Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 11-04-2024

‘We have the ability to do what is good’

–– President Ali says, urges reflection, unity in Eid-ul-Fitr address

Guyana advances plans to secure offshore patrol vessel for €39.5M

‘Mud-slinging’ competition intensifies over PNC-R leadership

–– party’s chairman defends Norton afterAlly ‘hammers’incumbent leader; says ‘gloves are off’

‘Unpatriotic and anti-national’

–– Nandlall warns against ‘fabricated narratives’ undermining Guyana’s sovereignty; calls out Kaieteur News

PAC draws attention to 1,000 cheques cut in Region Eight under APNU+AFC –– at the end of 2019

Gov’tministriestoestablishspecialunitstoevaluatecontractors’works

Guyana advances plans to secure offshore patrol vessel for €39.5M

–– as GDF signs

AS the government continues to boost its national defence and security capabilities, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Wednesday, oversaw the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) between the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and OCEA S.A. for the procurement of an offshore patrol vessel at a cost of €39.5 million.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Finance, the significant signing was also witnessed by Ambassador of France to Suriname and Guyana, Nico-

Letter of Intent with France’s OCEA S.A.

las de Bouillane de Lacoste; Chief of Defence Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Omar Khan and other officials of the Ministry of Finance and the GDF.

Signing on behalf of the GDF was Captain (Coast Guard) Vernon Burnett, Colonel Administration and Quartering of the GDF, and Director of the Americas for OCEA S.A., Mr. Yorgo Hernandez. The signing took place at the Ministry of Finance.

During the simple ceremony, Dr. Singh re-emphasised that the government’s decision-making is being spearheaded by the vision

of President Irfaan Ali, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who from the first days of his presidency said his government will do all within its power to ensure that the armed forces are adequately equipped to discharge their extremely important functions, including that of safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.

Minister Singh also pointed out that this vessel represents the latest instalment in the realisation of President Ali’s vision and commitment to ensure that the GDF is well equipped

See page 4

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Wednesday, oversaw the signing of a Letter of Intent between the GDF and OCEA S.A. for the procurement of an offshore patrol vessel at a cost of €39.5 million

‘We have the ability to do what is good’

— President Ali says, urges reflection, unity in Eid-ul-Fitr address

JOINING scores of Muslims on Wednesday morning for Eidul-Fitr prayers, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali urged those gathered to reflect on the teachings of Islam to continue the spread of love and unity.

“During Ramadan, we would have learned the importance of Taqwa, we would have learned the importance of God conscience. As we exit Ramadan, it is important for us, at this point, to reflect on the lessons of Ramadan, to reflect our sacrifices. And one of the important things about Ramadan is that it taught us that we have the ability to do what is good,” the Head of State said during his address on the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO) lawns on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

Eid-ul-Fitr is the "festival of breaking the fast". It takes place the day after the new Moon is seen at the end of the

month of Ramadan, and marks the start of Shawwal.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts

for 29 to 30 days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.

Along with Eid al-Adha, it is one of the two main festivals in Islam.

Referencing the principles of Islam, the Head of State further emphasised the importance of shared responsibility,

reflection and unity to make positive changes in society.

“These are the principles of Islam; Islam is a way of life. It is a demonstration of how life can be simpler, how life can be less complex, how life can be more unified, how life

can add to the value of being here on earth,” he said, adding: “There are challenges in our society, there are challenges in different areas of governance, but those challenges are not there for us to mope about, but for us to confront and overcome so that we can

build a stronger society; a society in which we can deliver better to the people of this country.”

Many Muslims attend prayers at their mosque on the morning of Eid-ul-Fitr. This year, Guyana, for the first time, had a National Ramadan Village.

The massive event was organised by the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT), the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana, and the Government of Guyana.

The month long village garnered massive crowds from the Muslim and non-Muslim communities.

Last week, at the Ramadan Village, over $72.5 million was raised through donations from persons across the country to support the People of Palestine, during the Qiyaam Lailatul Qadr– A night of Prayer for Global Peace.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali Many Muslims gathered at CIOG and at Masjids across the country for prayers on the morning of Eid-ul-Fitr (Office of the President photos)

Guyana advances plans to secure...

and capable of discharging its very important functions.

“The instructions that he has issued in pursuit of that vision has seen a previously unprecedented ramping up of, and equipping of the GDF, not only as is manifested by this acquisition but several other acquisitions and investments that were made in all of the GDF’s capabilities,” he added, as he reminded about the most recent agreement which saw the acquisition of two aircraft for the GDF.

Minister Singh further referenced the deepening and strengthening of Guyana’s relationship with France, evidenced most recently by the visit of Minister Stéphane Séjourné, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and by the announcement by France of the intention to establish an embassy in Guyana in 2025.

French Ambassador to Guyana and Suriname, Bouillane, while expressing his satisfaction at the development between the two countries in terms of the signing, reminded that the

Guyana and French Governments have been in strategic dialogue to move apace with the setting up of a French Embassy here in the country. This, he said, will be one of two new embassies through which France will be extending its presence and cooperation with other countries in the world.

Bouillane said that France is hopeful that the signing is just one of many of the agreements that will follow. “United, we are stronger

on the different challenges,” Ambassador Bouillane related, adding that today France is the second largest importer for all military goods and is a reliable partner.

Brigadier Khan said the goal of equipping the Guyana Defence Force has always been a national endeavour.

“It is pertinent, and it is necessary, and it is in our best interest as a sovereign nation to do so.

While our collective

actions during this journey have converged in this ceremony today, I single out and recognise the commitment of the Government of Guyana and the vision of our Commander-in-Chief to ensure that the GDF is equipped with the relevant assets for air, land and sea to protect our territory, and to also create an environment conducive to national development,” Brigadier Khan added.

Hernandez expressed

tenance shipyard in Guyana.

“Such an investment would not only benefit your nation but also contribute to regional maritime development,” Hernandez added, as he expressed appreciation to President Ali for his visionary leadership in the development and protection of Guyana and his steadfast commitment to the nation’s prosperity.

gratitude to the Government of Guyana and the GDF for their decision in relation to the acquisition of the vessel, noting that it demonstrates their commitment to maritime security and safeguarding of the nation’s interest, noting that the vessel will assist in combatting illegal fishing and trafficking activities and in protecting Guyana’s sovereignty.

He also expressed the company’s interest in assisting the country with a main-

OCEA S.A. specialises in the design, building and sales of aluminium fast patrol boats and offshore patrol vessels, designed for coastal and offshore surveillance and search and rescue operations and associated integrated logistic support services.

The purpose of the LOI is to define the scope, price and payment schedule agreed among the parties, to conclude a contract according to the LOI schedule for the procurement of the model 190 Offshore Patrol Vessel.

The price of the vessel includes the cost of the vessel and its equipment, and the integrated logistics support services inclusive of training for a five-year period.

The model 190 Offshore Patrol Vessel

High Court sets April 19 for ruling in GTU case

COME April 19, 2024, Justice Sandil Kissoon is set to hand down his ruling in the Guyana Teachers’ Union’s (GTU) challenge to the government’s planned deductions from teachers’ pay for their recent participation in strike action.

On Wednesday, GTU lawyer, Darren Wade; Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) counsel, Roysdale Forde, S.C., and Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., wrapped up their arguments before the Demerara High Court.

The GTU is challenging, in the High Court, the planned deductions from teachers’ pay for their participation in the fiveweek industrial action.

The government’s decision to no longer deduct dues from teachers’ wages and salaries and remit them to the union is also being contested as discriminatory.

Wade and Forde argued vehemently against the government’s actions, and contended that the government’s failure to engage in collective bargaining for over three years, despite receiving proposals since 2020, justified the teachers’ industrial action.

Forde contended that the principle of “no work, no pay” was inapplicable in this context, citing the government’s unilateral actions and lack of negotiation.

In response, Nandlall defended the government’s stance, explaining that there is no relief in the applicant’s challenge which relates to the “no work, no pay” principle or even any order that seeks to permit or authorise the court to make such in relation to salaries during the strike period.

“In fact, your honour, the only relief that is really properly pleaded is the one relating to the union dues…nothing about collective bargaining,” Nandlall said to Justice Kissoon.

The Attorney-General further asserted that while

teachers have the freedom to strike, they do not possess a constitutional right to strike.

Nandlall reasoned that the government, as an employer, is legally able to deduct money out of employees’ salaries in situations where labour is not provided.

“There is no right to strike in Guyana, there is a freedom to strike.

The Constitution has a right to demonstrate, a right to assemble and a freedom to strike… so the draftsman using language differently. Then you have the right of the employer. The Constitution also protects the employer’s right to property, so how could you advocate that you have a right to pay when you have not worked,” the Attorney-General added.

Against this backdrop, he added that Wade and Forde are peddling “misin-

formation” and is inviting the court to run counter to the constitution and the laws.

