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(The Hill) Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Sunday ordered an increase of import tariffs on goods from the United States in retaliation to President Trump’s tariffs and sanctions.

Petro, in a post on the social platform X, said he ordered the “foreign trade minister to raise import tariffs from the U.S. by 25%.”

“American products whose price will rise within the national economy must be replaced by national production, and the government will help in this regard,” the post continued.

Earlier Sunday, President Trump slapped Colombia with 25 percent tariffs on all goods coming into the U.S., and he issued a travel ban and immediate visa revocations on “Government Officials, and all Allies and Supporters,” among other measures, after the South American country rejected two planes carrying migrants.

“I was just informed that two repatriation flights from the United States, with a large number of Illegal Criminals, were not allowed to land in Colombia. This order was given by Colombia’s Socialist President Gustavo Petro, who is already very unpopular amongst his people,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

Trump added that the Colombian president’s “denial of these flights has jeopardized the National Security and Public Safety of the United States” and that he had “directed my Administration to immediately take the following urgent and decisive retaliatory measures.”

On Sunday morning, Petro said he will deny entry to the United States’s deportation flights as Trump’s immigration plans begin.

“The US cannot treat Colombian migrants as criminals,” Petro posted Sunday on X. “I deny the entry of American planes carrying Colombian migrants into our territory.”

The South American country will send its presidential plane to Honduras to pick up Colombians after the country refused to accept migrant deportation flights from the United States, Petro said Sunday.

“This measure is in response to the government’s commitment to guarantee dignified conditions. In no way have Colombians, as patriots and subjects of rights, been or will be banished from Colombian territory,” the statement continued.

Newly confirmed Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement that Petro had authorized the two flights but canceled his authorization when the planes were in the air.

“As demonstrated by today’s actions, we are unwavering in our commitment to end illegal immigration and bolster America’s border security,” Rubio said.

Petro responded to Rubio in a post saying that he would never allow Colombians to be brought in handcuffs on flights.

“Marco, if officials from the Foreign Ministry allowed this, it would never be under my direction. … I am a man of freedom, not of chains,” he said.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), in a Sunday afternoon post on X, said that Colombia and all nations “should be on notice.”

“Congress is fully prepared to pass sanctions and other measures against those that do not fully cooperate or follow through on requirements to accept their citizens who are illegally in the United States,” Johnson said.

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Heralding in a new chapter of national development, the government has not only fulfilled its manifesto commitments, but has far surpassed expectations, achieving progress in key sectors like education, health, and housing.

Budget 2025 is expected to build on this remarkable growth with record-breaking allocations and innovative solutions designed to accelerate economic growth and elevate the quality of life for every Guyanese.

During a live broadcast on Sunday, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali spotlighted the country’s unprecedented enhancement while pledging to propel its expansion through funding and meticulously crafted policies and interventions.

To date, over $54 billion has been invested to expand infrastructure in the education sector, a sector that is key to the furthered prosperity of Guyana.

This substantial investment facilitated the construction and extension of 34 schools along with the maintenance of 350 nursery schools, 440 primary schools, and 115 secondary schools.

Pensioners have also seen tremendous support, with the old age pension now doubled to $41,000 per month.

The government also removed VAT on electricity and water and introduced subsidies for pensioners, making the financial relief for many families add up to nearly $100,000 monthly.

Guyana’s housing sector boasts one of the most notable achievements by being on track to deliver over 50,000 house lots by this year – thousands more than the government’s original target.

The government’s focus on diversifying the economy and boosting investments extended to the agriculture and manufacturing sectors, propelling the non-oil GDP forward at a never before seen rate.

This accomplishment positions Guyana as an attractive destination for both local and foreign investors.

As a result of strategic government measures the private sector would have saved more than $100 billion annually.

President Ali accredited the country’s remarkable development to the government’s unfaltering focus on empowering citizens and building a Guyana characterised by stability and prosperity.

“We have been able to deliver our commitment around what I would say is a people oriented strategy. Because the whole philosophy of the last four budgets was about improving the conditions of people, the life of people, the conditions of communities, empowering people, creating wealth, building prosperity, expanding growth, opening up opportunities and investing in the development of our people all across the country.

Whether it’s health care, education, community services, roads, infrastructure, drainage, agriculture, it was all about investing around people, empowering people, uplifting people,” the head of state said.

He further highlighted how the country remains in a position where economic expansion and progression are undeniably achievable.

President Ali said, “The foundational pillars for this new economy, all of it is well in place now. So that the sustainability of our economy, the sustainability of our country, the resilience of our country will be safeguarded.”

