AGP Executive Report

Guyana Economy Watch: A new IDB report says Guyana is still among the world’s fastest-growing economies, while debt pressure is easing—debt payments fell from about 7 cents per dollar collected before oil to about 5 cents now—alongside a drop in unemployment to 6.8% in 2024. Opposition Politics: WIN and APNU finally agreed on a joint statement after talks led by Azruddin Mohamed and Aubrey Norton, focusing on GECOM issues, Region 10’s council impasse, and local government commission nominations. Ferry Update: M.V. Canawaima resumed its Guyana–Suriname service after Suriname lifted an operational ban, with priority given to stranded passengers and cargo. Energy & Power: GPL is drilling for a new 69kV Demerara Riverbed cable to strengthen West Demerara supply, while Bosai donated six 1MW generators to boost Region 10 power within four months. Health & Safety: Quick staff action contained a fire in the GPHC Maternity Unit nurses’ rest room; no injuries were reported. Infrastructure & Training: The Roots and Flavours Hub opened at the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute to train women for culinary and street-food entrepreneurship. Sports & Events: Preparations for the IMC Over-40s World Cup in Guyana (Oct 17–Nov 1) are “well underway,” and the GFF opened a public tender for Phase 1 of the Blue Water Shipping Stadium.

Opposition Under Fire: AFC says police actions against Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and fellow MPs are “oppressive and intimidating,” warning law enforcement is being used to suppress dissent. Political Cooperation: WIN and APNU finally agree on a joint statement after talks on GECOM appointments, electoral scrutineers, and the Region 10 impasse. Court Update: The Court of Appeal clears the way for extradition proceedings against Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed, but bars the magistrate from a final ruling until a constitutional appeal is resolved. Chinese Landing Mining Standoff: APA backs Chinese Landing residents and Toshao Nikita Miller amid an ongoing vigil against unauthorized mining machinery, with calls for immediate action under IACHR precautionary measures. Public Safety & Crime: Police recover a 9mm pistol and ammunition near Sage Pond outpost; separate reports include a $23M robbery at La Grange and a brawl that leaves a 19-year-old hospitalized. Economy Watch: An IDB report says Guyana remains a fast-growing economy while improving how it manages debt and unemployment. Royal & Regional Spotlight: Buckingham Palace confirms an eight-day Caribbean tour for King Charles III and Queen Camilla, including a state visit to Guyana for 60 years of ties and CHOGM 2026 in Antigua. Sports: GFF opens public tender for Phase 1 of the Blue Water Shipping Stadium; cricket preparations for the IMC Over-40s World Cup are “well underway.”

Royal Spotlight: Prince Harry and Meghan’s return to the UK is expected to clash with the “working royals” agenda, as King Charles and Queen Camilla announce a Caribbean autumn tour that includes Antigua for CHOGM 2026 and a Guyana stop. Ferry Update: The Guyana–Suriname MV Canawaima service is back after the ban on the vessel was lifted, easing disruption for stranded passengers. Women’s Cricket: WCPL 2026 confirms star overseas signings—Guyana Amazon Warriors land Shabnim Ismail, Erin Burns, Chloe Tryon, Tazmin Brits and Nadine de Klerk. Economy Watch: The IDB says Guyana’s growth is strong, but warns the economy remains exposed to external oil shocks, noting heavy reliance on imported oil for energy demand. GBV Support: Hope and Justice Centre in Lusignan reports over 130 GBV survivors accessed services in the first half of 2026. Road Tragedy: Two Indonesian nationals died and four others were injured in a Timehri crash involving a sand truck driven by an unlicensed Cuban. Power Supply: Bosai donates six 1MW generator sets to GPL to boost electricity for Region 10 and the Soesdyke–Linden Highway. Mining Rights: Indigenous rights groups renew calls for action over the Chinese Landing/Tassawini mining standoff.

