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See below the statement issued by the National Toshaos Council (NTC): 

The National Toshaos Council (NTC) strongly condemns the misleading and politically charged assertions made by the Alliance For Change (AFC) in the Stabroek News article titled, “Gov’t officials get more speaking time at NTC over Toshaos – AFC.”

This is a deliberate attempt to undermine the credibility of the NTC Conference, the most respected and comprehensive forum for Indigenous leadership in Guyana. The claims made by the AFC are baseless and reek of hypocrisy and political desperation.

We wish to clarify that the structure of the NTC Conference 2025 is carefully designed to ensure that every ministry is allotted 15 minutes to present, followed by an open and interactive Q&A segment where Toshaos are free to raise concerns, seek clarifications, and advocate for their communities.

This model, which has been successfully used under successive governments, facilitates productive engagement, direct dialogue, and meaningful accountability. It has worked effectively for years, including during the period the AFC itself was part of the governing coalition.

The sudden attempt by the AFC to now discredit this model, after benefiting from it while in office, is dishonest and insulting to the intelligence of Indigenous leaders and their communities.

It is clear that the AFC’s narrative seeks to sow division and politicize a platform that is fundamentally about unity, development, and Indigenous empowerment.

The NTC will not be used as a pawn in anyone’s political theatre. The conference belongs to the Indigenous people of Guyana.

We remain resolute in our mission to advocate for the interests of all Amerindian communities, and we will not be distracted by those who wish to inject division where there is dialogue, or chaos where there is collaboration.

The post National Toshaos Council responds to AFC appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Officers from the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) found two parcels containing cannabis in a motor car that was near the Mikey Restaurant at Parika, East Bank Essequibo.

A CANU release noted that the officers intercepted the vehicle on Friday, acting on information received. When the vehicle was searched, two parcels containing a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis were found.

The suspect in the vehicle was then arrested and taken to CANU’s headquarters along with the suspected narcotics. The items in the parcels were positively identified as cannabis later; the cannabis amounted to 1.034 kilogrammes (or about 2.23 pounds).

CANU said investigations are ongoing.

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Subraj Singh, a Guyanese writer, is the Caribbean regional winner of the 2025 Commonwealth Short Story Prize. His winning piece pays homage to Guyanese folklore.

Singh competed against a whopping 7,920 other entrants around the world. His piece placed him on a shortlist and made him the winner for the Caribbean.

‘Margot’s Run’ is the writer’s winning story. It is set in rural Guyana and is about a mother’s perseverance to get help for her infant son, whose skin bears concerning scratches. In the story, Margot seeks help from two old women in the village, Estelle and Bhanu, to vanquish whatever has been troubling the child.

A majority of the characters- all except the infant boy- are women.

Subraj Singh

The baby’s blood was being sucked by an old woman who later escapes in a ball of fire, paying homage to the Guyanese folklore of the Ole Higue.

The Ole Higue is a supernatural creature who feeds on the blood of the innocent and escapes in a ball of fire. As penned correctly in Singh’s story, she also has limitations which include rice, garlic, onions and peppers.

The Ole Higue usually sheds her skin to count rice grains. When the creature did that in Singh’s story, Estelle and Bhanu capitalised on the opportunity to use the garlic, onions and peppers to burn the creature.

“I wanted to capture the solidarity that exists between women in Guyana.

“When I was growing up, it was quite common for women to get together to help each other out whether it was with children or to do something else. I wanted to represent that solidarity and the strength that it is,” Singh told the News Room.

The events of the story also took place, quite surprisingly, on the night Guyana gained Independence from England. Singh carefully chose to write this way.

“Writing about colonialism is very important to me because I think a lot of things people in Guyana struggle with are rooted in colonialism and for a very long time Guyana was exploited by Europe and the consequences of that exploitation still remains,” Subraj explained.

He also highlighted that he used the Ole Higue as symbolism; it was a nod to the struggle Guyana faced during British rule.

His storytelling evidently captured the attention of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize judging team.

But Singh was quite surprised when he found out that he won regionally. He revealed that the competition was tough and that this was his third year entering.

Singh, renowned as a prolific writer, offered some advice to young writers in his interview with the News Room.

He advises young writers to present their work to people before submitting to obtain feedback so that possible errors can be identified and improved.

Other regional winners for 2025 include: Joshua Lubwama from Uganda, Africa Region, Faria Basher from Bangladesh, Asia Region, Chanel Sutherland from Canada/Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Canada and Europe Region, Kathleen Ridgwell from Australia, Pacific Region.

The overall winner of the Commonwealth Foundation Short Story Prize is yet to be announced.

