Author: Zena Henry

AFC makes big demands to join APNU coalition

Posted on by Zena Henry

The Alliance for Change (AFC) has insisted that party leader Nigel Hughes be the presidential candidate in any coalition with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

In a statement issued last night, the party said the decision was made at a special meeting of its National Executive Committee.

The AFC also stated that it will accept 40 percent of all levels of government, with the remaining 60 per cent of positions going to APNU.

“The party from which the presidential candidate is named shall not be permitted to nominate and/or occupy the position of leader of the list,” the AFC outlined as another condition for a coalition with APNU.

The electoral strength of the AFC has significantly diminished since 2015, to the point that it did not contest the 2022 Local Government Elections.

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) is the largest party in the APNU coalition.

PNCR leader and head of APNU, Aubrey Norton, while acknowledging the importance of a united opposition, had previously appeared to dismiss the idea of Hughes leading a coalition of opposition parties.

“I don’t believe that we should just take the hard work we do and give it to anybody who just flies off a tree top, lands on the ground, and says you must be the presidential candidate,” he had said.

Speaking at his party’s recent General Council meeting, Norton reiterated that APNU is committed to working towards a coalition but emphasised, “We not gon let anybody tek dem eyes and pass we.”

“We are well aware that we are better together, but we are also well aware that we carry the burden of the work. And I want to make this commitment to you—that this party will not allow anybody to ride on your backs. We are prepared to engage and be reasonable, but we are not prepared to bend over backwards,” he affirmed.

UN commits to strengthening youth-focused initiatives in Guyana

Posted on by Zena Henry

United Nations (UN) Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Youth Affairs, Dr. Felipe Paullier, has affirmed his support for Guyana’s commitment to youth empowerment and the advancement of human rights.

He also expressed enthusiasm for strengthening collaboration to further develop impactful youth-focused initiatives.

Dr Paullier, who is on a three-day visit to Guyana, made these commitments during a meeting with Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud, on Monday at her East and Lamaha Streets, Georgetown office.

During the engagement, the UN Assistant Secretary-General discussed the shared priorities of Guyana and the UN in promoting meaningful youth engagement in national development and global representation.

Minister Persaud highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to create inclusive platforms for youth participation, including initiatives such as the Young Influencers Programme, the Youth Advisory Council, and programmes specifically designed to empower young people living with disabilities.

In addition to these high-level discussions, the ASG is expected to meet with the UN Resident Coordinator, heads of UN agencies based in Guyana, and UN staff.

He will also engage with the Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign and Community Relations of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

A key highlight of the visit will be a town hall meeting with youth, organised by the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator with support from UNDP Guyana.

This event will provide young people with the opportunity to engage directly with the ASG on issues affecting their future.

The ASG’s itinerary also includes a site visit to the Guyana School of Agriculture to observe ongoing initiatives.

Paullier was accompanied by Associate Programme Management Officer at the UN Youth Office, Reese Medina, along with other UN delegates.

The ASG is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with several key government officials.

The visit aims to explore the opportunities and challenges faced by youth in the country and region, learn from best practices and innovations, and discuss how the UN Youth Office can effectively support and showcase the country’s youth globally, a press release said.

Patient care being transformed in Region Six

Posted on by Zena Henry

The Patient Care Assistant (PCA) Training Programme, launched in Region Six, will see more than 200 persons participating over the next four months to support nurses and other medical professionals.

The comprehensive programme includes theoretical instruction and practical clinical training. It covers essential aspects such as patient care, infection prevention, medical ethics, and emergency response.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, launched the initiative at the Berbice High School auditorium in New Amsterdam.

He highlighted the importance of investing in healthcare education and workforce development, particularly with the rapid expansion of the healthcare system.

The health minister believes that a more qualified medical staff will lead to more effective healthcare and improved patient outcomes.

Minister Anthony urged the trainees to provide high-quality care to enhance service efficiency. Upon completion of the course, they will be certified and employed at various healthcare facilities across the region.

