AGP Executive Report

Health Procurement Crackdown: President Irfaan Ali warned regional health officials they’ll be dismissed if they bypass Guyana’s new centralised medical supply system, which becomes the sole platform from July 1 and tightens sign-offs for emergency drug purchases. Underage Pregnancy Data: Opposition MP Amanza Walton pressed the government after it said 584 girls under 16 were referred to the Childcare and Protection Agency from 2020-2025, but the ministry can’t say how many gave birth. Budget Firestorm: Former Finance Minister Winston Jordan slammed the PPP/C’s $54.8B supplementary request as “out of control,” arguing Parliament is acting as a rubber stamp. Development Bank Oversight Fears: Commentators Christopher Ram and others warned the proposed Guyana Development Bank Bill concentrates power in the Finance Minister and lacks independent oversight. Procurement Irregularities: The Auditor General flagged nearly $210M in contract breaches, including Region Five awards without evaluation committee input and alleged contract splitting by the Guyana Police Force. Oil Update: ExxonMobil Guyana reported $982.4B after-tax profit for 2025, while government reviews Exxon’s request to ramp output toward 945,000 bpd. Crime Breakthrough: Police arrested a 23-year-old farmer in the Zeelugt murder probe after an alleged confession linked to the Adriel Aftab Mohamed case. Diaspora Jubilee: Over 10,000 Guyanese turned out in Brooklyn for the 60th Independence Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Sports—WCPL Expansion: Jamaica Empress joined the Women’s Caribbean Premier League, expanding it to four teams in Barbados from Sept 5-17.

Health System Accountability: President Irfaan Ali warned regional health officials they will be dismissed if they bypass Guyana’s new centralised medical supply system, which becomes the sole platform for pharmaceuticals and supplies from July 1, with emergency purchases requiring sign-off through the Materials Management Unit and a monthly oversight committee. Oil Sector Oversight: Government is reviewing ExxonMobil’s request to ramp up production at the Yellowtail development, potentially lifting Stabroek output to about 945,000 bpd, with safety checks and FPSO visits planned. Former Presidents Benefits Backlash: GTUC General Secretary Lincoln Lewis blasted the government’s move to restore unlimited perks for former presidents as a “gravy train,” arguing it deepens the gap between political elites and ordinary citizens. Firearms Probe: Two men linked to an AK-47 haul in Berbice were remanded after charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, while police continue hunting a third suspect. Trade & Business Links: World Trade Centre Georgetown will host a June 17 luncheon on growing business with the United States, featuring U.S. trade expert Arun Venkataraman. Regional Security Engagement: CARICOM welcomed senior Guyana Defence Force officers for a crime and security knowledge-sharing session on June 4.

U.S. Trade Policy: The U.S. Trade Representative has proposed new Section 301 tariffs tied to forced-labour findings, with additional duties of 10% or 12.5% across 60 economies (and 37.5% for Brazil), while inviting public comments and testimony ahead of a July 7 hearing. Regional Trade & Business: Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) launched a major trade mission to Guyana and Suriname (June 8–14) to open new partnerships for local manufacturers and service providers. Local Infrastructure: The US$161M Soesdyke–Linden Highway project is now about 90% complete, with drainage and electrical works underway as street lighting installation approaches. Energy Transition: Guyana is set to expand its public EV charging network to 24 stations by year-end, adding 13 more sites under the Low Carbon Development Strategy. Governance & Oversight: Parliamentary committees were finally reconstituted after an eight-month hiatus, but opposition attempts to place a Forward Guyana Movement MP on several committees were rejected. ICJ Tensions: Venezuela rejected Guyana’s statements on the Essequibo ICJ process, saying it will not recognize any ruling and insisting the dispute must be handled under the Geneva Agreement. Healthcare & Social Policy: Guyana is moving toward a more organised organ donation and transplant system, while Martinique says it can supply radioactive drugs for certain cancers.

