Carib Scope

标签： Guyana

圭亚那

  • St Vincent’s Ralph Gonsalves suffers crushing defeat after 25 years in office

    St Vincent’s Ralph Gonsalves suffers crushing defeat after 25 years in office

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – In a seismic political shift that has reshaped the Caribbean’s political landscape, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has witnessed the dramatic fall of one of the region’s most enduring political dynasties. The New Democratic Party (NDP) achieved a near-total electoral landslide in Thursday’s general election, capturing 14 of the 15 parliamentary seats according to preliminary results.

    The decisive victory marks the stunning conclusion to Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves’ quarter-century tenure, preventing his Unity Labour Party (ULP) from securing an unprecedented sixth consecutive term. The 79-year-old leader, the Caribbean’s longest-serving prime minister, suffered a humiliating defeat that also claimed the political careers of his son and Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves, along with Agriculture Minister Saboto Scofield Caesar – both previously considered potential successors.

    Prime Minister-designate Dr. Godwin Friday, addressing the nation on state-owned NBC Radio, announced plans to declare a public holiday for national recuperation and celebration. The 66-year-old attorney, who comfortably retained his Northern Grenadines seat, emphasized national unity and immediate action. “The election is behind us now and I want to see this country come together,” Friday stated. “We put ourselves and our backs to the wheel and quickly work to build St. Vincent and the Grenadines for all of us.”

    Friday outlined his intention to be sworn in promptly, noting he would contact the Governor General “bright and early” to arrange the ceremony and avoid any governance vacuum. When asked about communication with his predecessor, Friday revealed Gonsalves had not yet conceded or made contact, though he expected the outgoing leader would eventually “wish me well.”

    The incoming prime minister characterized his new role as “an awesome responsibility” filled with public hope and expectation. He pledged to immediately implement the NDP’s campaign platform, including a detailed 60-day plan, while emphasizing servant leadership and collaborative governance. “I really look forward to serving the people of this country and try to make St. Vincent and the Grenadines better,” Friday affirmed.

    Regional analysts attributed the political upset to a consistent 5% swing away from the ULP over recent elections. Former NDP chairman Dr. Linton Lewis noted the powerful appeal of the “time for a change” message after 25 years of continuous governance, while acknowledging the party had skillfully avoided contentious issues including the proposed shift from Taiwanese to Chinese relations and a controversial Citizenship by Investment program.

    The transition has drawn international attention, with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness extending “warm congratulations” to the Vincentian people for their peaceful democratic process. Similar commendations came from St. Lucia’s Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet and Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who praised the “resounding democratic mandate” despite earlier allegations of foreign campaign interference during the heated election period.

  • GNBS developing national policy, adds more products, services for testing

    GNBS developing national policy, adds more products, services for testing

    Guyana is taking significant strides in enhancing its national quality infrastructure through a comprehensive standardization strategy. Minister of Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues announced Wednesday that the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) is developing a national policy to formalize stakeholder interactions and strengthen quality assurance mechanisms across sectors.

    The policy initiative, revealed during the GNBS’s National Quality Awards ceremony, aims to ensure both public and private sector products and services meet rigorously defined standards. This development comes as the bureau recognized 35 enterprises for excellence in quality standards, including state-owned Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), selected from over 100 qualified contenders.

    In collaboration with the Caribbean Regional Organisation on Standards and Quality (CROSQ) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), GNBS has formulated a national standardization strategy for 2025-2028. Minister Rodrigues emphasized this strategy supports digital transformation while focusing on economic growth and competitiveness.

    The bureau has substantially expanded its operational scope, adopting 22 new national standards covering diverse products including salt, ice cream, milk, abattoirs, helmets, and liquid petroleum gas. Beginning in 2026, GNBS will introduce verification services for electric vehicle chargers and expand the ‘Made in Guyana’ certification program to include export requirement criteria through partnership with Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest).

