Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 04-04-2024

During engagements with fisherfolk, sugar workers and residents of Rosignol on Wednesday, President, Dr Irfaan Ali outlined a slew of measures to respond immediately to several concerns that were raised (Office of the President photos)

More technical personnel required to address GPL’s operational challenges

— President Ali says; affirms gov’t working to bridge demandsupply gap

By Clestine Juan

GIVEN Guyana’s escalating energy demand, the government is currently working on a “holistic” reform of power supply to bridge the demand-supply gap, to address issues resulting from not only a lack of infrastructure and neglected maintenance, but also a human resource deficit.

This was according to President Dr Irfaan Ali, who has expressed deep concern over the state of Guyana's power infra -

structure, which is significantly impacted by aged generators, some surpassing 30 years old, compounded by a fiveyear period of maintenance neglect between 2015 and 2020 under the APNU+AFC government.

According to the Head of State, these issues have resulted in inefficiencies in power generation, exacerbating the shortfall in meeting the nation's escalating electricity demands.

“As I speak, we are not meeting those demands. We have tremendous difficulties with trucks in con-

through holistic approach

struction, accidents hitting the network, causing challenges,” President Ali said on the sidelines of an event at the Office of the President, on Wednesday.

With an exponential increase in demand anticipated, President Ali revealed projections of an additional 35 megawatts of new demand this year alone, reaching approximately 220 megawatts overall by year-end.

However, the current generating capacity stands around only 165 megawatts, further highlighting the urgency of the situa-

tion.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by infrastructural constraints, including difficulties with transportation for construction and accidents affecting the network, President Ali stressed the critical need to address human resource gaps by recruiting more engineers, technicians, and linesmen to strengthen the workforce.

In response to these challenges, President Ali outlined the “holistic path” to bridge the demand-supply gap, including seeking financing through the UK’s Export Finance (UKEF) to com-

plete new transmission lines and upgrade existing infrastructure.

“We have to deal with the transmission itself... We haven't quantified that as yet. But this is going to be a sizable demand because the transmission is very expensive,” President Ali said.

Expressing disappointment at the slow progress in recruiting technical personnel, President Ali highlighted the necessity of bringing in expertise from abroad to address immediate infrastructural needs.

“As I speak to you, I have expressed my disappointment...,” President

Ali said as he reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these challenges through strategic investments and international partnerships.

The Gas to Energy (GTE) project was highlighted as a crucial initiative, promising to significantly reduce energy costs and satisfy the escalating demand for electricity in Guyana, projected to reach almost 1,000 megawatts by 2030.

The project is expected to improve reliability and lower the cost of electricity in the country, with the potential to significantly reduce the cost of electricity from US$0.25/0.36 per kWh to US$0.06/0.07 per kWh.

Progress on the GTE project, with approximately 40 per cent of the onshore pipeline and 55 per cent of the offshore portion completed, signifies a potential major energy transformation for sustainable development in the region.

Despite efforts to bolster the country's power supply, recent power outages and system failures have underscored the urgent need for immediate action.

President Ali, on Tuesday, convened a meeting with stakeholders to address GPL's current performance and call for urgent improvements.

In addition to ongoing projects like the GTE, the government is exploring plans for a second power plant, signalling a strategic move towards energy self-sufficiency.

Progress is also being made on the 165MW Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, further indicating the government's commitment to enhancing Guyana's power infrastructure.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

‘Constitutional reform vital for Guyana's future’

— President Ali says, as diverse members of Constitutional Reform Commission sworn in

By Clestine Juan

THE newly appointed members of the Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) were sworn in on Wednesday, paving the way for enhanced democratic governance and more efforts to address evolving societal needs in Guyana.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali administered the oath of office to 17 of 20 members during the ceremony which was held at his Shiv Chanderpaul Drive office in Georgetown.

The CRC will be chaired by former Chancellor Justice Carl Singh. The commission is set to operate out of a building on Middle Street, Georgetown, previously used for various Commissions of Inquiry.

The Commission's mandate, as outlined by President Ali, encompasses a wide array of areas critical for potential reforms, reflecting the dynamic nature of Guyanese society and the global landscape.

Members of the Commission are Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, S.C.; Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira; Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony; Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai; and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy.

Representing the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition on the Commission are Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Commissioner Vincent Alexander; economist Sherwood Lowe; Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Ganesh Mahipaul; and Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes.

The Commission also includes representatives from various sectors, including Aslim Iqubal Singh from the Labour Movement; Derrick Rowan John from The National Toshao’s Council; Ramesh Anand Persaud from the Private Sector; Joycelin Kim Kyte-Thomas from Women Organizations; Daniel Josh Kanhai from Youth Orga -

nizations; Imran Ally from Muslim Organizations; Radha Krishna Sharma from Hindu Organizations; and Adrian V. Anamayah from among farmers.

ANUG’s General Secretary, Timothy Jonas, S.C. from the Joinder Parties; Kamal Ramkarran, representing the Guyana Bar Association and Keoma Griffith from Christian Organizations will be sworn in later since they were unavailable on Wednesday.

During his remarks at the swearing-in ceremony, President Ali underscored the pivotal role of a nation's Constitution as its foundational law.

“A Constitution must remain a living document and not become archaic. It must possess the capacity for adaptation to be relevant and to effectively address new challenges, societal changes, and emerging issues while still upholding its core principles and protecting the rights of citizens,” the President said.

The Constitution Reform Commission Act 2022, passed by the National Assembly, delineates key areas for potential reforms, including fundamental rights, Indigenous Peoples' rights, electoral reforms, and bolstering integrity in public office.

President Ali stressed the importance of these reforms in fostering greater political and social inclusion, stating: “Your ability to work together and achieve consensus will not only advance the cause of constitutional reform but also

serve as an encouragement for greater political and social inclusion.”

The Commission, constituted with wide representation from various sectors including the ruling party, parliamentary Opposition, legal profession, labour movement, indigenous community, private sector, women, youth, religious community, and farmers, reflects Guyana's commitment to inclusivity and democratic participation.

President Ali's call for a proactive approach to constitutional reform reflects the changing dynamics of Guyanese society, where political, societal, and technological changes present new challenges and opportunities.

“The legitimacy of a nation’s Constitution stems from an agreed and lawful process of adoption, circumscribed by the consent of the governed. While ideally, a constitution should serve as a timeless blueprint for governance, reflecting enduring principles and values, the dynamic and evolving nature of societies and the world, necessitates periodic updates, refinements, and reforms to ensure the Constitution’s continued relevance and effectiveness,” he said.

He highlighted the necessity for clear and accessible language in the Constitution to ensure all citizens understand their rights and obligations, facilitating active participation in the democratic process.

“The Constitution must be drafted in clear and accessible

language, comprehensible to the average individual.

“This ensures that all citizens can understand their rights and obligations, thereby facilitating active participation in the democratic process and reinforcing the mutual understanding between the government and the governed,” President Ali said.

In acknowledgement of the aforementioned principles, the President said that his assent to the Constitution Reform Commission Act 2022 on November 15, 2022, marked a significant step towards realising the collective aspirations of the Guyanese people.

The Commission's formation signals a commitment to

upholding the principles of democracy, protecting citizen rights, and promoting societal empowerment.

The members, entrusted with a weighty mandate, were urged by President Ali to approach their responsibilities with utmost diligence and dedication.

“I ask that you approach your responsibilities with utmost diligence and dedication. One expects each of you to discharge this mandate to the best of your abilities, striving to foster an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect during your deliberations.

“Rather than succumbing to animosity or rancour, it is imperative to acknowledge

the significance of your work in shaping the future of constitutionalism in Guyana” the Head of State told the commissioners.

He reaffirmed the importance of fostering an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect during deliberations, urging the greater good of constitutional reform.

The appointment of the Constitutional Reform Commission comes at a critical juncture for Guyana, where the need for responsive governance and inclusive decision-making has never been greater.

President Ali's leadership in initiating this reform process reflects a commitment to advancing democracy, strengthening institutions, and ensuring the Constitution remains relevant in the face of evolving societal challenges.

Several commissions have been appointed under his leadership including the Public Service Commission, the Police Service Commission, the Integrity Commission and the Judicial Service Commission, among others.

These commissions play crucial roles in various aspects of governance, such as making appointments, exercising disciplinary control, and ensuring compliance with human rights and anti-discrimination legislation.

President Dr Irfaan Ali flanked by the newly appointed members of the Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) (Office of the President photo)

President Ali orders immediate action

to address delayed projects

— as government looks to penalise contractors for failing to meet contractual obligations

By Naomi Parris

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Wednesday instructed all relevant ministries and agencies to issue letters for liquidated damages to contractors for delayed projects.