Local Democracy Clash: PNCR says the prolonged absence of a functioning Local Government Commission is leaving municipalities and NDCs “administratively paralysed,” unable to discipline staff and address alleged misconduct. Infrastructure Update: The US$161M Soesdyke–Linden Highway is about 90% complete, with drainage around 70% done and electrical works underway, including light pole pedestals and power boxes. Clean Energy Push: Guyana is set to expand its public EV charging network to 24 stations by year-end, adding 13 more (plus four from UNDP), alongside incentives for EV owners. Parliamentary Machinery: After an eight-month hiatus, 13 Parliamentary Committees were reconstituted, but opposition attempts to place WIN leader Amanza Walton-Desir on several committees failed. ICJ/Essequibo Tensions: Venezuela rejected Guyana’s stance on a possible ICJ ruling, saying it never consented to the court’s jurisdiction and will not recognize any decision. Healthcare System Building: A new EU-funded initiative aims to strengthen Guyana’s organ donation and transplant system, moving from ad hoc steps to an integrated framework. Education Accountability: Education Minister Sonia Parag says a full file on alleged mistreatment of a special needs student has been sent to the Teaching Service Commission, with disciplinary hearings expected within 10 days. Aviation & Connectivity: Xen Aviation acquired a Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander to expand domestic capacity, while regional interline deals signal efforts to ease fragmented Caribbean airlift. Crime & Safety: Police are investigating the brutal killing of a seven-year-old boy during a home invasion, with CCTV reviewed and a suspect sought.

Essequibo/ICJ Clash: Venezuela has rejected Guyana’s comments ahead of the ICJ’s final ruling, saying it never consented to the court’s jurisdiction and will not recognize any decision—insisting the dispute must be handled under the 1966 Geneva Agreement. Local Governance & Law: APNU alleges the government is undermining local democracy by creating parallel structures, including handpicked Community Development Councils. A Sexual Offences Amendment Bill also proposes strict penalties for insiders who leak data from a proposed National Sex Offender Database. Public Finance Oversight: The proposed Development Bank Bill is being criticized for giving government appointees wide discretion over major funds, with concerns about transparency and oversight. Energy & Infrastructure: The Soesdyke–Linden Highway project is reported at about 90% complete, while negotiations continue over Karpowership rates and Guyana’s reliance on rented power. Clean Energy Push: Guyana is set to expand public EV charging stations to 24 by year-end and has graduated 22 renewable-energy technicians. Public Safety: Police are investigating the killing of a seven-year-old during a home invasion in East Bank Essequibo. Regional/International: The US and Shield of the Americas condemned efforts to overthrow Bolivia’s elected president amid unrest.

UN & Diplomacy: Guyana’s UN Security Council spotlight continues as Trinidad and Tobago wins a non-permanent seat for 2027-2028, while Guyana picks up a symbolic vote in the GRULAC contest despite not running. Energy & Governance: Government finally breaks silence on Karpowership renewal talks as APNU demands answers over the power-ship deal; meanwhile, Parliament also sees a fresh push for more spending, including a major supplementary request tied to the stalled gas-to-energy project. Anti-Corruption Debate: Minister Gail Teixeira rejects the use of Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index as a measure of Guyana’s anti-corruption work, arguing it’s perception-based rather than proof. Cost of Living: GPL begins rolling out the $30,000 electricity subsidy for pensioners starting this June, with clear rules for post-paid and pre-paid customers. Local Politics & Oversight: After an 8-month hiatus, 13 parliamentary committees are constituted, but opposition questions whether they’ll function effectively. Justice & Public Accountability: A vigil for Jukeem Scipio turns into a demand for police accountability after he was shot during a controversial operation. Sports & Youth: Rain postpones a New Amsterdam inter-secondary girls’ cricket tournament to September; athletics championships are set for June 26-28, and Slingerz FC draws SWA Sharks in the CFU Club Shield opener.

Former Presidents Benefits Bill: The government tabled the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill 2026 to restore “unlimited” benefits removed in 2015, including utilities, security, medical coverage, staff and state vehicles—sparking renewed opposition calls for transparency. Budget Pressure: Four months after the $1.558T 2026 budget, Finance Minister Ashni Singh moved for about $54.9B in supplementary funding, with the biggest add-on earmarked for the stalled Gas-to-Energy project. Parliament Resumes Oversight: After an 8-month hiatus, the Committee of Selection finally constituted 13 parliamentary committees, though opposition questioned whether bodies will function independently. Sovereignty at the ICJ: PM Mark Phillips told the National Assembly Guyana will respect Venezuela’s sovereignty but demand compliance once the ICJ delivers its final border ruling. Energy Debate Heats Up: APNU renewed criticism of reliance on powerships while Gas-to-Energy remains delayed; meanwhile InterEnergy outlined a grid modernisation roadmap through 2030. Education Discipline Probe: The Education Ministry sent an investigation file to the Teaching Service Commission after a David Rose Special Education School incident caught on video, with disciplinary hearings expected within 10 days. Child Safety Law Moves: Amendments to the Sexual Offences Act were tabled, including a proposed National Sex Offender Database and stronger protections for children. Sports & Community: Slingerz FC drew SWA Sharks in the CFU Club Shield opener; GFF confirmed Bryan Joseph as Technical Director; and Guyana’s youth environmental speaker winner Randy Mangal secured a $1M grant.

