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Police in Regional Division Two are investigating the suspected drowning of 33-year-old Mortimer Sooknanan, a labourer of Queenstown, Essequibo Coast, whose body was discovered on Sunday morning in Lake Capoey.

The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, August 2, during a recreational trip to the popular lakeside location.

According to police, Mortimer had travelled to the lake with his 30-year-old brother, Naitram Sooknanan, and two friends. At around 11:00 hrs, the group was seen consuming alcohol near the water.

Naitram later told investigators that around 13:30 hrs, while they were all swimming, he noticed his brother exit the water and sit on a bench near the boat landing. However, by 14:00 hrs, Mortimer was no longer visible, prompting a search which proved unsuccessful that day.

Family members, including Naitram, returned to the lake early Sunday morning and resumed their search. Mortimer’s body was eventually discovered submerged in the lake around 08:00 hrs.

Detectives examined the remains and observed what appeared to be fish bites to the deceased’s neck, back, and left ear. The body was transported to the Suddie Public Hospital, where a doctor pronounced him dead on arrival.

Mortimer’s remains are now at the Suddie Public Hospital Mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is expected to determine the exact cause of death.

Investigations are ongoing.

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The driver responsible for the accident that claimed the life of a 9-year-old in Crabwood Creek has been apprehended.

The victim, Sahil Naipaul, was a student at Crabwood Creek Primary School and resided at Grant 1802 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne Berbice.

According to reports, the incident occurred around 12:45 hrs, involving a motorcar PAK 6593 driven by a 21-year-old male from Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne Berbice.

The circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation.

Region Six Police Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus has confirmed that the driver has been taken into custody and is currently assisting authorities with the investigation.

More details will follow in an upcoming report.

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Four of six political parties contesting the upcoming General and Regional Elections on September 1, 2025, have signed the Ethnic Relations Commission’s (ERC) Code of Conduct, pledging to uphold ethical campaigning and peaceful engagement throughout the electoral period.

At a signing ceremony held Tuesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) in Liliendaal, representatives from the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Alliance For Change (AFC), Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP), and the We Invest in the Nation (WIN) party formally endorsed the code.

The agreement commits signatories to refrain from threats, harassment, or intimidation and to promote mutual respect and responsible behaviour on the campaign trail.

However, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Forward Guyana Movement, led by former PNC/R member Amanza Walton-Desir, were notably absent from the signing. Still, ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack assured that these parties would be allowed to sign at a later date, as the Commission plans to set a deadline for final submissions.

“We will extend the period for signings so the opportunity still avails for the two political parties to come to the ERC and sign the Code of Conduct,” Hack said, emphasising the importance of unanimous support for the document.

Hack underscored the vital role of political leaders in fostering peace and maturity during the elections, noting, “Its primary objective is that the rule of law is upheld. Without the rule of law, democracy cannot flourish; there can be no peace.

“Leaders must understand and communicate with their followers that no electoral system is perfect, we’re all human… that reality must not be exploited to sow discord,” he added.

While the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is responsible for monitoring activity on polling day, Hack said the ERC’s code will serve as a moral and behavioural guide in the lead-up to elections, particularly in countering divisive rhetoric.

Khemraj Ramjattan singed the Code of Conduct on behalf of the AFC.

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct could result in legal consequences, the Commission warned.

The document was signed by Khemraj Ramjattan and Nicola Trotman (AFC), Eon Thomas (ALP), Zulfikar Mustapha (PPP/C), and Leslyn Lowe and Kerwyn Austin (WIN). After the signing, party representatives expressed support for the code and reiterated their commitment to peaceful, inclusive, and principled campaigning.

AFC’s Ramjattan described the signing as “a step in ensuring the contesting parties will uphold good behaviour.” He acknowledged that while the country and its democracy are not perfect, adherence to the Code of Conduct is necessary to effect real change.

Eon Thomas signed the Code of Conduct on behalf of the ALP.

ALP representative Thomas said the party is focused on fostering equality and harmony among Guyana’s diverse ethnic groups.

WIN representative Hana Mohamed echoed these sentiments, affirming the party’s support for peace, tolerance, and political decency, while firmly condemning racial and religious discrimination.

Leslyn Lowe signed the Code of Conduct on behalf of WIN.

PPP/C representative Zulfikar Mustapha described the event as timely and said the ruling party remains committed to constitutional reform and efforts to unify the Guyanese people.

Zulfikar Mustapha signed the Code of Conduct on behalf of the PPP/C.

The ERC’s initiative comes at a crucial time, as concerns about voter inducement and politically charged rhetoric continue to escalate ahead of the polls. The Code of Conduct aims to establish a foundation for respectful dialogue and democratic integrity as Guyana prepares for a pivotal election.

