of the Caribbean.

“For the first time in our country’s history, we are producing corn and soya, and I’m hoping by next year, we can be self-sufficient in producing all our needs to reduce the import bill of corn by US$40 million,” Minister Mustapha said.

He added that the country is now involved in hydroponics. He also said that with new interests, the sector is creating new opportunities for young people.

“As we grow this sector, we are creating meaningful employment, which helps to reduce poverty, and promote equity in every single region,” he said.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha at the launch of Agriculture Month 2025.

Guyana continues to see strong production figures. According to Mustapha, the investments go beyond production as infrastructure remains a major concern for stakeholders and the government is working to improve it.

He said significant works—including the construction of new pump stations, canals, and drainage and irrigation systems in Regions Five and Six—are also bringing relief to farmers.

Turning to the diversification of the sector, he said Guyana has started producing Vietnamese prawns and expanded black shrimp output from 10,000 kilogrammes monthly to approximately 120,000 kilogrammes. Mustapha also noted a sharp reduction in piracy, crediting the Ministry’s interventions over the last five years.

GRDB 18 – a new long grain high yielding variety of rice launched in 2024.

Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Vikash Ramkissoon, reminded those gathered at the launch that agriculture has long been a cornerstone of Guyana’s development. He said traditional crops – rice and sugar – have historically been driving forces for the economy.

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative Gillian Smith commended the focus on building resilience.

“Agriculture is not just about the crops and the livestock. It is the backbone of rural livelihoods. It’s a driver of innovation worldwide,” Smith said.

She also said with record outputs, modernised infrastructure, and expanding diversification, Guyana’s agriculture sector is advancing at a rapid pace and strengthening its role as a key driver of growth, employment, and food security.

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The Guyana Police Force is probing an incident at Albouystown, Georgetown, after a loaded firearm was discharged on Tuesday night, causing damage to a resident’s car.

Police said the incident occurred at about 21:40hrs, between Cooper and Non Pareil Streets, Independence Boulevard, Albouystown.

A plumber, 28, living in the area, said he was at home with his child when he heard several loud explosions suspected to be gunshots. He took cover, and he later observed that his motor car, which was parked in front of his home, had sustained damage believed to be caused by the gunfire.

Police ranks, including members of the Crime Scene Unit, visited the location and processed the scene. Several spent shell casings were recovered, and CCTV cameras observed in the area will be reviewed. Police did not have any reports of injuries, and persons in the vicinity are assisting with the investigation.

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A foreign national, a shop owner and a construction worker were on Tuesday threatened and robbed while at a shop at Lamaha Park, Squatting Area, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

According to a statement from the Guyana Police Force, the incident occurred at about 14:30 hrs.

The 33-year-old businesswoman, was at the time selling to the 36-year-old foreign national, and a 27-year-old construction worker, when they were confronted by two armed suspects.

The victims were held at gunpoint and the suspects threatened to shoot them. They were relieved of their valuables, including cash, jewelry, and cell phones.

They were subsequently told to lie face down before the suspects escaped on foot in an easterly direction.

The Police were alerted of the crime soon after and Police ranks visited the scene, where a preliminary investigation was conducted. CCTV cameras were observed in the area and will be reviewed, while persons in the vicinity are assisting with the investigation.

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Press Release from Cricket West Indies 

Cricket West Indies (CWI) today announced that the Board of Directors has approved the recommendations for International Retainer Contracts for the 2025/26 season, which commences on October 1.

Contracts have been offered to both West Indies Men’s and Women’s players following the 2024/25 evaluation period, with selections based on performance and projected involvement in upcoming fixtures.

This contract cycle also includes the continuation and expansion of multi-year agreements, designed to reward consistent performers, provide greater security, and strengthen CWI’s ability to retain top talent.

CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, said: “We have placed a premium on both current performance and long-term potential, while keeping a close eye on our broader strategy of building towards major global tournaments, in addition to ensuring stability for our top performers, and aligning our pathways with long-term success for West Indies cricket.” 