Former Presidents Benefits Bill: Government re-tabled the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill 2026 to restore the 2009 “uncapped” framework, reigniting political backlash over perks like utilities, security, medical coverage and state vehicles. Supplementary Spending Push: Finance Minister Ashni Singh sought about $54.9B more in supplementary funding just four months after the $1.558T budget, including a major boost for the Gas-to-Energy project and added allocations across ministries. Energy Governance Fight: APNU demanded full transparency on the Turkish power company and powership reliance, while InterEnergy outlined a grid modernisation roadmap for GPL through 2030. Parliament Oversight Restart: After an 8-month hiatus, the Committee of Selection finally constituted 13 parliamentary committees, though opposition questioned whether they’ll function effectively. Sovereignty at ICJ: PM Phillips told the National Assembly Guyana will insist on Venezuela respecting sovereignty while awaiting an ICJ ruling expected between Nov 2026 and Jan 2027. Child Protection & Justice: Education Ministry forwarded a probe file to the TSC after alleged mistreatment of a student at David Rose Special School, with disciplinary hearings expected within 10 days. Sex Offences Reform: Amendments to the Sexual Offences Act were tabled, including a proposed National Sex Offender Database and stronger protections for children and vulnerable adults. Oil Wealth Watch: NRF balance was reported at US$4.1B, alongside notifications of petroleum receipts to Parliament. Regional & Global: Guyana picked up a symbolic vote in the UN Security Council election; CARICOM marked World Environment Day as President Ali renewed calls for climate action.

Parliament & Lawmaking: The National Assembly is set to reconvene June 5 with a major June sitting agenda, including a Guyana Development Bank Bill aimed at boosting SME financing and other reforms to modernize legal protections. Opposition Clash: WIN leader Azruddin Mohamed hit back at PNCR’s Aubrey Norton over extradition claims, insisting his politics are not tied to any legal fears. Former Presidents’ Benefits: APNU MP Ganesh Mahipaul called the government’s plan to repeal the 2015 caps “unconscionable,” as the Former Presidents’ (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill is read for the first time. Power Crisis Pressure: Karpowership warned it could suspend operations unless negotiations end, while the government says outages aren’t linked to power generation and claims talks are ongoing. Mining Safety Pushback: Sharma Solomon urged stronger enforcement after workplace deaths and incidents in mining camps, blaming agencies for acting only after tragedy. Cost-of-Living Relief: GPL says the $30,000 annual electricity subsidy for pensioners will appear on June bills. Local Content Focus: Minister Keoma Griffith stressed that growth must be measured by value created for Guyanese, not just revenue. U.S. Ties: Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd met U.S. officials to expand private sector engagement, investment, and cooperation. Oil Sector Watch: ExxonMobil seeks permission to increase production on the One Guyana FPSO, with GGMC reviewing safety safeguards. Digital Safety: Government launched a national consultation on protecting children from harmful social media content, with possible new legislation discussed.

Former Presidents’ Benefits Clash: APNU MP Ganesh Mahipaul calls the Ali administration’s plan to repeal the 2015 Former Presidents’ Benefits Act “unconscionable,” as the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill heads for first reading. Power Contract Pressure: Government says it’s negotiating Karpowership’s contract renewal after the company’s demands and threats, while critics warn Guyana could follow Ghana’s path of limited scrutiny and costly take-or-pay terms. Cost-of-Living Relief: GPL says the $30,000 annual electricity subsidy for pensioners will appear on June bills (credit for postpaid, wallet access for prepaid). Social Media Child Safety: A national consultation begins to shape rules to protect children online, with the AG pointing to models from Australia, the UK and Europe. Cash Grant Outreach: Finance teams report nearly 400,000 people paid the $100,000 cash grant, with special field operations for hinterland and vulnerable groups. Region 7 Health & Mining: Construction of Kamarang Hospital moves on 10 acres after community objections; GGMC shuts six illegal mining operations and arrests 38. Oil Sector Oversight: ExxonMobil seeks permission to increase output on the One Guyana FPSO as GGMC reviews safety and safeguards. International Links: PM Phillips signs Guyana onto LAC4 to boost cybersecurity capacity; Foreign Minister Hugh Todd meets U.S. officials to expand private-sector ties.