The Head of State on Wednesday held an early-morning meeting with stakeholders at State House where he instructed the country’s Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh; Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall, S.C., and Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill to begin the process of issuing letters to ‘non-performing’ and defaulting contractors who have gone past their project deadlines and jus-

tifiable extensions.

“All the projects that are beyond the contracted time, where they have exhausted justified exten-

sions we will issue a letter today instructing that the liquidated damages be instituted immediately. We cannot tolerate this…

the end of January 2024, has faced extensions and delays, raising concerns about the contractor’s ability to deliver.

Recently, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall outlined the Cabinet’s decision to enforce contractual clauses swiftly and rigidly in cases of breaches or unexplained delays.

“Government will not countenance negligence from contractors. Government will not countenance delinquency. Government will not countenance breaches of contractual obligations. These contracts are multimillion dollars in nature.

liquidated damages must be instituted,” the Head of State stressed.

Currently, several massive infrastructural projects are underway across the country. These include the rehabilitation of small community roads and the construction of major highways and bridges, among other initiatives geared at improving the lives of all Guyanese.

In some instances, justified extensions were granted to contractors; however, delays were persistent on some projects.

One such project, the long-delayed Cemetery Road upgrade in Georgetown, has faced significant setbacks.

Minister Edghill had announced that the contractor, Avinash Constructing and Scrap Metal Inc., must complete the project by the end of March 2024 or face contract termination.

The project, initially slated for completion by

“So, it’s not a question of contractors not making money. There are cases where a delay may be justified, or a breach may be justified,” Nandlall said during a recent broadcast of his Facebook programme “Issues in the News”.

These clauses, he noted, include penalties such as liquidated damages and the option for the government to terminate contracts and sue for damages.

Liquidated damages are an exact amount of money, or a set formula to calculate the amount of money a party will owe if it breaches a contract or fails deliver on a contract.

While acknowledging that some delays or breaches may be justified, Nandlall stressed that each case would be evaluated individually. He had clarified that the government’s intention is not to unjustly penalise contractors, but rather to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali engages stakeholders during one of his previous visits to a project site

Rosignol fisherfolk to benefit from rehabilitation of wharf

DURING an engagement with fisherfolk at Rosignol, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on Wednesday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced several initiatives to bring relief to challenges faced by the fishing community.

“Our biggest challenge is fishing, in the sense of when we go to the sea, we are losing a lot…our fishermen we only getting like one or two a year we getting a good catch,” a fisherman said as he lamented the challenges he and his colleagues face on a daily basis.

“Making profits as fishermen is very hard,” the man bemoaned, while highlighting the need for better infrastructure at the community’s fishing wharf.

Meanwhile, some fishermen highlighted that they were unable to access fi -

nancing through the local commercial banks to support their daily operations, noting: “It’s like our boats have no

value to the bank.”

In an immediate response to this, President Ali announced that he will initiate

a meeting with the country’s Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh and the banking

Agriculture, building green economy, digitalisation to

THE building out of a green economy, agriculture innovation and digitisation will be among the key focus of the upcoming Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) that will be held in Georgetown, Guyana.

At an official launch for the regional forum at the Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, Executive Director of Caribbean Export Development Agency Deodat Maharaj said a ‘forensic focus’ will be placed on getting the right people at the proverbial table to further actions for tangible investments in the region.

“We focus on three things. One, getting results; two, getting results; three, getting results, so less talk more business,” Maharaj said.

“We believe that it is pointless for us to exist as a Caribbean export unless we drive an agenda that’s transformational in nature. So we are keen to focus on sectors that will drive the transformation of our re-

gion,” he added.

The forum, which is slated for July 10 -12 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Maharaj explained, will focus on a green economy transition, which will generate 400,000 additional high-paying jobs in the Caribbean, harnessing technology for agriculture in countries such as Guyana, Belize, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica to further achieve food security targets. Further, digitalisation and technology will be among the topics to harness innovation to create well-paid jobs in the services sector.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Waldron emphasised the need for a collective understanding of Caribbean prosperity, which includes economic viability, good health and food security.

“We are interested in strong partnerships with those who seek to become invested in our communities…we wish to see

patient investment which prioritise long returns that emanate from the sustainable economies that we wish to build.”

She further highlighted the vulnerability of Caribbean economies to global economic shocks and natural disasters, and stressed the need for strategies to mitigate these risks.

“We seek those who will remain with us through thick and thin as we experience those inevitable external shocks that are a reality of our Caribbean existence.”

Minister Walrond discussed the importance of sustainable development and economic resilience in the region, with a focus on investments in clean energy, job creation,

— support to access loans, President Ali announces

community to discuss what support can be given through loan programmes.

“In addition to that, I’m going to ask Minister Ashni Singh to bring the banks here next week and what I want is for fisherfolk all across the region [to meet with] Mr. Ashni Singh and the bank sector, so we can get the bank to work with you on small loans,” the President said.

Further, to help the fisherfolk bolster their income, the President suggested that a consortium be formed to integrate at least some 300 fisherfolk into the brackish water shrimp programme.

“We want to integrate you all into the [brackish] shrimp programme, so you can bolster your income and support your income,” he said.

Meanwhile, at a separate engagement at the Blairmont Sugar Estate in Berbice, the

President vowed to further support sugar workers.

“I want to hear from you guys; don’t be afraid to speak. I’m out here to listen to you; you don’t have to be afraid of management. I don’t want to sit in an office and hear from management or hear from a board or hear from anybody. I want to come and hear from y’all myself,” the Head of State said.

At that engagement, several challenges were highlighted, with one being that some workers are not able to receive incentives, while others face challenges regarding wages.

In response, the president said: “Now that I have an understanding from you guys, I will go back, look at the system, talk to the union, talk to the other estates and come up with a plan.”

be discussed at regional investment

and digitalisation initiatives to foster resilient economies.

“The Government of Guyana is committed to advancing economic growth throughout the region and the Caribbean Investment Forum serves as a pivotal platform for realising this vision. We therefore urge investors, partners and stakeholders to seize this opportunity to collaborate and innovate for sustainable development in the Caribbean.”

Aimed at fast-tracking Caribbean development, CIF serves as a platform for sharing, learning, preparing and finalising business and investment deals that support regional transformation.

It is anticipated that the

event will feature a dynamic agenda, bringing together key decision-makers, foreign-direct investors, government agencies, and entrepreneurs, to engage and connect for the benefit of the region.

It is billed to be the largest business gathering of the region. Last year, CIF saw 500 participants, 92 per cent of which were business owners

forum

and investors from over 45 countries. This year, to further support businesses and facilitate meaningful engagements, an online application will come on stream to help participants, investors and business owners to navigate the packed agenda.

Guyana’s Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond (third from left), Executive Director of Caribbean Export Development Agency Deodat Maharaj and other officials at the launch of Caribbean Investment Forum 2024

President, Dr Irfaan Ali engaging the fishing community in Rosignol on Wednesday

Bridging A Crucial Gap

GUYANA stands at a critical juncture in its journey towards energy sufficiency and sustainable development.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali's recent remarks underscore the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to address the mounting challenges facing the nation's power infrastructure. As the demand for electricity continues to surge, fuelled by economic growth and expanding urbanisation, urgent action is imperative to bridge the glaring gap between supply and demand.

President Ali's candid acknowledgment of the systemic issues plaguing

Guyana's power sector is a sobering reminder of the neglect and mismanagement endured under the former APNU+AFC administration from 20152020.

The legacy of aged generators and neglected maintenance, compounded by a dearth of skilled personnel, has exacerbated inefficiencies in power generation, perpetuating the shortfall in meeting the nation's escalating electricity demands.

With projections indicating a staggering 35 megawatts of new demand this year alone, and an overall demand expected to reach approximately 220 megawatts by

year’s end, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated.

The current generating capacity of around 165 megawatts falls significantly short of meeting these burgeoning demands, posing a formidable challenge in the near term.

President Ali's commitment to addressing these challenges through a "holistic path" is commendable.

Seeking financing through partnerships such as the UK's Export Finance (UKEF) to bolster transmission infrastructure reflects a proactive approach to overcoming infrastructural con -

straints. However, the magnitude of the task at hand necessitates swift and decisive action, particularly in recruiting and deploying skilled personnel to bolster the workforce.

The gas-to-energy (GTE) project emerges as a beacon of hope in Guyana's energy landscape, promising to revolutionise power generation and significantly reduce energy costs.

The substantial progress made on the project underscores its transformative potential for sustainable development in the region.

