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During a ceremony at Base Camp Ayanganna on Wednesday, President Dr Irfaan Ali joined ranks of the Guyana Defence Force to celebrate the achievements of the newly minted officers where he announced plans for major investments in the military infrastructure.

During the commissioning parade for the Standard Officer’s Course Number 55, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces revealed plans for a state-of-the-art headquarters for the GDF, a move he described as “a strategic investment” to strengthen national security.

This new facility, he explained, will provide the force with a modern, functional workplace, symbolising the government’s commitment to both the GDF and the broader national development agenda.

President Ali’s announcement is part of a broader initiative aimed at modernising and equipping Guyana’s military to meet evolving threats.

“This headquarters will not only be a place for work, but a place that signifies the strength, capability, and commitment of our armed forces,” the President said while addressing the assembled officers and guests.

Brigadier Omar Khan, the Chief of Defence Staff, has been tasked with spearheading the procurement process for the building’s design, which is expected to enhance the operational capacity and morale of the GDF.

The headquarters will offer a more spacious, high-tech environment, crucial for boosting the efficiency of operations and communications across the military.

The President also highlighted the significant investments the government has made in the defence sector in recent years.

“We have witnessed a remarkable transformation in our military,” President Ali stated, pointing to the increased professionalism and capabilities of the GDF.

He also noted that the country is now better equipped to defend its borders, and that this new facility will further empower the force to take on its multifaceted role in national development.

He cited recent efforts in humanitarian aid, particularly the GDF’s contribution following Hurricane Beryl’s devastation in Grenada, as an example of the force’s expanding responsibilities.

“Our military’s role is not limited to defence; they are increasingly integral to regional peace-building and disaster relief,” President Ali affirmed.

The President also praised the dedication of the officers who had completed their training and noted that the legacy of the GDF was one of courage, professionalism, and service to the nation. He encouraged the new officers to uphold these values as they began their careers, and to lead by example, particularly in an era of complex global challenges.

Addressing the new officers directly, President Ali said, “You inherit the legacy of those who have come before you. Your journey is just beginning, and you will be tested. But you will rise to the challenge.”

He emphasised the importance of integrity and leadership, qualities he described as the bedrock of military service.

In his speech, the President also stressed the importance of building a military that is not only strong but also inclusive.

He highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring that every rank within the GDF has the opportunity to contribute to Guyana’s success, with a focus on diversity and equal opportunity.

The new headquarters will reflect this ethos, providing a space that embodies the values of unity, respect, and collaboration that are central to the GDF’s future.

“We recognise the challenges that lie ahead,” President Ali remarked. “We must manage our resources responsibly and ensure that our military remains capable of defending our nation while contributing to the sustainable development of Guyana.”

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In what is being termed a game-changer for the local fuel industry, Sol Guyana Inc. has officially launched its first rebranded service station on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.

The unveiling marks the introduction of Mobil fuels, including the cutting-edge Mobil Synergy Extra and Mobil Synergy Supreme+ technologies.

This new offering promises improved fuel performance, better mileage, and advanced engine protection for drivers across the country.

The event, held on Wednesday, was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebrated the partnership between Sol and ExxonMobil, a collaboration that brings innovative fuel solutions to Guyana.

A second Mobil-branded station was also unveiled on Vlissengen Road, with nine other stations across the country set to follow suit in the coming weeks.

Earl Carribon, General Manager of Sol Guyana, expressed his excitement about the new venture, highlighting the significance of the partnership with ExxonMobil.

“This is not just a change in branding,” Carribon said, “but a bold step towards providing Guyanese drivers with superior fuel technology that enhances both engine performance and fuel efficiency.”

Carribon also noted that this collaboration would benefit not just consumers but also retailers and other stakeholders within the country, reinforcing Sol’s commitment to delivering high-quality energy solutions.

With ExxonMobil’s global reputation for advanced fuel technology, the new Mobil-branded stations will offer fuel that helps clean and maintain engine components, improving both performance and fuel economy.

The new Mobil fuels introduced in Guyana, Mobil Synergy Extra and Mobil Synergy Supreme+, are designed to optimise engine cleanliness and protect against wear, helping drivers achieve better mileage and enhanced engine longevity.

“This is truly a game-changer,” Carribon added. “Guyanese drivers will now have access to advanced fuels that provide both better mileage and improved engine protection, ensuring a smoother and more efficient driving experience.”

Mark Goede, Vice President of the Sol Group, also spoke at the event, underscoring the transformative nature of this fuel technology for the country.