With Budget 2025, Guyana is poised to continue this transformative journey, securing its place as a beacon of sustainable growth and resilience on the global stage (Republished from the Department of Public Information) 

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Press Release from Archery Guyana

President of Archery Guyana, Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, has commended the Government of Guyana for its groundbreaking $8 billion allocation to the sports sector in the 2025 National Budget.

The announcement, made by Senior Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Honourable Dr. Ashni Singh, represents an extraordinary 42.5% increase from last year’s allocation, a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of sports in Guyana.

“This historic investment is a clear indication of the government’s vision to transform the sporting landscape in our country,” stated Persaud-McKinnon.

“We are deeply inspired by the Honourable Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., and his relentless drive to enhance sports infrastructure and opportunities. Equally, we extend immense gratitude to Director of Sport, Mr. Steve Ninvalle, whose expertise, dedication, and tremendous work have been instrumental in shaping the national sports agenda and fostering collaboration across disciplines.”

Acknowledging Mr. Ninvalle’s exceptional leadership, Persaud-McKinnon emphasised his pivotal role in advancing sports development.

“Mr. Ninvalle’s commitment to building a modern sports culture has yielded tangible results, including greater access to resources, stronger partnerships, and a clear pathway for athletes to excel. His hands-on approach and vision have been nothing short of transformative, and we are proud to work alongside such a dedicated leader.”

As part of this transformative journey, Archery Guyana wishes to advocate for a permanent home for archery. The Federation is earnestly advocating for the establishment of a dedicated facility for archery.

“A specialised dedicated ground and home that accommodates the standard Olympic distance of 70 meters is essential for the growth and development of our sport,” Persaud-McKinnon stated.

“Such a facility will not only provide our athletes with a permanent space to train and prepare for international competition but will also serve as a hub for introducing archery, developing young talent and hosting regional and international events. With the government’s support, we are confident this dream can soon become a reality.”

Reflecting on the progress of archery in Guyana, Persaud-McKinnon expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities presented by the increased allocation.

“This historic funding allows us to expand archery’s reach, enhance training programmes, strengthen grassroot initiatives and aim to secure equipment and facilities to ensure athletes are equipped to compete at the highest levels.

Archery Guyana is thrilled to announce plans to host the prestigious Caribbean Development Championships (CDC) next year, a milestone event that will highlight Guyana’s capacity to host regional tournaments while inspiring our athletes and strengthening our ties with neighbouring nations.

This event will not only showcase Guyana as a premiere destination for international tournaments but also inspire a new generation of athletes.”

She further noted, “This is an exciting time for sports in Guyana, and Archery Guyana is committed to playing a significant role in this transformative journey. The government’s visionary investment and working with Federations will pave the way for the sustainable growth of all disciplines, including archery.”

Persaud-McKinnon concluded by reaffirming Archery Guyana’s dedication to national sports development.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and collaboration.”

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A 21-year-old man was on Sunday evening taken into custody after he allegedly set his South Rupununi house on fire.

The suspect, Theodore Xavier, has since claimed that the house was haunted because his mother’s corpse was kept there years ago before she was buried.

His father gave the one-storey flat mud house to him about 10 years ago.

The News Room understands that the fire occurred about 20:00hrs at Potarinau Village, South Rupununi, Region Nine.

According to information received, Xavier claimed that he was asleep in his hammock in the house when the hammock began to shake. This, he claimed, was a norm.

So, the man said he got frustrated, took a lighter, and set the house on fire. Neighbours were alerted and tried to extinguish the fire but their efforts were unsuccessful.

The Lethem Fire Service was informed and an investigation was launched.

The matter was subsequently reported to the Police and Xavier was subsequently arrested. He is currently being questioned.

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Press Release from the Guyana Badminton Association

The Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) has welcomed the Government of Guyana’s announcement of an $8 billion allocation for sports in the National Budget.

This historic investment underscores the government’s commitment to fostering sports development across the country, paving the way for infrastructure upgrades, talent cultivation, and international success.

The GBA has been a driving force in the promotion and growth of badminton in Guyana, leveraging initiatives like the Shuttle Time Programme and the Nursery Badminton Academy.

These programmes have introduced the sport to children and youth in schools, cultivating a new generation of players and raising awareness of badminton nationwide.

“This budget is a monumental step forward for sports in Guyana,” said the GBA.

