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DIWALI GREETINGS FROM THE PNCR/APNU:

The PNCR/APNU coalition extends Diwali Greetings to the entire Guyanese nation, especially our Hindu brothers and sisters. On this occasion, we thought it best to provide some notes on Diwali for the benefit of those who wish to know more about the observance. The information is provided by our Member of Parliament Pandit Dineswhar Jaiprashad.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated over five days. Each day holds its own significance and traditions:

Day 1: Dhanteras

Significance: Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali. It is dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and health.

Traditions: People clean and decorate their homes and buy gold, silver, or new utensils, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Lighting diyas (oil lamps) is also common, as it is believed to ward off evil.

Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)

Significance: This day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, who had terrorized the heavens.

Traditions: People wake up early, take a ritual bath, and prepare festive meals. Diyas and rangoli (colorful patterns made with powders) are created to welcome prosperity and good luck.

Day 3: Diwali (Lakshmi Puja)

Significance: The main day of Diwali is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It also celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.

Traditions: Homes are illuminated with diyas and lights, and people perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening. Families exchange gifts and sweets, and fireworks are common to celebrate the occasion.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja (Annakut)

Significance: This day celebrates the lifting of Govardhan Hill by Lord Krishna to protect villagers from Indra’s wrath. It emphasizes the importance of nature and the environment.

Traditions: People prepare a large variety of vegetarian dishes (Annakut) as an offering to Krishna. In some regions, the day is also celebrated as Bhai Dooj, honoring the bond between brothers and sisters.

Day 5: Bhai Dooj

Significance: This day is dedicated to celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. It reflects love, care, and the wish for each other’s well-being.

Traditions: Sisters pray for their brothers’ prosperity and long life, performing a tilak ceremony. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters.

Each of these days contributes to the overall theme of Diwali: the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and the importance of family and community.

Diwali holds significant cultural and social importance, such as:

1. Celebration of Good over Evil: Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, primarily represented by the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. This theme promotes moral values and encourages individuals to overcome negativity in their lives.
2. Community and Family Bonding: Diwali is a time for families to come together, celebrate, and strengthen bonds. The festival involves shared rituals, feasting, and exchanging gifts, which enhances social ties and fosters a sense of belonging.
3. Cultural Identity: For many, Diwali is an expression of cultural identity. The various customs and traditions associated with the festival—such as decorating homes, preparing traditional sweets, and participating in religious ceremonies—help preserve cultural heritage and instill pride in one’s roots.
4. Economic Impact: Diwali has significant economic implications, as it drives consumer spending in various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and local artisans. The festival encourages the purchase of new clothes, decorations, and gifts, stimulating economic activity.
5. Inclusivity and Interfaith Harmony: While primarily a Hindu festival, Diwali is celebrated by people of various faiths, including Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. This inclusivity promotes interfaith harmony and understanding, making it a unifying event in diverse communities.
6. Social Responsibility: Many individuals and organizations use Diwali as an opportunity to engage in charitable activities, such as donating to the less fortunate. This spirit of giving reinforces social responsibility and encourages people to think of others during the festive season.
7. Environmental Awareness: In recent years, there has been a growing movement to celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly manner, with an emphasis on reducing pollution and using sustainable practices. This shift raises awareness about environmental issues and encourages responsible behavior among communities.

In summary, Diwali is not only a religious observance but also a significant cultural event that reinforces community bonds, promotes social values, and encourages inclusivity, making it an essential aspect of social life in many societies.

HAPPY DIWALI, GUYANA!

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See below the full statement issued :

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends its warmest greetings to all Guyanese, particularly the Hindu  community, on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights. 

Diwali holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, representing the triumph of good over evil, light over  darkness, and hope over despair. It is a time for reflection on the values of righteousness, unity, and the  importance of working together for the greater good. 

As we celebrate Diwali, we are reminded of the need to build a society rooted in respect, harmony, and  tolerance, where every individual can prosper and live in peace. Diwali’s message of light dispelling  darkness is especially relevant as we continue to strive for a Guyana that is inclusive and progressive. 