Opposition Politics: WIN leader Azruddin Mohamed accuses PNCR leader Aubrey Norton of using his name to stay politically relevant, while Norton says the opposition won’t be drawn into a personal fight over Mohamed’s possible extradition. Former Presidents Benefits: Attorney General Anil Nandlall says a bill to repeal the 2015/2016 caps and restore unlimited former presidents’ benefits will be read in the National Assembly, as APNU MP Ganesh Mahipaul warns it could reopen abuse of state resources. CARICOM & Courts: A CCJ judge laments that most CARICOM states still don’t accept the court as their final appeal, and a lawyer warns Bermuda’s full CARICOM membership could disrupt its immigration rules. Local Content & Oil: Finance Minister Ashni Singh and other officials push local content as a jobs-and-opportunity engine, alongside expectations Guyana could exceed one million barrels of oil per day by year-end. Security & Diplomacy: CARICOM leaders congratulate Trinidad and Tobago’s UN Security Council win; CARICOM also reiterates commitment to tackling illicit small arms trade. Health Tech: SS Innovations reports the world’s longest-distance robotic telesurgery between Guyana and India. Public Safety & Governance: Home Affairs moves to rebuild the Grove Police Station for about $215M. Sports & Youth: GBA hands boxing equipment to a prison gym; CWI and partners expand free youth access to matches.

Forced-Labour Trade Pressure: The US Trade Representative has flagged 60 economies, including Guyana, for failing to enforce bans on imports made with forced labour, setting up proposed Section 301 duties of 10%–12.5% and a July 7 comment hearing. Former Presidents’ Benefits: Attorney General Anil Nandlall says the Former President’s Benefits Bill will be read in the National Assembly to repeal earlier APNU+AFC caps and restore the 2009 benefits framework. Local Content Push: Finance Minister Ashni Singh and other officials urged local suppliers to gear up for expanding oil opportunities, while government also moves to amend local content rules and assess in-country capacity. Children Online Safety: AG Nandlall announced national consultations to craft a Guyana-specific regulatory model to shield children from harmful social media content. Opposition Consultations: PNCR leader Azruddin Mohamed says consultations for replacing election commissioners will proceed despite Aubrey Norton’s criticisms. UN Security Council: CARICOM congratulated Trinidad and Tobago on its UN Security Council election, while the vote count reportedly included a puzzling “Guyana” entry. Local Governance & Security: Home Affairs plans a $215M rebuild of the Grove Police Station; meanwhile, a former top cop warns the police crisis is mainly about leadership competence, not just new laws.

PNCR vs WIN extradition claims: PNCR leader Aubrey Norton says WIN leader Azruddin Mohamed entered politics to avoid extradition to the US over alleged gold and tax crimes, as the extradition case awaits a CCJ decision. Tragedy on the coast: Bodies of a Victoria couple and the unborn child were recovered from the Atlantic after they were swept under near Unity/Victoria; families accuse state search efforts of delay and say WIN leader Azruddin Mohamed funded fishermen to continue the search. Police leadership warning: Retired DCP Dr. Paul Williams argues the GPF’s problems are rooted in incompetent leadership appointments, not lack of laws. Water Street arson probe: Investigators say the Water Street fire was deliberately set, pointing to CCTV footage and an arson plot targeting a cargo truck and warehouse. Child online safety consultations: AG Anil Nandlall says government has launched national consultations on regulating social media for children, aiming to protect minors while keeping educational access. Former presidents benefits: Nandlall says the government plans to restore full benefits under the 2010 Former Presidents Benefits and Other Facilities legislation. Energy contract pressure: Reports claim Karpowership is demanding an extra US$3.4M daily, raising concerns as Guyana faces ongoing power blackouts. Regional governance & sports: CWI released its 2026 home schedule across the Caribbean, with Guyana hosting key matches; ERC flagged 151 social media violations, with racial slurs topping the list.