President Ali's convening of a meeting of

stakeholders to address GPL's performance and demand urgent improvements is a step in the right direction. However, tangible outcomes and sustained progress are imperative to restore public confidence in the system and propel Guyana towards energy self-sufficiency.

The government's exploration of plans for a second power plant and progress on initiatives such as the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project signal a strategic commitment to enhancing Guyana's power infrastructure. These endeavours must be underpinned by transparency, accountabil-

ity, and effective governance to deliver tangible benefits to the Guyanese people.

As Guyana charts its course towards a prosperous and sustainable future, it must harness the collective resolve of its leadership, industry stakeholders, and citizens to overcome the formidable challenges confronting its energy sector. Only through concerted action and unwavering commitment can Guyana realise its vision of becoming a beacon of energy resilience and prosperity in the region.

By resuscitating the sugar industry the PPP/C has restored life to many communities

Dear Editor,

As we approach the General Elections in 2025, it is important to acknowledge the continuous efforts of the current government since being elected to office in 2020.

Development can be seen in various sectors, but I would like to highlight the remarkable progress of the sugar industry. Before the PPP/C came into power, our nation witnessed the closure of major estates, resulting in the unem -

ployment of thousands of workers.

The APNU+AFC justified this decision at the time, but it had devastating effects on families and the economy. It is crucial that we never forget the impact of such actions. During their campaign, the PPP/C made a promise to reopen these estates and revitalise the industry.

I am pleased to inform you that they have fulfilled this promise.

According to the Minister Responsible for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh,

the sugar industry has experienced a remarkable growth of 28 per cent in 2023. The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), the main sugar producer, has increased its production from 47,049 tonnes in 2022 to 60,204 tonnes in 2023.

This growth can be attributed to improved yields and favourable weather conditions. The re-opening of the Rose Hall Estate has also contributed to this growth, producing 1,031 tonnes in the second crop of

2023.

Additionally, significant efforts have been made to modernise the industry, with the conversion of 2,740 hectares of land for mechanised harvesting in Rose Hall, Albion, and the Blairmont Estates. Over 4,600 workers have been rehired, resulting in a total employment of 8,100 across the industry.

This is a major achievement that should not be overlooked. Furthermore, the government is investing $997

million in the procurement of equipment to further support cultivation and harvesting.

This investment demonstrates their commitment to the longterm success of the sugar industry. Since the re-opening of these estates, we have witnessed a positive impact on the economic landscape. Families are no longer struggling as they were when the estates were closed. The sugar industry is on an upward trajectory, and its growth is benefiting both the

workers and the overall economy.

In conclusion, the progress of the sugar industry under the current government is commendable. The reopening of estates, increased production, and job creation are all signs of a thriving industry. Let us continue to support and celebrate the success of the sugar industry as it moves forward.

The status of our power sector remains a matter of national concern

Dear Editor,

I respectfully refer to Mr. Patterson’s letter in the April 3 edition of the Stabroek News, which warrants a factual response.

For clarity, I will categorise my response to Mr. Patterson under the two important and pertinent headings of Transmission and Distribution, and Generation.

GENERATION

Mr. Patterson has asserted that 63MWs of new generation representing an increase of 50% of generating capacity was acquired under the Coalition Government during its 2015 – 2020 term of office. Within this 60.7MWs of major generating capacity was acquired and installed at: Canefield 5.5MWs

2018

Anna Regina 5.4MWs

2018

Bartica 3.3MWs 2019

Garden of Eden 46.5MWs

2021

In Mr Patterson’s attempt to claim these acquisitions as successes under the Coalition

Government, he cunningly chose to omit the fact the Coalition Government was not instrumental in providing financing for generation at Canefield, Anna Regina and Bartica.

These acquisitions were financed from GPL’s cash resources as a direct result of the significant reduction in World Market fuel prices from mid-2015 through to mid-2017. Readers may recall benefitting from a ten percent (10%) fuel rebate (reduction in electricity charges) that was introduced under the President Donald Ramotar’s PPP Government in March 2015.

It is important for readers to note that despite the passing of the No Confidence Motion against the Coalition Government on December 21, 2018, the Coalition Government proceeded to illegally embark on cash withdrawals from the National Treasury.

One of these illegal withdrawals was the financing of the 46.5MW generation at Garden of Eden. Readers

should further note that the PPP Government led by our Honourable President Dr. Irfaan Ali worked assiduously with the management of GPL to realise commercial operation of this Generating Plant in October 2021.

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION

Mr. Patterson continued to laud the achievements of the Coalition Government during its time in office citing kilometres of new conductors, conductor upgrades, transformer replacements, new service installations and meter replacements.

Mr. Patterson again attempted to cunningly mislead readers by omitting the fact that the projects executed by the Programme Execution Unit of GPL were financed by the US$64 million Public Utility Upgrade Programme (PUUP). The Administrative Agreement for the PUUP was signed by the then Honourable Minister of Finance

Dr. Ashni Singh and the Inter-American Development

Will Mr. Aubrey Norton be returned as PNC-R leader?

Dear Editor,

Reports in the print media suggest that there has been a power struggle in the PNC-R. Critics say that the party’s leader Mr. Aubrey Norton is still grounded in street politics and could not rise to create a national multiethnic party as well as produce an alternative development strategy for the country.

What role does policy formulation and analysis play in any political party, including the PNC-R’s internal election process is difficult to determine.

What is compelling is that leadership style, vi -

sion, and charisma are the dominant factors in voting preference. But what we do know also is that critics would not determine the leader of the PNC-R, rather it is the PNC-R delegates who have that privilege.

Mr. Roysdale Forde had signalled his leadership ambition since last year when he joined with other PNCR+AFC members to invite a 14-member US delegation of legislators on a “fact finding” mission to inquiry into allegations of racial discrimination against Afro-Guyanese. He chaperoned the delegation to a few Afro-Guyanese com-

munities in Guyana in the expectation to also stamp his authenticity on those communities.

Mr. Forde believes that his close association with that non-US government delegation would give him much political traction, especially among those segments of the population that are opposed to the PPP/C government. Additionally, he has been writing letters in the press to enhance his political credentials. His announcement of running for the PNC-R leadership is not surprising. That was predictable.

Bank on October 10, 2014.

The Programme Execution Unit was established in December 2014 and execution of activities subsequently followed and delivered rehabilitation of 630km of the distribution network, the installation of 414 transformers and 41,313 AMI capable meters with upgraded electricity service connections over the period December 2016 to October 2021.

GPL also utilised internal financial resources resulting from the significant reduction in World Market Fuel prices to augment the efforts of the PUUP.

Mr. Editor, the importance of this factual response is to highlight the unwavering

vision of the PPP/C Government under the leadership of President Donald Ramotar, which continues under the present PPP/C Government led by the Honourable Dr. Irfaan Ali.

This has been evidenced by the significant investments in major energy projects such and the 300MW Gas-to-Power Plant at Wales, the 230kV Transmission Network, the new National Control Centre, and the 28.9MW Power Plant at Columbia and the 33MW Solar PV Programme for Berbice, Essequibo and Linden. Contracts were also signed for the Berbice and Essequibo solar projects on March 26, 2024.

Furthermore, despite the

steep increases in World Market fuel price over recent years, the present PPP/C Government has provided GPL with the necessary financial assistance and ensured that electricity tariffs are not increased.

It is my fervent wish that the facts presented in my response dispel the inaccurate statements made by Mr. Patterson, who appears to be on an early campaign trail.

Yours sincerely, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips Prime Minister of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana

Is Guyana a Latin American country? Really!

WE start with an example from Harvard International Review by staff writer William Mao. His piece on Guyana’s oil industry was published in the September 27, 2023 issue. Mr. Mao referred to Guyana as a small Latin American country.

Basic research would reveal to anyone that Guyana is part of the British West Indies and though geographically in South America is known in the world of scholarship as historically, culturally and sociologically part of the Caribbean.

How did Mao come to refer to Guyana as Latin? Which source did he use to arrive at that typology? Here is what Mao did. He knew Guyana was in South America; that is all he knew about the country’s geographic location. By extension, then it was a Latin country. He did not do any research on Guyana’s history. If he did, he could not have referred to Guyana as a Latin nation.

Mao’s mistake typifies the kind of poor Western scholarship that has poured into Guyana and the Third World (TW) from colonial times to this day. Take the

HARDtalk documentary of Guyana’s oil industry. The host Stephen Sackur did not research Vanda Radzik-Veira.

Once she was selected for an interview, Sackur had to research her; this is a basic requirement in academic research.