    With over 600 standards already developed and 11 additional standards awaiting approval, GNBS has exceeded key performance indicators. The bureau’s capabilities are enhanced through 26 laboratories at its Sophia Exhibition Center facility and expanded legal and metrology services. Administrative improvements include digitizing the metrology database to reduce processing times and enable real-time certificate issuance.

    CROSQ CEO Sharonmae Smith-Walker commended GNBS’s ‘remarkable journey’ since its 2017 establishment, noting that several Caribbean nations have followed Guyana’s lead in developing quality recognition ceremonies. She highlighted Guyana’s commitment to regional collaboration through free training and mentorship programs, specifically mentioning technical assistance provided to Belize in metrology.

  • WIN weighing legal options for Region 10 Council chairmanship

    WIN weighing legal options for Region 10 Council chairmanship

    A constitutional impasse over the leadership of Guyana’s Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) has escalated into a potential legal confrontation, with the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party contemplating litigation against Regional Executive Officer Dwight John. The political stalemate stems from John’s failure to convene additional council meetings following September’s general and regional elections, which resulted in an unprecedented 9-9 tie between WIN and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) for the regional chairmanship.

    WIN Leader Azruddin Mohamed revealed his party is consulting legal counsel before proceeding with potential judicial intervention. “I have to consult with my attorney because to be honest, I don’t know if we take legal action now even that will delay the process further,” Mohamed stated in an interview with Demerara Waves Online News. He expressed frustration with the administration’s handling of the situation, alleging deliberate delays by the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

    The deadlock has created unprecedented consequences for regional governance. President Irfaan Ali notably excluded Region 10’s leadership from Thursday’s swearing-in ceremony for all other regional chairs and vice-chairs. The President maintained constitutional compliance, stating: “I am sure that within the ambit of the Constitution and within the ambit of the rules of any elections that the chair and vice chair of Region 10 will be sworn in at the appropriate time when they conclude their elections.

    Complicating matters further, the impasse has created jurisdictional complications within local government structures. Linden Town Clerk Lennox Gasper confirmed that the situation involves APNU’s Dominique Blair, who refuses to resign as Deputy Mayor while potentially assuming the regional chairmanship. Gasper has sought legal guidance from Attorney General Anil Nandlall regarding whether Blair can simultaneously hold both positions, as no existing legislation explicitly prohibits such dual roles.

    The ongoing constitutional crisis highlights growing tensions in Guyana’s decentralized governance system and raises questions about procedural mechanisms for resolving electoral deadlocks at the regional level.

  • Stabroek Market vendors criticise govt over removal from construction site, Manickchand says Mentore was provided details

    Stabroek Market vendors criticise govt over removal from construction site, Manickchand says Mentore was provided details

    Tensions flared in Georgetown’s Stabroek Market on Thursday as vendors confronted government workers erecting temporary barriers for a construction project, exposing significant communication failures in the city’s beautification initiative. The Ministry of Local Government began cordoning off sections of the market car park to construct a concrete stage, catching multiple vendors by complete surprise and triggering concerns about livelihood disruption during the critical Christmas sales period.

    Several vendors reported receiving no prior notification about the temporary displacement, despite Minister Priya Manickchand having met with market stakeholders two weeks earlier. ‘I insist I am not moving from here. We were not informed by any government minister, the constable. Nobody told us anything,’ stated one vendor who had invested heavily in seasonal inventory. The situation required police presence with shotguns and handguns as a precautionary measure against potential escalation.

    Minister Manickchand acknowledged the communication breakdown, stating the contractor should have engaged vendors directly and displayed advance notices before commencing work. ‘Lessons learned,’ she conceded, while simultaneously clarifying that the current administration has no intentions of permanently relocating vendors, particularly single mothers who depend on the market for income.

    The Ministry’s official statement emphasized safety protocols necessitating the temporary enclosure, noting that only two vendors would be directly affected—a claim contradicted by on-site observations identifying at least six businesses facing displacement, including beverage and phone card sellers. The construction also incorporated sections of the Lodge and Guyhoc minibus parks.

    Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore expressed support for the vendors and questioned the transparency of the planning process, asserting that while municipal officials were briefed about Christmas decorations, no mention was made of stage construction. The Ministry countered this narrative, maintaining that Mentore and council members had received comprehensive visual presentations and responded enthusiastically to the proposed developments.

    Opposition representative Ganesh Mahipaul criticized the implementation, urging a ‘people-first’ approach that prioritizes transparent consultation and support mechanisms for affected stakeholders. The Ministry subsequently appealed against political opportunism, projecting that the completed Stabroek Square would ultimately benefit vendors, shoppers, and commuters alike through enhanced commercial opportunities and improved public space infrastructure.

  • Local govt ministry upgrade works outside Stabroek Market dislocate bus parks, truckers

    Local govt ministry upgrade works outside Stabroek Market dislocate bus parks, truckers

    The commencement of construction for a concrete recreational platform outside Stabroek Market has caused significant disruptions to local vendors and vehicular parking in the area. The project, initiated by the Local Government Ministry, involves the erection of a plywood wall enclosing a large section of the market’s frontage. This has forced phone card and beverage vendors, as well as bus operators on the Lodge, Guyhoc, and South Ruimveldt routes, to seek alternative arrangements. Delivery trucks, which typically supply vendors until 8 a.m., were redirected to the taxi parking area outside Demico, though police indicated this was only a temporary solution. Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand acknowledged the contractor’s failure to effectively communicate with those affected but assured that there are no immediate plans to relocate street vendors. The project, expected to last up to two weeks, aims to construct a raised stage with surrounding pavement to accommodate vendors. While only two vendors are temporarily displaced, the broader impact includes increased traffic congestion, prompting some truckers to suggest delaying the project until after the Christmas season. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to upgrade Georgetown, with Minister Manickchand emphasizing that change often comes with resistance.

  • OAS chief appeals to US, Venezuela to find diplomatic solution instead of war

    OAS chief appeals to US, Venezuela to find diplomatic solution instead of war

    Albert Ramdin, the Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), has called on the United States and Venezuela to prioritize diplomatic solutions to ease escalating tensions, emphasizing the need to avoid a potential ‘war-type situation.’ In a recent interview broadcast on social media, Ramdin stressed the importance of maintaining the Caribbean as a ‘zone of peace’ and urged both nations to exercise restraint. ‘I hope that both countries—Venezuela and the United States—do restrain themselves and ensure that diplomatic negotiations take precedence,’ said Ramdin, a former Suriname foreign minister. He also highlighted the necessity of lawful methods in combating narco-trafficking, a growing concern in the region. The appeal comes amid fears that the US military build-up in the Caribbean is aimed at destabilizing Venezuela’s Nicholás Maduro administration rather than targeting drug cartels. The US has labeled the Cartel de los Soles, allegedly linked to Maduro, as a narco-terrorist organization. Ramdin’s remarks coincided with a visit by General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and President Donald Trump’s primary military adviser, to Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago, where he met with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Ramdin underscored the importance of adhering to international law and human rights in combating transnational organized crime, noting that governments must have the legal tools to address these challenges effectively. He also suggested that countries amend their laws to empower governments to fight crime without violating human rights. The issue of transnational crime has been raised by Colombia in recent discussions within the OAS, though it has not yet been formally addressed by the organization.

  • UK’s business success relies on partnerships, high quality despite competition from China, India – officials

    UK’s business success relies on partnerships, high quality despite competition from China, India – officials