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Guyana is set to host MECODEX 2025, a major regional disaster response simulation exercise aimed at strengthening international cooperation and improving national preparedness for flood-related emergencies.

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Guyana’s swimming sensation, Raekwon Noel, delivered a truly historic performance at the inaugural Pan Am Aquatics Championships in Medellin, Colombia.

He secured an incredible four gold medals and set a new national record in each of his winning events.

Noel’s dominant display in the pool culminated with his fourth gold in the 400m freestyle on Friday evening.

He claimed the top spot and shattered another Guyanese national record in the process, touching the wall in an impressive 4:00.66s.

This added to his rapidly growing collection of gold medals from the championships.

Earlier in the competition, Noel showcased his versatility and speed by securing gold in the 100m and 200m butterfly events and the 100m backstroke.

Each of these victories also saw him etch his name into the national record books.

His triumph in the 100m backstroke was a stunning three-peat performance. He clocked 56.78 seconds to take gold, finishing ahead of Colombia’s Gabriel Hernandez (57.04s) and Puerto Rico’s Suil Quinoes (59.27s).

Noel commanded the final in the 200m butterfly, winning gold in 2:02.53. His powerful swim saw him outpace Puerto Rico’s Andres Brooks (2:04.04) and Mexico’s Mark Van Eybergen (2:05.69).

This time also marked a significant improvement on his national record, which he had already lowered in the preliminary heats from 2:04.21 to 2:03.33 before his gold-medal-winning swim.

His victory in the 100m butterfly also saw him set a new national record of 54.00 seconds.

Click to view slideshow.

Noel’s remarkable achievement of securing four gold medals and four national records at a single Pan Am Championships is a significant milestone and ensures his name will be remembered in the history of this inaugural event.

The Olympian, who is currently on scholarship at Indiana University, has undoubtedly made a بڑا statement on the regional swimming stage.

Meanwhile, fellow Guyanese swimmer Shareefah Lewis has also participated in the championships.

After finishing eighth in the 50m backstroke final, Lewis competed in the heats of the girls’ 16-18 50m butterfly on Friday, clocking 31.44 seconds to finish fifth.

She is scheduled to compete in the 50m freestyle heats on Saturday morning, hoping to make her mark in another event.

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The Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) has officially named its national senior and “Next Gen” training squads, signalling a focused drive towards success at the 2025 Caribbean Senior Table Tennis Championships and other key international assignments, including the sixth Islamic Solidarity Games.

The Caribbean Senior Championships are scheduled in Barbados from June 16th to 22nd, providing an immediate and crucial test for the senior players.

The announcement of the squads marks the resumption of the GTTA’s year-round national training programme, which will feature tailored technical and tactical sessions designed to elevate the competitive standard of Guyanese table tennis.

The GTTA has opted for a strategic blend of experience and youth across the selected players, implementing team-based and individualised training plans to cultivate elite performance and sustained international competitiveness.

The Senior Men’s Squad features a strong line-up: Christopher Franklin, Shemar Britton, Jonathan Van Lange, Elishaba Johnson, Nigel Bryan, Joel Alleyne, Niran Bissu, Miguel Wong, and Levi Percival.

Olympian Chelsea Edghill leads the female team

The Senior Women’s Squad is equally formidable, with: Olympian Chelsea Edghill, Natalie Cummings, Jasmine Billingy, Thuraia Thomas, Michelle John, Priscilla Greaves, Samara Sukhai, Akira Watson, Angela Robinson, and Shakecy Damon.

Looking to the future, the GTTA has also named expansive “Next Gen” squads to ensure a pipeline of talent:

The Next Gen Boys Squad comprises: Jonathan Van Lange, Krystian Sahadeo, Malachi Moore, Colin Wong, Umar Percival, Salih Rahim, Chad Outar, Aaron Hopkinson, Travis Lyken, Akel Hall, Akeem Hall, Kayden Meusa, Rensford Beaton, Zamani Johnson, and Abinora Johnson.

The Next Gen Girls Squad includes: Jasmine Billingy, Samara Sukhai, Akira Watson, Angela Robinson, Shakecy Damon, and Seona Barker.

Several players feature in the senior and “Next Gen” lists, highlighting their current capabilities and future potential.

The GTTA is also inviting eligible international athletes of Guyanese heritage or those based overseas to express their interest in being considered for national selection.

The goal is to field the strongest possible teams on the international stage.

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CIC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc. has partnered with the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) for the upcoming Independence T10 Cup, which will be played on May 25 at the LBI Ground.

The DCB’s highly anticipated event is geared to raising funds to facilitate the growth and development of cricket in the county.