So Sackur asked for her opinion on the oil industry. She had one that she made public since 2022. She didn’t give Sackur that opinion and Sackur didn’t know she had one. If he did, when she failed to answer his question as to what is the alternative to oil for the purpose of income-generation, he would have cited her opinion that she made public since 2022. There are many research

organisations that sit in the US and Europe and come to conclusions about Guyana and TW countries without any proper research, and politicians, journalists and academics in the TW quote these flawed reports. Leading the way in this journey of mediocrity is Varieties of Democracy Institute (V-Dem) in Sweden.

No trained scholar in the social sciences would accept the criteria V-Dem uses to assess the existence of democracy in the countries around the world. The criteria V-Dem uses are shamelessly Eurocentric. Just one example in this respect should suffice. Israel always comes out on top of most TW countries. But what are the criteria

used to rate Israel so high up above many fine democracies in the TW?

How can an occupying power that scorns international laws and has the citizens of the land it illegally occupies living in an apartheid system be classified as democratic?

But V-Dem lists Israel as democratic because of the Eurocentric models they have used since the era of European empires.

What V-Dem has done is to use standards of democracy to describe Israel based on classifications that are no longer in use. A country cannot be democratic if it is in violation of international laws. This is an antithetical situation that is inherently absurd. Democratic countries

are only democratic if they accept the laws governing civilized behaviour among states.

The United States has an electoral system that contradicts basic democratic principles. In the US, the Electoral College decides the results of an election not the collection and separation of votes cast. Mrs. Hilary Clinton won more votes than Donald Trump but lost the presidency because the Electoral College decided the results.

Federal Supreme Court judges in the US have been traditionally selected based on ideology by Republican and Democratic presidents rather than legal brilliance. Despite these graphic facts, V-Dem always put the US far above many TW countries whose standards of democracy could be classified as higher than the US.

In several European countries, freedom of speech is curtailed yet these very countries are placed far above TW democracies by V-Dem. In many European countries, one cannot write or say anything whatsoever that questions any dimension of the Holocaust. It is a criminal offence.

Yet in those very countries, scholars can write about the positives of colonial conquest and be flippant about the cruelties of slavery. In several Western countries, including Canada, it is illegal to form an association that advocates boycott of Israeli goods. In many of these countries, including the US, to shout or to print the words: “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” can get you arrested.

Despite these set-backs to free speech, many of these Western countries are rated way, way above TW democracies by V-Dem where there is no such burden placed on free speech. One of the reasons for the skewed conclusions about democracy in the TW is because organisations like V-Dem do not do competent research on the developing countries.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

Minister Todd engages envoys on UN Security Council matters

THE Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, on Wednesday, met with representatives of the ABCEU countries and France for the monthly dialogue on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) matters. According to information from the Ministry

of Foreign Affairs, the dialogue is intended to connect Georgetown with the respective capitals on United Nations Security Council related matters.

Participating in the meeting were Nicole Theriot, Ambassador of the United States of America to Guyana; Jane Miller, High Com-

missioner of the United Kingdom to Guyana; Mark Berman, High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana; Evelina Melbarzde, Deputy Head of Mission of the European Union Office in Guyana and Jean-Jaques Forté, Chargé d'affaires of France to Guyana.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, on Wednesday, met with representatives of the ABCEU countries and France for the monthly dialogue on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) matters

Kester Hutson re-elected to serve as GCCI President

OWNER of Dapper Technology Inc., Kester Hutson, was re-elected president of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI)’s Executive Management Committee (EMC), on Wednesday.

Hutson and the other members of the EMC were elected during the GCCI’s new 21-member

council’s first statutory meeting.

The new members of the council were elected during the GCCI’s 134th Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Wednesday. During this meeting, remarks were delivered by Ms. Lorena Solorzano Salazar, Guyana’s IDB Group Country Representative, and Hutson.

Other members of the GCCI’s EMC are Senior Vice-President, Kathy Smith Dover; Junior Vice President, Gavin Ramsoondar; Secretary, Melisa McRae-George and Treasurer, Brian Edwards Green, along with Timothy Tucker and Richard Rambarran as ex-officio members.

Will Mr. Aubrey Norton be...

We have also learnt that Mr. Ganesh Mahipaul wants to enter the race for the PNC-R party top spot. A colleague says that he is a smart politician and is hoping to win the Vice-Presidential position. An alternative view is that Mr. Mahipaul has joined the race to pull votes away from Mr. Norton and thus making his (Mr. Norton) run for leadership more problematic.

Whatever the maneuvers at the PNC-R Parliamentary level, it is the regional delegates who would determine the person to lead the party into the 2025 election. And here is where Mr. Norton’s strength lies. Neither Mr. Forde nor Mr. Mahipaul

would be able to muster as many votes as Mr. Norton from the regional delegates. It is the regional votes that would give Mr. Norton a distinct electoral advantage.

Mr. Norton has gone further by subtly suggesting that his two challengers (Mr. Forde and Mr. Mahipaul) might be afflicted with integrity concerns, while Mr. Norton thinks that he is beyond reproach in this regard.

The suggestion by a few PNC-R supporters that Ms. Amanza Walton-Desir and Ms. Cathy Hughes should also run for the leadership post in the name of diversity, would fall into the same category as that of Mr. Forde and Mr. Mahipaul. What role morality plays in politics is difficult to determine.

PM Phillips updated on GTT operations

Nevertheless, it is assumed that the educated and well informed would be swayed by claims of morality.

I have not done an opinion poll but have analysed anecdotal evidence, newspapers, and social media comments, as well as focused interviews, and conclude that Mr. Norton will be re-elected PNC-R party leader. If Mr. Norton could have knocked out the most powerful man Mr. Joseph Harmon in the PNC-R led coalition government, it stands to logic that he would prevail over less credentialed candidates.

Yes! Mr. Aubrey Norton is projected to return as PNC-R leader.

Sincerely,

Dr Tara Singh

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, met with executives of GTT and the visiting Chief Financial Officer of ATN International, Inc., Mr Carlos R. P. Doglioli, at the Office of the Prime Minister on Camp Street, on Wednesday.

The delegation was led by GTT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Damian Blackburn, who updated the Prime Minister on the company’s local operations.

Also present at the meeting were Director of the Telecommunication Agency, Mr Andre Griffith; Chief Operations Officer, Home and Fixed Services at GTT, Mr Eshwar Thakurdin; and the Legal Director at GTT, Mr Kadeem Davis.

From left: Treasurer, Brian Edwards Green; Senior Vice-President, Kathy Smith Dover; President, Kester Hutson; Secretary, Melisa McRae-George; and Junior Vice President, Gavin Ramsoondar

Police investigating suspected murder at Kurupukari

THE police are investigating the suspected murder of businessman, “Johnny” Ragubeer, which reportedly occurred between 21:30hrs on Monday night and 13:00hrs on Tuesday at 33 Miles, Kurupukari, Upper Demerara River.

According to information from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), investigations revealed that Ragubeer operated a shop at 33 Miles Kurupukari, where he sold groceries and alcoholic beverages.

Sukharona Roopnarine, called Cindy, a 25-year-old businesswoman, operates a “cook” shop about 400 metres south of the shop.

According to Roopnarine, around 17:30hrs on Monday, after she had closed her business, she and her two sons, ages seven and eight years old, visited Ragubeer.

On her arrival at his shop, she reportedly met him and a 25-year-old labourer drinking alcohol. She subsequently sat with them and imbibed as well.

According to the police, around 18:00hrs, the labourer left to go back to his camp, while Roopnarine and her

children left around 21:30hrs to go to her shop and Ragubeer accompanied them, after which he returned to his shop.

The man's body was, however, found lying about 50 feet from his shop around 12:30hrs by a goldminer and two friends who were travelling to Brazil and had stopped by the shop while on their way. The goldminer reported the discovery of the body to the police at Mabura.

On arrival at the scene, police saw a wound on the man's throat, a cut to his left ear and bruises to his upper back. What appeared to be “dried” blood stains were seen on the ground next to the body.

There was also a black plastic bag next to the body, which contained leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to

be cannabis. A cellphone was found in the shop, suspected to be that of the now-deceased man.

The entire scene was processed by detectives and photographed. The victim was later escorted to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead around 02:44hrs on Wednesday morning. The body was further escorted to G. Jetsco Funeral Home, where it is awaiting a post-mortem.

The police took statements and have since arrested the 25-year-old labourer to assist with the investigation. The suspected cannabis found at the scene was weighed, and it amounted to 103.6 grams. The cellphone was also lodged for analysis, as further investigations continue.