“Our customers are at the heart of everything we do,” said Goede. “This partnership with ExxonMobil is a key part of Sol’s strategy to provide innovative fuel solutions and deliver an exceptional customer experience.”

He added that these modern service stations are not just about fuel but also about enhancing safety standards and setting a new benchmark for service stations in Guyana.

“These stations also prioritise safety with improved lighting and modern infrastructure, creating a superior environment for our customers.”

The launch event also featured remarks from Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, who expressed his pride in seeing such a significant investment in the country’s infrastructure.

“This is more than just an oil and gas investment; it’s about creating jobs and improving the quality of life for all Guyanese,” Bharrat said.

“The future is indeed bright, and with investments like this, Guyana is poised for unprecedented growth and development.”

He also highlighted the importance of partnerships between the government and the private sector in driving forward the nation’s economic prosperity.

“This facility represents not just a state-of-the-art fuel station, but also a symbol of Guyana’s progress and its growing stature on the global investment map.”

In the coming months, expect to see even more Mobil stations across Guyana, each offering the same advanced fuel technology that promises to power the next generation of drivers.

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Bjorn Williams recorded the best performance of his career to date when he closed off his campaign in the 105kg Open class at the Commonwealth Men’s Classic Powerlifting Championships in Sun City, South Africa.

With a huge pull of 307.5kg, the best in his career to date, Williams ended with the silver medal, just reward for his hard work and discipline.

While not medalling in either the Squat or Bench Press, competing against nine other athletes, Williams was still able to record his best Squat (245.0kg) and his best Bench was 162.5kg.

These lifts allowed him to also record his best total (715.0kg), to mark a memorable sojourn, shining bright in Sun City.

Williams’ previous best Squat was 235.0kg, which he achieved in Uruguay in 2019, whilst his best Deadlift was 305.0kg, accomplished in New Zealand two years ago.

Williams commented on his stellar achievement: “Today’s performance was my best of all times. Perfect way to transition into the realm of a Master lifter. All praise and thanks be to God and all those that believed in my abilities.”

Bjorn Williams (right) and compatriot Demetri Chan

Williams’ teammate, Demetri Chan, who won the 74kg Bench Press competition gold medal on Friday last, was primed to add to that medal in the Commonwealth Men’s Classic Powerlifting Championships on Tuesday.

However, he was hard done by some questionable referring calls during his second and third Bench Press attempts when the command took too long to be given.

Chan’s bar was also misloaded twice for his Deadlifts; these challenges added up to throw the athlete off course.

Nonetheless, Chan is resolved to continue his comeback to this level of competition and will come even stronger in the future.

Federation President Franklin Wilson offered congratulations to Williams for a fantastic overall performance and his silver medal.

“Your dedication and determination to ensure that you competed have paid the kind of dividends that would only make you better in your career. You like the other lifters, have made yourself and Guyana proud and for this, we are grateful, congratulations to you all.”

The GAPLF is expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Sport, National Sports Commission, the Guyana Olympic Association, Fitness Express, and E Master Corporation for supporting the team to South Africa, whilst Williams is expressing thanks to Team Stoby Shakes, JR Engineering and LWC Investments for their support.

Williams’ silver medal increased Guyana’s tally to five, having already won three gold and two bronze medals at the Commonwealth Championships.

In the World Masters where Nadina Taharally and Roger Rogers competed apart from the Commonwealth, the competitions running simultaneously, Guyana captured one silver and four bronze medals.

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Although possessing several amateur boxers of international ranking and repute, Guyana’s lone world-ranked professional pugilist, Elton ‘Coolie Bully’ Dharry, has moved one step closer to acquiring a world title fight as he was ranked number four in the super-flyweight division by renowned sanctioning entity, the World Boxing Association (WBA).

Dharry, 38, sports a record of 28 wins (15 knockouts), six losses and one no-contest.

Guyanese boxer Elton Dharry (centre) with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. (left) and Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle

In his most recent encounter, Dharry defeated local prized fighter Dexter Marques on local soil via technical knockout in the third round. Dharry is undefeated in his last four bouts.

The Enterprise native fought for the WBA Super Flyweight title in 2019, but suffered a controversial ninth-round stoppage defeat to Australian Andrew Maloney in Melbourne.

Given his recent elevation, Dharry is expected to challenge once again for a world title.

If a world title fight and eventual victory are realised, the extraordinary feat will solidify his status in the annals of time and place him amongst revered company such as the late Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis, Wayne ‘Big Truck’ Brathwaite, Vivian Harris, Gwendolyn ‘Stealth Bomber’ O’Neil and Gary St. Clair.

Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle said, “This is a significant development for Elton Dharry and the nation as a whole. We believe that Dharry, who is a student of the game, is now worthy of another crack at a world title.”

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A devastating fire broke out on Wednesday at approximately 10:40 hrs, destroying fifteen buildings in Puruni Landing, Region Seven.

This incident mirrors a similar fire that occurred in the same area just one year ago.

The latest blaze had completely engulfed properties owned by prominent local businessmen, including Yvette McDonald, Floyd Elcock, Otis McKenzie, and Williams Cozier. Altogether a total of 15 buildings were destroyed along with several vehicles.

McDonald’s establishment, ‘Miners Choice’, was particularly affected, consisting of three hotel buildings, a restaurant, and living quarters for workers.

Elcock also lost a grocery store and hotel, while McKenzie operated a drug store and Cozier’s building served as a residential building.

Aftermath of the massive fire at Puruni Landing (Photo: Erwin Ward/October 2024)

Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire began during a fuel sale at ‘Miners Choice’, where a spill ignited and quickly spread.

At the time, several rooms were occupied, and while it is feared that two individuals may have perished, this has yet to be confirmed due to the extent of the damage.

Local authorities, including Police Commander Senior Superintendent Dion Moore, visited the scene later in the afternoon.

Efforts to contain the fire were aided by community members who employed a dredge engine from the Puruni River.

The loss is significant, with none of the affected buildings reported to be insured.

The total cost of damages remains undetermined. Tragically, police ATV 3129, used by local officers, was also lost in the inferno.

An eyewitness told the News Room that two persons, a man and a woman were unaccounted for. He said there were unconfirmed reports that they were trapped in their room when the fire started.

“Several rooms at Miners Choice were reportedly occupied at the time of the fire. It is currently unknown whether all occupants were able to evacuate safely. It is suspected that two persons may have perished, but this cannot be confirmed due to the extent of the rubble and debris,” Police reported.

This incident comes just a year after a similar fire in Puruni Landing that caused extensive damage to a Chinese supermarket and adjacent structures.

In that case, the fire was traced to a generator room, prompting an immediate response from the police and fire prevention officers to manage the situation.

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The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has announced the squads for the upcoming Senior Men’s Super50 Inter-county tournament, which will start on October 13.

The opening rounds feature Essequibo hosting Berbice at Pomona Ground while Demerara faces Select XI at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda.

Both matches are scheduled to commence at 09:30h.

Essequibo Squad:

• Captain: Antony Adams
• Vice-Captain: Kemol Savory
• Players: Keanu Harry, Ronsford Beaton, Quinton Sampson, Ricardo Peters, Ricardo Adams, Kevon Boodie, Kanhaiya Ramkarran, Ronaldo Renee, Joshua Jones, Neiland Cadogan, Garfield Phillips, Thaddeus Lovell, Malcolm Hubbard
• Standbys: Dexter George, Jadon Campbell, Kevon Stephens, Shahid Viera
• Manager: Andy Ramnarine
• Coach: Rayon De Costa

Berbice Squad:

• Captain: Veerasammy Permaul
• Vice-Captain: Kevin Sinclair
• Players: Junior Sinclair, Rampertab Ramnauth, Tomani Caesar (WK), Kevlon Anderson, Jonathon Foo, Rajiv Ivan, Zainul Ramsammy, Seon Glasgow, Nigel Deodat, Nial Smith, Clinton Pestano, Sylus Tyndall, Joemal La Fleur
• Standbys: Shamal Angel, Demetri Cameron, Javed Karim, Rampersaud Ramnauth, Adrian Sukwah
• Manager: Winston Smith
• Coach: Julian Moore

Demerara Squad:

• Players: Tevin Imlach, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Shamar Yearwood, Akshaya Persaud, Raymon Perez, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Richie Looknauth, Steven Sankar, Chris Harry, Qumar Torrington, Ashmead Nedd, Sachin Singh, Chetram Balgobin, Devon Lord
• Standbys: Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Riyad Latiff, Neeran Bani, Chanderpaul Ramraj
• Manager: Surendra Hiralal
• Coach: Garvin Nedd

GCB Select XI:

• Captain: Johnathan Rampersaud
• Players: Rivaldo Phillips, Navindra Persaud, Carlos Larose, Bernard Bailey, Jeremiah Scott, Brandon Jaikaran, Floy Joseph, Johnathan Van Lange, Ushardeva Balgobin, Aryan Persaud, Shamar Angel, Golcharran Chulai, Gaurav Ramesh, Kwesi Mickle, Javed Karim, Rajendra Ramballi, Krsna Singh, Ronaldo Jeffery
• Manager: Puneet Jaigopaul
• Coach: Quasen Nedd

Notably, Romario Shepherd and Gudakesh Motie are unavailable due to their commitments with the West Indies in Sri Lanka, while the reasons for the absence of other players like Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul, and Matthew Nandu were not disclosed.