MV Barima Aftermath: Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony says psychologists and psychiatrists are being sent to MV Barima families and survivors in Region One, with Pan American Health Organisation specialists training local health workers on grief support. Power Boost: Bosai donates six 1MW generator sets to GPL to strengthen the Soesdyke–Linden Highway corridor and Region 10, with relocation and installation expected within four months. Crime Update: Police arrest three men after an attempted robbery at Tuschen; a suspected firearm and matching rounds were found during searches. Fatal Road Crash: Two Indonesian nationals die and four foreigners are injured in a three-vehicle collision on the Timehri Public Road; drivers are in custody and breathalyser tests show no alcohol. Oil & Governance Debate: Professor Kenrick Hunte criticises “profit oil” reporting as misleading, while government faces renewed questions over keeping Exxon audit outcomes under wraps. Indigenous Land Tensions: APA’s Laura George condemns alleged state failure to protect titled Indigenous lands amid the Chinese Landing/Tassawini mining standoff. Court & Politics: High Court awards former PSC chairman Paul Slowe G$1M over an unlawful 2021 arrest; Court of Appeal orders extradition proceedings for Azruddin Mohamed to continue, with final disposition stayed pending constitutional appeal. Sport: WCPL confirms star overseas signings, including Guyana Amazon Warriors’ Shabnim Ismail and South Africans Chloe Tryon, Tazmin Brits and Nadine de Klerk. Royal News: King Charles and Queen Camilla announce a Caribbean tour including Guyana for CHOGM 2026.

Maritime Standoff & Bail: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed was released on $100,000 bail after a tense Demerara River confrontation involving joint services and WIN MPs, following MARAD’s claim the go-fast vessel and Mohamed were not licensed/authorised. Courts & Rights: The High Court awarded retired police officer Paul Slowe GY$2 million for wrongful arrest, ruling police restraint at the Magistrates’ Court breached his constitutional liberty rights. Indigenous Lands Clash: The Amerindian Peoples Association renewed calls for government to halt mining activity at Chinese Landing, while Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat said CCJ rulings leave no legal room to intervene. Oil & Gas Update: ExxonMobil temporarily suspended operations at the Liza Unity FPSO after a small fire in the laundry room triggered safety measures; production and offloading are set to resume after checks. Digital Services: Preparations are set for mandatory online passport applications and appointments from Oct 1, with decentralised service centres supporting remote applicants. Mining Investment Push: Guyana launched G-MEX, an annual international mining investment platform aimed at attracting responsible capital and boosting local participation. Sports & Events: Guyana is gearing up for CARIFTA hosting preparations, with minor works underway for the NTFC ahead of the first CARIFTA in Guyana.

Royal & Diplomacy: Buckingham Palace confirms King Charles and Queen Camilla will tour the Caribbean from Oct. 27 to Nov. 4, with Guyana on the itinerary to mark 60 years of UK-Guyana relations. Education: The Ministry of Education urges religious organisations to hold special prayers as the 2026–2027 school year begins next Monday, amid ongoing concerns about bullying and violence. Politics & Courts: Guyana’s High Court dismisses the PNCR’s claim over its Lethem office building, ruling the party had no legal right to remain. Maritime & Opposition Standoff: A viral video fuels the dispute over Azruddin Mohamed’s boat after a joint patrol intercepted it; Mohamed says his licence and inspection certificate were expired years ago. Energy: ExxonMobil temporarily suspends production at the Liza Unity FPSO after a small fire in the laundry room, with checks underway before operations resume. Mining & Indigenous Rights: The Amerindian Peoples Association condemns a mining incursion at Chinese Landing and calls for MNR and GGMC intervention. Economy: IDB says food prices remain the key driver of Guyana’s inflation, with a 5.9% food-price rise reported in early 2026. Infrastructure & Services: Passport applications move to a mandatory online appointment system starting Oct. 1, and CJIA’s new baggage handling system is expected to be fully operational by end of September.