West Indies Men’s Contracts 2025/26 

Senior Men: Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd and Jomel Warrican

Starter Contracts (Development): Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades and Johann Layne 

Men’s Academy: Ackeem Auguste, Ryan Bandoo, Jediah Blades, Rivaldo Clarke, Mavendra Dindyal, Giovonte Depeiza, Nathan Edward, Damel Evelyn, Amari Goodridge, Mbeki Joseph, Johann Layne, Zishan Motara, Kelvin Pittman, Renico Smith and Carlon Tuckett 

West Indies Women’s Contracts 2025/26 

Senior Women: Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Shawnisha Hector, Chinelle Henry, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Hayley Matthews, Ashmini Munisar, Stafanie Taylor and Karishma Ramharack 

Starter Contracts (Development): Jahzara Claxton and Realeanna Grimmond 

Women’s Academy: Abigail Bryce, Asabi Callender, NaiJanni Cumberbatch, Shabika Gajnabi, Brianna Harricharan, Trishan Holder, Djenaba Joseph, Nyia Latchman, Samara Ramnath, Amrita Ramtahal, Selena Ross, Shunelle Sawh, Steffie Soogrim and Kate Wilmott

 

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Nepal came into Sharjah eyeing a historic whitewash, but ran into a revived West Indies side that put on the perfect game. However, that shouldn’t take away too much from their impressive feat of completing their first series win against a Full Member nation.

Ramon Simmonds, one of the two changes they made, took a match-winning four-for after West Indies made the right call of bowling first on a pitch that was slow and offered regular sideways movement. Openers Amir Jangoo and Ackeem Auguste capitalised under easing conditions to take West Indies to their first-ever 10-wicket win.

Nepal’s start was sedate but secure with Kushal Malla and Bhurtel often in control of their shots. Bhurtel even whacked Mayers on the roof in the third over.

The first sign of danger was Hosein getting turn and bounce in the third over to beat Bhurtel’s sweep, and the shot did connect the next ball for a six over square leg. Nonetheless, free-flowing strokeplay wasn’t to be seen.

The effect of Nepal facing 20 dots in their 37-run powerplay was slightly mitigated by three fours and two sixes.

Holder found success right after the powerplay using his high release and bounce. Malla was nearly caught behind trying to drive on the up through cover, Fabian Allen ran back from cover and dropped a tough chance off Bhurtel, and Malla’s edge was found the last ball.

The spinners capitalised on the slowness and the sideways movement on offer. Hosein spun the ball away from around the wicket to beat the bat twice in the eighth over.

Despite losing the final game, Nepal won the series 2-1

Bhurtel and Paudel tried to break free after two quiet overs. After a first-ball six, both batters could’ve been out. Paudel survived an lbw as Hosein overstepped, but Bhurtel was caught at slip playing the reverse sweep. He wasn’t happy as the ball may have gone off just his forearm.

Simmonds had a late introduction with Nepal needing to play within themselves. His lengths were often short or full and he bagged the wickets of Paudel – gloved pull to the keeper – and Aarif Sheikh – upper cut to deep third – in his first two overs.

In between, Gulsan Jha was run out after taking a head start too far before running back. Nepal made 62 for 5 in the middle overs despite West Indies dropping two chances.

Simmons and Blades took two wickets each in the death overs. A couple of boundaries from Lokesh Bam and Sundeep Jora took Nepal to 122.

West Indies’ chase got off to a flier. In the first over, Auguste ensured that West Indies, too, hit a six on the roof. Karan KC was punished upon offering pace and missing his line. The openers peppered the leg-side boundary. With a four in each of the next four overs, West Indies bossed the 47-run powerplay.

Paudel dropped a simple chance off Auguste, on 29, at cover. There were no further chances of a Nepal comeback, certainly not after Mohammad Aadil Alam was taken down for 18 in the ninth over. Jangoo losing his bottom hand but still driving over long-off showed just how well he timed the ball.

