AGP Executive Report

Bird-Flu Alert: Guyana has tightened farm checks and border monitoring after H5N1 was confirmed in neighbouring Suriname, with officials saying poultry farms are being held to hygiene standards. National Loss: Eusi Kwayana, WPA co-founder and independence-era activist, has died at 101. Tributes from political groups recognise his decades of work in Guyana’s public life. Police Probe: SOCU chief Fazil Karimbaksh has been sent on leave amid rape and threat allegations; the claims remain under investigation. Tourism: Guyana’s room capacity is expected to approach 6,000 by year-end as conference travel grows, but litter and waste management remain persistent challenges. MV Barima Inquiry: Commissioners are reviewing records and inspecting maritime sites; whether ministers will be called to testify has not yet been decided. Pension Rights: Christopher Ram, pensioners and three unions have asked the High Court to order NIS to pay the statutory minimum pension and arrears.

National Loss: Eusi Kwayana, WPA co-founder and independence-era political figure, has died in the United States at 101. Tributes from the WPA and PNCR/APNU recognised his decades of work on Guyana’s political history and social justice. Police Accountability: Deputy Police Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh has been sent on leave pending a probe into rape and threatening-behaviour allegations. MV Barima Inquiry: Commissioners are inspecting maritime facilities and records ahead of public hearings, while leaving open whether ministers will be called to testify. Oil Wealth and the Economy: The IMF projects strong growth but has also raised concerns about governance, public spending and whether Guyana’s oil boom is reaching citizens; opposition figures are questioning the cost and delays of the Gas-to-Energy project. Tourism and Infrastructure: Guyana’s accommodation capacity is expected to near 6,000 rooms by year-end as conference tourism expands, but litter and waste remain persistent problems. Pension Rights: Christopher Ram, pensioners and three unions have gone to court seeking higher statutory minimum NIS pensions and arrears they say have been unpaid since 2021. Trafficking: Guyana retained Tier 1 status in the US report, though coverage also points to declines in investigations and victim support.

Public Safety: Security guard Esan Rose was shot dead at a Georgetown supermarket on October 8. Linden teacher and former national athlete Leslyn Major also died after a car crash in Amelia’s Ward. Deputy Police Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh has been placed on leave while rape and threatening-behaviour allegations are investigated. Economy: The IMF says Guyana’s economy grew by more than 19% in 2025 and strong growth is continuing, with prudent policies helping keep inflation in check. It also urged continued diversification and inclusive growth. MV Barima Inquiry: Commissioners inspected two East Bank Demerara dry docks ahead of public hearings starting October 14 into the July ferry disaster, which claimed 73 lives; around 30 people remain unaccounted for. Human Trafficking: Guyana retained its US Tier 1 rating, but the report found investigations fell from 31 to 16 in 2025, while only 25 of 390 identified victims were referred to care.

Police Probe: Deputy Police Commissioner Fizal Karimbaksh has been sent on leave while police investigate allegations of rape and threatening behaviour. The allegations have not been proven; the officer who reported them has been transferred from SOCU. Economic Outlook: The IMF says Guyana’s economy grew more than 19% in 2025 and expects strong growth to continue, while urging diversification, financial stability and inclusive development. The World Bank projects 23.7% growth this year, far ahead of most tourism-dependent Caribbean economies. Tourism Push: Guyana and Jamaica signed an agreement to cooperate on tourism investment, air links, training and sustainable development. At the regional tourism conference in Georgetown, President Irfaan Ali called for better transport and greater investment, as Guyana steps up efforts to curb littering and protect its attractions. Rural Livelihoods: Cage fish farming has expanded to 43 communities, mostly in the hinterland, providing income and fresh protein. Constitutional Reform: The Ethnic Relations Commission will hold a national consultation on October 13, inviting public input on equality, inclusion and institutional accountability.

Economic Outlook: The IMF says Guyana’s rapid growth is supported by oil and non-oil activity, investment and prudent policies, while urging continued diversification and inclusive development. Police Accountability: Deputy Commissioner Fizal Karimbaksh has been sent on leave pending a probe into rape and threatening-behaviour allegations; the inspector who reported them has been transferred from SOCU. Tourism and Travel: At a regional tourism conference in Guyana, President Ali called for faster digital visa processing and better transport links to make Caribbean travel and business easier. Food Safety: The Agriculture Ministry says claims that contaminated chicken is being sold locally are unsupported, and says imported poultry is inspected before sale. It is also stepping up surveillance against bird flu reported in Suriname. MV Barima Inquiry: Commissioners have visited maritime facilities to examine safety and oversight as they investigate the fatal sinking. Indigenous Livelihoods: A Region One project is helping Warao women earn income by growing peppers and other crops in rainwater-harvesting shade houses. Royal Visit: King Charles is expected in Guyana later this month but will not apologise for Britain’s role in the slave trade; President Ali has called for reparations.