“It is a complete misunderstanding of all existing laws that perhaps can be looked at and perhaps should be reviewed,” the Attorney-General said.

He also defended the government’s decision to cease deducting union dues, stating that it was an executive decision and not subject to judicial review.

Approximately $2 billion collected from teachers by the GTU is unaccounted for, given the fact that the books of the union have not been audited by the Auditor General’s office over the last 35 years.

The Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority has revealed that the GTU last filed its financial returns 20 years ago.

Nandlall said: “The

government is not preventing them from receiving their dues. We simply are withdrawing a voluntary service. So there ought not to be any loss of income… there is no legal obligation on the government, perhaps morally, yes, but legally [no].”

As it relates to the discrimination claim, Nandlall said that Wade and Forde failed to prove this, noting: “Where is the evidence that the government is extending this facility to another?”

Justice Kissoon is expected to hand down his ruling on April 19, 2024, at 09:30 hrs.

GTU president, Mark

During the trial, the credibility of the GTU faced intense scrutiny as more doubts emerged regarding the existence of crucial minutes of meetings purportedly held between the union and the Ministry of Education (MoE).

It was revealed that the ministry stands as the sole possessor of documentation pertaining to these meetings.

On March 4, following a court-appointed mediation, the GTU called

off the illegal protest and agreed for the striking teachers to return to their classrooms.

However, on March 12, talks between the GTU and the MoE broke down again, after the ministry upheld the government’s position that discussions surrounding salary increases should be from 2024 onwards.

The GTU had asked for a 20 per cent increase and indicated that they are interested in discussing only salaries, particularly between the period 2019 and 2023, and nothing else.

The union maintained its determination to discuss only salary matters concerning the prior years and refused to address the other 25 matters, which were identified for discussion by both the Ministry of Education and the union.

This resulted in the representatives of the union abandoning the process and walking out of the meeting.

Last month, the GTU withdrew its application seeking to force the MoE into discussions regarding teachers’ salary increases for the period 2019 to 2023.

Lyte and Chief Education Officer (CEO), Saddam Hussain were previously cross-examined in the case.

From left: Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C.; Justice Sandil Kissoon and GTU attorney, Darren Wade

Attorney Roysdale Forde, S.C.

Dangers of Fabricated Narratives

ATTORNEY-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., has brought to light a concerning issue plaguing Guyana's sovereignty— the propagation of fabricated narratives regarding the border controversy with Venezuela by certain media outlets.

Nandlall's recent remarks during his programme "Issues in the News" shed light on the detrimental impact of these narratives, which are being exploited by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to undermine Guyana's territorial integrity.

Recent developments in Venezuela, where lawmakers aligned with Maduro have approved the creation of a new state in Guyana's Essequibo region, further exacerbate tensions.

Despite ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Venezuela persists in asserting its claims to Guyana's territory, citing a controversial 2023 referendum as justification.

Nandlall rightly emphasised the importance of countering these distorted narratives, particularly those falsely implicating Guyana's government and its rela -

tionship with oil companies like ExxonMobil. It's unpatriotic and anti-national to perpetuate the notion that the government is colluding with foreign interests at the expense of Guyana's sovereignty.

Maduro's manipulation of these narratives to bolster his own agenda is evident, as seen in his presentation of articles from Kaieteur News during meetings as supposed evidence of Guyana's collusion with oil companies and the United States.

This tactic was highlighted during a meeting between Presidents Irfaan Ali and Maduro in Decem-

ber 2023, where Maduro leveraged public statements critical of ExxonMobil's operations in Guyana to support his claims.

The danger of these narratives lies not only in their fabrication but in their exploitation by external forces seeking to encroach upon Guyana's sovereignty. Nandlall rightly warns against spreading baseless contentions and allegations in the press, as they provide ammunition for those seeking to undermine Guyana's interests.

The misrepresentations about Guyana’s oil and gas industry, particularly those reported by Kaieteur News, further muddy the waters. The misconception that the government is in bed with oil companies is not only false but a deliberate attempt to silence local authori -

ties and manipulate public opinion.

It's imperative to differentiate between freedom of the press and the abuse of that freedom. Criticism is essential for a healthy democracy, but when it crosses the line into misinformation and propaganda, it becomes a threat to national interests. The government's efforts to clarify misinformation should not be misconstrued as collusion but as a defence of Guyana's sovereignty and the truth.

The genesis of the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela traces back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a decision that delineated the boundary between the two countries. Despite historic arbitration, tensions have persisted, with Venezuela challenging the validity of the award.

Guyana's decision to approach the ICJ in 2018 seeking affirmation of the award's legitimacy was a crucial step towards resolving the issue through legal means. The ICJ's rejection of Venezuela's claim of jurisdiction in December 2020 opened the door for a substantive examination of the case, providing hope for a resolution based on international law and justice.

It is imperative for Guyana to remain vigilant against fabricated narratives and external manipulation that seek to undermine its sovereignty. The government's efforts to counter misinformation and defend national interests should be supported, as they are essential for safeguarding Guyana's future.

Guyana’s ‘agri’ sector remains on top despite challenges

Dear editor,

No one could stop someone from penning an article to the media but those who are writing must present the facts to the public. They must bring the truth. It seems, however, that some are hell-bent on lies and misinformation, which fully support the rhetoric of the opposition, APNU-AFC.

I always say that before one can look at the present development in any sector, they must look at the past, and I will once again go back to the bitter and bleak years for agriculture under the present opposition when they were in government from the years 2015-2020.

Before the APNU-AFC took office in 2015, they had known it all as to how to develop Guyana. But let me talk about agriculture because it

was the votes from the areas within the agriculture sector that gave the AFC the upper hand to ensure that the PNC got into government (APNU is basically the PNC).

Since the coalition took office in 2015, we saw the rapid decline in all the agriculture sub-sectors. We saw they increased taxes on agricultural products and machineries, land and D&I charges for rice farmers, and little or nothing was done to better cash crop, nothing to better the fishing sector; cattle farmers were struggling to gain access to lands, livestock farmers were left alone (except for the PNC piggeries within the PNC areas). Further, there was hardly any work to better the drainage and irrigation system in Guyana, nothing to better agriculture in the hinterland; sugar was going to be put to

rest, etc….

Community outreaches within the various sectors in the Agriculture Ministry were at a standstill. Former Minister Holder was never seen on the ground except when raising the rates and taxes on farmers.

Moreover, during those five plus years in office (don’t forget the attempted rigging months in office), the entire CARICOM was looking down on Guyana when it comes to agriculture because nothing was done, and we were considered as the food basket of the Caribbean but yet not trying to secure food for our nation.

I am going to say as I have been mentioning in several articles before, the entire PNC government’s aim and objective was to cripple the agriculture sector of this country because they

had no vision and was hard of hearing as to how to better agriculture.

When the PPP/C took office in the late 2020, I was looking on for a few weeks as to what they are going to do differently in bettering agriculture for Guyanese. I was thinking if the appointed minister would be the same as the former minister in this ministry. I was thinking if the appointed minister is on a thank you walk about within the regions in meeting the PPP/C supporters just after the elections.

And boom, there goes a shockwave in the entire agriculture sector. I attended several community meetings where the minister and his teams visited across Regions Five and Six, and not a lengthy thank you was given to the supporters but the minister was down to work.

He was finding out from those in the agriculture sector what was affecting them and how he and his ministry can work to better their situation. Not only was the minister there but almost all of his technical staff and sub agencies head (which Holder never did).

I applaud the minister and the government from then for their work especially in the agriculture sector.

Months after taking office, the President Ali government brought back the much needed pride and praise for Guyana as he took charge of agriculture in CARICOM, and has taken the lead in ensuring that agriculture stays on top of the CARICOM agenda and Guyana becomes food secure, not only for the benefit of locals but the entire CARICOM and afar.

Locally, we saw cash

crops being taken to a different level and many farmers are more involved. This is a sector that we all depend on daily to survive and with the present input by this government through the Ministry of Agriculture, we are seeing what we could not have in the days of the PNC and that is food security for our nation.

The leadership of the Agriculture Ministry by the Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha M.P. is far more open and bolder by his approach to better the sectors within his ministry, with more than 99.5 per cent of work than what was done by the former AFC minister at this stage in office.

Guyana is faced presently with prolonged dry weather and we all know that everything depends on water for growth and yet farmers are not backing down but invest-

Guyana’s unbreakable commitment

Dear Editor,

In the heart of rising tensions surrounding the Essequibo region, Guyana stands unwavering, guided by the deep-seated values of sovereignty, justice, and an unbreakable commitment to international law.

As the allure of oil heightens the stakes, Guyana's approach rises above a mere territorial spat. It becomes a testament to a nation's dedication to peace and a lawful resolution, articulated through dialogue and respect for global conventions.