Jangoo then went into top gear, smacking five sixes in his last nine balls. The back-to-back sixes off Paudel, that started the carnage, brought up his 38-ball fifty. Auguste played second fiddle as West Indies reached home with 46 balls to spare. (ESPNcricinfo)

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For more than 10 years, Randolph Branford, a mechanic living in the Five Miles Housing Scheme along the Potaro Road in Bartica, has been living in fear with his family as repeated encounters with jaguars continue to disrupt their lives.

Branford explained that ever since he moved into the scheme, the presence of the predator has been a constant threat.

“We always get a [jaguar] problem since this scheme open and we get this houselot,” he told the News Room.

According to him, the predators killed at least 12 of his dogs over the years and frequently comes close to his home, sometimes climbing the steps and approaching the door. The most recent incident occurred on Sunday night and was captured on security camera.

“The [jaguar] come like 9 o’clock and my daughter with my grandchildren living right downstairs, and the [jaguar] come right at the door,” Branford said.

The family says their daily lives have been affected. The children are too frightened to play in the yard, and their fowls have all been eaten. His chicken pen now stands empty as a result of repeated losses.

“All your fowl they eating out, so meeno wah fuh do. It is really dangerous, that animal could be in one of the bushy areas and when children in the yard, it could run and snatch one of them,” Branford expressed.

Branford explained that he relies on the dogs for security since he often has valuable items in his yard for his mechanical work. And while the dogs have kennels, they cannot be locked up all the time.

“I does do mechanic work home by me and sometimes I have things, important things that you cannot carry upstairs and you have your dog as a form of security. I am losing left, right and center because I cannot work late, you have to keep your eyes out and you cannot rear chicken because they getting eat out,” Branford explained.

Branford said he has made several reports to the police station and even to former Mayor Gifford Marshall, but no action has been taken. The family continues to live in constant fear as the jaguar problem persists.

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Minister of Education Sonia Parag has committed to taking a tough stance against bullying in schools, amid reports of incidents since the reopening of classes. Speaking with the News Room, Minister Parag said the issue will be addressed with urgency and determination.

She stressed that stronger anti-bullying measures are needed, combining immediate action with sustainable reforms. To achieve this, Minister Parag announced plans to hold nationwide consultations with key stakeholders, signalling a firm government response to creating safer learning environments for students.

“Anti-bullying is something that I will be looking at very heavily in the next couple weeks because there has been instances since school has been open,” Minister Parag said.

The Education Minister emphasised that tackling bullying requires a balanced approach – recognising the wrongdoing while also considering avenues for reform. She noted that while the Juvenile Justice Act provides options for disciplinary action, the education system must develop clear anti-bullying policies within schools and eventually consider anti-bullying legislation.

“If we don’t put measures in place and put strong measures in place it wouldn’t change. It is a behavioural pattern it has deeper social issues, it doesn’t just start in the classroom, it comes from a home environment or whatever environment that child is living in, so all of that has to be looked at, but at the end no one gives anyone the right to pound on someone else child and that is something that I feel very strongly about,” Parag stated.

The Minister also revealed that she has reviewed policies from the Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, and intends to sit with stakeholders to examine these frameworks further. A key part of her plan is to introduce moral education from the nursery level, ensuring discipline and respect are taught from an early age.

“It is not simply, I am going to suspend you, I am going to expel you, because some children want to come out the school and you expel and they might be happy to come out the school. Meanwhile, another child had to have stitches because they were beaten and he/she does not feel like they have had any justice,” Parag explained.

She stressed the importance of consistency in schools, calling for daily reinforcement of anti-bullying values by teachers. Importantly, Parag said she does not intend to impose policies without consultation.

“I am not going to impose, I want to hear from people, I want to do a national consultation to hear from people,” the minister said.
In January this year, former Education Minister Priya Manickchand announced the development of a strategic plan to address bullying which would parents signing contracts.

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