Royal Visit: King Charles III and Queen Camilla will tour the Bahamas, Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda from Oct 27 to Nov 4, with a state visit to Guyana marking 60 years of UK-Guyana ties and coinciding with CHOGM 2026 in Antigua. Mining Rights & Tensions: APNU MP Sherod Duncan backs Chinese Landing residents blocking heavy mining equipment into Tassawini, saying government agencies must act decisively as the dispute continues and mediation talks stall. Opposition Leader Released: Azruddin Mohamed was released on GUY$100,000 bail after a Demerara River “go-fast” vessel interception; MARAD says the vessel and Mohamed were not licensed/authorised. Ferry Disruption: The Guyana–Suriname ferry suspension is still disrupting travellers and operators, with back-track travel rules and licences creating fresh friction. CARIFTA 2027 Prep: NACAC officials have begun an assessment visit to Leonora’s National Track and Field Centre as Guyana prepares to host the 2027 CARIFTA Games (Mar 27–29). AI & Media: Guyana’s Kwame McCoy urged Caribbean broadcasters to shape AI development locally, warning about synthetic media and authenticity. CPL Cricket: Guyana Amazon Warriors beat Antigua & Barbuda Falcons by seven wickets, while St Lucia Kings recorded a big win over TKR.

Royal Diplomacy: Buckingham Palace says King Charles III and Queen Camilla will tour the Caribbean from Oct. 27 to Nov. 4, visiting the Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda for CHOGM 2026, and then Guyana for a state visit marking 60 years of bilateral ties. Opposition Leader Detention: Azruddin Mohamed was released on $100k bail after a Demerara River standoff involving Joint Services and a “go-fast” vessel; police and MARAD say the craft and Mohamed were not licensed, while opposition MPs dispute the chase account. Food Prices: Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha approved weekly chicken imports of 330,000 pounds to stabilise supply and prices while local production ramps back up. Education Connectivity: Region Four schools along the Linden–Soesdyke Highway are set to receive Starlink internet for the new term, backed by a ~$3M investment. Environment & Community Safety: UoG’s “Gender on the Frontlines” conference highlights women and community protectors as early warners for environmental risks. Agriculture Partnership: Regions Five and Six farmers signed an MoU with Canadian firm Darby McClellan Consulting to boost production, cold-chain logistics, agro-processing, and export links. Maritime Safety: MARAD reiterated that unlicensed or unregistered vessels pose serious risks and may face enforcement action.

Oil & Gas: Modec’s first FPSO for Guyana, the Errea Wittu, has arrived in country for ExxonMobil’s Stabroek block, with commissioning and final offshore preparations underway ahead of first oil. Ferry Crisis: Guyana says it’s in daily contact with Suriname after MV Canawaima’s suspension, noting Suriname rejected an alternative vessel and that MAS insists on immediate drydock-related work; meanwhile, the backtrack route via Springlands to Nickerie has been reopened for immigration processing. Politics & Security: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and other WIN MPs were intercepted and escorted to the Coast Guard for a vessel search, after a standoff with police and coast guard over access and documents. Indigenous Rights: GHRA is urging UN and EU bodies to intervene to protect Amerindians at Chinese Landing as gold mining expansion nears, calling for Inter-American Commission precautionary measures to be implemented. Education & STEM: ExxonMobil launched the STELLAR programme to train 60 pre-service secondary STEM educators over two years through CPCE, aiming to lift classroom learning and leadership. UN Spotlight: Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett remains narrowly ahead in a second UN secretary-general straw poll, with multiple rounds expected. Sports: CPL action continues as Falcons’ Moeen Ali and bowlers deliver a key win over Tridents, while Guyana’s Amazon Warriors keep pressure on the top of the table.