“It provides an incredible opportunity for associations like ours to expand our programmes, enhance training facilities, and invest in the development of our athletes. The planned dedicated badminton facility, scheduled for completion in early 2025, is a testament to the government’s vision for the future of sports.”

The GBA also highlights how this funding can further strengthen grassroots programmes, such as structured training sessions in schools, and create pathways for players to transition into elite-level badminton.

The Association has already achieved notable milestones in 2024, including 21 medals at international tournaments like CAREBACO Juniors, Costa Rica International, and Suriname International, along with hosting significant local events.

“The $8 billion allocation represents a bright future, not just for badminton, but for all sports in Guyana. With enhanced resources, we aim to build on our successes and continue to make the nation proud,” the GBA added.

The GBA expressed its gratitude to the Government of Guyana, the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports, and the National Sports Commission for their unwavering support.

The Association is eager to collaborate on initiatives that will maximize the impact of this funding, ensuring sustained growth and excellence in sports throughout the country.

 

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West Indies are inching closer to a series-levelling win after reducing Pakistan to 76-4 at stumps on the second day in Multan. The hosts are still another 178 runs away from victory.

Earlier, West Indies had produced their best batting performance of the series, led by a half-century from their captain Kraigg Brathwaite to take control.

They further solidifying their position when the lower order produced several useful contributions.

In the 24 overs West Indies had with the ball in the final session, they inflicted four bruising body blows, including a last-gasp dismissal of Babar Azam that brought nightwatcher Kashif Ali to the crease.

In pursuit of a steep target, made especially more awkward by the nature of these surfaces, Pakistan ran into headwinds early.

Within 16 deliveries, both openers were gone. Shan Masood was out lbw playing for turn against Kevin Sinclair as the delivery carried on with the arm and rapped into his front pad.

Mohammad Hurraira, too, played for phantom spin against Gudakesh Motie, and paid for it with his front leg in front of the stumps and an easy decision for the umpire.

Babar Azam and Kamran Ghulam staved off the worst of Pakistan’s fears to puncture the swell of optimism coursing through West Indies’ veins by gradually rebuilding from the ruins of that start.

Ghulam was fortunate to be put down off the eighth ball he faced, but the pair found a way to hang on, putting run-scoring on the backburner for a few overs as they bedded in.

Babar began to look brighter as his innings went on, and his continued presence began to feel like it would play an outsized role in the outcome of this match.

But the partnership was broken when Ghulam failed to get to the pitch of a delivery from Jomel Warrican, and skied it to backward point. That is when the rebuild began anew.

With Saud Shakeel, Pakistan’s best player of spin, at the other end, he and Babar were shepherding the day through to the finish.

But Sinclair inflicted what at the moment felt like the knockout blow. A touch of extra bounce and a hint of more turn at Babar found a chunk of the inside edge, which deflected off the pad to short leg.

West Indies’ slightly wild celebrations belied the magnitude of the moment.

Brathwaite had challenged his side to be more aggressive, and led from the front. The tempo was set when he launched Sajid Khan over long-on for six in the fifth over, before consecutive boundaries to start off Noman Ali’s spell.

It sent the message that the spin duo wasn’t going to have things their way, and Brathwaite kept reinforcing that in offence and defence. Abrar Ahmed, too, saw his second ball whipped through midwicket for four.

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite was positive in his approach (Photo: AFP via Getty Images)

But Mikyle Louis, Brathwaite’s opening partner, was neither as positive nor looked as comfortable.

That was how Pakistan got back into the game: they drew Louis into a prod towards the off side, and Shan Masood took a straight forward catch at short extra cover.

Debutant Amir Jangoo, though, took a leaf out of his captain’s book. Brathwaite slapped Noman for six over long-on, but found himself slowed down as he approached his half-century.

Jangoo, though, motored along nicely, and when he helped himself to two boundaries off Abrar in an over, West Indies, in total control, had their lead inching towards three figures.

But Pakistan’s spinners were bringing them back into the game. Brathwaite survived two raised fingers off consecutive deliveries with successful reviews, but fell the next over when he tried to charge Noman and ended up getting beaten by extra turn.

It was a manner of dismissal almost identical to the one that would snare Kavem Hodge in the minutes before lunch.

In the meantime, Sajid, too, was getting into the game. He had dismissed Jangoo shortly after Brathwaite went walkabout, forcing the issue with a sweep when he appeared to have misjudged the flight and the pitch of the delivery.

It ended up taking a feather off the bottom of the bat to slip, and West Indies were left with two new batters at the crease.