Mahaicony resident dies in accident at Cottage

SHEMROY Henry, a 27-year-old resident of Lot 2 Belmont, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, lost his life in an accident at Cottage, Mahaicony, also on the East Coast, on Tuesday night.

According to information from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Henry was driving motorcar #PAE 7812, with three other occupants in the vehicle: two females and a male.

Police enquiries disclosed that around 20:40hrs, the car was proceeding east along the northern side of the road at a fast rate of speed when Henry lost control of the vehicle and ended up on the southern side, crashing into a concrete fence and then into a GTT pole.

As a result of the collision, the driver and three occupants received injuries

Dead: 27-year-old Shemroy Henry

to their bodies. They were taken out of the vehicle by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Mahaicony Public Hospital, where the driver died while re -

ceiving medical attention. The three occupants were admitted for medical observation, as investigations continue.

Discussions on occupational safety, health should expand beyond the workplace

— Labour Minister says, encourages a national conversation on this topic, Guyanese to pursue modern training programmes in this area

OCCUPATIONAL Safety and Health (OSH) should be a national conversation which ought to be expanded from just the work environment and into homes as well, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton observed at the launch of OSH Month 2024.

The ministry’s OSH Department hosted a breakfast meeting with several OSH stakeholders for the launch at the Guyana Police Officers’ Mess Annex in Georgetown, where several persons opined that more training in this regard needs to be offered to young people in the country.

This year, OSH month is being observed under the theme, “We are running out of time: Ensuring safe and healthy work now in a changing climate.”

Minister Hamilton, in brief remarks, said OSH should be of interest to every Guyanese. He encouraged youths to pursue training opportunities in modern programmes, including that of OSH, and noted that steps need to be taken to expand study options for young peo-

ple. OSH should be a national conversation, he posited.

General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress Lincoln Lewis commended the ministry’s OSH Department on its efforts, and noted that more needs to be done to ensure workers’ safety across the board. “The Government of Guyana has the responsibility to empower the Occupational Safety and Health Department with the requisite staff and support services that they can run

across this country.”

Representing the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana, Carvil Duncan expressed that in the past, accident rates in workplaces was not as high as it is today. He said this is because there’s a new workforce consisting of young people who have received limited training in OSH.

He remarked that the tripartite committee has a role to play in ensuring that training is provided for the youth.

“Whether we accept it or not, Guyana is a young nation, and the future of Guyana lies with the youth. So we need to ensure that they are properly trained.”

Also at the meeting was Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Komal Singh who remarked that the PSC plays an integral role in workplace safety, and working with the ministry in ensuring that the safety practices that are being adhered to at workplaces meet the

international standard of a safe workplace environment.

He noted as well that training is critical in this sector. “Very often, because of the limited manpower resources that we have in this country and the rapid pace at development that is taking place, we tend to bring people quickly on board, don’t offer them the requisite training and put them on sometimes very high risk jobs to work on a daily basis without offering them the requisite training,” Singh expressed.

This, he said, not only puts that worker at risk, but other persons he works with as well. He emphasised the importance of training and said that the PSC will continue to collaborate with the Ministry of Labour and other agency to aid in bringing awareness to and improving OSH for employees.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton (Photos by Delano Williams)

General Secretary, Guyana Trades Union Congress Lincoln Lewis President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana, Carvil Duncan

Chairman of the Private Sector Commission Komal Singh

Three magistrates to be appointed Commissioners of Title

THREE women magistrates have been selected by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to be appointed as Commissioners of Title in the Land Courts of Essequibo and Berbice.

This announcement comes at a time when there are efforts being rolled out to address the backlog of pending cases within the judicial system, and to provide relief to the overburdened judiciary.

According to a press release from the Supreme Court, these women previously served as State Counsel in the Chambers of the Attorney General and the Chambers of Director of Public Prosecutions, and as magistrates in the various magisterial districts in Guyana.

The Oath of Office for appointment as Commissioner of Title will be taken before the Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips on April 5, 2024 at 14:00 hrs.

Among these legal minds is Esther Sam, who attained her secondary education at Queens College and thereafter read for a Bachelor of Laws Degree at the University of Guyana (UG). After achieving her degree, Sam pursued studies at the Hugh Wooding Law School. In 2009, she successfully obtained her Legal

Education Certificate (LEC) and was admitted to the local Bar the same year.

In October 2009, she commenced working as a State Counsel in the Chambers of the Attorney General and during her tenure, she also served in the post of Senior Legal Adviser and thereafter as Principal Legal Adviser.

On March 1, 2017, she was appointed to the magistracy and has presided mainly in the magistrates' courts at Charity, Anna Regina, Suddie, Leguan and Wakenaam.

Meanwhile, Renita Singh acquired her secondary education at North Georgetown Secondary School and the Bishops' High School, and on

— at Land Courts in Essequibo and Berbice

completion of her secondary education, she attended UG where she read for a Bachelor of Laws Degree. On completion, she pursued a LEC at the Hugh Wooding Law School.

She was later admitted to the Bar in 2011 and her legal career commenced in that same year at the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) where she was employed as a State Counsel. Whilst there, she was promoted to the position of Senior State Counsel.

In 2014, Singh was appointed to the magistracy. She served as a magistrate in Georgetown and Berbice for 10 years.

Additionally, Christel Lambert obtained a Bachelor of Laws from UG in 2009, a LEC from the Hugh Wooding Law School in 2011, a Master of Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus, in 2014 and a Master of Laws in Oil and Gas from

the University of Aberdeen, where she graduated with a distinction in 2019.

Lambert was admitted to the Bar in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago in 2011. Thereafter, she embarked on a legal career as a Judicial Research Assistant in the Judiciary of Trinidad and Tobago. On her return home in 2015, she was appointed a magistrate and served primarily at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for most of her tenure.

The JSC, with a threeyear life, is responsible for making recommendations for judicial appointments and disciplinary control over judicial officers.

It advises the President on judicial appointments, except for the Chancellor and the Chief Justice.

The judicial system faces challenges due to the shortage of judges and magistrates burdening the existing pool of judicial officers.

Around 1,000 ‘fires’ recorded in Regions Six, Five within a week

WITH the lengthening of fire seasons around the world, it is predicted that there will be more fires in the future, even in areas where they has never occurred before, according to information posted on President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s official Facebook page on Wednesday.

According to the information: “Fire seasons worldwide are getting longer; we will face more fires in the future, even in territories where they did not happen before. This is so because fires and climate change operate in a vicious cycle. As the number of fires increases, so do greenhouse gas emissions, increasing the planet's overall temperature and the occurrence of extreme weather events, such as major droughts. And at the same time, the drier and hotter our climate is, the easier flames spread.”

Drawing attention to the local situation, it was stated: “The regions with the most fires this week are East Berbice-Corentyne [Region Six] and Mahaica-Berbice

[Region Five], which both have around 1,000 fires. The regions with the fewest fires this week are Pomeroon-Supenaam [Region Two] and Cuyuni-Mazaruni [Region Seven], which both have less than 200 fires.”

The Guyana Chronicle reported on Wednesday that the Guyana Police Force and Fire Service were fighting a sizeable wildfire in the Perseverance/Providence area, as well as along the Demerara River below the Sand Hill area.

The ministry said in a press statement that the smoke from these fires is covering these areas, and the neighbouring communities and residents are strongly encouraged to put their safety and well-being first by taking preventive measures against the health hazards linked with smoke inhalation, given the effects of the wildfires.

As a result, the Ministry of Home Affairs provided the following recommendations for public safety: remain inside: to reduce exposure to smoke, people are advised to stay inside whenever possible and to keep all windows and doors closed; restrict outdoor recreation: if you must go outside, use a mask to reduce the danger of inhaling;

Make use of air filtration. Use air conditioning units to help with indoor air quality filtration; and keep yourself updated: keep up with the most recent announcements

and warnings from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Guyana Fire Service.

It was also suggested that people arrange alternate

routes: if travel is required, think about taking detours to avoid smoke-filled areas and busy roads; drive carefully. Smoke causes visibility to be reduced, so drivers should drive very carefully through affected areas.

The use of high beams or warning lights was encouraged, and they asked that drivers pay attention to passing vehicles and pedestrians, and take extra safety measures to keep vulnerable populations safe. These include youngsters, the elderly, and people who suffer from respiratory conditions. The Ministry of Home Affairs also highlighted how crucial it is to drive very cautiously.

In order to ensure safe navigation through affected regions, motorists were also urged to lower their speeds and make use of their high and low beams.

Additionally, residents were strongly urged to call 912 as soon as they noticed any grass fires or wildfires in their neighbourhoods.