UN Diplomacy: Guyana’s UN envoy Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett edged ahead in a second Security Council straw poll for the next Secretary-General, leading with 8 “encourage” votes to Rebeca Grynspan’s 7, keeping her in the spotlight as the race tightens. Oil & Gas Clarity: The Natural Resources Ministry rejected claims that Guyana’s profit-oil share is 39.8%, saying the profit-oil split remains 50% and that 39.8% refers to a different calculation tied to barrels after cost recovery. Forest Investment Push: Guyana joined the EU-backed “Financing for Forests” programme, a five-year effort to attract sustainable long-term investment while keeping forests standing. Regional Safety & Trade: Suriname police intercepted a shipment of cyanide believed to have been brought in from Guyana, raising questions about permits and destinations. Transport Disruption: The Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce urged clarity on the temporary suspension of the MV Canawaima ferry, warning of knock-on effects for passengers and goods movement. Local Aviation Incident: A Cessna Caravan ran off the runway at Baramita; no injuries or plane damage reported. Sports & Business: Massy Finance Remittances signed a three-year CPL sponsorship, while Guyana’s Amazon Warriors beat Antigua & Barbuda Falcons by seven wickets. Road & Crime: A Corentyne driver died after a crash with a lorry, and a Corentyne home was firebombed in an attack that left a family shaken but unharmed.

Ferry Dispute: Suriname has ordered the suspension of the MV Canawaima, leaving passengers stranded, while Guyana and the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce are pressing for clarity on the repair timeline and what’s still outstanding. Oil Update: Guyana is set to top one million barrels of oil per day as Exxon’s fifth FPSO, the Errea Wittu, arrives ahead of production from the Uaru development. Opposition Talks: WIN and APNU met for hours but still haven’t agreed on a joint statement, with Local Government Commission and GECOM issues left off the agenda. CPL Cricket: Guyana Amazon Warriors stayed unbeaten, crushing Antigua & Barbuda Falcons by seven wickets to move back to the top of the CPL table. Labour & Work Culture: GAWU is calling for mechanisation and a shift in work attitudes as labour shortages bite across sectors like sugar. MV Barima Recovery: H.E.A.R.T. says it has delivered over $75M in support to families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, while APNU MP Ganesh Mahipaul demands answers on the stalled salvaging process. Health & Inclusion: HOATTA held sensitisation sessions on organ and tissue transplant rules, and Minister Zulfikar Ally met persons with disabilities on access to the Guyana Development Bank. Environment & Safety: Police and the EPA are teaming up to crack down on noise nuisance, with training for officers nationwide. Culture & Community: Miss Guyana Princess Pageant crowned new royalty under “Echoes of Paradise,” and a Diamond outreach delivered cancer screening and education to residents.

Oil & Energy: Guyana is set to push past one million barrels of oil per day soon as ExxonMobil’s fifth FPSO, the Errea Wittu, arrives ahead of first oil from the Uaru development, with production expected to cross the milestone in the fourth quarter. Offshore Safety: ExxonMobil confirmed a small fire in the laundry room on the Liza Unity FPSO led to a suspension of operations, with heat detectors triggering and all personnel safe while checks are carried out. Ferry Disruption: Suriname’s maritime authority has ordered the suspension of the MV Canawaima ferry, leaving passengers stranded and prompting calls for clearer support and passenger assistance. Local Politics: GECOM says local government elections are ready to move, but the Secretariat can’t launch the process without direction from the Commission and the Local Government Minister’s election date. CPL Cricket: Guyana Amazon Warriors stay on fire, beating Antigua & Barbuda Falcons by seven wickets to go top of the CPL table, with Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer starring. Health & Community: HOATTA held sensitization sessions with hospitals on requirements for organ and tissue transplants, while a Diamond outreach delivered cancer screening and education for 59 people. Indigenous Land Rights: Residents of Chinese Landing’s Carib community at Tassawini remain in a standoff over alleged mining encroachment, citing non-compliance with IACHR directives.

CPL Spotlight: Guyana Amazon Warriors kept rolling in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League, crushing Antigua & Barbuda Falcons by seven wickets at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, with Shamar Joseph leading the bowling (3/22) and Imran Tahir plus Khary Pierre backing it up, while Shimron Hetmyer and Shai Hope guided the chase. Oil & Safety: ExxonMobil temporarily suspended crude lifting after a “small fire” in the laundry room on the Liza Unity FPSO was extinguished; operations will resume after checks, with all staff safe. UN Diplomacy: Guyana’s UN secretary-general candidate Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett met Bahrain’s foreign minister to brief her campaign and discuss strengthening bilateral ties. Local Power & Costs: GPL says it will pursue legal action after a driver damaged its electricity network in Annandale, leaving communities without power for hours. Agriculture Push: Berbice River farmers received tractors and farm equipment to expand bean production, while Region 10’s Kimbia bean storage and conditioning facility is progressing to cut post-harvest losses. Water Reality Check: A new ranking highlights Guyana’s strong renewable freshwater supply alongside high withdrawals per person, underscoring the need for smart water management.