At a simple presentation ceremony at its location at Lot A52, Barima Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown, Assistant General Manager of CIC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc. Preneta Bharosay made a financial contribution on behalf of her company to Vice-president of the DCB, Puneet Jaigopaul.

Bharosay said CIC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc. is a leading insurance brokerage and risk management firm providing the absolute best in claims advocacy services.

She stated that while they develop innovative and industry-focused insurance solutions tailor-made to protect businesses, they are also keen on supporting activities that make a positive impact, hence the decision to align with the DCB’s Independence T10 Cup.

“As your partners you can rest assured that your assets and liabilities are adequately covered so you have the freedom to do what’s right for your business and focus on achieving your long-term goals,” Bharosay said of CIC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc.

Speaking on behalf of the DCB, Jaigopaul indicated that the board is extremely grateful for the support of CIC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc. and all the other businesses that have embraced the tournament.

Already onboard are L. Mahabeer and Son Cambio, Office Express, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Anil Beharry Real Estate, Construction and General Business Services and Naven’s Construction.

He urged cricket fans and the general public to patronize these establishments, so that they can continue to extend their benevolence to events such as the Independence T10 Cup.

Eight first division teams from the county will compete for top honours, with the format being a one game knockout.

Six teams- Lusignan, LBI, Better Hope, Enterprise, Herstelling A and Helena One and Two- are already confirmed, with the other two to be revealed in the coming days.

Total cash prize of G$500,000 and trophies will be up grabs at the one day event.

While the teams will be represented by players within the respective associations, each team is allowed two guest players from other counties.

The champion team is guaranteed G$250,000 cash plus trophy; the runners-up G$150,000 and trophy, while the losing semi-finalists will be receive G$50,000 each.

On the individual side, Man-of-the-Match in the semi-finals and final will receive a trophy.

Action will bowl off at 10:00h and conclude under floodlights.

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Fitness Express has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the development of powerlifting in Guyana, throwing its weight behind the upcoming Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) Intermediates and Masters competition.

The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 19, 2025, at the St. Stanislaus College Auditorium in Georgetown.

This continued partnership comes as the GAPLF transitions under new leadership. Paul Meusa took over the presidential reins from Franklin Wilson just two weeks ago.

The Intermediates and Masters competition will mark Meusa’s first assignment at the federation’s helm.

Jamie McDonald, Owner and Manager of Fitness Express, congratulated Meusa on his new role and affirmed his company’s dedication to the sport.

“We were more than happy to maintain our company’s commitment to the development of the sport,” McDonald stated, highlighting Fitness Express’s long-standing support for powerlifting in Guyana since its resurgence under former presidents Peter Green, Ed Caesar, and Gordon Spencer.

McDonald emphasised the tangible impact of their consistent investment. “It’s a tradition for us here at Fitness Express to continually back the progress of the athletes. We are satisfied that our continued investment has seen the sport rise and our athletes become consistent medallists for Guyana. We’d love to see this maintained under your stewardship as we continue to empower the federation.”

Newly elected President Paul Meusa expressed the gratitude of the new executive committee and the athletes for Fitness Express’s crucial backing. He reiterated the federation’s commitment to building upon the sport’s progress and ensuring its continued development.

The Intermediates and Masters competition on Sunday is expected to feature a lineup of seasoned and emerging powerlifters.

The weigh-in for athletes is scheduled to begin at 06:00hrs, with the lifting commencing at 09:00hrs at the St. Stanislaus College Auditorium.

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The fairways of the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) are set to become more diverse and vibrant as the club implements ambitious plans to significantly expand access to the sport across Guyana.

With a clear strategic focus on welcoming more women, nurturing junior talent, and introducing the game to complete newcomers, the LGC is actively working to shed golf’s traditional image and build a genuinely inclusive community.

A particularly encouraging development is the emergence of the “Fairway Ladies,” a dynamic new group comprising business professionals and diplomatic corps members. Many within this enthusiastic contingent are entirely new to golf but have expressed a strong desire to embrace the sport and become active members of the Lusignan fraternity.

Chet Bowling, Secretary of the Lusignan Golf Club, highlighted the club’s commitment to supporting this burgeoning interest. “We’re planning to engage them by providing coaches and introductory sessions to the game,” Bowling explained.

“Our goal is to eventually launch what we hope will become a Women’s Golf League. These women are excited, and we want to create a space where they can learn, play, and grow within the sport.”

The LGC’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of Guyanese golfers remains a cornerstone of their development strategy.

Preparations are underway for the eagerly anticipated Annual Summer Camp, scheduled to run throughout July and August.