 

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The newly formed Forward Guyana Movement on Tuesday unveiled what it called a “Contract with Guyana” – a commitment its leaders described as a moral obligation, not a typical political manifesto.

Speaking at the launch held at Bransville Hotel, party leader Amanza Walton-Desir said the document is not about seeking power but “returning power to the people.”

“Today is not just another day in politics. It’s a turning point – a contract between the people and the party,” she declared.

The “contract” outlines key commitments on pressing national concerns, including tackling the rising cost of living, empowering communities, building national unity and strengthening governance, transparency and accountability.

Walton-Desir, a former parliamentarian under APNU, made it clear that the initiative goes beyond slogans and campaigns.

“No more betrayal, no more excuses… We refuse to settle. People want real change and they deserve it,” she said.

She was firm in her criticism of the status quo, arguing that although the country is wealthier than ever before, many citizens continue to feel marginalised.

The Forward Guyana leader confirmed that the development of the contract was done in consultation with a panel of experts, economists, and civil society representatives.

“We are happy with the panel of experts we’ve engaged… This is a movement built on ideas and integrity.”

Dorwin Bess, Amanza Walton-Desir and Nigel London

Dorwain Bess, principal of the party and a speaker at the launch, focused on economic fairness and housing.

“Housing and land in Guyana belong to the people,” he said, suggesting that through subsidies how families earning can be made to pay $300,000 for land and homes priced at $10 million.

He promised a revised housing policy, more equitable land distribution, along with a commitment from Walton Desir to renegotiate the oil contracts to benefit citizens directly.

He also spoke about strengthening community infrastructure while Walton Desir reaffirmed support for a Petroleum Commission.

“We’re not afraid to tackle the big issues. After 60 years, the old system simply hasn’t worked.”

Nicholas Chesney, serving as the party’s election agent, echoed calls for a new political model – one that ends the use of race and fear as political tools.

“This is not about rotating faces. It’s about rebuilding the foundation,” he said. “No more dog whistles. No more political theatre.”

He described the contract as a promise to deliver a government that listens, responds, and invites citizens into the policy process.

Nicholas Chesney, serving as the party’s election agent

“Power doesn’t belong to a few. It belongs in communities, in collaboration, in ideas – not in bloodlines.”A Fighter’s Call

The Movement’s Prime Ministerial Candidate, Nigel London said:“I stand not just as a candidate, but as a fighter – for justice, dignity, and for every Guyanese who’s ever felt left behind,” London said.

He pledged to prioritise quality healthcare, affordable housing, better schools, and decent wages. He also pledged to break the chains of political division and build a participatory democracy.

“Real change doesn’t come from the top down. It rises from the people up,” he said. “Our loyalty is not to titles or traditions – it’s to you.”

The Forward Guyana Movement’s leaders were unified in their message: this is not a typical election campaign, but a national call to action.

Amanza Walton-Desir and Nigel London

“Let us not sign this contract with ink only, but with action… together, we can fix what is broken,” Walton-Desir said in closing.

With less than a month to go before the September 1 General and Regional Elections, Forward Guyana says it is ready to contest and win — but also insists that its greater mission is to “liberate the people from political hopelessness and place power firmly in their hands.”

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The main opposition – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) – has thrown its weight behind calls to stamp out alleged voter inducement practices ahead of the September 1 general elections, calling on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to explicitly prohibit the use of mobile phones inside polling booths.

The coalition said the move is necessary to safeguard the secrecy of the vote and to prevent bribery schemes that hinge on voters photographing their ballots to claim promised rewards.

The call comes amid growing concerns about vote buying, fuelled by a widely circulated video showing presidential candidate Azruddin Mohamed handing out cash in an Indigenous community. Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party and currently under United States sanctions, has come under scrutiny for distributing money and making other promises to voters, prompting strong reactions from political stakeholders in the opposition and civil society.

In a press release issued on Monday, APNU said GECOM omitted a crucial detail in its own August 4 statement, which warned against acts that could compromise ballot secrecy or involve bribery. While GECOM reminded voters and political parties that it is illegal to offer or accept money or gifts in exchange for votes, APNU said the elections body failed to restate that photographing one’s marked ballot is also prohibited — a practice that could be used to prove compliance in vote-buying arrangements.

“Guyana has reached a point in its electoral history where the secrecy of the ballot must be guaranteed more than ever before,” the party stated, adding that “the rule prohibiting the taking of photos of one’s vote must be publicised widely and enforced on E-day in all polling stations countrywide.”

APNU also cited specific sections of the Representation of the People Act, pointing to Section 77(2), which criminalises inducing an elector to reveal their vote, and Section 130, which defines bribery and lays out penalties for both the giver and receiver of election-related inducements.