The participants were also encouraged to take advantage of other training programmes in the sector to elevate themselves. These include the Nursing Assistant and Registered Nursing (RN) programmes.

“There are different opportunities that we are offering to people…. If you have the desire to progress, then the opportunities are going to be there for you to progress.… We have been investing a lot of resources to train people,” the health minister said.

He stated that the new training facility under construction in New Amsterdam will feature simulation laboratories and other essential amenities to provide training for those in the medical profession. The training facility is expected to open by the end of this year.

“Over the next couple of years, we will see Region Six being transformed into a teaching hub for medicine,” he highlighted.

These efforts align with the government’s overarching goal of decentralising healthcare programmes and services while ensuring access to a qualified medical workforce across the country. (DPI)

Jagdeo outlines PPP’s accomplishments, warns against opposition’s fake promises

Posted on by Zena Henry

Hailing the strength and unity of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo expressed confidence in the party’s return to power in the upcoming General and Regional Elections.

Speaking to a well-attended gathering at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, Region Six, a stronghold of the party’s support base, Dr Jagdeo declared that the PPP would win against any candidate, “except God.”

However, he warned supporters to remain vigilant against opposition agents seeking to divide the party by spreading vile messages of racism and neglect.

Dr Jagdeo emphasised that the PPP is a party for all Guyanese and has been working diligently to include people of all ethnic backgrounds.

“We are strong in Indo-Guyanese communities, we have grown stronger in Amerindian communities because of our work, and we will make a dedicated effort to strengthen our support in Afro-Guyanese communities,” he said.

Under President Dr Irfaan Ali’s leadership, he noted, the party has ensured that every community benefits from development.

“Now everyone has seen this. Every Guyanese, including those who supported the PNC because they believed it cared about people, now realise they were misled by fake promises,” he affirmed.

Dr Jagdeo outlined the government’s achievements, stating that the PPP does not make empty promises but delivers on its commitments.

“We promised children’s grants, and we did it. We doubled the Old-Age Pension. We committed to 50,000 house lots, and we are already at 41,000. We pledged 20,000 scholarships, but we have delivered 50,000. We aimed for 60,000 new jobs because people were losing employment in droves. The Joint Services got back their bonus, we removed 200 taxes imposed by the previous government, reinvested in the sugar industry, repealed three taxes on miners, and restored employment in Region 10, where 1,000 bauxite workers had lost their jobs. Rice farmers have received support, including higher paddy prices. Every group of Guyanese, regardless of race, has seen that the PPP stands by its word. Our word is our bond,” he said.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, who spoke earlier, praised Jagdeo’s leadership for taking the party to new heights and reaffirmed that the PPP is dedicated to love for country and service to the people.

He stressed that the party “cannot be bought or sold” and paid tribute to the values and vision of PPP founder and former President Dr Cheddi Jagan.

Turning to the government’s accomplishments in Region Six, Ali noted that the region suffered significantly from the closure of sugar estates under the APNU+AFC administration.

However, over the past five years, life in the region has been changing. Bank deposits have increased by 71 per cent, reflecting renewed confidence in the local economy.

He reported that over 1,000 workers have been rehired at the Rose Hall Estate, more than 4,000 people in the region have gained employment through the government’s Pathway to Prosperity Programme, and over $20 billion has been invested in agriculture over the past four years.

Private credit to the agriculture sector has tripled, farmers have benefitted from free fertiliser and flood relief grants, and VAT has been removed from agricultural equipment. More than 8,500 eye surgeries have been performed free of cost at the Port Mourant Ophthalmology Centre since its founding, and more nurses and young people are being trained in TVET programmes.

And these are not the only developments for the region, the President said. The region will benefit from a modern hospitality institute, an oil and gas training centre, an airport, a four-lane highway, hospitals, a deep-water port, and the opening of thousands of acres of land for agriculture.