Under the knowledgeable leadership of President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, buoyed by the spirit of its people, Guyana does not merely defend its land; it champions the dignity of all nations, advocating for a world where conflicts are resolved not by force, but through the power of conversation and adherence to international norms.

At this pivotal moment, as economic interests threaten to overshadow the principles of fairness and ethics, Guyana stands firm.

Through proactive engagement in international forums, it shines a light on a path marked by integrity and respect for the rule of law, setting a powerful example for nations around the world. This is a call for international solidarity, underscoring the critical role of unity in maintaining global peace and stability.

The solidarity of President Ali, Vice President Jagdeo, and the Guyanese people in face of claims by Venezuela is a profound display of a nation rooted in dialogue, legality, and peaceful resolutions.

This collective posture, far from being a mere reaction to aggression, symbolises the enduring principles that have shaped Guyana into a lighthouse of tranquility in our stormy world. It's a stance that speaks volumes, challenging the might-makes-right narrative with a dignified assertion of rights and a deep belief in the sanctity of legal processes.

By seeking resolution through the International Court of Justice and elevating its cause to the United Nations Security Council, Guyana demonstrates its unwavering faith in a world governed by justice, fairness, and respect for sovereignty.

This course of action, championed by its leaders, mirrors a nation's integrity, choosing the rule of law over the lure of force.

In doing so, Guyana articulates a vision of international relations where dialogue triumphs over discord, and where legal processes take precedence over unilateral actions.

The unity and resolve displayed by the Guyanese, from government officials to the citizens, are not just defensive strategies but are affirmations of a collective ethos that values peace, adheres to international trea-

ties, and seeks just solutions within the framework of established legal principles.

Facing challenges from those who might ignore the foundational pillars of international law requires more than resilience; it requires a deep trust in the international legal framework and the global community's ability to uphold justice and sovereignty.

Guyana's commitment to a legal resolution, highlighted by its engagement with the ICJ and the UN Security Council, sends a clear message about the power of adherence to international law as a defense against coercion and aggression.

This stance, amidst complex dynamics with Venezuela, illuminates a broader principle: The path to resolving issues, no matter the scale, should be rooted in dialogue, respect for international norms, and the pursuit of justice through recognised legal avenues.

In championing this cause, Guyana not only seeks to protect its own territorial integrity but also stands as a beacon for smaller nations, asserting that dignity and principle can indeed prevail against formidable challenges.

As Guyana continues on this path amidst the border controversy, its steadfast commitment and unity represent more than just a defense of territorial integrity; they embody a broader vision for a just and peaceful global community. This endeavor highlights the un-

Guyana’s ‘agri’ sector remains on top...

From page 6

ing more. Why? Because they saw the works and input on a daily basis by the ministry officials on the ground.

wavering strength of integrity, unity, and commitment to global standards as the foundation of a fair world.

Guyana's steadfast position amid significant

obstacles not only protects its sovereignty but also serves as a beacon to countries around the globe, promoting the resolution of conflicts based on justice, peace, and legal principles.

Complaints are being looked into, as a matter of fact as soon as it's being brought to the attention of those in authority. This never happened under Holder's watch because before he acted as a minister, the PNC authoritarians had to be informed, then make a decision and pass it on for Holder to act.

The agriculture sector is raising more than we can all expect and because of that, some of the opposition supporters that are penning letters are ashamed and trying to cover up their bleak past in this sector.

Despite the weather pattern and the many challenges being faced in this sector, the agriculture sector remains on top and I must commend

the leadership of Minister Mustapha but moreover must give kudos to His Excellency President Ali for his strong and visionary leadership esp. towards this sector.

Guyana will remain on top of the Caribbean on food security in the many years to come under the PPP/C government.

Yours respectfully,

Abel Seetaram

Yours respectfully, Haimdat

‘Bam-Bam Alley’ as a Norton strategy for victory

I DID not know who or what Bam-Bam Alley was until Leonard Craig, former AFC executive and current columnist with the Guyana Chronicle brought it up. Craig mentioned it on the Freddie Kissoon-Gildarie Show in a discussion on the electoral prospects of Aubrey Norton at the upcoming PNC congress.

When Craig directed me to where Bam-Bam Alley was then I knew what Bam-Bam Alley is. Apparently, the place has lost its original name, “Sweet Point.” I know this place very well on Orange Walk at the junction with Charlotte Street. I went there several times with friends and had cook-up rice at least three times if I could remember.

Aubrey Norton frequents Bam-Bam Alley and that is quite well known. Craig contends that the ordinary folks that mix with Norton at BamBam Alley constitute the bulk of the delegates at the upcoming congress and Norton can secure victory through them.

I believe Norton will pick up votes from the man/woman in the street that have a strong presence in the PNC constituencies, but victory is not assured because sometimes we take working class constituencies for granted. The proletariat and the lumpen proletariat (PLP) are not people who necessarily go for a politician who is known as a street fighter.

This theory about the PLP borders on disrespect in that it denies working class people the capacity to judge politicians from outside of their social stratum. The examples of working people wanting their leaders to be “dacta” (doctor) and “layaa” (lawyer) is quite pronounced in the world and is a tradition among the CARICOM nations.

The examples are literally in the hundreds. The lawyers, doctors, professionals and middle class folks have always done well at voting time in the PPP, PNC, the WPA, AFC, and in the United

Force in the sixties. This trend needs no profound research. Just do a tiny bit of research of who were the popular leaders that got elected at congressional voting of all, without exception, all the political parties in Guyana. There is a psychological explanation for this. The PLP folks believe that a well-endowed businessman or a well-oiled professional can bring resources to a party that the soldier in the trench cannot if such a person secures the leadership of his/her party. PLP people want their president or prime minister to be an eminent businessman or university professor. At the psycho-

logical level, they feel such people are the best kind to lead a government.

I saw in the WPA and AFC how ordinary folks were frenetic in their embrace of their party’s middle class names, and they adamantly chose them at congress over those who were less educated even though they were party stalwarts. Sadly, that is the reality of human nature.

Hamilton Green told me in an interview published on October 16, 2017 in the Kaieteur News that he was denied the job of prime minister under the Burnham presidency because it was felt he did not have a tertiary education. When Michael Carrington challenged Khemraj Ramjattan for leader of the

AFC, I will never forget the exclamation from Sheila Holder. She said: “A shoe-maker wants to be leader of the AFC.”

At the 2018 congressional election of the AFC at St. Paul Retreat Centre at Vryheid Lust, Raphael Trotman rose to say that he was not seeking any position. About a dozen persons got up and shouted: “Please Raphael, please, no Raphael, no!” Some banged their hands on the wall demanding Trotman contest. Every one of those fans was PLP people. Not one middle class member on that day made any shout to Trotman.

If the Bam-Bam Alley folks are decisive then James Bond should have gone far ahead in

the PNC’s congressional election of 2010 and beat two middle class leaders – David Granger and Carl Greenidge.

Bond was the street man, the foot soldier, the soldier in the trenches. Granger got 279 votes, Greenidge got 264, and Bond got 20. The BamBam Alley folks frowned on Bond. Bam-Bam Alley at that time was named, Sweet Point and Bond at that time used to frequent the place. I saw Bond many times at Bam-Bam Alley in 2010 before the PNC congress in 2011.

Interestingly, one of the perennial street fighters in the PNC, Faith Harding, was expected to beat Granger and Greenidge and collect the women votes. She got 13 ballots. The PLP and the women folks showed no faith in Faith. So 13 is an unlucky number. Ms. Harding passed way shortly after. The BamBam Alley vote is not guaranteed to Norton. Maybe Roysdale should sip some El Dorado at Bam-Bam Alley.

‘Unpatriotic and anti-national’

–– Nandlall warns against ‘fabricated narratives’ undermining Guyana’s sovereignty; calls out Kaieteur News

ATTORNEY-GENERAL

and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., has voiced deep concern over what he termed as “fabricated narratives” coming from a local media outlet surrounding the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.

During his programme “Issues in the News,” on Tuesday, Nandlall specifically pointed out the role of certain media outlets, such as Kaieteur News, in perpetuating these narratives, which are being exploited by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to undermine Guyana’s sovereignty.

Nandlall’s remarks stem from recent developments in Venezuela, where lawmakers aligned with President Maduro have approved the creation of a new state in Guyana’s resource-rich Essequibo region.

Despite ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Venezuela has persisted in asserting its claims to Guyana’s territory, even citing a controversial 2023 December referendum as so-called justification.

As Venezuela files its counter-memorial to the ICJ, Nandlall underscored the importance of countering distorted narratives propagated by Venezuela, particularly

those that falsely implicate Guyana’s government and its relationship with oil companies like ExxonMobil.