Magistrate Esther Sam Magistrate Renita Singh Magistrate Christel Lambert

Business owners living with disabilities access interest-free loans

By Cindy Parkinson

ENSURING that equal opportunities are extended to all Guyanese so that they could create better lives for themselves and their families, the Government of Guyana through the Small Business Bureau (SBB), issued small, zero-interest loans to eight persons living with disabilities who are looking to expand and grow their businesses.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, told the Guyana Chronicle that it was a “no-brainer” for the government to invest in this initiative.

According to her: “This initiative is a perfect example of the One Guyana philosophy, where inclusivity and fairness are for all Guyanese regardless of race, religion, where you come from, or without fear or favour. Since our government took office in 2020, we have always considered the vulnerable in our communities, and persons with disabilities are only one segment of the population that we are working [with] to ensure that our policies cater for them.

“Our aim is to help the people, especially those who cannot help themselves or are

at a disadvantage because of a disability.”

Noting that the small loan is not a “one-off” opportunity, but rather an ongoing manifestation of the government’s policy, Minister Walrond said this is an extension of the government’s love for and dedication to the citizens of Guyana.

“The opportunities that are created by this government for individuals with disabilities are endless, for true inclusion and wealth creation in our economy. Through these opportunities, we are confident that expansions will happen with these participants that are here today, and others going forward.

“I see those persons becoming employers and owning their own medium-sized businesses through the flourishing of their business ventures. We also want them to know that they are a compelling segment of the economy, and a true engine of growth, with so much innovation amongst them. This is where we are as a country, where innovation is being promoted, incentivised, and propels us into the future, for 2025, 2030, and beyond.”

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Small Business Bureau (SBB), Shazim Ibrahim,

— more persons to benefit from this initiative, officials say

said: “We are happy to be a part of this initiative where we get an opportunity to help [persons living with disabilities] with a loan. What we found is that many of the people with disabilities want to grow their small businesses, but they do not have the collateral to get a loan from a bank, and a grant is sometimes not enough for them to get to where they want it to go.

“This was a big plus for us when we started to design this programme; we had in mind the people with disabilities because now they can access a loan that has no collateral and zero

interest.”

Being optimistic about the longevity of the initiative, Ibrahim said: “This programme is going to grow at a phenomenal rate, with more people coming on board. Currently, we have about 15 other people who are already showing interest in coming on board, but obviously we have to do our due diligence to ensure that they are doing what is necessary.” Ibrahim also said that the bureau’s intentions are to approve at least 30 more loans for persons living with disabilities by the end of 2024.

While receiving his cheque for $500,000, one of the recipients thanked the government and the Small Business Bureau for investing in persons living with disabilities, so that persons like himself could elevate themselves through their businesses.

“This is a historic event for persons with disabilities, especially those venturing off into entrepreneurship. Yes, we have had initiatives in the past, but I think that this one is significant because it gives persons with disabilities the independence to set up and get additional loans

in the future, as long as their business is sustainable.

“I believe in self-employment and self-sufficiency...for those that [sic] are here, I want to say continue to push your business [sic]. Now we have support from the government and small businesses. I also want to thank the government on behalf of myself and others for ensuring that persons with disabilities are included.

Definitely, over the past years, we have seen inclusion when it comes to the programmes and policies of the government, and I must say that it is well recognised. We are looking forward to seeing much [sic] more programmes and initiatives to benefit our community,” he said.

Each of the eight recipients who come from Regions Two, Three, Four, and 10, received a cheque for $500,000 to invest in their own businesses.

Also at the event was the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, who shared similar sentiments as Minister Walrond as to the importance of inclusion in today’s society.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, and CEO of the Small Business Bureau, Shazim Ibrahim, with six of the eight persons who received loans from SBB

GPHC successfully adopts total hip replacement technique that minimises recovery time

THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has announced the successful adoption of a groundbreaking surgical technique in its Orthopaedics Department.

On March 26, 2024, the hospital introduced the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) to the Hip in the Lateral Position for Total Hip Replacement surgery.

This innovative approach was made possible through the expertise of visiting Orthopaedic/Arthroplasty surgeon, Dr. Chao Zhou, from the esteemed Chinese Medical Brigade.

Traditionally, total hip replacement surgeries at GPHC have been performed via the anterior-lateral approach.

However, the recent introduction of the Direct Anterior Approach marks a significant milestone as it becomes the first of its kind performed in Guyana. Dr. Zhou led the surgical team, assisted by Dr Kaalesh Ramcharran and Dr Randolph Tulsie, in executing this historic procedure.

The Direct Anterior Approach offers several advantages over conventional methods, including smaller surgical incisions, preser-

vation of muscles without the need for repair, faster recovery times, and reduced postoperative pain.

While this technique is commonplace in developed countries, its implementation at GPHC required no specialised operating tables, X-ray machines, or instruments, yet achieved comparable outcomes.

In the inaugural case on March 26, a 73-year-old female patient underwent a successful Total Hip Replacement - Right Hip Joint. With meticulous planning and adherence to preoperative protocols, the surgery proceeded seamlessly, resulting in the patient's early mobilisation and discharge.

Following the success of the initial procedure, GPHC conducted a second surgery on April 2, 2024, led by Dr. Kaalesh Ramcharran, with guidance from Dr. Chao Zhou and assistance from Dr. Ranvir Gajraj.

This marks the second instance of a Total Hip Replacement using the Direct Anterior Approach in Guyana, further cementing GPHC's commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care.

In preparation for the introduction of this technique, the Chinese Medical Brigade hosted a seminar on minimally invasive surgeries in Orthopaedics on March 27, 2024.

This educational session provided valuable insights into the benefits and techniques of the Direct Anterior Approach, paving the way for its widespread adoption at GPHC and beyond.

Dr. Kaalesh Ramcharran expressed gratitude for the opportunity to implement this technique, emphasising its potential to revolutionise total hip replacement surgeries at GPHC. The Orthopaedics Department plans to extend training in the Direct Anterior Approach to other surgeons at GPHC and aims to conduct similar surgeries at regional hospitals in the future.

The successful integration of the Direct Anterior Approach for Total Hip Replacement underscores GPHC's ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care and reaffirms its position as a leader in healthcare innovation in Guyana.

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has announced the successful adoption of a groundbreaking surgical technique in its Orthopaedics Department

Lethem Hospital executes successful congenital hemangioma surgery

A 16-year-old patient has been given a fresh start in life following the removal of a large congenital hemangioma that affected her right shoulder.

A congenital hemangioma is a kind of birthmark that occurs when a tangled group of blood vessels grow in or under a baby’s skin.

The successful operation, the first of its kind, was executed by the surgical unit at the Lethem Regional Hospital in February.

The patient was admitted on February 20, with intense levels of discomfort and intermittent pain as a result of the sporadic enlargement of the mass since birth.

Before the operation, a physical examination was carried out and showed an eight by 10 centimetres non-tender hyper pigmented mass on the right shoulder of the patient.

Upon completion of the excision, the full size of the mass was achieved and measured in length +/- 25-30cm.

It was reported that the patient lost 800 milliliters of blood throughout the surgery, which was expertly replenished with a blood transfusion. The patient was discharged five days later.

The success story underscores the government’s immense effort and investment in advancing the country’s healthcare sector, especially in the hinterland and far-flung areas.

With an impressive track record of successful surgical procedures under its belt, the Lethem Regional Hospital continues to provide medical aid to Guyanese and neighbouring countries, Brazil and Venezuela.

Equipped with modern surgical facilities, including a theatre with two fully utilised beds, allowing for simultaneous surgeries and improved patient flow, the hospital can efficiently manage the remarkable rise in surgical procedures it is experiencing.

The surge has seen the surgical volume from 2022 to 2023, increasing by 200 per cent. Moreover, the hospital has a wide range of surgical services including general surgery, orthopaedic surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, and ophthalmology with expansion plans on the horizon. (DPI)

A 16-year-old patient has been given a fresh start in life following the removal of a large congenital hemangioma that affected her right shoulder

Guyana

Together launches new video to commemorate Transgender Day of Visibility

The following is the full text of a press release from Guyana Together:

“‘Tarique is my rock,’ a tearful but smiling Kaisha Davis recounts in a minute-long testimonial for her younger brother.

Tarique is a transgender man, meaning Tarique was assigned female at birth but now lives his life everyday as the man he knows himself to be.

Family provides the basis of love and support for most Guyanese, and for Kaisha, love and acceptance is not just about reciprocity. It is about a caring sibling who has been consistent with their thoughts and actions towards Kaisha, as well as his other siblings.

In this third campaign video, Kaisha tells her story of unconditional love for her brother, her ‘confidante’.

Kaisha tells a story of bonding between Tarique and her teen daughter whom Tarique has taken the responsibility to help with her Mathematics studies. This, another act of love that strengthened Kaisha’s bond with her brother Tarique.

The video was timed to mark the international Transgender Day of Visibility, on March 31. It is a day to celebrate the lives and contributions of transgender people, while also raising awareness of the discrimination faced by trans people worldwide.

This third video will be aired both on local television stations and across a wide range of social media platforms. It complements two other videos launched in September and October 2023.

The first video features a young lesbian, Krystal Trim, and ally Eusebia Liverpool, who has been a mother figure in Trim’s life since her biological mother passed away when she was a teenager.

The second video features Guyanese Model and Pageant Queen, Kristal Inshan and her gay friend, fashion designer Avinash Narine and captures support through friendship. All the videos capture real stories of immeasurable love and support from family and friends for gay and trans Guyanese.

Both videos have seen positive support publicly. All videos can be accessed online via the Guyana Together at guyanatogether.gy and the campaign’s social media pages on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube with the handle @GuyanaTogether. The website also provides more information on the campaign and how supporters can become involved.”

Kaisha Davis Tarique

Laing Avenue crowned Guinness champions

IN what can be considered the greatest underdog story in the history of the event, Laing Avenue was crowned the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Champion, defeating former winner North Ruimveldt on sudden death penalty kicks on Sunday evening at the National Park tarmac, Thomas Lands.

Entering the tournament as a reserve team, Laing Avenue, who lost their opening game of the event, went on a five-game winning streak that culminated with the 2-1 sudden death penalty shoot-out championship victory over North Ruimveldt to seal the title after regulation time ended scoreless.

One of their notable victories was also a semi-final win over two-time defending champion Gold is Money, further highlighting their status as ‘giant killers’.

With the result, Laing Avenue walked away with $800,000 and the championship trophy. They also earned an automatic berth to the national championship in August. On the other hand, North Ruimveldt walked away with $400,000 and the second-place trophy.

On the individual side, Bevney

Mark of Laing Avenue was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the event and will receive a pair of football turfs from Colours Boutique.

Meanwhile, Gold is Money defeated North East La Penitence 2-1 on penalty kicks after full time ended 2-2 in the third-place playoff. With the result, Gold is Money pocketed $200,000 and a trophy, while North East received $100,000 and the fourth-place award.

COMPLETE RESULTS

Final

Laing Avenue-0 vs. North Ruimveldt-0

Laing Avenue won 2-1 on sudden death penalty kicks.

3rd Place

North East La Penitence-2 vs. Gold is Money-2

Gold is Money won 2-1 on penalty kicks

Semi-final round

Game-1

Gold is Money-0 vs. Laing Avenue-1

Game-2

North East La Penitence-0 vs. North Ruimveldt-1

Underdogs! Laing Avenue captain Terrence Nero receives the championship trophy from Guinness Brand Manager Jeoff Clement after winning the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Edition

Barbados win West Indies U-15 championships

CMC – Barbados were crowned West Indies Under-15 champions on Wednesday after a solid all-round show from Jahidi Hinds enabled them to overcome a destructive spell from Windward Islands captain Earsinho Fontaine and gallop to a 192-run win.

Hinds gathered the top score of 84 from 105 balls that included five fours and three sixes, and he was one of three batsmen that got half-centuries for the Barbadians in their total of 297 all out in 49.2 overs after they chose to bat in their fifth and final round match at Bethesda.

Fellow opener and Barbados captain Damarko Wiggins supported with 62 off 69 balls that included five fours and three sixes, and fellow left-hander Justin Parris made 58 from 61 balls before Fontaine carved up the bottom half of their side’s batting to end with five for 18 from 4.2 overs.

In reply, Jorden Charles got 32 and was the only Windwards batsman that reached 20 before they were dismissed for 105 in 26.2 overs.

Javed Worrell was the most successful Barbadian bowler taking three for 17 from five overs, while Kelani Clarke and Hinds took two wickets apiece to help complete the demolition.

It was the fourth win in a row for the Barbadians after their opening match against Guyana was washed out without a ball bowled.

“After last year’s performance, I think a lot of hard work and a lot of planning went into our preparations,” Barbados coach Roddy Estwick said.

“We had a lot more time to prepare, and the boys were very coachable, and once young players are coachable, prepared to listen, and work hard, they will have a chance to be successful, and I am happy for them.

“The overall performance was quite pleasing. I thought it was a team performance, but the most pleasing thing for me is that I made some tactical tweaks, and the boys bought in to it.”

The tweak that made that paid the most dividends was convincing Wiggins, the tournament’s leading scorer with 291 runs at an average of 72.75, to open the batting.

Estwick said the lefthander had batted in the middle order in two previous tournaments with little impact, but he felt he could offer more to the team at the top of the order.

“I felt this year, having looked at him opening, and it really paid off and he bought in to the idea as well,” he said. “When you plan something like that and it comes off, it works, it’s very pleasing.”

Elsewhere, a tidy allround performance from Parmeshwar Ram helped to spur Guyana to a 147run win against hosts Leeward Islands at Lib-

erta – and second place.

Ram, opening the bat, led the way with 60 off 83 balls that included five fours and was one of two batsmen that got half-centuries in the Guyana total of 258 for eight after they were put in to bat.

Emmanuel Lewis made 60 off 55 balls that included five fours and three sixes, and Adrian Hetmyer, nephew of West Indies left-handed batsman Shimron Hetmyer, scored 48.

Ram returned to open the bowling and was one of four Guyanese bowlers that grabbed two wickets before the Leewards were bowled out for 111 in 35.4 overs.

A miserly, yet penetrative spell from left-arm pacer Aarion Mohammed set up Trinidad & Tobago, last year’s champions, for an eight-wicket win against Jamaica at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Mohammed grabbed four for 17 from his allotted 10 overs, and the Jamaicans were bowled out for 101 in 38.1 overs after they decided to bat.

Demario Hall led the way for Jamaica with a resolute, even 50 off 104 balls before pacer Aiden Owen collected his scalp and ended with three for 14 from 8.1 overs, while T&T captain Zane Maraj added two wickets with his off-spin.

Maraj followed up with a top score of 32 not out, and Zakariyya Mohammed was not out on 29, and T&T reached their target in 19 overs flat.

Sports Minister assures athletes of GOG support

By Sean Devers

TEAM Guyana returned home on Tuesday afternoon on the back of their best-ever performance in the history of the CARIFTA games, an event which was inaugurated in 1972.

Guyana won four Gold, two Silver and two bronze medals to end in the fourth position of the 51st edition of the games which was held at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium in Grenada.

On the team’s arrival at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Team Guyana, along with Guyana’s Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle were greeted by the pulsating rhythms of Tassa drumming as their relatives welcomed the young heroes with bouquets.

The ‘welcome home’ celebrations included a spicy dance from the Riverside Angel Dancers, speeches by NSC’s Franklin Wilson, President of the AAG Amanda Hermanstine, Ninvalle and the honourable Charles Ramson Jr. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Guyana’s showing in the games, which were held over the Easter Weekend, surpassed their 2023 performance when they

also finished with eight medals but only managed three ‘Gold’ to finish fifth.

This year’s Carifta games was again dominated by the Jamaicans (84 medals) while the Bahamas and Trinidad & Tobago were the other teams which finished ahead of Guyana.

Sixteen-year-old Tianna Springer from the East Coast village of Plaisance was a dominant factor in Guyana’s memorable achievements in Grenada.

The Police Athletics Club sprinter who moved from the North Georgetown Secondary school to Chase Academy via a scholarship, won Gold in the 400 Meters girls U-20 in a personal best time of 52.31 seconds.

The talented Springer, who won Gold in the same event at the U-17 level in the Bahamas last year, returned for her second Gold in 4x400 mixed relay.

The 3:23.51 seconds run by Malachi Austin, Narrisa McPherson, DH Nelson Gill and Springer set a new Carifta record. Guyana also holds the record in this event at the Commonwealth Youth Games.

Austin who runs for the Running Brave Athletics Club took Gold in the U-20 Boys 400 meters

in 46.35 seconds to join Springer as Guyana made a clean sweep in U-20 400 meters.

Athaleyha Hinckson won Gold in the U17 Girls 100 meters while Kaidon Persaud and Hinckson won Guyana’s two silver medals.

Guyana’s two bronze medals were won by Attoya Harvey and Boys 4x400 relay team.