Things in the region have been changing, and in a positive way. In 2019, contracts in Region Six were awarded to only 43 contractors, whereas today, the number has risen to 1,132. President Ali maintained that progress will continue as long as the PPP remains in power, pointing out that the government has not only delivered but exceeded its manifesto promises.

Jagdeo: Cash grant will continue if PPP wins upcoming elections

Posted on by Zena Henry

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, confirmed today that the government’s $100,000 cash grant programme will continue if the party wins the upcoming General and Regional Elections, scheduled for the final quarter of the year.

The initiative, announced by President Irfaan Ali in October 2024, has been allocated $60 billion from the national budget. The one-time payment aims to provide immediate financial relief to low-income citizens, improve access to essential goods and services, and raise living standards for approximately 700,000 people across the country.

In addition to offering short-term relief, the cash grant seeks to stimulate local economies by increasing consumer spending. This boost is expected to benefit small businesses and contribute to broader economic growth.

The programme is part of the government’s strategy to ensure that the wealth generated from Guyana’s burgeoning oil sector is shared more equitably among the population.

The cash grant also aims to promote financial inclusion, encouraging broader participation in the country’s economy.

Demerara, Berbice and Wismar bridges to be toll-free from August 1

Posted on by Zena Henry

President Irfaan Ali today announced that crossing the Demerara, Berbice, and Wismar bridges will be free of cost, effective 1 August 2025.

He made the announcement while addressing a well-attended gathering at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, to commemorate the 28th death anniversary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) founding leader and former president, Dr Cheddi Jagan.

This initiative will significantly alleviate the financial burden on commuters and enhance regional connectivity.

Currently, crossing the Berbice River Bridge costs G$1,900 for cars, while the Demerara River Bridge toll is G$200 for similar vehicles.

The government has allocated G$1.015 billion in the 2025 National Budget to subsidise the Berbice Bridge Company, facilitating the removal of tolls.

Overall, the removal of bridge tolls is part of broader governmental efforts to reduce the cost of living and improve infrastructure nationwide.

President Ali to lead PPP into upcoming elections

Posted on by Zena Henry

People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo today announced that President Dr Irfaan Ali will be the party’s presidential candidate in the upcoming General and Regional elections.

He made the announcement while concluding his address to a well-attended gathering at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, to commemorate the 28th death anniversary of the founding leader of the PPP and former president, Dr Cheddi Jagan.

He stated that comparing the opposition to President Ali is like comparing a giant to nothing.

“He is proficient in every area. He represents us at the United Nations with distinction. He handles matters skillfully to safeguard our borders, particularly in dealing with the Venezuelan issue,” Dr Jagdeo said, highlighting that Ali has proven to be a people’s person—intelligent and well-spoken.

President Ali, who spoke earlier, warned the gathering to be wary of opposition elements who would stop at nothing to divide the PPP and deceive its supporters.

He asserted that the PPP today is stronger than ever but urged all members to work together to preserve and expand the party’s support base.

Young lawyer dies in early morning accident on Sheriff Street

Posted on by Zena Henry

A young Attorney, Akil Johnson, 27, of South Ruimveldt, died in a fatal accident early this morning at the intersection of Sheriff and Dadanawa Streets, Georgetown.

According to police reports, the collision involved motor car #PWW 9839, driven by 34-year-old Viola Mettelholzer of South Road, Lacytown, and motorcycle #CP 4679, ridden by Johnson.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the car was traveling north along the eastern drive lane of Sheriff Street and had entered the turning lane to head east onto Dadanawa Street. At the same time, Johnson, who was reportedly riding at high speed alongside another motorcycle, collided head-on with the vehicle.

Johnson, who was not wearing a helmet, was thrown several feet upon impact. Public-spirited citizens rushed him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s Accident and Emergency Unit, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Law enforcement officials have since issued a Notice of Intended Prosecution to Mettelholzer. The scene was examined, and one eyewitness has come forward. A Licensing and Certifying Officer also assessed both vehicles.