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Wind blows over palm trees, as the Sanibel Island bridge is seen in the background, as Hurricane Milton approaches Fort Myers, Florida, U.S. October 9, 2024. REUTERS/Ricardo Arduengo

Broken utility poles downed by strong wind gusts are seen as Hurricane Milton approaches Fort Myers, Florida, U.S. October 9, 2024. REUTERS/Ricardo Arduengo

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St. Stanislaus College in Georgetown unveiled its new Physics and Chemistry Lab on Tuesday night, honouring former teacher Father Herbert Feeny, alongside the renovated Richard Harford Staff Room.

Father Feeny taught at the school for many years, from 1946 to 1970. Harford, a former student who went on to become a successful businessman, made significant donations to the school.

The $51 million rehabilitative project is seen as a transformative step towards advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education at the college.

The project was made possible by donations from the school’s alumni, the Government of Guyana, and families such as the Feenys and Harfords.

During the ceremony, Dr. Kofi Dalrymple, another distinguished alumnus, emphasised the importance of STEAM in shaping the future. He noted that 60% of the school’s students now choose to pursue science subjects. Dr. Dalrymple hailed the college as a beacon of scientific excellence.

“In today’s world and especially in our beloved Guyana, Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths are at the heart of our progress; they are the foundations of innovation, the engine driving the economy, and the key to solving the most pressing challenges of our time. At Saints, we understand,” Dr. Dalrymple said.

He added that the modern labs will foster hands-on learning and equip students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for success.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who also attended St. Stanislaus College, delivered the keynote address. Reflecting on his own experience as a student, President Ali attributed much of his success to the well-rounded education he received at the institution.

“These corridors, these classrooms, these laboratories moulded me; they shaped me not just by knowledge of the world but by teaching me how to think, how to question, and ultimately how to lead,” the Head of State said.

He stressed the importance of linking education to national development, particularly in growing sectors such as eco-tourism, oil and gas, and hospitality.

The new lab, President Ali noted, also symbolises the school’s dedication to preparing students to contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s evolving economy and development.

The President then challenged the board and teachers to ensure St. Stanislaus remains at the forefront of education and national progress.

“Education, especially in STEAM, is needed to boost an economy that is now on a transformative path of development,” he said.

“We don’t want this institution to only focus on academics. The strength of this institution lies in creating well-rounded individuals, fostering well-rounded citizens, understanding the talent of everyone who passes through here, and building on that talent to give them the best opportunity to contribute to the population,” the President added.

The President also committed to donating $500,000 annually to the school in honour of outstanding teacher Lorraine Meratins, for the creation of the Lorraine Meratins Debating and Impromptu Speech Awards.

Meanwhile, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand commended the school’s progress and highlighted its leadership in delivering hybrid education, a model that began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A three-storey addition to the school, which will include more classrooms, labs, and staff spaces, is expected to be completed soon.

“It is not just about the physical building; it’s about ensuring every student leaves here with competencies in at least one foreign language, one TVET area, one sport, one musical instrument, and a strong sense of volunteerism,” Manickchand said.

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In defence of President Irfaan Ali’s decision to appoint Clifton Hicken as the substantive Commissioner of Police, Attorney General Anil Nandlall has dismissed objections from Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, describing them as unfounded and legally flawed.

Speaking on his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News’ Tuesday night, Nandlall rejected Norton’s claim that the President had failed to consult him in line with constitutional requirements.

The Opposition Leader has indicated his intent to challenge the appointment in court, citing alleged breaches of the Constitution.

“There is nothing improper, nothing illegal, and nothing unconstitutional about the President’s actions thus far,” Nandlall said as he stressed that President Ali followed the constitutional provisions when engaging in the appointment process.

Norton claims the process did not adhere to the constitutionally mandated consultation process, which, according to him, should have included a face-to-face meeting.

But Nandlall was adamant, explaining that the Constitution of Guyana, specifically Article 211, outlines how the Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioners of Police should be appointed.

He pointed out that the President alone holds the authority for these appointments, but must engage in “meaningful consultation” with both the Leader of the Opposition and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, following which a decision is made.

Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken and President Irfaan Ali during an outreach in Buxton, East Coast Demerara

“The President is required to write, engage in written dialogue, and keep a record of the consultations. There is no obligation for a face-to-face meeting,” Nandlall clarified.