“This tendency which continues to preponderate that is to say the creation and peddling of a fabricated narrative that the government is in bed with the oil companies is unpatriotic and anti-national,” Nandlall said, as he highlighted the detrimental impact of such narratives.

The Attorney-General highlighted how President Maduro has utilised these narratives to bolster his own agenda, citing instances where Maduro presented articles from Kaieteur News during a meeting as evidence of Guyana’s alleged collusion with oil companies and the United States.

Referring to a meeting between Presidents Ali and Maduro in December 2023 in St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Nandlall recounted how Maduro leveraged public statements critical of ExxonMobil’s operations in Guyana to support his claims.

“President Maduro had volumes of these very articles and he was referring to them repeatedly in support of his contention that Guyana is selling out to the Americans and selling out to the oil companies, and that the government is selling

out, and that he has articles from Guyanese newspaper that say that, not Venezuelan newspaper.

“He was throwing that in our faces, to say “look, your own people are saying that you are selling out, not Venezuelans. And we intend to take what is ours before you sell it out,”” Nandlall said.

Nandlall reiterated the importance of refraining from spreading “baseless” contentions and allegations in the press, warning that such actions provide ammunition for external forces seeking to exploit divisions and encroach upon Guyana’s sovereignty.

“So, every time these narratives appear, as fabricated as they are, they are being compiled by our enemies to be used against us,” Nandlall said.

He clarified his stance, asserting: “I am not trying to stifle freedom of expression. I am just adverting your attention to the fact that... there is a grouping out there who wants to invade our country and they are building a case to do so. And they are using this kind of materials that you are peddling.”

Nandlall underscored his duty, both as a citizen and as Attorney-General, to address these issues and protect Guyana’s interests.

He also touched on the

misrepresentations about Guyana’s oil and gas industry, particularly those reported by Kaieteur News.

One of the sore issues was ExxonMobil’s Guyana subsidiary to provide an unlimited liability parent guarantee for its operations in the Stabroek Block.

MISCONCEPTION AND MISUNDERSTANDING

“That is the kind of misconception and misunderstanding that has been pushed in certain quarters of the press, and when the government seeks to clarify it, when the government seeks to dispel this dilution of misinformation, the government is accused of being in bed with the oil companies,” Nandlall said.

The Attorney-General warned that that the misinformation is being peddled by critics of the government, in a move to silence local authorities.

“So, we must say nothing and allow this misinformation. This propaganda is a baseless narrative, to permeate and perpetuate and we must stay silent. Because

if we dare see anything, it is misinterpreted and then misconceived as defending the oil company.

“That is not freedom of the press.

That is an abuse of freedom of the press. And when the government tries to get involved, the government is shut out and when the government appeals the government becomes the bad Big Bad Wolf,” Nandlall said.

The Attorney-General reaffirmed the government’s stance in rejecting this false narrative that it is in bed with oil companies and acting in collusion with them.

“That is a complete and utter falsehood.

We are acting in the best interest of Guyana, the sector and the people of our country, but except for that privileged few who are working every day to shut the sector down,” he said.

The genesis of the border controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Despite the historic arbitration, tensions have persist-

ed, with Venezuela repeatedly challenging the validity of the award.

In 2018, Guyana took a decisive step by approaching the ICJ seeking affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.

Venezuela initially claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020.

The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the merits of the substantive case.

Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall, S.C.

‘Mud-slinging’ competition intensifies over PNC-R leadership

— party’s Chairman defends Norton after Ally ‘hammers’ incumbent leader; says ‘gloves are off’

THE mud-slinging competition has intensified within the People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R), as members take jabs at each other over the best suited person to lead the party that continues to lose support.

Chairman of the PNC-R, Shurwayne Holder, to party stalwart Amna Ally’s expression of disdain over Aubrey Norton’s leadership of the party, announced on Facebook that the “gloves are off.”

The disunity within the PNC-R camp is becoming more visible, as party members continue to show no hesitation in picking a side ahead of the long-overdue congress.

Holder quickly rushed to Norton’s defence after Ally, who has been with the party for about 50 years and served in various capacities, said the head of the PNC-R is not “fit” to be a leader.

While declaring that he respects Ally’s right to endorse whom she sees

fit to lead the party, this did not stop him from delivering a number of “blows” to her.

In the post, Holder said that he does not believe she has “the moral authority to say who is unfit to lead the party”.

He added: “Let me remind us all that it was

under her watch as General Secretary and Chief Whip that Charrandass voted "yes," which led to the fall of the coalition government.”

Holder also said that the party cannot afford to be “divided” by her and those who do not have the party’s best interest at heart.

Internal clashes intensified after Opposition member Roysdale Forde launched his internal campaign on the day of Norton’s press conference, causing the party’s shaky foundation to “rock” even more.

Holder said that over the past two years, under the current leadership, Norton has “stuck to his promise to ground with the people and to rebuild the PNC-R from the bottom up.”

The reality on the ground, however, paints a different picture, as the party continues to haemorrhage support, sink further into financial troubles, fail to attract large gatherings at its outreaches and meetings, and express generic views on matters of national interest instead of presenting policy proposals.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday, Ally said that Norton is “losing ground” and “looking for scapegoats to place the blame on,” and in response to his accusations against her, she called on the party’s leader to get his act together.

“What Mr. Norton, the Opposition Leader, has to do is pull his socks up. Mr. Norton must work with the Constitution, and he must seek to unify the party rather than splitting hairs and having people go their own way. He is not fit to be a leader,” she firmly said.

Additionally, Ally said that Norton’s feathers have become ruffled because she is not following him.

Instead, the former PNC-R General Secretary has placed her confidence in Forde, and while listing the qualities

that Forde has, which she thinks make him a better candidate than Norton, Ally said: “…I don’t want to have a leader who has an issue with 30 blank cheques.”

According to former PNC-R Treasurer Faaiz Mursaline, in a previous interview with this publication, from the time he assumed the position of elected treasurer, he was made to sign blank cheques with no supporting documents. In November 2022, he signed as many as 20 blank cheques.

Moreover, when asked about the current financial state of the party and if she believes it is in a position to contest the upcoming elections, Ally said she couldn’t care less as long as Norton is at the helm.

“I don’t know and I don’t care, because I am not going to lift a finger under Norton’s leadership. When he is changed as leader, well, then I will look and see what contribution, if any, I can make. But as of now, I want nothing to do with Norton and his leadership,” she said.

Chairman of the PNC-R, Shurwayne Holder Leader of the PNC-R, Aubrey Norton Former General Secretary of the PNC-R, Amna Ally

PAC draws attention to 1,000 cheques cut in Region Eight under APNU+AFC

MEMBERS of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC), earlier this week, raised concerns about the workings of the Region Eight Regional Administration in 2019 under the APNU+AFC, as over 1,000 cheques for projects were cut in December 2019.

This was raised as the Committee examined the Auditor General’s 2019 report for the region, where, it was noted, that while 2,028 cheques were cut for the year totalling $1.701 billion for current and capital expenditure by the regional administration, 1,086 of those cheques totalling some $818.380 million were cut in December of 2019.

Against this backdrop, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira queried from the accounting officers about the reason behind the rush to cut cheques which amount to some 48 per cent of the total funds set aside for the region. Teixeira further noted that the budget for 2019 was passed early and as such, funds were available to the region in early 2019, and it could not have been an issue where money wasn’t released.

The former Deputy Regional Executive Officer noted that he had no recollection as to why this occurred, and could not provide a response to the committee.

Teixeira said: “I find this unacceptable; 1,086 cheques were written in December and that is 2019… are you telling me that everyone has amnesia in this place? No one has a recall of 1,086 cheques being prepared and signed in December 2019?”

Meanwhile, Auditor General, Deodat Sharma when asked by members of the committee for clarity, stated that when compared to the other months, there was a higher turnover of cheques in December, and as such auditors sought to point out and question why the region waited till the end of the year to have majority of the work done.

–– at the end of 2019

Members of the Region Eight regional administration before the PAC, on Monday

Additional $1B for Amerindian communities… Toshaos express gratitude to government for LCDS funds, significant developments

WITH an emphasis on bridging the divide between the coastal and hinterland regions, the President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali-led administration continues to stay committed to transforming the country’s hinterland and indigenous communities.

As a result of the government’s commitment, all Amerindian villages now have increased access to necessary services. Access to drinkable water, new schools, better healthcare facilities, and upgraded roads and bridges are just a few of the services that have been expanded in these areas over the last few years, enabling these towns to realise their full potential.

During his recent visit to Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), President Ali revealed to the villagers of Nappi, located in Central Rupununi, that the government intends to spend more than $1 billion in the Rupununi region.

The President also underscored that the government’s dedication to the people is reflected in these additional investments, which are meant to enable individuals to make a positive impact on their own lives, their communities, and the nation at large. Some three days prior to the President’s visit, communities in the Rupununi Deep South received deliveries of almost 500,000 pounds of cassava.