The coalition urged voters not to be tempted by “bribes waved in their faces by those who believe popularity could be bought” and called on GECOM to do more than issue reminders — insisting it must actively enforce existing rules. Among its recommendations are public education campaigns, enforcement protocols for polling day, and the creation of anonymous hotlines by GECOM and the Guyana Police Force for reporting electoral offences.

“The other contesting political parties, which are interested in free and credible elections, should have no difficulty in publicly endorsing these and other measures to maintain the secrecy of the ballot,” APNU said, suggesting a shared responsibility for upholding democratic principles.

The issue of mobile phones in polling places was raised during the 2023 Local Government Elections, when GECOM had banned their use inside voting areas. However, for the upcoming general elections, the Commission has not yet announced whether a similar ban will apply, though it did warn that taking photos of ballots could lead to prosecution.

Meanwhile, though GECOM has not announced an investigation, it reiterated that offering or accepting inducements is a criminal offence punishable by fines and imprisonment. It also warned that those convicted could be disqualified from participating in future elections.

 

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Guyana finished third overall at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Boxing Championship, held in St. Lucia, after a strong showing that saw the national team bag five gold medals.

The performance highlighted both emerging and established talent within the Guyanese boxing ranks.

Ken Harvey led the charge for Guyana, delivering a clinical performance in the Youth 60-63kg final, securing a unanimous decision victory over St. Lucia’s Kirt Kirton.

Rising star Akeelah Vancooten, later named the Best Female Boxer of the tournament, continued Guyana’s golden run. Vancooten forced a Referee Stopped Contest (RSC) against Jada Emmanuel of St. Lucia, asserting her dominance early in their bout.

In the Schoolboys 60-63kg final, Ryan Rogers added another gold to Guyana’s tally after the referee halted his bout against Chris Cooper (SLU), handing Rogers a convincing RSC victory.

Terron Wintz, who was subsequently honoured as the Best Youth Boxer of the Championship, delivered one of the most commanding performances of the tournament. Wintz dismantled Trinidad and Tobago’s Dornel Philip, winning his gold medal in emphatic fashion.

Emmanuel Pompey rounded out Guyana’s gold medal haul with a hard-fought points victory over Yakita Asaka, showcasing his tactical discipline and ring generalship.

Despite the impressive medal haul, not all of Guyana’s boxers had the opportunity to compete. Reigning OECS champion and team captain Abiola Jackman, alongside promising puncher Joel Williamson, were both unable to step into the ring as their opponents failed to show up, resulting in walkovers.

Despite missing out on what could have been two additional gold medals, Steve Ninvalle, President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), expressed pride in the team’s performance.

“A little disappointed that Jackman and Williamson didn’t get to enter the ring, but I’m happy we did a little better than last year,” said Ninvalle, referencing last year’s OECS Invitational where Guyana finished second overall with four gold and two silver medals from a compact squad of six boxers.

Ninvalle also credited the support system behind the athletes, adding: “I want to also congratulate the coaches and everyone who played an important role in the success of these boxers.” He specifically acknowledged Queensway Security for its “unflinching support” of Wintz and Williamson.

Looking ahead, Ninvalle reaffirmed the GBA’s commitment to strengthening its youth programme while providing regional and international exposure for Guyana’s elite boxers.

“We still have a lot of work to do, but participation in this championship was crucial for our boxers’ development,” he concluded.

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Joseph Szeplaki delivered an outstanding performance on Sunday, claiming the top spot at the GMIN Ventures Guyana Inc. Golf Tournament, held at the Lusignan Golf Club.

Szeplaki emerged as the day’s overall champion with a net score of 65, outplaying a strong field under clear skies and near-perfect course conditions.

Szeplaki’s consistent play and composure across all 18 holes secured him the Overall Best Net title and the Nearest to the Pin (NTP) accolade.

His impressive round of 79, adjusted by a handicap of 14, placed him three strokes ahead of his closest competitor.

Tournament Results:

Overall Best Net Winner: Joseph Szeplaki – Gross: 79 | Handicap: 14 | Net: 65

2nd Place: Miguel Yunis – Gross: 83 | Handicap: 15 | Net: 68

3rd Place: Maxim Mangra – Gross: 85 | Handicap: 16 | Net: 69

Best Gross: Avinash Persaud – Gross Score: 74

Nearest to the Pin: Joseph Szeplaki

The standout performers and their accolades

During the award ceremony, Club President Anasha Ally praised the tournament’s success and the vital support received. “I’d like to thank G Mining Ventures for this generous sponsorship. It goes a long way in helping to keep this club going,” Ally said. “I’d also like to thank all the players who came out today.