A breathalyzer test conducted on Mettelholzer recorded readings of 0.16 and 0.10 micrograms of alcohol in her breath, which is above the legal limit. She remains in police custody, assisting with the investigation.

Johnson’s body has been transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital mortuary as investigations continue.

Commissioner Hicken ‘tells all’ in ‘Reflections on my journey’

Posted on by Zena Henry

Commissioner of the Guyana Police Force, Clifton Anthony Hicken, on Saturday launched his much-anticipated book, “Reflections on my Journey”.

The publication is a deeply personal and professional chronicle of his birth, upbringing, schooling, and academic pursuits, as well as his illustrious and transformative career spanning over three decades in Guyana’s law enforcement landscape, according to a release.

Held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, the event honoured a leader whose tenure and leadership have redefined policing through an unwavering commitment to the rule of law, integrity, and community and youth development.

Commissioner Hicken’s journey in the Guyana Police Force, from his entry as a Special Constable in 1986 to his historic appointment as Commissioner of Police, embodies resilience and visionary leadership.

His tenure in the Guyana Police Force has been marked by significant milestones, including a notable reduction in crime across the country and a renewed focus on ethical policing. This includes mandates for body cameras and enhanced engagement with the public and communities nationwide.

These achievements, the release noted, along with the infrastructural and overall transformation of the Guyana Police Force under his stewardship, have set a new standard for future Commissioners of Police.

“Reflections on my Journey” offers a candid exploration of the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned during a career that has navigated Guyana’s evolving security landscape through both turmoil and prosperity.

The book comes at a pivotal moment, as the nation’s rapid development and growth demand innovative approaches to law enforcement—a theme central to the Force’s 2022–2026 Strategic Plan.

Led by Commissioner Hicken, the plan emphasises infrastructure, operational excellence, and community partnerships, all aimed at tackling crime at its root.

Speaking at the launch, Commissioner Hicken stated that his book aims to inspire meaningful engagement among law enforcement professionals and members of the public.

“This book aspires to inspire a new generation of law enforcement professionals and community members alike to engage in meaningful dialogue and action, paving the way for a more just and equitable society,” he said.

Among the distinguished gathering of attendees at the launch were Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards (who delivered an impromptu feature address); Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Robeson Benn; Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Prof. Paloma Mohamed-Martin; CEO of Nations University, Dr Dexter Phillips; National Security Advisor to the President, Captain Gerry Gouveia; and other distinguished guests.

Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram, Wendell Blanhum, Errol Watts, and Simon McBean, along with Heads of the Joint Services, Police Commanders and Branch Commanders, Heads of Departments, and other Senior and Junior Officers of the Force, were also in attendance.

Overheating of outdated electrical panels reportedly caused Critchlow fire

Posted on by Zena Henry

The fire at Critchlow Labour College on Saturday was reportedly caused by the overheating of outdated electrical panels, which sparked and ignited nearby combustible materials.

According to a release from the Guyana Fire Service, the entire auditorium of the college was destroyed, while the western side of the building sustained water damage.

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, who was at the scene of the fire, stated that President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has since spoken with Lincoln Lewis, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), and Dr Ivor English, the head of Critchlow Labour College. They will be meeting to determine what support is required.

The property, which is owned by the Guyana Trades Union Congress, housed the Critchlow Labour College, University of Excellence, Management and Business, and the Angela Apple White Hercules canteen at the time of the fire.

The building measured 61 metres in length on the southern section, 51 metres in width on the eastern section, 16 metres in length on the northern section, and 46 metres in length on the western section.

Promptly responding to a distress call received at 07:37 hours on Saturday, reporting that Critchlow Labour College at Lot XX Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands, was on fire, the Guyana Fire Service arrived on the scene within six minutes, at 07:43 hrs. Upon arrival, the blaze had already intensified. Firefighters worked assiduously to contain and later extinguish the fire.