Police Probe: Deputy Police Commissioner Fizal Karimbaksh has been sent on leave while allegations of rape and threatening behaviour are investigated. The complainant, a police inspector, has been transferred from SOCU; the force says the probe will be impartial. Community Safety: Meadowbrook Gardens residents want transmission-line work stopped, saying it resumed despite assurances and that they still lack answers on the route and safety concerns. MV Barima Inquiry: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed questioned the delay in salvaging the sunken vessel and the inquiry’s credibility, renewing pressure for answers for survivors and families. Tourism: At a regional conference in Georgetown, President Irfaan Ali called for faster digital visa processing and more Caribbean travel links, while officials stressed Indigenous communities should shape tourism development. Indigenous Livelihoods: Warao women in Region One are earning income from pepper and other crops grown in rainwater-supported shade houses. Fisheries: A FAO programme nearing completion has supported Guyana’s Atlantic Seabob industry with better data, stock management, food safety and training for fishers.

MV Barima Inquiry: The commission says its probe into the deadly ferry sinking will be independent, while Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed rejects its neutrality and wants two ministers to step aside. Extreme Heat: Hydromet warns El Niño conditions could disrupt school attendance and hinterland travel as temperatures rise and river levels fall. Energy: ExxonMobil plans pipeline maintenance near Crane from October 14 to December 1, ahead of the Gas-to-Energy project’s startup; the line is not yet operational. Tourism: At a regional conference in Georgetown, President Irfaan Ali urged Caribbean governments and investors to scale up tourism infrastructure and experiences to stay competitive. Youth Support: Three Guyanese organisations will share $20 million in grants for programmes supporting young people, including Indigenous Wapichan women in the South Rupununi.

MV Barima Inquiry: Public hearings have opened into Guyana’s deadliest marine disaster. Chair Justice Godfrey Smith says the inquiry will follow the law and tested testimony, not government influence. Police Accountability: Civil society groups are demanding an independent probe into rape and threat allegations against senior officer Fazil Karimbaksh, who remains under investigation. Crime: A 76-year-old cook has been charged with murdering six-year-old Zi Feng Cao and remanded to prison. Oil and Infrastructure: An US$214 million ExxonMobil audit dispute is now before the ICC. Exxon also plans pipeline maintenance off Crane from October 14 to December 1, ahead of Gas-to-Energy startup. Progress on the Palmyra–Moleson Creek highway is uneven, with two of three lots behind schedule. Economy and Trade: The World Bank projects 23.7% growth for Guyana this year, while warning that oil wealth must benefit more people. Suriname has ordered the return of 384.8 tonnes of Guyanese rice imported without required approval. Tourism: Guyana recorded more than 360,000 visitor arrivals in the first nine months of 2026. President Irfaan Ali urged the region to invest in new experiences and infrastructure to stay competitive.

World Bank Outlook: The World Bank projects modest 2.2% growth for Latin America and the Caribbean in 2026, while warning Guyana must ensure its oil wealth becomes broad-based and inclusive development. Oil & Jobs Pressure: As Guyana’s oil-driven expansion lifts growth, TIWU says Massy’s Caterpillar transition could lead to about 140 retrenchments, with consultations ongoing. MV Barima Inquiry: Guyana’s MV Barima Commission of Inquiry will begin public hearings Oct. 14 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, with 100+ witnesses expected and meetings with affected families starting first. Local Governance & Services: The Ministry of Agriculture and agencies held a Good Intent engagement to move community concerns into action, while NAREI received about G$60M in vehicles to strengthen extension and Carambola Fruit Fly surveillance. Finance for Entrepreneurs: The Guyana Development Bank is moving to an online application platform and regional offices to help small and first-time entrepreneurs access interest-free loans. Regional Integration & Tourism: CARICOM marks progress on free movement under Enhanced Cooperation, and Jamaica’s Bartlett proposes a permanent Caribbean Tourism Resilience Fund. Health & Safety: The Ministry of Health warns of rising risks from extreme heat, especially for people on certain medications.