    The United Kingdom is leveraging its longstanding partnerships and commitment to high-quality goods and services to maintain a competitive edge in Guyana and the Caribbean, despite growing competition from China and India. This strategy was highlighted during the 5th UK-Guyana Trade Mission, organized in collaboration with The Caribbean Council, British Chambers of Commerce, and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce. UK Trade Envoy to the Commonwealth Caribbean, Paulette Hamilton, emphasized that while China and other nations are aggressively expanding their presence in the region, the UK’s focus remains on fostering enduring relationships and trust. ‘We understand that Guyana is also looking for quality services,’ Hamilton stated, underscoring the UK’s dedication to sustainable growth rather than immediate gains. D’Jamila Ward, Regional Director of the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, noted that the UK ranks among the top five trading partners with the Commonwealth Caribbean. She highlighted the success of UK trade missions, with 40% of participating companies securing commercial deals in Guyana. ‘The UK is not here for quick wins. We build relationships, expertise, and capacity that last beyond any single project,’ Ward asserted. The trade mission showcased expertise in sectors such as education, infrastructure, power supply, and cybersecurity. Chris Bennett, Managing Director of The Caribbean Council, praised Guyana’s use of oil revenues for infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and hospitals. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh encouraged UK businesses to explore opportunities in Guyana’s non-oil sector, particularly in infrastructure projects like the Linden-Lethem road and the proposed Guyana-Suriname bridge. The UK’s commitment to long-term partnerships and quality continues to strengthen its position in the Caribbean market.

  • City chef convicted for importing dogs illegally

    City chef convicted for importing dogs illegally

    Elizabeth “Liza” Chung, a 40-year-old chef residing in Georgetown, Guyana, has been convicted for illegally importing 10 dogs without the required permit. The incident occurred on November 22, 2025, when Chung was intercepted at the Bina Hill Police checkpoint in Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo). The Guyana Police Force reported that Chung was transporting the dogs in a vehicle when she was apprehended.

    Chung pleaded guilty to the charge of importing a terrestrial animal without a permit, a violation of the 2011 Animal Health Act. Lethem Magistrate Omadatt Chandan imposed a fine of GY$20,000 on Chung following her guilty plea. The case highlights the enforcement of animal health regulations and the legal consequences of non-compliance.

    This incident underscores the importance of adhering to legal requirements for animal importation to prevent potential risks to public health and animal welfare. Authorities continue to monitor and enforce such regulations to ensure compliance and safeguard the community.

  • 2 injured in Linden shooting

    2 injured in Linden shooting

    Two individuals were hospitalized on Monday following a shooting incident on Lover’s Lane in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, according to the Guyana Police Force. The attack occurred late Sunday evening around 10:30 PM when a man inside a vehicle opened fire on the victims. The injured parties include a 32-year-old vendor from Central Amelia’s Ward and a carpenter from South Amelia’s Ward, whose identities have not been disclosed. Police have yet to confirm if any suspects have been apprehended. Initial reports indicate that the vendor was standing in front of his shop while the carpenter was nearby when the vehicle approached and halted. An individual inside the car allegedly fired multiple shots, striking the vendor in the chest and the carpenter in the foot. Both victims were promptly taken to the Linden Hospital Complex for treatment. The vendor was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for advanced care, while the carpenter continues to receive treatment at Linden Hospital. Authorities have reported that both men are in stable condition. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

  • WIN leader prepares to challenge opposition leader election delay, extradition case may go to High Court

    WIN leader prepares to challenge opposition leader election delay, extradition case may go to High Court

    Azruddin Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, announced on Monday his intention to take legal action against House Speaker Manzoor Nadir for delaying the election of the Opposition Leader. Mohamed expressed skepticism about Nadir’s willingness to convene a meeting of opposition MPs to facilitate the election, despite WIN holding 16 of the 29 opposition seats in Parliament. Mohamed stated, ‘We have to move to the court,’ emphasizing his determination to proceed with legal measures. Meanwhile, Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs confirmed no plans for such a meeting. Mohamed’s lawyer, Siand Dhurjohn, revealed that legal proceedings are being prepared ahead of an ultimatum set to expire next Monday. Dhurjohn stressed the constitutional obligation to elect an Opposition Leader promptly, highlighting the role’s importance in democratic processes. Concurrently, Mohamed faces an extradition request from the United States, where he is accused of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. His legal team, led by Roysdale Forde and Dhurjohn, is preparing a constitutional challenge, arguing that the extradition process could take years. Prosecutor Terrence Williams, representing U.S. interests, submitted updated documents to the court, though defense lawyers noted these were not yet properly processed through diplomatic channels. The case is set to resume on November 28, with further developments expected.