It was also disclosed that Nappi and eight additional communities would receive another 500,000 pounds of cassava at a value of $20 million. President Ali also mentioned that the government is currently working towards procuring and installing a

cassava mill in the Nappi community.

According to President Ali: “To support you in these villages and to ensure that you have sustainability, excess production, and value-added, without you asking, we are going to install a cassava mill, and we will start it within 14 days right here to service these communities around here.”

Apart from these and other programmes, solar photovoltaic home systems were also advantageous to the local village. A power box, a fan, two lights, and a solar panel make up each system.

President Ali reaffirmed the PPP/C administration’s dedication to giving the needs of the forest based communi-

ty top priority in its policies and initiatives. He committed to carrying out further interventions, focusing on Amerindian villages all around the nation.

“Nothing is wrong with wanting more… we can aspire to be on the same level as those on the coastland. And this government will make the investment to ensure that you are at that same level,” President Ali said.

The President also shared that his administration intends to set up service hubs to help villages even more. He related that ‘Buyers Hub’ is one of them; here, extra produce from the villages will be collected and stored for dependable sale. According to him, the Men on Mission

(MOM) will lend support to this project.

“We want to develop cultural hubs; we want to develop educational hubs. We will expand our facilities so that the GOAL students can go and study, that the trained teachers can go and study,” President Ali noted. Additional programmes include the creation of mental health hubs and integration hubs for food support.

The news was well received by the villages, and several Toshaos used the opportunity to thank President Ali and his government for the remarkable advancements that are improving the lives of villagers in Region Nine.

With funding from the government’s Low Car -

bon Development Strategy (LCDS), Gregory David of Karaudarnau village in South Rupununi gave a quick summary of the projects taking place in his community.

According to David: “I want to thank the Government of Guyana, especially His Excellency, for his strong commitments to giving us these funds to do our community development projects.”

Raymond Griffith, a resident of Potarinau, also shared similar satisfaction with the government’s efforts to promote prosperity in remote and obscure locations.

He said: “I’m very happy with this government, and I have seen real development in my village over the term of this government.”

Meanwhile, Toshao of Achiwab village, Westmas Albert, said, “I would like to thank the government for the support that Achiwab village has been receiving for the past three years.”

It is a huge comfort to Toshao Ambrose of Maruranau to finally witness progress taking place in his neighbourhood.

“During my first term as Toshao, I did not see any development in my community. This second term, now I see improvements, and projects are coming into my community. This is from this Government,” he related.

Referencing President Ali’s statement, billions of dollars in investments, including $133 million in funds from the LCDS have benefited 3,768 residents of Karaudarnau, Shea, Maruranau, Awarewaunau, Aishalton, Achiwib, Parabara, and Baishaza over the past three years. The Toshaos relat -

ed that these allotments are fueling a number of significant initiatives that advance sustainability in the fields of education, agriculture, and transportation.

Applauding the leadership of the PPP/C government, Toshao Isaac Krauder explained that the Rupununi is making “significant progress” in development.

He noted: “We want to thank the government for a lot of development that is happening in the community, tremendous transformation under the leadership of President Dr. Irfaan Ali.”

Bonaventure Fernandez also stated: “Bringing us the future and present plans of the government that your government has for Amerindian living and the hinterland on the river and communities…Your government has done a tremendous thing for Amerindian villages across this country. Thank you very much.”

With a significant $9 billion set aside for this purpose, this year’s budget further demonstrates the government’s consistent commitment to Amerindian development.

Economic projects, such as the Presidential Grants programme, support for the National Toshaos Council summit, and important land titling measures, are all included in this extensive package. These communities will benefit further from another payment earned from the sale of carbon credits, in 2024.

(This is part of a weekly series on LCDS) The author can be contacted at cparkinson0206@gmail.com)

Court orders removal of structures around Demico House in ‘Stabroek Square’

THE High Court, on Wednesday, ordered the removal of structures and vendors surrounding the Demico House facility located at Brickdam.

This order was handed down by Justice Navindra Singh, following the filing of a fixed-date application which named the Georgetown Town Clerk and City Engineer as respondents by Banks D.I.H. which owns Demico House.

In the application which was filed by Attorney-at-Law Reon Miller on behalf of the company, it asked that an order be made directing the

respondents to have removed persons placing, storing or causing to be stored, carts, tents, coolers, mobile stalls among other things on the pavement, street or parapet surrounding the property at Demico House.

Additionally, the application asked that an order also be made directing the respondents to keep removed those persons storing the mentioned apparatus from the pavement, street or parapet surrounding the property.

Further, it was stated that the property houses several

businesses and for many years persons have been vending on the pavements north, west and southwestern pavements, and this obstructs the entrances and exits to Demico House.

It also noted that such vending causes the environs of the pavements and parapet to remain in a constant state of litter, and has also caused severe financial loss to the company by decreasing foot traffic to Demico House.

Several requests have been made over the years to the vendors and the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown to intervene to cease vending on the walls of the building, and from obstructing the pavements bordering the building. These orders requested in the application were subsequently granted by the High Court Judge on Wednesday.

This 2017 photo by Telesha Ramnarine shows the western pavement under the Demico House which was cleared of vendors. This move did not last long

President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali meeting with Toshaos and residents of Region Nine

Gov’t ministries to establish special units to evaluate contractors’ works

IN a firm stance against defaulting contractors, special units will soon be established within various ministries to evaluate the performance of all contractors executing government projects.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, S.C., said the memorandum was issued last weekend for the immediate establishment of these units, which will be empowered to institute a range of sanctions on defaulting contractors.

“There is now a mechanism that is established in all the ministries, and that mechanism is to dedicatedly monitor and evaluate the performance of contractors who are executing contracts in those respective ministries,” he said in his weekly programme “Issues in the News,” on Tuesday.

The memorandum specifies that any fundamental breaches of contracts should prompt immediate notification to the contractors, with remedial provisions for sanctions invoked promptly.

“This is another demonstration of our government’s commitment to move condignly against contractors who are negligent in the discharge of their contractual duties. These units are now being established and they should be up and running in a very short period of time,” Minister Nandlall added.

The AG made it clear that undue delays and breaches in contracts will not be tolerated and warned contractors to discharge their duties conscientiously.

Additionally, the Ministry of Legal Affairs has established a dedicated Contract Compliance Unit to facilitate effective contract implementation.

This unit will provide relevant legal advice and guidance to the other ministries and also has the authority to take action against non-compliant contractors, including initiating legal proceedings when necessary.

This move follows a recent directive from President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, during a meeting with several project managers and engineers.

During that meeting, the President said any projects exceeding their contracted timelines would face strict consequences, and announced the establishment of an independent team to oversee these projects. (DPI)

Health Ministry to procure new dengue fever vaccine

DESPITE the country’s ability to control the number of dengue cases, the Ministry of Health is actively examining further measures to minimise these occurrences.

Speaking at an event on Tuesday at the ministry’s headquarters on Brickdam, Minister Dr Frank Anthony told reporters that the ministry is currently in the process of acquiring a new vaccine for dengue.

“We are now trying to get a particular vaccine that will cover the four different types of dengue. As of right now, we are still exploring that option because the vaccines are quite expensive,” Dr Anthony stated.

Acknowledging the spike in dengue cases during the early part of last year, Dr Anthony assured that with the current methods in place, dengue cases will continue to remain at a low rate.

One of these methods involves the ministry’s Vector Control Unit conducting spraying and fogging activities in communities to eliminate the mosquitoes responsible for transmitting the virus.

The minister also highlighted the introduction of a new technique known as Abate to prevent the spread of dengue fever.

Abate is a larvicide, which means, it effectively targets and kills mosquito larvae, specifically those of Aedes species, helping to prevent the spread of dengue fever.

“With Abate, you put it in stagnant water, and it will dissolve. When this mixture is made, it will help to prevent breathing sites for the mosquitoes,” the minister explained.

Dengue fever outbreaks are more likely during the rainy season because stagnant water, where Aedes mosquitoes breed, becomes more abundant.

Minister Anthony emphasised a more proactive approach to diagnosing dengue fever. This involves increased use of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs).

Rapid tests play a crucial role in precisely diagnosing dengue. This allows for early and proper treatment, potentially leading to a decrease in the number of dengue cases.

Minister Anthony highlighted the effectiveness of this method, noting that it has contributed to the reported reduction in dengue cases across all ten administrative regions last August. (DPI)

Dr Karishma Jeeboo is new

chairperson of

local ‘Pharmacy Council’

— new council commits to digitising all processes to ensure seamless delivery of services, review of pharmacy laws, among other things

THE Ministry of Health has announced the members of the Pharmacy Council of Guyana Board who began serving from April 1, 2024.