Wilson welcomed the team home and started the ceremony by inviting everyone to recite the Na-

Guyanese Colin Abel selected for Concacaf Futsal Championship

GUYANESE referee Colin

Abel has been selected as a match official for the prestigious Concacaf Futsal Championship slated for April 13-20 in Managua, Nicaragua.

Abel, who earned his spot on the FIFA Referee list for Futsal for the second time this year, said he was honoured to officiate at the competition, which serves as the Confederation’s qualifying event for the FIFA Futsal World Cup in September in Uzbekistan.

“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive

such an appointment. I am excited to represent myself and my country at such a prestigious event and I look forward to gaining as much knowledge and experience and also interacting with my fellow colleagues from Concacaf”.

Abel and other referees will be overseeing matches within Group A, featuring Costa Rica, Mexico, Suriname, and Haiti. Group B will see action from Panama, Cuba, Canada, and Nicaragua, while Group C will include Guatemala, the United States, Trinidad and

Tobago, and the Dominican Republic.

After the round-robin stage, the teams topping their groups, along with the runners-up and the two highest-ranked third-placed teams, will progress to the knockout phase. Qualification for the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024 will be reserved for the top four finishers.

Costa Rica enters the tournament as the champions, having secured their fourth Concacaf Futsal Championship title in Guatemala back in 2021.

also said that next year’s games are set for Trinidad but since Barbados who were to host the games in 2026 has withdrawn its bid, Guyana is interested in hosting the 53rd games.

“We (AAG) are interested in hosting in 2026 but we have 90 days to confirm that we have written support of the Government and sponsors to make that a reality. Guyana has never hosted this event,” Hermanstine disclosed.

Minister Ramson assured the AAG that they have a partner in the Government of Guyana and made a commitment that all of the medallists from this event will be paid a monthly stipend under the Elite Sports programme.

tional Pledge while the AAG head said she was very proud of Guyana’s achievements in Grenada.

“I thank everyone, especially the sports ministry for allowing us to send our largest number of athletes (23) to this year’s Carifta games. This was our best performance at these games, winning four gold medals,” stated Ms Hermanstine, who took over from past Aubrey Hutson after the Carifta 2023 debacle.

The AAG President

“A lot has changed since the 1970s and are now beating the highly respected Jamaicans in the sprint events. We have arranged for Olympic medallists to come here in August and Scholarships for the athletes along with their coaches will be given to those who qualify,” the minister told the huge gathering, evoking rapturous applause.

Minister Ramson Jr. also spoke about the impact these performances have on the nation and which has justified the ministry’s work with

sports development since 2022.

The Sports minister also urged those who won medals to use this platform for higher things while speaking about the importance of the recent change in leadership in AAG to their success.

Team Guyana almost missed the 2023 Carifta games due to issues with their charter flight from Cuba as well as accommodation and food resulting in the Government having to intervene to resolve the situation.

The Sports minister had said back then that it is important when athletes leave the county to represent Guyana and Guyanese that they be given the best possible leadership and management to excel.

He had given the government’s assurance that whatever happened leading up to that point will never happen again.

“This will never happen again!” exclaimed Minister Ramson yesterday.

“That is why we sent the Director of Sport to ensure that everything is as should be.

You don’t know what your outstanding showing means to us,” Minister Ramson told the athletes.

Minister of Culture Youth and Sports Charles Ramson

Guyanese referee Colin Abel (right) and GFF President Wayne Forde

Pele Alumni commences two-day Youth Development Seminar

THE Pele Alumni Foundation hosted a two-day annual Youth Development Seminar which opened on Tuesday.

The seminar, aimed at young people aged 11-17, opened at the Marian Academy Auditorium, Carifesta Avenue.

This is the annual Alumni’s programme for youths during the Easter break which concluded yesterday (Wednesday) saw over 150 youths participating.

The programme, which began in 2012 runs youth through career guidance and development, while providing scholarships for young students.

Alumni Chairman Denis

Carrington, said that the goal is to help fill education gaps in communities.

“We formed a charity to fill that gap, if it is one person we can help, we get donations in the [USA] States to support exclusively, education purposes in Guyana. The purpose is to help subsidise some of the scholarships of some of the high school recipients.”

Carrington says the impact of the foundation is being realised one child at a time.

“We had initially six students in high school that we supported, [through] lessons, books, transportation. Once they finished high school, we now have seven students enrolled at [the] University

of Guyana in which we are paying all their fees. [We are] working along with Mark Kirton.”

Carrington said while the Pele Alumni has a footballing background, their focus goes beyond just sports.

“Not because we have graduated from university we have forgotten where we came from, so since 2012 we have made the trip to support the endeavours,” He added.

President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) and businesswomen Dee George was the feature presenter on the opening day and demonstrated the importance of time, among other things, to those present.

The seminar was designed to help the youths learn Acceptable Social Behaviour/ Proper Decision Making, Self-Awareness, Conflict Resolution, Computer Literacy & Cyber Security and Suicide and Mental Health, among other topics. There were also other incentives for some participants with students collecting laptops for their presentation skills.

The youngsters benefitted from a field trip to the CARICOM Headquarters as the wrap-up for the session yesterday.

Darthan Racing Trio Gears Up for GMRSC Circuit Championship Opening Round

AS the countdown to the opening round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMRSC) Circuit Championship intensifies, all eyes are on Darthan Racing’s formidable trio: Paul Jiwanram, Azaad Hassan, and Troy Muir.

With their sights set on victory, these seasoned drivers are poised to kick off their season campaign with a bang at South Dakota on April 21.

Paul Jiwanram, reigning Street Tuner Champion, is new to the winners’ circle after years of hard work. Known for his consistent driving and never-say-die

attitude, Jiwanram is determined to defend his title and secure another championship victory.

“I’m ready to hit the track and show why Darthan Racing is a force to be reckoned with,” Jiwanram remarked.

Azaad Hassan, reigning Sports Tuner Champion, brings his trademark speed and agility to the circuit. With impressive victories, Hassan is eager to continue his winning streak and make his mark on the competition.

“I’m hungry for success, and I’m prepared to give it my all on race day,” Hassan

affirmed.

The 2022 Street Tuner Champion, Troy Muir completes the Darthan Racing lineup. Known for his fearless approach and cool runnings, Muir is ready to take on the competition and stake his claim as one of the top drivers in the championship. “I’ve been training hard and fine-tuning my skills for this moment. It’s time to leave it all on the track,” Muir declared.

Behind the scenes, Arshaad Hassan serves as the chief mechanic, driving the team’s success with his expertise and dedication. With

his keen eye for detail and passion for motorsport, Hassan ensures that Darthan Racing’s vehicles are finely tuned and ready to perform at their peak. “I’m proud to be part of this incredible team and excited to see what we can achieve together this season,” Hassan stated.

With the GMRSC Circuit Championship season beginning, anticipation is building for all competitors.

Darthan Racing’s trio of Jiwanram, Hassan, and Muir are ready to showcase their talent and passion for racing as they vie for victory at South Dakota.

Presenter Dee George

KFC

Elite League season six

… Police arrest Santos FC; Den Amstel glide by Monedderlust

THE Guyana Police Force FC put up a roadblock and completed a successful arrest when they faced off against Santos FC in the KFC Elite League on Tuesday at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC).

The once-prolific Nicholas MacArthur seemingly returned to his old self as he nailed one to the back of the net in the 17th minute to give Police FC their first goal of the encounter.

Neron Barrow doubled that advantage in the 35th minute as the Police FC side bullied their compatriots in true police fashion.

However, the second half didn’t live up to expectations as it failed to produce much in the way of goals, despite some good attempts from both sides.

The GPF failed to add more to their tally, rounding out the 2-nil victory.

Meanwhile, Den Amstel FC cruised to a 3-nil victory over Monedderlust in the opening clash of the night.

Andrae Hector recorded the lone first-half goal as the Berbice side Monedderlust showed fight.

Late second-half goals from Anthony Benn in the 68th and 78th minutes sealed the contest as they kept Monedderlust winless in the season six league campaign.

The league is set to continue on Thursday with another double header; Buxton United FC will meet Fruta Conquerors and Slingerz are set to do battle with Ann’s Grove United.

The top 10 clubs are competing in the 90-game league for the first-place cash prize of G$2,000,000 and cash rewards of G$1,200,000, G$800,000, and G$500,000 for the second, third, and fourth positions.

Some of the participants

see story on page 22

seestoryonpage23

Police’s Jamar Harrigan with the ball aganist Santos Ravi Coates

Paul

Guyana’s CARIFTA Team returned home on Tuesday to a gala celebration and the smiles of family, friends and well-wishers (Delano Williams Photo)