The final over before lunch saw Pakistan strike a fifth time. Noman landed the ball in the footmarks and ripped it back into the pads of Alick Athanaze. An enthused appeal, needed partially because Pakistan had burnt all three reviews, was successful.

Pakistan continued making inroads when a miscued reverse sweep from Justin Greaves found backward point. But as the visitors have done all series, their lower order dug in.

Imlach and Sinclair did not take too many risks as they worked to build up a conventional Test partnership, and the runs appeared to follow.

The duo batted for nearly 14 overs as Pakistan rotated through their bowlers, and the quest for a wicket became increasingly desperate.

The breakthrough came in unlikely fashion when Sinclair somehow played all around a Sajid delivery from around the wicket, throwing his head to the skies in frustration.

Imlach succumbed shortly after to fast bowler Kashif Ali, who was naggingly accurate on the brief occasion he was called upon.

Yet again, however, the bottom two partnerships found ways of contributing. Gudakesh Motie combined with Warrican to add a further 27, before Kemar Roach, injured taking a splendid catch on Saturday, limped out to add a few more crucial runs.

He got his side past 250 before Sajid finally wrapped the innings up. The sense, however, was that it was already too late. (ESPNcricinfo)

 

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See below full release from the University of Guyana: 

The University of Guyana wishes to advise that it has not authorized, nor is it currently conducting any survey which includes political polling. It would appear that persons purporting to be students of the University are soliciting responses to a certain survey in the Berbice area at the moment.

The public should note the following:

1) When the University is conducting surveys, the public is usually notified by advertisements in the local newspapers and on the University’s official website.

2) The data collectors will have letters and UG issued ID cards specific to the survey.

3) The data collectors are expected to respect people’s wishes to opt out of any such exercises at any point.

4) A University of Guyana’s official contact for the staff member supervising the survey is provided in case there are queries and or comments.

The general public is therefore asked to take note and be guided accordingly.

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Amena Elliott, a 27-year-old single mother of two from Enterprise, East Coast Demerara, received the keys to her new house on Saturday, providing her family with a spacious and safe environment.

The new home was built under President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s Men on Mission (MoM) initiative.

Reflecting on her hardships over the years, Elliott recalled the difficulties of being a single mother and the constant search to provide a decent home for her sons.

She said, “At one point in time, I moved seven times in one year just to find somewhere that is comfortable and affordable. So, it was very hard. Nobody wants to be a single mother and have to fight for two children [and] everything on your own. But you know, I’m here, and I’m very thankful.”

She was thrilled and taken aback when she was informed that she had been selected for a new home.

“When I applied and requested for some assistance from the Men on Mission, I didn’t expect them to reach out so quickly,” an excited Elliot highlighted.

Overcome with emotion and gratitude, Elliott said that the new home has not only significantly improved their lives but has provided financial relief since she doesn’t have to pay rent.

“It means a lot because of the economic crisis we are facing. [I] do work, but the salary is not [enough]. So, having a house from men on mission, it’s very nice and comfortable. I’m very thankful for it. It’s exciting. I don’t have to pay rent. I don’t have to repay loans in any form. This is mine and I can provide a home for my boys. They were 100 per cent excited…I spent Christmas in my new home with my boys. I was able to give them a reasonable Christmas,” she added.

Elliott thanked the government and the Men on Mission for constructing the house for her family, marking a new beginning for them.

Additionally, the young mother spoke about her dreams for her kids, ensuring they have a good education and a positive environment so they can have a prosperous future.

Elliott, who is a student at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), is currently teaching at the Early Childhood Centre of Excellence at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen.

Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony highlighted that this undertaking forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to provide the necessary interventions to the vulnerable population.

“This is something that he [President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali] pays a lot of attention to because he would like ordinary people to benefit from whatever the government is doing. One of the challenges that people would sometimes raise with us is the challenge of not having their own home. Sometimes, people have to rent and it’s a challenge…Being a homeowner would make a significant difference,” Minister Anthony said.

The health minister also referred to the ongoing developments in education, housing, road infrastructure, and health among others.

Minister Anthony also encouraged Amena Elliott to become a role model in her community by assisting and inspiring those who are experiencing similar hardships as she did.

Over the years, the Men on Mission has made significant progress in its work programme by providing various support to youths, men and the vulnerable which has improved their lives. Member of Parliament Suresh Singh, Committee Members from MoM, Colonel Bhageshwar Murli, Roger Rogers, and Dr Daniel Josh Kanhai were also in attendance (Republished from the Department of Public Information)

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The Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has heaped praises on the government for its unprecedented injection of G$8 billion into sports development for 2025.

Under the theme, ‘A secure, prosperous and sustainable Guyana’, this year’s allocation to sport significantly exceeded the record sum of G$4.6 billion in 2024.

“The budget on a whole is very impressive, the amount of good that it would do cannot be overstated. Kudos to the Government of Guyana,” the GRFU, via a message from President Ryan Dey, said.

“When it come specifically to the budget for sports, the Union thinks it’s well needed and deserved, with the budget being almost doubled for 2025. We now can have a more positive outlook on the year ahead.”

The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government’s 2025 sports agenda includes the completion of the stadium in Palmyra and the commencement of a new international stadium at Crane, West Coast Demerara.

To complete ancillary works at Palmyra and related activities, G$2 billion is budgeted.

Furthermore, G$1.3 billion has been allocated to complete multi-purpose sports facilities at Anna Regina, Bayroc, Mackenzie, and New Amsterdam and multi-purpose sports halls in Leonora, Lethem, Mabaruma, Mahdia, and Mongrippa Hill.

Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh further revealed that G$100 million has been budgeted for the continued work on the Cricket Academy at Good Hope, East Coast Demerara.

G$2 billion has been allocated to continue developing community grounds, with 450 grounds benefiting in 2024. G$1 billion is also included for procuring and installing lights on grounds nationwide.

The GRFU added, “The new budgetary allocation coupled with my Union’s current relationship with the National Sports Commission speak volumes in terms of the commitment to our union and other sports associations. To meet any of the top brass in the NSC is easy as a phone call away; they are always welcoming to listen to our issues, and the union hopes that this continues, especially now that they have more than enough to spend in helping sport’s development in the country.”

“The direction that the union wants to see sports heading is the exact direction we are going. From the sports academy for children and teens to the high performance centers for the elite senior sports men and women, our country will be on the map not only with oil and our eco-tourism, but as one of the best sporting countries in this part of the world.”

 

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See below the full release from the National Toshaos Council (NTC): 

The National Toshaos Council (NTC) of Guyana is pleased to announce the contracting of a consultant to lead the development of Draft Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) Guidelines for Stakeholder Engagement with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs).

This consultancy will implement Phase 1 of a critical project aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework to ensure meaningful engagement with IPLCs in alignment with national policies and international best practices.

The consultancy will focus on mapping the processes required to adhere to FPIC principles as agreed upon by IPLCs and enshrined in national strategies, including the Constitution of Guyana and the Amerindian Act of 2006. These efforts will also draw on global standards, including the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, and other human rights frameworks.

The consultancy will be carried out under the overall supervision of the NTC and an FPIC Working Group, which includes representatives from the NTC, government agencies, and Indigenous NGOs. The consultant will employ a multi-pronged approach, including desk reviews, workshops, and other stakeholder engagements, to identify best practices and develop acceptable procedures for effective engagement with IPLCs throughout the life cycle of projects, plans, or initiatives.

Phase 1 Objectives

The initial phase of this consultancy will focus on conducting a comprehensive desk review of existing literature and case studies on the application of FPIC principles in Guyana. Based on these findings, a draft FPIC guideline document will be prepared for circulation among stakeholders. The draft will serve as a starting point for discussions and will be presented for input and feedback at the upcoming Annual NTC Conference 2025.

Phase 2 Objectives

Pending the availability of resources and the advice of Toshaos at the NTC Conference in 2025, a nationwide IPLC consultation on the draft FPIC Guideline will be conducted. Inputs, comments, and feedback will be incorporated into the Guideline, approved by the next NTC Conference, and presented to the Government for endorsement.

Ensuring Collaboration and Transparency

The NTC and members of the FPIC Working Group will play a key role in the development of the FPIC guidelines, ensuring full collaboration and integration of Indigenous perspectives. The development process is designed to be inclusive and transparent, reflecting the voices of IPLCs at every stage. By combining local expertise with national and international best practices, the resulting guidelines aim to promote equitable, respectful, and culturally appropriate stakeholder engagement.

Why FPIC Matters

The principle of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent is central to protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities by ensuring their full and informed participation in decisions affecting their lands, resources, and cultural heritage. The FPIC guidelines will serve as a critical tool for aligning stakeholder engagement practices with these principles, fostering trust, respect, and collaboration between IPLCs and external stakeholders.

The NTC is committed to ensuring the successful completion of this project and looks forward to the active participation of all stakeholders in the process. Together, we can establish a framework that upholds the rights and dignity of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.

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