Dr Karishma Jeeboo is tasked with heading the board until March 31, 2026 in her capacity as chairperson. The other members of the board are: Vice-Chairperson, Ms Carol-Ann Lam; council mem -

bers Ms Shundell Seymour-Williams, Ms Mary Ramsaroop, Ms Zoe Grenville-Forde, and Ms Clauida Hinds; Registrar/Secretary, Ms Erica Ward; ex-officio member, Mr Sookdeo Singh; Guyana Medical Council Representative, Dr Narine Singh; Consumers Association Representative, Mr Khame Sharma; and Legal Representative, Ms Nakesha Cosbert.

The main functions of the pharmacy council, according to the Pharmacy Practitioners’ Act 2003, are to regulate the practice of pharmacy in accordance with this Act; establish, maintain, and develop the standards for the practice of pharmacy; establish, maintain and develop standards of professional ethics among members of the pharmacy profession;

publish, distribute and disseminate in a manner that the council thinks fit, literature and information relevant to the pharmacy profession; and conduct mandatory continuing educational sessions for practising pharmacists.

The council is also tasked with establishing, maintaining and developing an internship programme; registering pharmacists, practising pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, and pharmacy interns; and performing other duties as may

be necessary in the discharge of its functions.

The new Pharmacy Council has so far committed to digitising all processes to ensure seamless registration of pharmacists, practising pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, and pharmacy interns; streamlining the internship programme to ensure pharmacy interns garner the most from this experience, and offering mandatory continuing education sessions for pharmacists and pharmacy assistants.

It is also the intention of the council, according to the Health Ministry, to develop and enforce standards for professional practice and ethics for pharmacy professionals, and host a website for the council to inform processes regarding registration, temporary registration, accreditation, and the assignment of credits for continuing education sessions. The website would include a yearly list of registered pharmacy professionals so that the public can be informed.

The Pharmacy Council also plans to publish literature and information relevant to the pharmacy profession for pharmacy professionals and the public, and enable the review of the pharmacy laws of Guyana, with the Pharmacy Practitioners’ Act of 2003 and its regulations being a priority.

The council will be set up with functioning committees guided by the chairperson and vice-chairperson to ensure this work is accomplished over the next two years.

30-year-old hospitalised after being stabbed at Ketley Street

A

According to information from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the victim, Orcsenio Benn, on the day of the incident, was conversing with the suspect’s brother on the western side of Ketley Street, Charlestown, in the vicinity of Humphrey’s Bakery.

“The victim was about to leave to get transportation to go home, when the suspect approached from a northern direction of Ketley Street on a bicycle and dealt

him three stab wounds, two to the centre of his chest and one to the right side of his head. The suspect then escaped east along the said street,” the police said.

It was disclosed that the victim and suspect had a prior misunderstanding. The victim was

picked up by public spirited citizens and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he is receiving treatment. Police confirmed that investigations into this incident are ongoing.

30-year-old resident of Providence, East Bank Demerara, is now hospitalised after he was stabbed allegedly by someone known to him, on Tuesday.

Newly appointed Chairperson of the Pharmacy Council of Guyana, Dr Karishma Jeeboo

Rashid, Tewatia star in GT's Jaipur heist

SANJU Samson and Riyan Parag's batting efforts (68* off 38 and 76 off 48) went in vain as Rashid Khan's allround performance ended Rajasthan Royals' unbeaten run in IPL 2024.

Rashid cut the last ball for a boundary to backward point region to help Gujarat Titans to a three-wicket win at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

Jos Buttler arrived for this game with a century in his previous outing - against RCB - but the home team didn't have service from the openers once again as both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Buttler departed early.

After almost having

chopped on in the first over off Umesh Yadav, Jaiswal got going with a flurry of boundaries but his innings

was cut short in the fifth over when his attempted scoop against the pacer reached the wicketkeeper's gloves safely.

In the next over, Rashid had Buttler caught at slips, edging a slash. It reduced Royals to 42 for 2.

The two in-form batters yet again came to Royals' rescue. Parag enjoyed the rub of the green early on as Wade dropped him twice - on 0 and 6. The duo survived against the spin threat of Rashid and Noor Ahmad, as RR were limited to 52/2 in 8.1 overs. That's when Parag cut loose, sweeping Noor over the mid-wicket fence.

Samson, who was playing the secondary role till then, got going against Spencer Johnson by smashing two boundaries and a six in the next over. He then employed his scoops and reverse scoops - not always to the best effect - but it proved productive enough. In the 17th over, Rahul Tewatia tripped over and allowed the ball to go past him and help Samson to another half-century.

Parag departed in the penultimate over, holing out to Vijay Shankar in the deep, where the fielder took some time to take control of the catch - falling over, lobbing the ball and then taking it a few inches away from the ropes. Nonetheless, the 130run stand in 78 balls between Samson and Parag set the platform for RR's massive total.

In quite a contrast to Royals, Gujarat Titans got a steady start, courtesy of their openers. The duo were largely conservative with their strokeplay, but pounced on the opportunities that came their way.

Yuzvendra Chahal put

down an easy return catch in the eighth over, offering Sudharsan a life at 32, but the opener couldn't take advantage of it, as he departed three runs later in the next over - trapped legbefore by Kuldeep Sen.

The pacer was on fire after dismissing Sudharsan. In his next over, he cleaned up Matthew Wade and Abhinav Manohar as GT slipped from 64/0 to 79/3.

Gill, who had 35 balls to bring up his fifty, cut loose against Ashwin and Chahal. Just when he was looking well set to take on the target, he was lured out of his crease with a wide delivery from Chahal that spun away from his arc, and was stumped. Shahrukh Khan hit a few lusty blows against Ashwin but was trapped legbefore by Avesh in the 18th over.

However, an erratic last over by Kuldeep flipped the momentum of the contest and left Titans needing 15 runs off the last over. Rashid heaved the first ball through the square leg region for a boundary.

Two balls later, he got a thick outside edge past the 'keeper for another four. Tewatia was run out off the penultimate ball while attempting a third run, which left GT needing two runs to win off the last ball. Rashid cut it past the vacant backward point region for a four. (Cricbuzz)

Rashid Khan hit the final ball for four to complete a stunning chase

Tyson Fury says Oleksandr Usyk is too small to beat elite heavyweights

TYSON Fury says Oleksandr Usyk is too small to compete with him in their undisputed heavyweight world title fight.

Briton Fury, 35, is the WBC champion, while Ukraine's Usyk, 36, holds the WBA, WBO and IBF belts.

Fury said former cruiserweight champion Usyk will be "found wanting" on May 18 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"You can beat the average big ones but you can't beat the elite big ones," he said.

"Size is what really matters and we have weight divisions for a reason."

Fury described himself as an "encyclopaedia in boxing" and listed several cruiserweight greats, including Evander Holyfield and David Haye, who were beaten after stepping up to heavyweight.

He said Usyk's previous opponents, such as Britain's

Daniel Dubois, had "limited ability".

"If Tyson Fury can't beat Usyk, Tyson's no good. End of," he said.

"This is my time, my destiny, my era and my generation. Facts."

After his manager, trainer and promoter predicted a

knockout win for Fury, he ended the news conference by joking that Usyk would knock him out in the first round.

Fury's co-promoter, Frank Warren, said the fight is the "biggest of the 21st Century".(BBC Sport)

A former undisputed champion at cruiserweight, Usyk beat Briton Anthony Joshua to become unified heavyweight champion in 2021.

will be the first time in the four-belt era that every title is on the line.

The most recent undisputed heavyweight champion was Britain's Lennox Lewis in 1999. Fury-Usyk

February's bout was rescheduled after Fury suffered a cut in a freak sparring accident two weeks before the fight.

Tyson Fury is undefeated in his 35-fight career

Sammy settled on core of WI squad — says preparation now critical

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – West Indies white ball head coach, Daren Sammy, says he is settled on the majority of the squad for the T20 World Cup in June, and has underscored the value of personnel, preparation and purpose if the Caribbean side is to win the ICC showpiece.

The two-time former T20 World Cup-winning captain said since taking over almost a year ago, he had focused on the importance of roles and finding players to fit those roles, and this had allowed selectors to significantly narrow down the larger group.

And with the T20 World Cup now only eight weeks away, Sammy said the personnel was all but settled with only fine-tuning left to be done.

“Personnel, preparation, purpose – those are the three P’s that I use,” Sammy told a media conference here Monday.

“We’ve selected squads and exposed about 22 players over the last year in preparation for this main event that is coming, and fine-tuning and giving clear guidance as to what roles are required in the different positions, to help us to be successful.

He continued: “So you would’ve seen … different guys getting different opportunities over a consistent period of time in different roles, and it has brought us down to probably the final

15, 16, 20 players, and it’s about fine-tuning now.