Oil & Accountability: ExxonMobil says it has recovered US$55B in Stabroek Block costs, while Guyana still faces about US$26.5B in bills awaiting audit—fueling fresh calls to renegotiate a “lopsided” 2016 deal. Energy & Safety: A “small fire” in the laundry room on the Liza Unity FPSO led to a temporary suspension of operations; Exxon says all personnel are safe and an investigation is underway. Power Grid & Crime: GPL plans legal action after a driver damaged its electrical network at Annandale, leaving communities without power for hours. Transport Disruption: The Canawaima ferry service between Guyana and Suriname was temporarily suspended again after new technical issues, despite recent safety clearance. Local Development: Region 8 commissioned a $140.8M simulation centre to boost hands-on healthcare training. Agriculture Boost: Berbice River communities received tractors and farm machinery, while Region 10’s Kimbia bean conditioning and storage facility is progressing to cut post-harvest losses. Sports (CPL): Antigua & Barbuda Falcons beat Trinbago Knight Riders; tonight they face the Guyana Amazon Warriors. UN Watch: Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett leads after the UN Security Council’s second secret straw poll for the next secretary-general.

UN Politics: Guyana’s UN secretary-general candidate Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett moved into first place in the second UN Security Council straw poll, winning eight “encourage” votes (three “discourage”, four “no opinion”), overtaking Rebeca Grynspan, whose support slipped to seven “encourage” votes. Local Governance & Law: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed invited APNU leader Aubrey Norton to a face-to-face meeting on Monday, Aug. 24, over Local Government Commission representation, while saying broader opposition issues should also be discussed. Transport: Canawaima ferry service was suspended due to technical issues on board, leaving passengers stranded on both sides. Roads & Infrastructure: Sophia communities received major road upgrades, including a new tarmac at the E’ Field Sophia Market, as UG Road and Dennis Street works expand. Agriculture: Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha says 300 acres of onions are now planted in Region Nine to cut import bills, with wheat trials and Zimbabwe technical talks also in motion. Business & Community: Guyana Lottery Company’s parent, Canadian Bank Note, pledged GY$5M to support MV Barima survivors and bereaved families. Public Safety: Police are investigating a gunshot incident near the Office of the President after a suspected 9mm warhead was found; CCTV is being reviewed. Sports: Guyana’s U14s reached the CFU Tier II final after a penalty win over St Maarten; Berbice U13 squad was named for the GCB inter-county tournament.

UN Politics: Guyana’s UN secretary-general candidate, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, moved into first place after the Security Council’s second informal straw poll, getting 8 “encourage” votes; Costa Rica’s Rebeca Grynspan and Argentina’s Rafael Grossi each received 7, while the vote results also show shifting support since the first round. FIFA Fallout: FIFA president Gianni Infantino attended a Caribbean Football Union event in the Dominican Republic despite a Concacaf request to skip it, as FIFA leadership faces renewed calls for change. Local Security: Police are investigating a reported gunshot near the Office of the President in Georgetown after CCTV review, with a suspected 9mm warhead found near a damaged bus. Agriculture & Roads: Region Six launched Berbice Expo with an AI farming theme, while Sophia residents received major road upgrades including a new market tarmac. Disaster Support: The Guyana Lottery Company’s parent firm pledged GY$5M to support MV Barima ferry survivors and bereaved families. Sports: Guyana’s U-14 boys reached the CFU Tier II final after a penalty win over St Maarten; Barbados women beat Guyana 2-0 in Pan-Am squash quarter-final action.