The PPP reaffirms its commitment to the development and well-being of all Guyanese, regardless of race,  religion, or creed. As the lights of Diwali illuminate our homes and communities, let us renew our resolve  to work together for a brighter, more prosperous future for our nation. 

We take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and joyous Diwali. May this festival bring happiness,  health, and prosperity to all homes across Guyana. 

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With the aid of technology, Demerara Bank’s loans and advances soars to $95.36 billion, accounting for 38% of banking sector lending over the last twelve (12) months.

The bank also maintained its exemplary record of zero non-performing loans.  

See below the full statement issued: 

Demerara Bank Limited (DBL) announced its consolidated financial performance for the year ended September 30, 2024, delivering exceptional growth across all financial indicators, with significant contributions to lending and support for key sectors of Guyana’s economic development. The bank reported a 34% increase in loans and advances, rising from G$71.37 billion in 2023 to G$95.36 billion in 2024. This growth reflects DBL’s strategic efforts to diversify its lending portfolio, with notable expansions in agriculture, real estate, SME’s and services, all supporting the growing Guyanese economy. While driving sectoral growth, the bank maintained zero non-performing loans for the third consecutive year, underscoring disciplined credit management. Accounting for 38% of the total increase in industry-wide lending, DBL reinforced its role as a major contributor to Guyana’s economic progress. This milestone year was also marked by strategic investments in customer centered technology, disciplined risk management and continued commitment to modern, customer-focused solutions. Enhanced technological infrastructure further underscored DBL’s mission of economic empowerment and innovation.

The Bank has planned a series of transformational technological roll-out within the next few months that will improve customer experience. These rollouts will soon be announced to the public.

Key Financial Highlights:

• Net Profit Growth: Net profit increased by 37% to G$5.59 billion, up from G$4.08 billion in 2023.
• Earnings Per Share: Earnings per share improved by 37% to $12.42, up from G$9.06 in 2023.
• Deposit Expansion: Total deposits surged by 25% to G$174.56 billion as of September 30, 2024, driven by a 29% growth in savings deposits, which rose from G$79.4 billion in 2023 to G$102.4 billion. Deposit growth within the banking sector [all commercial banks] increased by 19%.
• Return on Average Assets: The Return on Average Assets increased to 3.1%, exceeding the industry average of 2.11%
• Market Share of Banking Assets: This increased by 22% over the last five years.
• Loan Growth: Demerara Bank Ltd. recorded a 34% increase in total loans and advances, increasing from G$71.37 billion in 2023 to G$95.36 billion in 2024 against banking sector growth of only 17%.
• Sectoral Diversification: Lending in key sectors in 2024 included residential / commercial real estate, consumer financing, services, SME’s & Agriculture and other important sectors, reflecting the banks strategic focus on diverse economic support.
• Zero Non-Performing Loans: For the third consecutive year, Demerara Bank Ltd. maintained zero non-performing loans, underlining its disciplined credit management practices.
• Enhanced Capital Adequacy: The capital adequacy ratio rose to 23.53%, exceeding the industry average of 18.11% and the regulatory benchmark of 8%.
• Robust Asset Growth: Total assets expanded by 27% to G$202.23 billion, highlighting the bank’s robust financial health and capacity for future growth.

Looking ahead

As Demerara Bank Ltd. enters its 30th year, it remains focused on sustainable growth, technological innovation and meaningful community engagement. The bank is committed to further enhancing shareholder value while meeting the evolving needs of its customers.

The CEO, Mr. Dowlat Parbhu, articulated the bank’s enduring promise “We have always aimed to build a bank that offers modern, customer-focused financial solutions while adhering to the highest standards of trust, transparency, and stability.” He expressed gratitude to his team for their hard work and commitment, as well as appreciation for the trust placed in them by their customers and the ongoing support from shareholders.

Chairman, Mr. Samaroo acknowledged this year’s success, attributing it to strategic foresight and the dedication of the Demerara Bank Limited team, stating “Our results this year reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence, innovation and economic empowerment for the people of Guyana.”

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See below the full statement issued by PResident Dr. Irfaan Ali:

On behalf of the Government and the people of Guyana, the First Lady and I extend warmest greetings to all Guyanese, especially our Hindu brothers and sisters, on the auspicious occasion of Diwali.

This luminous festival, celebrated by Hindus around the world, holds a special place in our society. It is a festival that radiates hope and happiness.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most anticipated festivals in Guyana. The lighting of diyas (small oil lamps) during Diwali and the illumination of homes reminds us of the enduring power of light to dispel the darkness that surrounds us, be it physical, emotional, or spiritual. As the light from each diya glows, it provides rays of hope and positivity, offering a path toward a brighter and more harmonious future.

Diwali inspires us to seek truth and justice in our daily lives, no matter the challenges we face. It reminds us that the light of goodness and integrity will always prevail over the forces of darkness, confusion, and deceit.

Just as light has the power to dispel physical darkness, so too must we work to dispel the darkness within ourselves. In this season of reflection and renewal, let us each take a moment to examine our own hearts and minds, recognising the vices that keep us from true enlightenment. Hatred, anger, envy, greed—these are the shadows that cloud our souls and prevent us from living in harmony with each other. Diwali calls upon us to cast away these negative forces and to cleanse ourselves of the emotions and actions that hinder personal and societal progress.

As we light our diyas this year, let us also ignite within ourselves the spirit of unity and love for one another. Let us strive to build a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or economic status. The values that Diwali teaches—kindness, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of good—are principles that should guide us as we work together to build a better Guyana for all.

Each one of us has a role to play in shaping the future of our nation, and Diwali serves as a timely reminder that the journey toward peace and prosperity begins with the choices we make in our own lives. By fostering love, kindness, and understanding, we build a country in which everyone has a stake and where everyone can thrive.

As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the light of Diwali fill your homes and hearts with joy, peace, and hope. May it inspire us to continue working for a future that is brighter, more inclusive, and filled with opportunities for all Guyanese. Together, we can ensure that the light of progress shines throughout our nation, illuminating the path to a better tomorrow.

I wish all Guyanese a peaceful, prosperous, and holy Diwali. Let us move forward together with the light of love, unity, and mutual respect guiding our way. Shubh Diwali to all!

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Agencies that fall under the Ministry of Home Affairs will be automated by August 2025, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said on Wednesday.

Speaking at his usual press conference at Freedom House in Georgetown, Jagdeo, also General Secretary of the governing PPP/C, shared how this move will help to guard against corruption and ensure greater scrutiny.

“We will be able to solve crime faster,” he posited about the more modern management of the systems, adding that authorities will be able to track people around the country faster.

When the new models come on stream, persons will be able to find records of births, deaths, marriages, and all other information in a single database.

The records of incarcerated individuals will also be computerised to ensure better case management, Jagdeo pointed out.

At a previous news conference, Jagdeo had noted how Guyana is making significant strides in its national digitisation efforts, which promises to improve comfort, security, and business expansion across the country.

According to him, the government’s digitisation strategy includes making Guyana’s airports paperless and leveraging technology to bolster national security and economic opportunities.

The government, under the PPP/C, has embarked on an ambitious plan to implement e-governance, aimed at using digital technology to revolutionise all sectors, including healthcare, education, and transportation.

The broader goal is to improve the efficiency of public services and boost economic productivity.

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Leeward Islands Hurricanes and Barbados Pride pulled off commanding wins on Wednesday when action continued in the Cricket West Indies’ CG United Super50 Cup in Trinidad.

At the Queen’s Park Oval, Hurricanes blew away West Indies Academy by 142 runs, while over at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Pride defeated Jamaica Scorpions by 24 runs via the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern method.

Batting first in Port-of-Spain, Hurricanes got to 236-7 in a game reduced to 47 overs per side. Opener Justin Greaves batted through the innings to score an unbeaten 111, the first hundred of the 2024 competition.

The right-hander faced 117 balls and struck nine fours and a six. Dimitri Adams (26) and Jahmar Hamilton (20) were the only other batsmen to get to 20 or above, as Jediah Blades claimed 3-49 and Joshua Bishop 2-31.

In reply, West Indies Academy folded for 94 in 27.5 overs, with only players- Nimar Bolden (30), Teddy Bishop (21) and Carlon Bowen-Tuckett (21)- getting into double-figures.

Off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall claimed 3-22, left-arm spinner Daniel Doram 3-34 and fast bowler Oshane Thomas 2-4.

Over in Tarouba, half-centuries from top-order batsmen Leniko Boucher and Zachary McCaskie led Pride to 260-8 from the allotted 50 overs against Scorpions.

Boucher top-scored with 73 off 90 (9x4s, 1×6) and McCaskie made 63 off 91 (8x4s) in a second wicket partnership of 136, which was the foundation for the winning total.

Skipper Kyle Mayers chipped in with 41 off 30 (4x4s, 2x6s), as Marquindo Mindley (3-43), Jeavor Royal (2-43) and Brad Barnes (2-46) emerged the leading bowlers for Scorpions.

Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican then took 4-25, Dominic Drakes 3-34 and Kemar Smith 2-48 to dismiss Scorpions for 199 in 35 overs.

Odean Smith made a top score of 45 off 27 (2x4s, 5x6s), Jermaine Blackwood scored 40 off 67 (2x4s) and skipper John Campbell 26 off 17 (4x4s).

The CG United Super50 Cup is set to continue on Thursday with Guyana Harpy Eagles up against the Combined Campuses and Colleges from 09:00h at UWI SPEC.

Both teams are aiming for a first win- Harpy Eagles lost to Windward Islands Volcanoes by one wicket and Combined Campuses and Colleges fell to a 60-run defeat to defending champions Trinidad and Tobago Red Force on the opening day.

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The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will search for a new Head Coach for the senior men’s national team, the Golden Jaguars, after it announced Wednesday that it has “ended contractual engagement” with Trinidadian Jamaal Shabazz.

This comes after the Golden Jaguars’ winless run since their promotion to League A of the Concacaf Nations League.

A section of the press had previously reported the “GFF asked the coach to resign from the programme.”

In a recent press engagement, GFF President Wayne Forde did not refute or confirm the report’s accuracy.

In September 2021, Shabazz returned to lead the Golden Jaguars for an unprecedented fourth time.

Shabazz had previous stints with the national team from 2005 to 2009, 2011 to 2012 and 2015 to 2016.

The immediate focus for the GFF will be the Concacaf Play-In matches on November 15 and 19 against Barbados.

SEE PRESS STATEMENT FROM THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION:

“GFF announces departure of Golden Jaguars Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) wishes to announce that it has ended its contractual engagement with Mr. Jamaal Shabazz, Head Coach of the Guyana Golden Jaguars, the national senior men’s football team. Under Coach Shabazz’s leadership, the Golden Jaguars reached significant milestones that will resonate for years to come.

His tenure saw the team earning promotion from League B to League A in the CONCACAF Nations League, among other achievements that have elevated Guyana’s football reputation regionally and internationally.

The GFF extends heartfelt gratitude to Coach Shabazz for his dedication, professionalism, and tireless commitment to advancing Guyana’s football.

His work has not only strengthened the national team but has also inspired countless young players and fans across the country.

Looking ahead, the GFF is dedicated to building upon the foundation laid during Coach Shabazz’s tenure.

We are actively seeking new leadership to guide the Golden Jaguars towards achieving our established goals in the next phase of the programme.”

 

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In a landmark ruling on Wednesday, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has overturned previous decisions by the Guyana High Court and Court of Appeal, affirming the lawful appointments of Vikash Ramkissoon and Sarah Browne as Parliamentary Secretaries in the National Assembly.

This decision allows the two members of the governing People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) to resume their roles in government.

The CCJ’s ruling comes months after Guyana’s Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George declared that Members of Parliament (MPs) cannot hold both elected and non-elected positions simultaneously.

This ruling, upheld by the Appeal Court, had previously deemed the appointments of Ramkissoon and Browne as unlawful.

Following the Appeal Court’s decision, which was delivered on a Tuesday, Attorney General Anil Nandlall expressed the government’s intention to appeal to the CCJ, emphasizing the need for clarity on this critical constitutional matter.

The controversy began when Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones challenged the legality of Browne and Ramkissoon’s appointments on December 22, 2022.

He argued that, as election candidates, they were disqualified from serving as Parliamentary Secretaries, positions intended for “technocrats” who are not involved in electoral politics. Both Browne and Ramkissoon were sworn in on September 15, 2020, with Browne serving in the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and Ramkissoon in the Ministry of Agriculture.

Jones’s case referenced prior judgments, including a notable decision by Chief Justice Ian Chang in the matter of Desmond Morian vs. The Attorney General and the Speaker of the National Assembly, which similarly ruled against political candidates holding non-elected ministerial positions.

In a twist, Nandlall, who represented Morian in that case while in opposition, is now defending the legality of the current appointments.

He argued that the earlier Court of Appeal ruling was not binding due to procedural issues in the case and insisted that the ratio decidendi – the legal principle or reasoning behind the decision – did not apply to the merits of the appeal.

With the CCJ’s ruling, Ramkissoon and Browne can continue their work in the National Assembly, marking a significant turn in this ongoing legal and political saga in Guyana.

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The Atikali Learning Lab, a space dedicated to nurturing learning for kids aged 15 months to five years, formally opened its doors at Lot 6 Temple Street, Ogle, East Coast Demerara, on Wednesday.

The founder is Quenita Walrond, an education professional with 25 years of experience and former head of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD).

‘Atikali’ is a verb meaning to understand, which Quenita Walrond said is the essence of true learning and stems from her own personal experiences of raising her children as a single parent, worrying about their safety and care while she was at work.

The lab offers a developmentally appropriate full-day engagement programme where the whole child is said to be nurtured in an environment of fun, care, and knowledge building and sharing.

“At Atikali Learning Lab, we believe that learning is a treasure that stays with your child forever. Our programmes are designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in young minds. Whether it’s reading, maths, or STEM activities, we help children explore their passions and build a strong foundation for the future,” Oneidge Walrond, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce shared.

With her office having to be where her child would be for the second part of the day once school dismissed at noon, Walrond understood how practical it would be to open the space all day, from 8 am to 4 pm.

With a student-teacher ratio of one to nine, Walrond said Atikali offers the gift of guilt-free time for parents, with a curriculum that includes intention, purpose, and balance.

Minister Walrond was high in praise, assuring of support both in a personal capacity and from the standpoint of government. She pointed out that it is a plus for the government to have someone like Quenita who is highly qualified and was working overseas but chose to come back and work in Guyana.

She noted that the businesswoman had the tenacity to step out and take advantage of the opportunities available to her and encouraged other skilled persons in the diaspora to come back and benefit from the enabling environment that the government has created.

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Organised by the Guyana Fitness Games, the eighth KFC Fitness Expo will be held on Sunday, November 3, from noon at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.

There will be both scaled and elite competitions, but this year, the teams will be formed differently—two females and one male.

Tuesday’s launch at Genesis Fitness Gym also revealed a record number of registrants for the scaled events.

The pioneer behind the Fitness Expo, Noshavayah King, explained that the scaled fitness challenge is tailored to display the skill and grit of athletes, and then attention turns to the high-intensity team elite fitness challenge.

King indicated there would be lucrative cash payouts for overall positions and for winning each event.

The RX Teams will receive $450,000 (first), $300,000 (second), and $150,000 (third) as overall prizes.

While the team event wins, each team will receive $120,000, and a bonus prize will be announced on the day.

For the Scaled event – $100,000 (first), $80,000 (second) and third ($50,000) – while each event win gets them $25,000.

Beyond the competition, there will be a high-energy Zumba display, an interactive fitness exhibition, and games designed specifically for spectators.

There will also be a team school challenge.

Both Feroz Mohamed of Fit Fusion and Ayanna Watson, Commercial Manager (Guyana) of Sol Petroleum, expressed their happiness at participating in an event that promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Other sponsors include Demerara Mutual and Star Party Rentals.

Tickets cost $2,000.

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