“I’m probably quite sure as to what my World Cup team will be. It’s based on the measures that we’ve taken and the strategic roles we have given players.”

Under Sammy, West Indies won T20 World Cup titles in 2012 and 2016, and also reached the final four of the 2014 edition in Bangladesh, but have endured shambolic campaigns since.

In the 2021 tournament

staged in Oman and United Arab Emirates, a side led by the now-retired Kieron Pollard and including veterans like Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo, lost four of their five games to miss out on qualification for the second round.

More disaster ensued the following year in Australia when a Nicholas Pooran-led squad lost two of their three qualifying games and failed to reach the main draw of the tournament.

An overhaul of the team management and playing personnel – including a change of captain – saw West Indies winning every series they played last year, and Sammy said they were adjustments which had to be made in order for the side to rebuild.

“We noticed that the ability in the middle overs to play spin was a factor for us, and you saw the introduction of Shai Hope into T20 cricket and Nicholas Pooran moving from number five thereabouts to number three – he’s prob-

McDonald and Benjamin score hat- tricks as GDF stop Monedderlust

THE Guyana Defence Force continued their relentless pursuit of a successful defence of their title in season 6 of the KFC Elite League.

When GDF came up against bottom-ranked side, Monedderlust, the champion’s quality showed as they dominated their rival to capture an 11-0- victory.

Dorrel George opened the flood gates in the 10th minute of play followed by first half goals from Abumchi Benjamin, Chris Macey and Stephen McDonald.

Benjamin would record a triple in the match with his first strike coming in the 27th minute and the second in the 42nd minute.

After going into the break leading 5-nil, the soldiers turned up the heat in the second half as Cedric Osbourne got things off the mark in the second half.

McDonald would come back to score his second goal in the 72nd minute before Macey got a double with his second goal in the 79th

…Ann’s Grove United grab second win against Buxton FC

minute.

McDonald then completed the hat-trick with his other goal coming in the 82nd minute.

Sherwyn Ceasar capped off the victory in injury time as they claimed an 11- nil win.

The win, their fifth in a row since the start of the league, sees them moving two places up the standings to second place, replacing Slingerz who also have five wins but surrendered their spot because of the unbeaten GDF’s superior goal difference.

Police still top the standings after 6 wins in 7 matches with their only loss to the soldiers.

Slingerz move to third place on the table.

Ann’s Grove meanwhile moved into 7th position on the table after their second win against Buxton United FC.

Elton Sullivan in the 29th and Yohance Francis in the 52nd minutes of play gave Ann’s Grove the 2-nil victory over Buxton who remain at the bottom of the table just above Monedderlust after 6

games.

Buxton United are yet to record their first win in season six of the league.

The Ten participating clubs are battling for the firstplace prize of G$2,000,000, while cash rewards of $1,200,000, $800,000, and $500,000 are up for grabs for the second, third and fourth positions, respectively.

The action continues on Saturday with a double-header, Buxton United play Slingerz and GDF comes up against Western Tigers.

ably one of our best players of spin,” Sammy continued.

“Where before 2023 we were averaging six or so runs per over between overs number seven to 15 whereas international teams were going at seven, close to eight, we have now changed that to seven.

“Still we need improvement but the small measures that we’re taking and the preciseness with which we’re working has enabled us to take little strides.

“We saw the reintroduction of (Andre) Russell who’s doing really well in the IPL now – that’s part of his preparation as well.

“We’ve seen (Shimron) Hetmyer come back into the squad although he’s not delivered how I want him to perform. You’ve seen personnel like Sherfane Rutherford coming back into the West Indies team.”

West Indies will feature in Group C of the June 1-29 tournament which the Caribbean will co-host with United

States, and will face New Zealand, Afghanistan, Papua New Guinea and Uganda in the preliminary stage.

Their group campaign will be spread across Guyana, St Lucia and Trinidad, and Sammy said much of the planning took into consideration the various venues.

“A lot goes into our thinking when we select different teams and with the different venues that we have … if you see the different teams we play, it’s right in line with the strength of our team –understanding what it will take to defeat these guys,” Sammy said.

“The biggest thing for us has been preparation and it shows that when we prepare well, we’ve given ourselves the best chance of performing.”

West Indies will enter a camp in Antigua starting May 10 to hone their preparations for the event in which a record 20 teams will participate.

Demerara Volleyball Association Clubs League

Alphas top Vanguards

ALPHAS produced a commanding performance on Tuesday evening at the National Gymnasium when they took on Vanguards in the Demerara Volleyball Association Clubs League.

It was a one sided affair as Alphas took a straight set victory in the five- sets affair.

The first set saw Alphas showing their prowess to take a 25-11 sets win.

They were led by Joel Cort with 10 points as he showed his individual worth with some amazing spikes.

He had good support from Geno Carol 7 points, Jonathan Lynch 6 points and Paul Welcome with 5 points.

After the first set, Vanguard produced a rear-guard effort in the second set but were not able to get past Alphas as they lost the second set as well 25-20.

The third set saw a winded Vanguard side, only managing to produce 11 points to Alphas 25 as they went down

in the three straight sets.

Alphas moved up to second on the points table behind the Guyana Defense Force who gave them their only loss in game 5.

In that clash, GDF started nicely taking the first match 25-21 but Alphas played well to win sets 3 and 4, 25-17 and 25-18.

They looked on the verge of an upset but GDF roared back to win 26-24 and 15-12 in the next two sets for the win.

Alphas other win came against Castrol strikers in the opening game of the league.

Alphas also faced off with Castrol strikers, who won the first set comfortably 25-16 but Alphas showed their ability and power to steam roll the next three sets 25-18, 25-21 and 25-20 to take the match 3-1.

Action in the league continues today and tomorrow.

West Indies white-ball head coach, Daren Sammy, speaks during Monday’s media conference

GDF’s Stephen McDonald going for one of his goals

Paris 2024:

World Athletics to become first federation to award prize money at Olympic Games

WORLD ATHLETICS has announced it will become the first international federation to award prize money at the Olympic Games.

The global governing body said a total prize pot of $2.4m (£1.9m) has been made available for this summer's Olympics in Paris, with gold medallists receiving $50,000 (£39,400).

This will be extended to silver and bronze medallists at Los Angeles 2028.

World Athletics president, Lord Coe, called the decision a "pivotal moment".

He told BBC Sport the organisation wanted to create a "stable financial landscape" for athletes.

There will be 48 athletics events in Paris, with relay gold medallists to share their prize money among the team.

The prize money will not apply at the Paralympics, which takes place from August 28 to September 8, as Para-athletics is governed by World Para Athletics.

"The introduction of prize

money for Olympic gold medallists is a pivotal moment for World Athletics and the sport of athletics as a whole, underscoring our commitment to empowering the athletes and recognising the critical role they play in the success of any Olympic Games," Coe said.

"While it is impossible to put a marketable value on winning an Olympic medal, or on the commitment and focus it takes to even represent your country at an Olympic Games, I think it is important we start somewhere and make sure some of the revenues generated by our athletes at the Olympic Games are directly returned to those who make the Games the global spectacle that it is."

Greg Rutherford, who won gold in the long jump at London 2012, said: "This is a brilliant step in the right direction and I take my hat off to Seb Coe and the rest of the World Athletics staff for initiating this improvement."

The former British athlete

GCB Male U-19 Inter-County Tournament

50-over tourney bowls off tomorrow

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Male U-19 Tournament Inter-County 50-over tourney bowls off tomorrow at the Malteenoes ground in Georgetown and the Lusignan ground East Coast Demerara.

The Select X1 will clash with Demerara at Lusignan while Berbice face-off with Essequibo at Malteenoes.

On Sunday, April 14, at Malteenoes, Essequibo battles Demerara while Berbice take on the Select X1 at Lusignan.

On Tuesday, April 16, Demerara plays Berbice at

Malteenoes, while the Select X1 and Essequibo collide at Lusignan.

The final is set for Thursday, April 18, at a venue to be named and all matches are scheduled to commence at 09:30hrs.

Berbice beat Demerara last year in the final at Bourda and this tournament will be used to select the National U-19 team for this year’s Regional U-19 which is set to start on June 30 in St Vincent. (Sean Devers)

said the view that Olympic sports are still amateur "couldn't be further from the truth".

Asked if prize money went against the Olympic spirit, Coe replied: "I don't see that making life a little easier for the athletes, allowing them maybe to stay on in the sport a little bit longer, to give them the financial independence to train, and maybe in a more sophisticated way is anything other than sitting behind good firm Olympic principles."

World Athletics said the format and structure of prize money for the 2028 Games will be announced nearer the time.

It added that the payment of prize money will depend on athletes "undergoing and clearing the usual anti-doping procedures".

Given the Olympics' origins as an amateur sports event, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) does not award prize money but distributes funding through international fed -

erations (IF) and national Olympic committees (NOC).