Energy Negotiations: Government officials went silent on Karpowership’s demand for an extra US$3.4M daily to keep supplying power, with the company now asking US$0.095/KW versus the earlier US$0.076/KW. Child Online Safety: A national consultation was launched to draft stronger protections for children online, with possible legislation drawing from Australia, the UK and parts of Europe. Oil Block Watch: Ghana-based Cybele Energy is at risk of losing its shallow-water offshore concession after failing to pay a US$17M signing bonus, with interest now added. Local Content & Economy: Ministers highlighted how Guyana’s Local Content law is driving growth beyond oil—pushing opportunities in farming, housing and other sectors. Aviation Infrastructure: Three firms bid to build a new CJIA air traffic control tower, including two Chinese joint ventures and a Guyanese-led bid. Interior Development: President Ali announced major Region 7 projects, including a Puruni River bridge and new water systems, while warning contractors over delays. Public Services Dispute: Opposition MPs renewed criticism over the Region 7 “water ambulance” handover, calling it inadequate for real medical emergencies. Education & Training: The Education Ministry received 13 bids for a CPCE Centre in Region Two to expand teacher training for remote communities. Security & Enforcement: Six illegal mining operations were shut down in Region Seven, with 38 arrests and equipment seized. Sports: Guyana’s boxing team earned praise after a bronze at the South American Youth Games, while cricket and local tournaments continue to build youth participation.

Flood-Control Value for Money: After $240B+ pumped into Drainage and Irrigation, MP Duncan and others are pressing for answers as Region 4 flooding keeps returning, with calls for a serious audit of NDIA performance. Interior Outreach Under Fire: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed says PPP/C’s Region 7 Cabinet tour is “photo ops” and must deliver structural relief for interior residents, not taxpayer-funded optics. Health System Clash: Amanza Walton-Desir blasts the Health Ministry over a “refurbished” passenger boat handed as a $24.8M water ambulance for Region Seven, arguing it lacks real lifesaving equipment. Power Supply Pressure: GPL says damaged transmission lines from an excavator hit Demerara, and it will pursue legal action to recover repair costs; it also flagged a separate recent distribution incident. Oil & Gas Watch: ExxonMobil filed for environmental approval for the Haimara gas development, proposing a super-sized FPSO and linking it to other Stabroek gas discoveries. Legal/Institutions: The Guyana Bar Association elects Arudranauth Gossai as president, while the fallout from GECOM/Bar Council election disputes continues with threats of court action. Creative Economy: Government is set to consult on strengthening Guyana’s copyright and intellectual property framework to support the Orange Economy. Regional Connectivity: LIAT and Air Caraïbes sign an interline agreement to make Caribbean travel easier, with Guyana included in LIAT’s network. Sports & Talent: West Indies Academy squads depart for Sri Lanka, featuring Guyanese Kevlon Anderson and Mavendra Dindyal.

Oil & Markets: Gold stayed near US$4,500/oz in May as Iran-U.S. tensions kept traders cautious, while Guyana’s oil boom continues to draw attention to how the country manages windfall growth. Power & Infrastructure: GPL says it will pursue legal action after damaged transmission and distribution lines left parts of Demerara without power, following incidents involving an excavator and a reversing truck. Local Economy & Business Climate: Finance Minister Ashni Singh’s push for Guyanese firms to expand beyond local shores drew an editorial challenge over whether domestic opportunities are keeping pace with the growth narrative. Education & Skills: GOAL reports strong demand for its 2026 intake, with 14,000+ scholarships already awarded and more applications coming in. Health: OMAT head Dr Stephen Carryl urges lifestyle changes and regular check-ups as non-communicable diseases, especially diabetes, continue to rise among young Guyanese. Environment: PM Mark Phillips told crowds at the EPA’s Green Walk that environmental stewardship is shared across generations ahead of World Environment Day. Sports & Youth: Avinash Contracting recommitted support for the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast (Aug 8 start in Berbice), while West Indies Academy players including Guyanese Kevlon Anderson and Mavendra Dindyal departed for a Sri Lanka development tour. Governance & Law: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed criticized the Region Seven Cabinet outreach as “photo ops” and demanded real follow-through. International & Connectivity: LIAT and Air Caraïbes launched an interline agreement to improve seamless travel across the region, including Guyana.