“The Constitution does not require agreement from the Opposition Leader, nor does it mandate a personal meeting. What it ensures is that the Leader of the Opposition is given a reasonable opportunity to provide considered feedback,” he added.

According to Nandlall, In early September, the President wrote to Norton, informing him of the proposed appointment of Clifton Hicken as the Commissioner of Police, and requested his input.

The letter, which was sent alongside the CV of Hicken and those of five Deputy Commissioners, set a deadline for Norton’s response by September 18.

Further, Nandlall revealed that President Ali had responded to Norton’s objections on October 2, addressing each point raised by the Opposition Leader.

“The President’s letter was a detailed response, countering each contention raised by Mr Norton,” Nandlall said.

“Many of Mr Norton’s concerns were found to be factually incorrect, and the President’s reply provided ample clarification.”

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall addressing the First Legal Conference on Criminal Justice Reform – Advancing the Needham’s Point Declaration

The Attorney General reminded that this is not the first time Norton has challenged Hicken’s appointment.

When Hicken was first appointed as acting Commissioner in March 2022, following the pre-retirement leave of Nigel Hoppie, Norton had previously taken issue with the process.

However, as Nandlall highlighted, there was no opposition leader at that time, nor was there a functioning Police Service Commission, making the President’s action legally valid.

In March 2023, as Hicken’s 55th birthday approached — the mandatory retirement age — he continued to serve in an acting capacity.

Now, as the President seeks to confirm Hicken’s substantive appointment, Norton’s objections have resurfaced.

Hicken, a seasoned law enforcement professional, had previously headed the Police Force’s Operations before stepping into the role of Acting Commissioner.

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As Guyana stands at the cusp of a golden era in its economic history, the stage was set for a high-stakes conversation about the country’s future on Tuesday evening.

The second annual Regional Investments and Capital Markets Conference kicked off at the Pegasus Suites in Kingston, bringing together some of the Caribbean’s brightest business minds and policymakers.

It wasn’t just the glitter of Guyana’s newfound oil wealth that had everyone talking.

In a frank and passionate address, Chairman of the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE), Steven Whittingham urged Guyana not to fall into the same economic traps that once nearly sank Jamaica.

While he praised Guyana’s rapid economic growth, driven largely by its oil sector, he also spoke about the risks of sudden prosperity.

He recalled how Jamaica, decades ago, stood on the precipice of disaster.

“There was a time when Jamaica was seen as the sick man of the Caribbean.

“Our currency depreciated faster than we could count, and the preferential treatment for sugar, once our lifeblood, was removed. Jamaica was left vulnerable,” Whittingham recalled.

“Look at us now,” he said, adding, “Jamaica has become a beacon of financial stability. Our GDP is up, unemployment is down to historic lows, and our stock exchange is thriving.”

Whittingham took time to outline the success of the Jamaica Stock Exchange, which now boasts over 100 listed companies and a market capitalisation of $11 billion.

“We’ve built a platform for wealth generation and capital raising that is internationally recognised. But it wasn’t always this way,” he reasoned.

And then came his message for Guyana, the fastest-growing economy in the world.

Chairman of the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE), Steven Whittingham

“…successful economies are not built solely on natural resources. They are built by successful companies and successful companies need capital. Guyana is at a crossroads. It’s a land of opportunity, but you must tread carefully,” he said.

The room became quiet as Whittingham told the story of Jamaica’s bauxite levy.

The Jamaican government, back in the 1970s, had introduced a capital development fund, similar to Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund that was supposed to act as a safety net for the economy.

The plan? To save the proceeds from bauxite to support social enterprise and bolster the country’s reserves.

Instead, the fund was mismanaged, and the capital vanished.

“It became a cautionary tale.

“…about what happens when economic decisions are not made with foresight or prudence,” he noted.

And with that, he offered his warning to Guyana, to avoid the same pitfalls.

While the country’s oil wealth has put it on the map, Whittingham urged Guyana to not become seduced by short-term gains.

And that is exactly what the Guyana government has set out to do, to spend now on transforming the country in all sectors but also to save for the future.

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo is on record repeatedly stating and explaining that Guyana will not splurge its windfall revenues and have nothing to show for it in the end.

There has been advocacy in Guyana for the government to issue millions in cash grants from oil revenues to the citizenry on the basis that the people are the owners of the oil and gas resources. But Jagdeo said that this mentality threatens to return Guyana to the days when it was a poor country before the change of administration in the early 90s.

As the conference continues to conclude on Wednesday, government officials including Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance in the Office of the President, Dr. Ashni Singh, and Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bahrrat are set to address the gathering.

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