This extensive programme goes beyond the confines of the Lusignan course. The club plans to conduct clinics in diverse locations across Regions 4, 5, 6, and 10.

“We’re currently in the planning stages and have reached out to Republic Bank, who sponsored us in 2023, to come on board again,” Bowling confirmed, referencing the successful partnership that supported the junior programme in the past.

“It’s an extensive program where we run clinics across Regions 4, 5, 6, and 10.

Some of our members volunteer to travel and conduct those clinics, which culminate in a grand finale at the Lusignan Golf Club.” The recommitment of corporate partners like Republic Bank is seen as crucial to the success and expansion of these vital youth initiatives.

These focused initiatives underscore the LGC’s broader mission to dismantle perceived barriers to golf participation.

By taking the sport directly to schoolchildren in various regions and actively inviting women from diverse backgrounds, the club is working to demonstrate that golf is a game for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or location.

While the LGC continues to host significant tournaments and forge strategic partnerships within the sporting and corporate sectors, its renewed emphasis on outreach and inclusivity signals a clear vision.

The Lusignan Golf Club is positioning itself as a premier golfing venue and a vital community hub dedicated to expanding the sport’s footprint and impact across Guyana.

As Bowling articulately said, “It’s all about building a golf culture in Guyana—one that’s welcoming, engaging, and truly representative of the diverse talent and potential we have across the country.”

The efforts at Lusignan suggest a promising trajectory for the growth of golf as a truly national sport in Guyana. (Modified Press Release from LGC) 

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Cricket West Indies (CWI) has asked the ICC to provide a fair and transparent pathway for at least one of the Caribbean’s sovereign nations to represent the region at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

The issue is that in cricket, the Caribbean island nations compete under the “West Indies” banner and are administered by one cricket board (CWI), but only sovereign nations are allowed to contest at the Olympic Games.

At the Los Angeles Olympics, where six nations each will compete in the men’s and women’s T20 disciplines, the region hopes to have at least one of its sovereign states in action.

“The Caribbean has always punched above its weight at the Olympics, inspiring the world with our athletic brilliance,” CWI president Kishore Swallow said in a statement. “Cricket’s return to the Games in 2028 must not exclude our young cricketers from the same dream that has inspired our athletes. The Olympic Charter emphasizes fairness, transparency, and universality.

We are simply asking that these principles be upheld – not just in spirit, but in structure. West Indies cricket must have a pathway, and fully deserves an opportunity to compete.”

West Indies’ women are ranked sixth on the ICC T20I rankings, and the men are fifth.

If the teams are finalised based on rankings (at a cut-off date) and not much changes to the current positions, both the men and the women should make the cut, but there is an additional complication: USA, as the hosts, might gain automatic qualification despite their low ranking.

This isn’t confirmed yet, but if that were to happen, only five further spots would be available.

The ICC has so far made no announcement on what the Olympic qualification process would be.

In its proposal to LA28, the ICC had suggested the six teams be shortlisted based on the T20I rankings at a cut-off date. The final call on qualification, while not taken yet, is expected to be made this year.

On the question of USA, Kit McConnell, the International Olympic Committee’s sports director, had said in October 2023, “Normally, the host country is one of the teams in the team sports, and then we look at a balance of global strength and regional representation, and try and find that balance within the available quota as well.”

CWI has suggested…

• If rankings are used and West Indies men and women teams technically qualify, an internal qualifying tournament among its Olympic-affiliated member countries should determine which island represents the West Indies; or
• Have a global qualifying pathway that includes associate ICC members in the five ICC Development Regions plus member countries of the West Indies.

The first of these would have the CWI, through domestic tournaments, pick their champions for the LA Olympics. The second would involve a more rigorous selection process, in which the sovereign nations that are members of the CWI compete alongside a host of other nations for Olympics spots.

At the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, when women’s T20 cricket was included, Barbados took part. West Indies were direct qualifiers, and Barbados were selected because they were the champions of the West Indies’ regional competition of the time – the Twenty20 Blaze.

What the CWI board has stressed is that qualification criteria must be “fair and transparent”.

CWI chief executive Chris Dehring said, “Our nations have proudly flown their individual flags atop Olympic podiums as perennial gold medallists. Now, with cricket’s inclusion, we must ensure that our cricketers are not shut out of history. We are ready to collaborate. We are ready to compete. But above all, we are asking for fairness.”

Cricket has only once been played in the Olympics, way back in 1900. On that occasion, France and Great Britain competed, with Great Britain winning the two-day match by 158 runs. (ESPNcricinfo) 

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