Guyana Development Bank Launch: The Guyana Development Bank has officially begun operations, offering up to G$3 million in zero-interest, zero-collateral financing to help entrepreneurs and SMEs start or expand businesses, with the government describing it as a full “support ecosystem” to build credit and unlock livelihoods. Education Policy: The Ministry of Education issued an urgent circular telling secondary schools that Grade 11 students must complete all 2027 CSEC School-Based Assessment (SBA) components—and that Paper 03/2 is not allowed as an SBA substitute for enrolled students. Agriculture & Food Security: NAREI received about G$60M in vehicles—5 pickups, 6 ATVs and 12 motorcycles—to strengthen extension services and surveillance against the Carambola Fruit Fly. Inclusive Education: Region One opened its first Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school in Mabaruma to support learners locally. Public Safety & Justice: Special Prosecutor Anastasia Amin qualified as an attorney-at-law, while police reported live ammunition found in a concrete block at Pouderoyen and a teen shot during an armed robbery at Kitty. Regional & International: Guyana will chair the CASSOS aviation safety body for 2026–2028, and the Caribbean Tourism Organization elected Charles “Max” Fernandez as chairman. Sports & Youth: Essequibo’s Kemol Savory urged fans to pack Anna Regina for the One Guyana T10 Tapeball finals, and Team Guyana Robotics heads to South Korea for the FIRST Global Challenge.

Police Accountability: Transparency International Guyana (TIGI) and other voices are again pushing for Deputy Police Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh, head of SOCU, to be placed on administrative leave while rape and threatening-behaviour allegations are investigated independently, with TIGI warning internal probes can’t be trusted while he remains in operational control. Local Governance & Justice: Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond denies ordering any “confrontation” of the complainant, saying Red Thread’s claims are false and that she only relayed information on the investigative process. Development Finance: The Guyana Development Bank officially moves into operation with an online portal now live, offering collateral-free, interest-free SME loans up to $3 million, with “quick loans” under $300,000 using a simpler application process. Healthcare Workforce: Medvarsity and GOAL graduate 115 healthcare professionals from the first cohort in Georgetown, expanding specialised training across areas like oncology, cardiology, critical care nursing and mental health. Sports: The Golden Jaguars keep rolling, crushing Dominica 8-1 to complete a perfect Nations League window and stay top in League B, Group A. Regional Security: The US and nine allies, including Guyana, condemn Iran’s “terrorist actions” and malign influence operations across the Americas. Public Safety: Police report 7.37kg of cannabis found at New Amsterdam and arrest a miner after a 9mm pistol and live rounds are discovered.

Police Accountability & Safety: The Women and Gender Equality Commission says the Guyana Police Force’s “deafening silence” is unacceptable after sexual assault allegations against SOCU head Deputy Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh, while Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond says police digitisation will track how often calls go unanswered and strengthen local forensic capacity. Anti-Sexual Misconduct Pressure: TIGI urges President Irfaan Ali to act, calling for Karimbaksh to be removed from operational duties while allegations are investigated, as Walrond also outlines a merit-based promotion push tied to documented conduct. Justice Update: High Court denies Daniel Seeram’s bid for judicial review and keeps him remanded pending sentencing for assaulting his ex-wife. Development Finance: Guyana Development Bank officially comes into operation, offering zero-interest, zero-collateral loans up to $3M for SMEs via an online platform, with a seven-member board appointed to steer operations. Tourism & Culture: GTA Director Kamrul Baksh urges Caribbean destinations to diversify tourism without diluting authenticity, and Earth & Ink joins the Guyana-led Global Biodiversity Alliance. Sports: Golden Jaguars extend their Nations League run with an 8-1 win over Dominica, while Kevin Sinclair says he’s ready to return to cricket after addressing disciplinary issues. Business & Mobility: Berbice Expo spotlights electric and hybrid vehicles as motorists look for fuel-saving options.

Guyana Development Bank: Government has announced the inaugural Board for the new Guyana Development Bank, naming Abu Zaman as Chairman and Kathy Smith as Deputy Chair, with James Bond, Sukrishnalall Pasha, Dion Inniss, Nalinie Singh and entrepreneur Praem Rambharak completing the team; the bank is set to expand financing for micro, small and medium enterprises, including zero-interest, zero-collateral loans up to $3 million, plus mentorship and support, with Budget 2026 providing an initial $20 billion injection. Democracy anniversary: President Irfaan Ali marked October 5, 1992’s elections as the restoration of Guyana’s democratic voice after decades of struggle. Regional politics: Tributes poured in after former PNCR/APNU leader Robert Corbin died at 78, with Bharrat Jagdeo and the WPA praising his coalition-building and political courage. Crime-fighting tech: Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond says the Safe Country initiative has installed about 800 CCTV cameras over five years, helping police investigations and reducing reliance on eyewitness accounts. Travel access: Guyana says passport holders can now enter Saudi Arabia with visa on arrival or an e-visa without needing a prior US, UK or Schengen visa. Health & food: GraceKennedy Foods recalled specific batches of Grace Tropical Rhythms Fruit Punch 1L as a quality precaution, and UG is preparing to graduate more than 3,700 students at its 60th Convocation. Football grassroots: GFF handed equipment to four regions for the Concacaf Bigger Game Academy pilot for boys and girls aged 6–12.

Robert Corbin Tributes: President Irfaan Ali, VP Bharrat Jagdeo, and PNCR/APNU leaders mourn the death of former Opposition leader Robert Corbin, calling it an “irreplaceable loss” and recalling his long public service and coalition-building role. Saudi Travel Easing: Guyanese can now enter Saudi Arabia with visa on arrival or an e-visa without needing a prior US, UK or Schengen visa, with applications handled directly using a Guyanese passport. Crime & Safety: Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond says the “Safe Country” CCTV push has installed about 800 cameras and is already helping police move investigations forward. Food Recall: GraceKennedy Foods is recalling specific batches of Grace Tropical Rhythms Fruit Punch 1L as a quality precaution. Education Milestone: University of Guyana will hold its 60th graduation with more than 3,700 graduands across Turkeyen and Berbice campuses. Transport & Connectivity: Trans Guyana Airways prepares direct Georgetown–Cayenne flights after a new Guyana–France air services agreement. Sports Grassroots: GFF hands equipment to regional associations for the Concacaf Bigger Game Academy pilot for kids aged 6–12. Oil & Gas Watch: Government is still reviewing Exxon’s Longtail development application, described as the first gas-focused Stabroek project.

Royal & Commonwealth: King Charles and Queen Camilla kick off a major Caribbean tour Oct 27–Nov 4, ending at CHOGM in Antigua, with a State Visit to Guyana and a focus on youth, biodiversity and community resilience. Oil & Economy Oversight: Parliament’s Natural Resources committee is set to scrutinise small-scale mining workers’ welfare and security, plus ExxonMobil operations and earnings, while commentary and letters question transparency around the Mid-Year Report and public borrowing. Mining & Labour: WIN MP Dr Ryan Richards pushes for better PPE, food and working conditions for miners, warning that worker welfare must be a priority as migrant labour grows. Public Accountability: Calls are renewed for an independent Commissioner for Public Investment and Contract Accountability, alongside criticism that Auditor General reports are being delayed. Foreign Travel: Guyanese can now enter Saudi Arabia with an e-visa or visa on arrival without needing a US/UK/Schengen visa. Health: Breast cancer services expand with mammography and oncology clinics in regions, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins with screenings and community outreach. Crime & Safety: A Guyana-born man was stabbed to death in New York; locally, CANU arrested three after finding uncustomed alcohol at Winsor Estates. Business & Trade: UMAMI’s first commercial shipment sails to Qatar’s LuLu Hypermarket, and a $610.6m fertilizer contract dispute heads to the PPC. Sports & Youth: Navin and Sons Construction sponsors the GT/ECD One Guyana T10 Tapeball $500,000 first prize; Guyana U-15s head to St. Maarten after last-minute travel document help.

Police & SOCU Probe: The Guyana Police Force has launched an investigation into rape and threatening-behaviour allegations against Deputy Commissioner of Police Fazil Karimbaksh, but he remains on duty while a team probes the claims; Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond says he should be placed on administrative leave and plans to meet Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken. Visa Update: Guyanese passport holders can now apply for a Saudi e-visa or get a visa on arrival without needing a US, UK or Schengen visa, following intensified Guyana–Saudi talks. Essequibo Row: Venezuela reaffirmed its rejection of the “fraudulent” 1899 Paris Arbitration Award and again pointed to the 1966 Geneva Agreement, urging direct dialogue with Guyana. Regional Sport & Youth: GT/ECD’s One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast gets a $500,000 first-prize sponsor from Navin and Sons Construction; meanwhile, 118 teams begin the ExxonMobil U-18 Schools Football tournament. Health & Rights: UNFPA is urging Guyanese media to focus more on women and girls’ reproductive rights, gender-based violence, and child marriage. Business & Trade: UMAMI shipped its first commercial container to Qatar’s LuLu Hypermarket; Berbice Expo opened with 180 booths and local producers pushing new products. Aviation: Trans Guyana Airways is preparing direct Georgetown–Cayenne flights under a modernised Guyana–France air services deal.