It’s really nice to see everyone taking advantage of the good weather. And I must acknowledge the staff, both ground and clubhouse, for bringing the club and surroundings to such a beautiful standard for today’s competition. Congratulations once again to the winners.”

 

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(Reuters) – The U.S. could require bonds of up to $15,000 for some tourist and business visas under a pilot program launching in two weeks, a government notice said on Monday, an effort that aims to crack down on visitors who overstay their visas.

The program gives U.S. consular officers the discretion to impose bonds on visitors from countries with high rates of visa overstays, according to a Federal Register notice. Bonds could also be applied to people coming from countries where screening and vetting information is deemed insufficient, the notice said.

President Donald Trump has made cracking down on illegal immigration a focus of his presidency, boosting resources to secure the border and arresting people in the U.S. illegally.

He issued a travel ban in June that fully or partially blocks citizens of 19 nations from entering the U.S. on national security grounds.

Trump’s immigration policies have led some visitors to skip travel to the United States. Transatlantic airfares dropped to rates last seen before the COVID-19 pandemic in May and travel from Canada and Mexico to the U.S. fell by 20% year-over-year.

Effective August 20, the new visa program will last for approximately a year, the government notice said. Consular officers will have three options for visa applicants subjected to the bonds: $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000, but will generally be expected to require at least $10,000, it said.

The funds will be returned to travelers if they depart in accordance with the terms of their visas, the notice said.

A similar pilot program was launched in November 2020 during the last months of Trump’s first term in office, but it was not fully implemented due to the drop in global travel associated with the pandemic, the notice said.

The State Department was unable to estimate the number of visa applicants who could be affected by the change. Many of the countries targeted by Trump’s travel ban also have high rates of visa overstays, including Chad, Eritrea, Haiti, Myanmar and Yemen.

Numerous countries in Africa, including Burundi, Djibouti and Togo also had high overstay rates, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data from fiscal year 2023.

A provision in a sweeping spending package passed in the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress in July also created a $250 “visa integrity fee” for anyone approved for a non-immigrant visa that could potentially be reimbursable for those who comply with visa rules. The $250 fee goes into effect on October 1.

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Justice Roxane George has been sworn in as the acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, while Justice Navindra Singh will be performing the duties of Chief Justice.

They both took the Oath of Office before President Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday.

The appointments came as acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, proceeded on leave.

According to a release from the Office of the President, Dr. Ali stated that the appointments were made in the interest of maintaining continuity and ensuring the efficient functioning of the Judiciary in the Offices of Chancellor and Chief Justice.

He added that the temporary filling of Justice Cummings-Edwards’s absence reflects the administration’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law, which are essential to the country’s democratic framework.

This move means that Justice George, the country’s longest-serving acting Chief Justice since 2017, will now also function in the top judicial role of Chancellor — the head of the Court of Appeal.

Guyana’s top judicial posts — Chancellor and Chief Justice — have remained substantively vacant for nearly two decades due to the constitutional requirement for agreement between the President and the Leader of the Opposition. Successive leaders have failed to find consensus and efforts to break the deadlock have repeatedly collapsed.

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As Suriname’s oil and gas industry expands, Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana, Liselle Blankendal, has reaffirmed her country’s commitment to cooperating with Guyana to further develop the sector.

In a recent interview with the News Room, Ambassador Blankendal noted that Suriname has been producing oil and gas for over 45 years. However, with offshore production now underway, discussions with Guyana have intensified.

“Both governments—Guyana and Suriname—have already been in talks to see how we can work together, share knowledge, and make the best out of our oil and gas industry.

“Now with the offshore industry, we are also looking at the way Guyana did things so that we can learn from Guyana,” the Ambassador said.

Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana, Liselle Blankendal during her interview with the News Room. (Photo: News Room)

She believes both countries are on the right path.

Suriname’s state-run oil company, Staatsolie, has signed a production sharing agreement (PSA) with Shell, while TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy, and Petronas have signed PSAs for three offshore oil and gas blocks.

Suriname currently produces hydrocarbons in onshore areas but has the potential to become a global energy player with production both onshore and offshore.

Discussions between the two countries include the possibility of developing a common strategy for the industry. These discussions also extend to local content policies, tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, trade, security, and establishing stronger linkages between Suriname, Guyana, and Brazil.

Blankendal said that with Suriname’s new President, Jennifer Simons of the National Democratic Party—also the country’s first female President—further bilateral discussions are expected.

“We’ve just recently had a new government—our first female President—which is commendable. I believe that in the not-too-distant future, both Presidents will meet to advance the bilateral agenda and explore areas of mutual interest,” Ambassador Blankendal said.

Already, cross-border investments are underway following these talks. Last week, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen ties between their tourism industries. Trade missions have also been hailed as successful by the Ambassador.

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