Some national Olympic committees offer financial rewards to their medallists, though the British Olympic Association does not.

The IOC said: "It is up to each IF and NOC to determine how to best serve their athletes and the global development of their sport."

'Athletes sacrifice so much' - Rutherford

Rutherford, who was also an Olympic bronze medallist in Rio in 2016, said he hopes other sports can adopt the same approach as World Athletics.

"Athletes from around the world sacrifice so much to achieve the most difficult accolade in sport, becoming Olympic champion - standing at the top of the podium and hearing your national anthem is one of the greatest feelings you can have," he said.

"But, the scrutiny that the athletes are constantly under - along with the comparisons to other sporting success sto-

ries - always fail to mention the lack of financial support given."

The 2015 long jump world champion added: "I really hope the athletes across all sports will now finally be supported by the multi-billion dollar IOC and their efforts, not just by individual sports, for the long-term health of the Olympic movement.

"We do this for the love of the sport, but it is also our livelihood."

Swedish Olympic pole vault champion Armand Duplantis said World Athletics' move was a "step in the right direction".

Meanwhile, Norwegian Olympic 400m hurdle champion, Karsten Warholm, said the prize money did not change his motivation to win an Olympic gold medal, but he agreed it was the "right direction" for building a professional sport. (BBC Sport)

CWI President Shallow pleased with region's progress in preparation for T20 World Cup

AS the much-anticipated ICC Men’s T20 World Cup draws closer, Cricket West Indies President Dr Kishore Shallow expressed satisfaction with the region’s state of readiness for global showpiece which is jointly hosted by the Caribbean and United States.

Shallow’s remarks followed a recent visit to Kensington Oval in Barbados where he was assured that all was on course for the June 1-29 tournament.

Barbados will host nine matches– five in the group stage, three in the Super Eight second stage, and the final on June 29, which will mark the third such ICC marquee game to be staged at the venue following on from the historic One-Day International World Cup in 2007 and the 2010 T20 World Cup.

Though West Indies will not feature in any group stage games at the Oval, a box office fixture between reigning T20 World champions England and Australia is on the cards for June 8.

Ambassador Noel Lynch, chairman of the National Organising Committee, in a recent media conference said that the major elements of the storied venue would be delivered to tournament authorities next week while the remaining elements would be completed by month end.

“On the eastern concourse where there’s the party stand and the temporary facility, and all of those facilities that are coming in, we are sure that we’ll hand over those on the 30th of April. But we’ll hand over the major parts that you know – the 3Ws, the Greenidge and Haynes,

the Media Centre, the field of play, the scoreboards, all of the electronic boards – will be finished within a week and handed over,” Lynch said.

“I think that’s ahead of schedule. I think Barbados has done an exceptional job. It wasn’t my job … when I came back from the US, we were already very far advanced in terms of the progress – the infrastructural progress at Kensington Oval,” he added.

Shallow agreed, as he gave the thumbs up to Barbados and other host venues across the region, who are well advanced in preparation for the tournament.

“Well ahead of schedule. I’m happy with the progress we’ve made so far with the World Cup and it’s definitely going to be a spectacle of an event and something we

should all look forward to,” Shallow said.

He later revealed that there was one territory that was lagging behind in their preparations, but was reluctant to name the island.

Along with Barbados, games will also be played in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

“Only one facility in the Caribbean, one country (is) probably a couple weeks behind schedule, but we have their commitment that they are going to accelerate. It might take some day and night application but no doubt, by June 1, every country in the Caribbean is going to be ready,” Shallow shared. (Sportsmax)

Jamaican sprinter, Elaine Thompson-Herah, won three gold medals at the Tokyo Games in 2021

Brathwaite, Savory hundreds headline five on opening day

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) –

Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite struck one of five centuries recorded on the opening day of the sixth round of matches in the West Indies Championship on Wednesday, to help Barbados Pride dominate Leeward Islands Hurricanes.

The 31-year-old opener, also the Pride skipper, finished on 117 not out as his side racked up 248 for three after choosing to bat first against Hurricanes at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain.

His opening partner Zachary McCaskie notched his maiden first class hundred with 101, the pair staging a partnership of 171 to lay the foundation for Pride’s domination.

Brathwaite faced 275 balls and struck 13 fours in gathering his 32nd first class hundred, reaching the landmark half-hour before the scheduled close with a single behind square off left-arm spinner Daniel Doram.

McCaskie, 27, was first to three figures, however, striking a dozen fours and two sixes in a knock which lasted 148 deliveries overall.

When the pair were separated when West Indies seamer Justin Greaves bowled McCaskie,

Brathwaite put on a further 54 for the third wicket with Jonathan Drakes who made 22 before becoming the second of two victims for off-spinning captain Rahkeem Cornwall (2-70).

Perhaps the most crucial hundred of the day came from left-hander Kemol Savory who dug defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles out of trouble with a brilliant unbeaten 127 at Sabina Park in Kingston.

With his slide slumping at 61 for six just after lunch courtesy of incisive bursts from fast bowler Ojay Shields (3-56) and off-spinner Peat Salmon (2-64), the 27-year-old Savory carved out his second first class hundred to steer the innings to 278 for seven at the close.

Savory faced 251 balls and counted 14 fours and three sixes, and received stellar support from West Indies left-arm spinner Guadkesh Motie who belted 56 off 86 balls with eight fours and a six, the pair putting on 127 for the seventh wicket to blunt the Scorpions attack.

On nine at lunch with Harpy Eagles on 58 for five, Savory marched to 62 at tea to guide the visitors to 169 for six, before reaching three figures in the final hour by sweeping leg-spinner Abhijai Mansingh to the backward square boundary.

The two other centuries came at the Frank Worrell Memorial Ground at UWI St Augustine where veteran Jason Mohammed smashed 157 and Amir Jangoo stroked 151, to propel Trinidad and Tobago Red Force to 374 for

Captain Tevin Imlach, who retired hurt on one in the first session, returned to score an unbeaten 33 in a critical 90-run, unbroken eighth wicket stand with Savory, to add to the home side’s frustration.

four against Combined Campuses and Colleges.

Sent in, Red Force were going nowhere at 20 for two after fast bowler Amari Goodridge (3-37) removed both openers cheaply.

However, Mohammed initiated the revival, putting on 83 for the third wicket with Kjorn Ottley whose 47 came from 70 balls and included seven fours and a six, before combining with the left-handed Jangoo in a excellent 264-run, fourth wicket partnership.

The 37-year-old Mohammed

faced 228 balls and lashed 22 fours in marking his 13th first class hundred while Jangoo, 26, gathered a pulsating maiden first class hundred in striking 13 fours and half-dozen sixes off only 163 deliveries.

At the Coolidge Cricket Ground here, left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop kept up his impressive form with four for 24 to carry his tally for the season to 33, as West Indies Academy bundled out Windward Islands Volcanoes for 162.

Fast bowler Johann Layne supported with three for 30 while

Shamar Springer top-scored with a counter-attacking 31 from 43 balls to inspire a 42-run, eighth wicket stand with Ryan John (20).

In reply, WI Academy slipped to 18 for two before recovering through a 42-run, third wicket stand engineered by opener Kadeem Alleyne, whose 35 needed only 34 balls and included three fours and a six.

Once he was lbw to seamer Gilon Tyson (2-30), however, WI Academy lost their next three wickets for 16 runs to decline to 99 for five, before rain ended play prematurely.

Guyana Amazon Warriors begin title defence on August 30 against Antigua & Barbuda Falcons

DEFENDING champions, Guyana Amazon Warriors will play its first match of the 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) on August 30 against new franchise Antigua & Barbuda Falcons.

The 2024 fixtures, released by the organisers on Tuesday, confirmed the 12th edition of CPL would run from August 28 – October 6.

The tournament gets underway with the newest CPL franchise, the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons, hosting their nearest rivals, the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots.

The tournament will have two legs running concurrent-

ly, with all six teams hosting home matches.

For the first time since 2019, the event will visit six host countries, with matches set to take place in Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago.

There will be 34 matches in total, with each of the six teams playing 10 group matches.

The knockout stages will take place in Guyana, with the home team, the Guyana Amazon Warriors, looking to defend the title they won in 2023.

The other home matches will be against Falcons (September 21 at 19:00h), Barbados Royals (September 25 at 19:00h), St. Lucia Kings (September 28 at 10:00h), and Trinbago Knight Riders (September 29 at 19:00h).

The finals will be from October 1-6 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

CPL is expected to announce the players’ draft date and commencement of ticket sales in the coming weeks.

The Warriors’ first home match will be September 20, at 19:00h, against St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors won the CPL tournament for the first time in 2023

Kemol Savory hit an unbeaten 127 to rescue Guyana Harpy Eagles at Sabina Park

West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite