Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 22-12-2023

FRIDAY 22nd December, 2023

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No. 107302

Guyana moves from transitioning to maximising its full potential - services sector leads in job creation, President Ali says

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President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday held meetings with stakeholders from the agricultural and public works sectors, which included contractors.

The project-cycle meetings examined challenges and identified solutions to ensure the timely completion of projects.

In addition, the President also met with a team from the Sandals Hotel chain. The team was led by its Chairman, Adam Stuart (Office of the President photos)

ASP Jermaine Grant Budget 2024 caters Independence Boulevard ‘lights up’ for Christmas secures police’s Best for further increase Cop award in disposable income

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- Prime Minister Phillips says gov’t remains committed to improving the lives of residents

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- other ranks honoured for hard work, dedication

- fiscal plan to be presented ‘early,’ Dr. Jagdeo says 2

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Prominent Gynaecologist/Obstetrician Dr. Neville Gobin dies 13

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Budget 2024 caters for further increase in disposable income - fiscal plan to be presented ‘early’, Dr. Jagdeo says

By Naomi Parris GUYANA will see an early budget in 2024, with key focus being placed on providing more disposable income to citizens and advancing the country’s economic development, General Secretary of the People’s P ro g re s s i v e P a r t y (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said.

Dr. Jagdeo, during his weekly news conference on Thursday, told reporters that officials are engaging in preparations for the 2024 national budget.

“You will see an ear-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

ly budget… [and] the continuation of building the economic and social infrastructure of the country to enhance future growth and to bring greater comfort to our people,” the General Secretary said.

The national budget, Dr. Jagdeo said, will focus on two key elements: Providing more disposable income to citizens and advancing the economy through a slew of policies and programmes.

“Disposable income can come from several ways, it can be increased salaries, reduced taxes, more people being employed,

and all of these measures would be catered for in the 2024 budget; so you can expand employment and get more disposal income at the gross level, that is the national level, because more people are working,” the General Secretary said.

The government passed a $781.9 billion national budget this year, and owing to the rate of development, requested an additional supplementary funding to carry out projects.

The General Secretary also revealed that government ministers will host a series of TURN TO PAGE 3

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Guyana moves from transitioning to maximising its full potential - services sector leads in job creation, President Ali says

GUYANA is well on its way to diversifying its economy, as evidenced by the maximum number of jobs created for the year 2023 in the services sector, followed by agriculture and manufacturing.

This was according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his address at the Private Sector Commission (PSC)’s 31st Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony on Tuesday.

The Head of State, in a room full of private sector stakeholders, said that Guyana’s economy is no longer transitioning, but is now maximizing its potential, based on policy agendas.

“If you look at where the jobs were created, the maximum number of jobs were created in the services sector, followed by agriculture, followed by manufacturing. That is a very interesting story; when one asks how is the diversification of the economy going, this tells the story,” Dr. Ali said.

It was previously reported that the manufacturing, services and

construction sectors in Guyana have experienced significant growth due to the expansion of the oil-andgas sector during the country’s economic boom.

“In economic modelling, an economy moves in two stages; you start from agriculture, then you go to the phase of development, then you move to industrialisation, manufacturing and then you go to services at the higher end,” the Head of State said.

The Ministry of Finance’s mid-year report estimated a 17.7 per cent growth in the manufacturing sector for the first half of the year.

The manufacturing sector witnessed a smooth progression and reaching new heights, as compared to the 11.4 per cent contraction in June 2022.

Additionally, the growth surge didn’t stop there, as the manufacture of beverages expanded by 14.2 per cent in the first half of this year.

“With upward revisions to the outlook for rice and other manufacturing, the overall

manufacturing sector is now projected to grow by 7.8 per cent this year,” the Finance Ministry said.

Meanwhile, the services sector grew by 9.1 per cent in the first half of 2023.

This performance was mainly derived from the growth in the administrative and support services, and wholesale and retail trade and repairs. These

subsectors grew by 16.1 per cent and 14.2 per cent, respectively.

Moreover, the construction sector is estimated to have expanded by 44.1 per cent in the first half of 2023.

“Momentum in this sector continues to be driven by a ramp up of activity in both the public and private sectors.

Government’s Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) grew

from $258.1 billion at the end of last year, to a budget of $387.8 billion this year,” the midyear report revealed.

During a recent event, President, Dr Irfaan Ali had announced that 2024 will be a significant year for all, as more initiatives will be rolled out to better everyone’s lives.

The President highlighted that the nation was gearing up to assume its non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on January 1, 2024.

Additionally, Guyana will be assuming Chairmanship of CARICOM and will be hosting the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, and the CARICOM Heads of

Government meeting next year.

Meanwhile, as the nation continues to build relationships, the President said that, in February 2024, Guyana will

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

It was said that this expansion has resulted in the commencement and continuation of infrastructural projects across the country, coupled with other substantial undertakings of the private sector.

“Given the first

half performance, and ramped up activity expected in the second half, the sector is now forecasted to grow by 26.9 per cent this year,” the Ministry said.

G u y a n a ’s re a l Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by an estimated 59.5 per cent in the first half of 2023 while the non-oil economy grew by 12.3 per cent.

Budget 2024 caters for further increase in...

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press conferences in the coming week to discuss the advancements made thus far in each of their respective areas.

NEW HEIGHTS

be hosting “high-level” delegations from Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Rwanda, among other countries.

‘The truth is not what Kaieteur News is looking for’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

- Dr Jagdeo says; highlights the slew of ‘distorted’ rhetoric in articles

PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday called out Kaieteur News for its frequent “distortion” of facts.

During a press conference at Freedom House, Dr Jagdeo brought to light numerous stories that the entity published with untruths in them.

“For those who may [have] just come to Guyana or those who are reading a newspaper for the first time, they may

think that these are new issues. Those of us who have been here in Guyana for a while and have been familiar with what’s going on, they’d recognise that they’re just a rehash…,” he said.

Dr. Jagdeo referenced several articles which addressed Guyana’s economy, pointing out that in one article, the newspaper attempted to paint the picture that Guyanese are dependent on their relatives abroad to survive.

He challenged this

stance and maintained: “People are now seeing more business opportunities here when they remit money to the country; they are not remitting it to their relatives to eat.

They’re remitting money often as an investment in the country and we’ve seen a serious growth from our diaspora investments in the country.”

As the economy continues to expand along with the investment climate, the diaspora has been capitalising on these opportunities. Dr Jagdeo, while pointing out the loopholes within the narrative that the newspaper

PPP General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo (Adrian Narine photo)

is peddling, said that it

is evident that the truth does not interest Kaieteur News. “[The] truth is not what Kaieteur News is looking for,” he related Staying on the topic of the economy, he addressed the comments made by the newspaper on the 6.5 per cent increase for public servants, across the board.

In order to create a sustainable future, Dr Jagdeo once again underscored that critical analysis of the current economy and certain actions are needed. He said that one cannot splurge on one item but instead, there must be planning.

Notably, the increase benefitted public servants, teachers, members of the Disciplined Services, constitutional officeholders, and government pensioners. It was granted retroactively from January 1, 2023.

The consequential salary adjustments benefitted over 54,000 persons and placed an additional $7.5 billion in disposable income into the pockets of those employees.

He then turned his attention to a story by

Kaieteur News titled, “$108 billion in taxes waived for oil companies in 2022.” Dr Jagdeo said that the benefits that oil giant, ExxonMobil is currently receiving is derived from the lopsided contract signed by the APNU+AFC government, and he also clarified that the traditional sectors enjoy fiscal concessions, not just oil and gas companies.

Dr. Jagdeo said: “Last week, I dealt with that and how taxes are levied… I want to repeat again for the people who are serious about this matter, they can go back to my comments last week and see that almost all companies in Guyana, in the manufacturing sector, in mining, in tourism, almost all of the production sectors in the economy, agriculture included, they enjoy fiscal concessions.

“They get waivers on machinery and equipment, they get waivers on buildings, they get waivers on things that they often bring in for operations… not just oil and gas companies.”

‘Audit report a tool for management’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

- Dr Jagdeo says; affirms Finance Minister will be taking corrective action to address flagged issues

STAYING committed to ensuring that there is transparency and accountability, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, said that Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh will be taking corrective actions to address the discrepancies highlighted by the Auditor General (AG) Deodat Sharma in the 2022 Audit Report.

Dr Jagdeo made those remarks on Thursday, during a press conference held at Freedom House, where he labelled the report as a tool for management.

He said: “On the audit report for 2022… I spoke with the Minister of Finance… he is go-

ing to personally take corrective action in adverse finding,” adding: “We see the audit report as a tool for management and that’s how we’re approaching it.”

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had commended the Government of Guyana for its anti-corruption efforts and steps to strengthen its governance framework.

In a report documenting the conclusions of its Article IV Consultation with local authorities, the IMF said: “Staff commended the authorities’ progress in strengthening AML/CFT, governance, anti-corruption frameworks, and support further advances in their effective imple-

mentation.”

Several pillars of the anti-corruption

framework have been further strengthened, including the Integrity

and Public Procurement Commissions and the National Pro-

curement and Tender Administration Board.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Injurious and dangerous comments

EARLIER this week, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall had cause to advise some Guyanese against taking to social media to share their misrepresented and ill-informed views about the Guyana-Venezuela controversy.

In addition to sounding this warning, he shared that the Venezuelan President has been compiling and using the thoughts posted on social media to distort the facts about the controversy.

We would all agree that Venezuela is fighting a losing battle, and so, any opportunity to twist the story and

distort the facts, even based on the utterances of a tiny fraction of population, will be taken without hesitation.

President Nicolás Maduro himself is fighting to hold on to power, and this is probably his last and perhaps most desperate move ahead of the 2024 elections.

Nandlall, an esteemed lawyer with a wealth of experience at all levels of the court system, has witnessed firsthand how words and thoughts could be misconstrued to create the “ideal narrative”.

While Guyana’s Constitution guarantees free speech, it ought to be an

abomination for persons to engage in public commentary that is not only irresponsible but reckless.

Persons who engage in practices that are detrimental to the peace and security of Guyana should be publicly exposed; they must not be allowed to divide the population for their own personal gain.

The AG made his thoughts known in response to critical commentaries following the meeting between Presidents Dr. Irfaan Ali and Maduro last Thursday at the Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Hours of talks resulted in what is now known as the ‘Argyle Declaration’, an 11-point agreement which addresses matters consequential to the border controversy.

Throughout that meeting, Guyana firmly stated that the Essequibo region remains part of its territory, and the controversy is rightly engaging the attention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Although the meeting was deemed a success, a few with little knowledge of how diplomacy works, and the importance of engaging in these types of situations, saw it fit to air their views

on social media. There was no constructive criticism.

Instead, President Ali and his government were bashed for acting in the best interest of Guyana and all Guyanese.

Further, the comments were nothing but speculation, and came across as sinister, with a view to creating problems domestically.

Sadly, some of the negative and ill-informed comments were made by Guyanese who live outside of these shores, and have never contributed to the development of this country, and, most likely, never will.

Nandlall, who was clearly pleading with Guyanese

to be careful with what they say, highlighted the potential repercussions of irresponsible public statements on Guyana’s position in the controversy. He said that he only wanted to make a public pronouncement, because he wants people to understand that their public impressions can be injurious to Guyana’s interest.

Only time will tell whether they will heed this warning. Until this controversy is resolved, definitively, Guyanese at home and abroad must remain unified. We must uphold our motto: One People, One Nation, One Destiny.

There is no escaping the long arm of the law

Dear Editor, IN serving summons on US citizen Rickford Burke in New York State to appear in Guyana’s courts, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has taken a welcome step to combat the rising scourge of extortion of Guyanese by individuals residing in the US. In September 2022, the GPF issued a wanted bulletin for Burke concerning the offence of Conspiracy to Commit a Felony, Contrary to Section 33 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, with regard to the publication of defamatory libel allegedly to extort money

from Afras Mohammed.

Burke, no doubt, feeling secure in the US, mocked the law-enforcement efforts of the GPF; however, now that the first step towards his extradition to face justice in Guyana has been taken, Burke will be laughing on the other side of his face now and more importantly, others who are suspected of using social media platforms to openly run extortion schemes, will understand that there is no escaping the long arm of the law, and, although the wheels of justice grind slowly, they grind exceedingly fine.

Guyana’s biggest strug-

gle in these extradition matters will not be with exposed arguments by the defendants of “political persecution,” but with the American Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

It seems the social media predators (and some political operatives) have made wide use of cash transfer platforms such as Cash App, Venmo, Zelle, Pay Pal, Money Gram, Western Union, Bank-toBank transfers et al, without due reportage of income as required by law.

While funds for personal use require little or no reporting, those received for goods and services (including social media ads) do; US$600

per annum is the threshold. I do hope the bell-ringing politician takes note and does not fall afoul of the IRS. The extortionists are going to have a rather difficult time explaining the sums they receive; I am well aware of one case where a mother paid US$15,000 to expose an affair being carried on by her son and, then a further US$15,000 to “delete everything” by the woman involved in the affair; the sum mentioned in the Burke-businessman case is more than US$100,000.

The IRS is going to go after their “pound of flesh” and, our revenue agencies should

take note.

Guyana’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is responsible for requesting, receiving, analysing, and disseminating information related to suspicious transactions and other information relating to money laundering, terrorist financing, or proceeds of crime. Information on any suspicious transactions is passed to the Special, Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) of the GPF for investigation.

The Cybercrime Unit is also a repository of information on extortion schemes as those who refuse to pay usually make reports of Cyberbullying and/or at-

tempts to extort cash. We have the system to combat overseas-based extortion but it needs to work harder to protect our citizens.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) may also want to pounce early before the IRS beats them to the punch. It feels as if Christmas has come early and, in that spirit of giving, I have prepared a dossier to assist with names and evidence for our local authorities, but also intend to share it with the US Embassy, Georgetown.

Sincerely, Robin Singh

Get well soon my friend

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

I SUSPECTED Alzheimer’s was the reason when in 2013 I happily rolled into Berbice a Sunday afternoon to return late into the evening. Then just like that it dawned on me that I did not even compose my Monday column much less to send it in late.

Is it possible that a columnist can forget to do his daily column for a particular day? It happened to me. I believe I was born with Alzheimer’s. I was 30 years old when I felt the pangs of being penniless as a university student with a married wife in Toronto.

Then it dawned on me that for the previous month, I did not uplift my hefty University of Toronto scholarship stipend. I ran out of breath on my way to the financial office and collected

my cheque; my penniless status disappeared immediately.

I returned to Guyana in 1984 and the next year borrowed my brother’s bicycle to go to the GPO on Robb Street. I transacted my business at the post office and walked from the GPO way back to D’Urban Street, Wortmanville. My brother asked where his bike was. I did not answer but ran way back to downtown Georgetown to collect the bike. I think I was born with Alzheimer’s.

I began to panic since I knew no one in Berbice and I would have to travel back to Georgetown. The only close friend I had in Berbice was Charrandass Persaud. I called up Charran but he was not at home. He arranged for me to use his facilities at his house, which I did and I dispatched

the column to the editor. I have had many, many more fond memories of Charran.

He took me and my wife up the Canje creek and showed us the site where the Cuffy revolution began.

O n e d a y, C h a r r a n knocked at my office at UG and introduced me to the woman he would marry.

They were both students at UG and she was the daughter of an Indian diplomat in Guyana. When he came back from law studies in Trinidad, I asked him how many kids he had. He told me he broke up with the young lady and did not take her to Trinidad.

Perhaps the most memorable sentiment I have of Charran, was that he trusted me enough to tell me about the entire story of his involvement that led to his vote against his own party in

the November 2018 no-confidence motion. I happen to know everything including the key players. I have always had that kind of relationship with him.

Charran fled to Canada the night of the no-confidence motion out of fear for his life. I would have preferred if he had stayed and served Guyana in the capacity of a Cabinet minister or maybe a judge. My deeply held belief is that he saved democracy and stability through his phenomenal courage in December 2018.

We must never dilute our admiration for him.

I went to a private hospital (which I cannot name for reason that will be stated below) on Wednesday morning to say goodbye. Charran was being “medivac” in two hours’ time to Canada be-

cause of a serious illness. He said he will stay in Canada. I sense that I may never have Charran again as my guest on the Freddie Kissoon-Gildarie Show. And if he is not coming back then at our age, we may never see each other again.

I hope fate has it otherwise. I hope in a few years’ time he visits the land of his birth. Now here is the reason why I cannot name the hospital, but I will do so privately to my medical friends and the Minister of Health and the owners of the hospital. Charran showed me his swollen left hand. He said they could not find his vein to insert the needle, so the insertion did not go into his vein and that created the huge swelling.

He was informed that he had to undergo surgery to re-

lieve the swelling at a cost of $300,000. I yelled out: “Did you pay them? It was their mistake.” He said he had no other choice. He had to pay for the operation. Looked at from any angle that was not right. I am asking the management of the hospital to locate Charran’s address in Canada (which I can offer) and reimburse this sick man.

If the hospital made a mistake, they should have acknowledged it, apologise and do the operation without a cost. I know the administrator. He is a fine, decent person that I consider a competent administrator.

I do not believe for a moment he made that decision.

Goodbye Charran. Catch yuh laatah maan!

Chris Ram unknowingly exposed his shortcomings

Dear Editor, IN my essay of December 20, 2023, (Stabroek News), readers would recall that I sought to robustly challenge Mr. Christopher Ram’s unsubstantiated aspersion, that the stability clause contained in the Petroleum Agreement (2016), ceded legislative sovereignty to ExxonMobil.

In that article, I manifestly demonstrated how Mr. Ram’s irresponsible aspersion is woefully and dangerously misplaced.

To corroborate my contention therein, I cited the case of Venezuela versus ExxonMobil, a case which had detrimental implications for Venezuela, whereby ExxonMobil and their co-venture partner had invoked “international investment law and arbitration” to seek compensation from the Venezuelan Government to the tune of over US$40 billion.

Unsurprisingly and disappointingly, in his response to this author, published in the Stabroek News edition of December 21, 2023, instead of addressing the substantive counterarguments put forward by this author by rigorously defending his position with alternative evidence, he diverted his attention to focus on an inconsequential aspect of the broader argumentations.

It begs the question as to

whether Mr. Ram, by virtue of him completely ignoring the substantive contentions on the subject, exposed his inability to defend his position, and if so, why should the public take him seriously? More so, why should his students take him seriously?

Notwithstanding, since he’s opted to address only an inconsequential matter, it is imperative that this author addresses the specific matter he raised, in a more substantive manner. To this end, Mr. Ram took issue with the expiration date. Pursuant to the Petroleum Agreement (2016), the Contractor (ExxonMobil and Co-Venture (Hess and CNOOC)), are granted two licences, namely the Prospecting Licences, which is the licence that governs the exploration activities, and the Production Licences.

In order to determine the expiration dates of both licences, it is not as straightforward as Mr. Ram makes it appear. One has to consult with the relevant provisions in the Petroleum Agreement to practically calculate the expiration dates, contingent upon other factors, such as whether there was any “force majeure” event, the date of issue of each licence and having established the effective date of the Petroleum Agreement, not the execution date.

Firstly, Mr. Ram consistent-

ly refers to the June 2016 date of the Petroleum Agreement as the effective date. However, that date is clearly stated as the execution date of the Agreement, according to the “Affidavit of Due Execution” appended to the Agreement.

In contract law, both dates have different implications.

Article 30 of the Petroleum Agreement establishes the effective date, where it states that… “This Agreement shall enter into force and effect on the date in which the Petroleum Prospecting Licence in respect of the Contract Area is in full force and effect (the Effective Date)”.

Therefore, the effective date of the Prospecting Licence is the date that the Prospecting Licence was issued in accordance with Article 30 of the Petroleum Agreement.

Hence, while the Prospecting Licence is not in the public domain, on both occasions, this author verbally confirmed with the “industry actors,” the effective date―that is, the date the Prospecting Licence was granted, to which the October date was revealed. Unless Mr. Ram has a copy of the Prospecting License and the effective date thereof is otherwise stated, then he should publish same to remove any doubt whatsoever in the interest of absolute clarity.

Secondly, one has to consult with Article 3 (Petroleum Prospecting Licence and Guarantee) of the Petroleum Agreement (2016), in order to establish the lifespan of the Prospecting Licence. Article 3 states the following: a) On the date of this Agreement, the Minister in accordance with the Act, the Regulations, and the terms of this Agreement, shall grant to the Contractor the Petroleum Prospecting Licence for an initial period of four (4) years from the Effective Date over the area described in Annex A and shown on the map attached as Annex B hereto.” b) Subject to Article 4 and the other terms of this Agreement, such Petroleum Prospecting Licence may be renewed, but not more than twice at the election of the Contractor for consecutive periods of up to three (3) years each in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the Regulations.

Thus, in accordance with Article 3 of the Agreement as per the above reference therefrom, it can be established that the lifespan of the Prospecting Licence is ten (10) years, based on the initial period it is valid for, and the (maximum) number of times it can be renewed (twice) and for what period (3 years) … It is also public

knowledge that the Prospecting Licence was extended for a period of one year―since a force-majeure event was invoked during the pandemic period. This is how this author arrived at the year 2027 for the expiration of the Prospecting (exploration) Licence. Whether it is June 2027 or October 2027, that is subject to verification, upon verification of the issuance date of the Prospecting Licence, which is not in the public domain.

Thirdly, Mr. Ram confidently posited that the expiration of the Production Licence is in the year 2057. It is virtually impossible for anyone to, at this time, determine the expiration of the Production Licences. In this respect, it must be noted that there are multiple Production Licences that are also not within the public domain to independently verify same. So, again, in consultation with the “industry players,” it was established that the lifespan for each Production Licence is for a period of twenty (20) years. Of importance to note―as well―is that each “oil field” or “Project Development Area” has its own Production Licence, since the developments are done in phases, through multiple projects.

With this in mind, it is unclear how Mr. Ram arrived at the year 2057 for the expiration

of the Production Licence, because even if he assumes that following the expiration of the Prospecting Licence in 2027, that the final Production Licence (s) will be granted in the year 2027. This means that the final Production Licences will expire in 2047 and not 2057; except if he assumes that the Production Licences that follow the expiration of the Prospecting Licence will be granted 10 years thereafter.

On a more serious note, only when all the exploration activities will have ended, wherein it is already established that all things being equal, will be in the year 2027, that only thereafter, based on the future discoveries and development plans, that one can, with precision, determine the expiration of the final set (s) of Production Licence (s) pursuant to the 2016 Petroleum Agreement.

Finally, in view of the foregoing, I hereby invite Mr. Christopher Ram to update his awareness of all the current updated facts and other considerations before authoring any future missive (s) on the subject matter.

(I hope Stabroek News publishes the undersigned’s response herein in its entirety).

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

EBD residents to get 24-hour access to treated water

MINISTER of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, has reaffirmed t h e g o v e r n m e n t ’s commitment to enhancing water service by 2025, noting that significant investment is being made to ensure that Guyanese have access to treated water on a 24-hour basis.

Minister Croal made this disclosure on Wednesday during an inspection of water-treatment plants at Eccles, Covent Garden, Diamond, Grove, and Caledonia, on the East Bank of Demerara.

He explained that the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is working with a fiveyear strategic plan from 2021 to 2025, with the overall aim of having 90 per cent treated water by 2025.

“On the coastland, we must have 100 per cent access of water to

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing water service by 2025, noting that significant investment is being made to ensure that Guyanese have access to treated water on a 24-hour basis

households, and similarly in the hinterland.

That is our objective, that is our target that we are trying to achieve and we have about two more years to ensure that we achieve that,” the Housing and Water Minister affirmed.

At Covent Garden, the water-treatment facility is functional.

However, it is undergo-

ing massive upgrades which will see the drilling of a new well and the development of two new water- treatment tanks to boost accessibility and improve capacity.

Upon completion, the plant will be interlinked with the Diamond water-treatment facility.

Further, the new wa-

ter-treatment system located at Sixth Street, Diamond, will be active by Friday, December 22, 2023.

Minister Croal highlighted that the drilling of the well was done in-house by Guyana Water Inc (GWI) and was deemed successful. Currently, the GWI team is connecting it to the main distribution line in Diamond.

Similarly, at the Golden Grove water-treatment plant, a new well is being drilled to double the water output.

Upon completion, residents receiving water from that facility will gain access to 24hour service. The well will also be interconnected to the Diamond water-treatment plant.

Additionally, major development is ongoing at the Caledonia water-treatment plant, which will see the resuscitation of the old storage tank, the construction of a new storage plant, the construction of three filter systems, and the drilling of a new well that will commence in the

new year.

When this is completed, communities between Soesdyke to Garden of Eden will receive treated water on a 24-hour basis.

The project is part of the ministry’s massive programme that aims to construct seven new treatment plants for 2025.

Meanwhile, in Region Four, the ministry is building three plants at Caledonia, Cummings Lodge, and Bachelor’s Adventure.

Additionally, five new treatment plants are currently out to tender, as part of the ministry’s second phase of work.

The tender is expected to close in January 2024. “The programme that we have for treated water is basically from Charity, all the way t o M o l e s o n C re e k and that is the coastal programme to ensure all the households are getting treated water,” the minister pointed out.

Work progressing well on Parika Water Treatment plant

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

The Parika Water Treatment plant is a significant infrastructure project being undertaken by Toshiba Water Company

T H E P a r i k a Wa t e r Treatment plant is a significant infrastructural project being undertaken by Toshiba Water Company.

According to a post on the Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI)’s Facebook page, it is one of seven treatment plants being constructed as part of a larger initiative, with a total investment of $850 million.

The primary objective of the plant is to provide clean and safe drinking water to a substantial population of over 15,000 customers.

GWI Chief Executive Officer, Shaik Baksh, em-

phasised the company's commitment to delivering high quality water to residents.

Baksh’s visit to the site was a testament to the company's dedication to delivering on its promises and meeting the customers’ needs.

The construction of the treatment plant involves the implementation of advanced technologies and state-of-the-art equipment.

Toshiba Water Company is known for its expertise in water treatment solutions, and it is utilising its knowledge and experience to develop

a facility that meets the highest standards of efficiency and effectiveness.

The treatment process at the Parika Water Treatment plant will involve several stages to ensure the removal of impurities and contaminants from the water.

These stages may include sedimentation, filtration, disinfection, and other necessary treatments. The plant will also have monitoring systems in place to continuously assess the quality of the treated water and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Independence Boulevard ‘lights up’ for Christmas - Prime Minister Phillips says gov’t remains committed to improving the lives of residents

THE Albouystown neighbourhood was filled with the spirit of Christmas on Thursday night as Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips flipped the switch to light up the first-ever Christmas tree at Independence Boulevard before distributing toys to the children.

In his address to a sizeable gathering of parents and excited children, Prime Minister Phillips commended the people of Albouystown for keeping the boulevard clean and tidy.

“We have certainly, as a government, worked with you. The people of this community worked with your leadership at the local government level, and we have transformed this area. Improving the lives of the people in this area and the quality of lives have gone up,” he said.

He continued, “Congratulations to not only the government but to you, the people, for keeping the boulevard clean.”

The Prime Minister also wished everyone in Albouystown a Merry Christ-

mas on behalf of President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his government.

Meanwhile, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy took the opportunity to thank all those who participated in making the event a success.

According to him, “We all pooled our talent and our energies together, because we

wanted to make you, the children of Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, and the surrounding areas happy. Our government is about making people happy; our government is about taking care of people; our government is about providing for people, whether they are children, the elderly, the disabled, or every single Guyanese. At the

end of the day, we consider it our duty to take care of our people.”

Minister McCoy further stated that with President Ali’s leadership, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is committed to taking care of their people. Whether it's Christmas, Phagwah, Eid, or any other holiday, they will

always celebrate as a nation with all of their people.

He said: “I want to assure you that your government; the government of Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the president of this country, will continue to serve you. We are providing and investing in you, in school, in the community itself through the provision of recreational facilities,

and through the provision of an environment that you can become all-rounded and you can be able to utilise your energy in a positive way.”

Finally, Minister McCoy extended Christmas wishes and a prosperous New Year to the families of Albouystown on behalf of the First Family. (Cindy Parkinson)

Scenes from the Christmas Tree light-up and toy distribution at Independence Boulevard (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

Boat, bus fares should not Public Works Minister says be increased

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

MINISTER of Public Works, Juan Edghill, has said that neither his ministry nor the agencies within have given any approval for increased boat and bus fares for passengers.

The minister made this disclosure on Tuesday in the National Assembly, as he responded to questions concerning reported fare increases by speedboat operators plying the Parika to Bartica route.

Edghill told the House that the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), which is the body that regu-

lates speedboat services in the country, has not sanctioned, approved or condoned overcharging or increased fares.

Against this backdrop, he said that passengers, especially during this Christmas season, must be aware that this is so to prevent exploitation.

“The Government of Guyana, the Maritime Administration Department, the Ministry of Public Works have not approved any increases in fares for speedboats, and I would take the opportunity to say minibuses as well,” Edghill said.

AS Guyana continues to intensify efforts to promote sustained growth in the livestock industry, another 250 cows are expected to undergo embryo transplants at the Ebini farm in the Tacama area next year.

This was disclosed by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha during an interview at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), on Tuesday.

The initiative would enhance Guyana’s efforts to ensure food security locally and regionally and contribute to the growth of the nation’s cattle industry.

Minister Mustapha noted that Guyana had signed

a contract with a Brazilian company that is helping the nation to conduct artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transplants.

“This year, we did 50 of those embryo transplants which was very successful and we have another 250. By next year, we should complete those. So, that would help us to have a better breed of animal, have more cattle in the industry both for dairy and beef,” the minister stated.

With the government currently constructing a $600 million state-of-the-art abattoir at Onverwagt in Region Five, the agriculture minister stated that there is a great

He related that speedboat operators usually organise themselves into a turn system and are organised by their respective associations.

So, any operator that is charging more than the stipulated fare is not doing so with the blessings of MARAD or the speedboat associations in the various areas.

However, he said that what is reported to them from monitors who are at these stellings, is that some passengers, before the boat is full with the number of passengers, would ask the captain to leave as they are late.

250 more cattle to undergo embryo transplant next year

Cattle on a farm

need to have more cattle.

To this end, he reiterated that Guyana continues discussions with a Brazilian company that wants to bring 1,000 heads of cattle for dairy production here.

“I am looking forward to that. The project can be successful and we can intensify our dairy and beef production in the country,” he explained.

The AI initiative which is spearheaded by the Guyana Livestock and Development Authority (GLDA) is also progressing well since more than 200 cattle in Region Nine are expected to undergo AI by year end.

(DPI)

Sometimes too, the captains would make their own arrangements with passengers to compensate for the empty seats. However, this, Edghill said, is not an approved or condoned practice by the department.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, told the National Assembly that some weeks ago, the agency held a campaign and as a result, eight operators were detained and some were suspended for the practice of increasing fares without approval.

Against this backdrop, he added that when

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

these reports are received they are subsequently acted upon.

Edghill said that these reports could be made to the monitors who are placed at the

various stellings, and he reiterated that an increase in fares was not approved and passengers should be made aware of this.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

CARICOM records ‘steady progress’ in 2023

The following is the full text of the end of year statement by the outgoing Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Roosevelt Skerrit Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica: “OUR Community made steady progress to advance our integration movement in 2023. A highpoint of the year were the joyous celebrations across the Community for the Golden Jubilee Anniversary of the signing of the original Treaty of Chaguaramas.

Under the theme, “50 Years Strong: A Solid Foundation to Build On,” we paused for reflection on the many seminal achievements since 1973 and recommitted to the vision of our Founding Fathers for a prosperous, unified Community.

Outgoing Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica

To further this objective, at our 45th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in Trinidad and Tobago in July, we took the pivotal decisions

to work towards the free movement of all CARICOM nationals within the Community and to advance measures to bring the regional capital market into being, with appropri-

ate attendant amendments made to the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

Our 25 by 2025 food security initiative picked up pace, with several Member States recording important initiatives to reduce our food-import bill, and advance food and nutrition security for our people. Our flagship event, the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, held in The Bahamas in April, allowed focused engagement with the private sector. A critical Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture will prioritise actions to combat food and nutrition insecurity, and improve the climate resilience of agriculture in the Caribbean.

Regional security was brought into sharp focus as we navigated escalating threats to our borders.

We continued strenuous

efforts, including through the interventions of the CARICOM-appointed Eminent Persons Group (EPG), and international advocacy, to find solutions to the multi-dimensional crisis in Haiti and for a return to peace and stability.

To date, five consultations with stakeholders have been undertaken, the last yielding a Framework Agreement to provide a transitional governance arrangement to take the troubled country to free and fair elections. Stakeholders achieved consensus on several aspects of the draft Framework and have agreed to continue discussions.

Efforts have been further bolstered with the pledge of support from several Member States to the Multinational Security Support (MNSS) mission which the UN Security Council has approved.

Our efforts to transition to renewable energy and increase energy efficiency were bolstered with the provision of $20 million in funding from USAID to Caribbean companies with financial and technical assistance and business development services, through the Caribbean Climate Investment Program.

A Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee (PMSC) on Climate Change and the Climate Finance Agenda, with the support of the relevant technical experts and institutions, now provides coordination and oversight of the preparation for interna-

tional climate change and climate finance negotiations.

We continued to pursue targeted regional and international partnerships.

A key outcome of these interactions has been the opening of the CARICOM headquarters of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in Barbados, to expand Africa-Caribbean trade and investment relations in critical economic sectors.

The challenges and achievements of the past year have clearly indicated that acting in concert is our surest way of making the local, regional and international impact that is needed to deepen the CARICOM integration movement.

In this regard, I extend sincere gratitude to my colleague Heads of Government, to leaders across the length and breadth of the Community, and to the staff members of the CARICOM Secretariat. Your contributions have helped to further our mandate of a Caribbean Community of which we can be proud.

My fellow CARICOM citizens, it is with collective will and action that we will achieve our goal of a prosperous, healthy and safe “Community for All”. Let us recommit to pursuing that goal in the coming year. May you have a happy and peaceful end to 2023, and a New Year of success and prosperity.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Prominent Gynaecologist/Obstetrician Dr. Neville Gobin dies

ON December 21, 2023 Woodlands Hospital Limited announced the death of its Managing Director, Dr Neville Gobin, who served for more than 40 years.

He was the resident Gynaecologist/Obstetrician for over three

decades, and dedicated his life to his patients and family.

In a post on social media, Woodlands Hospital Limited said: “Dr Gobin worked tirelessly to ensure that patients visiting the hospital were provided with the best

ASP Jermaine Grant secures Police’s Best Cop award - other ranks honoured for hard work, dedication

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has recognised the hardworking and dedicated policemen and policewomen for their unwavering commitment to the job, and their mandate to serve and protect during the year 2023.

According to a police press release, the overall Best Cop Award for 2023 went to ASP Jermaine Grant of Regional Division #3.

The runner up Best Cop Award went to Sergeant 22578 Hinds of CID Headquarters. Other ranks who were adjudged “Best Cop” in their respective divisions are Sergeant 18482 Dath of Region One; Inspector R. Chattergoon of Region Two; Grant of Region Three; Lance Corporal 22041 Blackman of Region Four; Lance Corporal 19292 Kumar of Region Four ‘B’; Woman Corporal 23212 Semple of Region Four ‘C’; Constable 23861 McDonald of Region Five; Woman Sergeant 19982 Deane Smith of Region Six; Corporal 21009 Li-a-Ping of Region Seven; Inspector Seetaram of Region Eight; Inspector K. Conway of Region Nine; Constable 22925 Moore of Region 10; and Sergeant 22578 Hinds of Police Headquarters.

“The Commissioner of Police, Mr Clifton Hicken and his Admin Team join all Officers and Ranks of

ASP Jermaine Grant

the Guyana Police Force in extending congratulations to all the Best Cop awardees for 2023,” the Guyana Police Force said.

Commissioner Hicken expressed gratitude to all the Commanders who actively participated in the nomination process, and acknowledged the dedication and commitment demonstrated by all the nominees.

“This announcement marks not only a celebration of individual accomplishments but also a collective acknowledgment of the exceptional professionalism exhibited by our law enforcement community. Congrats once again, and we look forward to continued excellence in the coming year,” the GPF said.

possible care. The Woodlands Team remains committed to continuing his legacy.”

In 2020, Dr. Gobin was among six doctors who received national awards. He was bestowed with the Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH)

for his outstanding medical journey over the years.

Dr. Gobin was a household name in Guyana, having delivered many babies and making a great impact through his medical contributions.

Dr. Neville Gobin in discussion with President, Dr. Irfaan Ali earlier this year

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

In loving memory of Dr Neville Gobin The following is the full text of a statement from Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, on the passing of the renowned Dr. Neville Gobin: ON behalf of the Ministry of Health and the medical fraternity, we express our deepest condolences to Dr. Shoba Gobin and the entire family of the late Dr. Neville Gobin.

His passing is a huge loss to Guyana, and we share your sorrow over the departure of a distinguished medical professional and a true pillar of our healthcare community. Dr. Gobin has left behind an incredible legacy of compassion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the field of medicine.

Dr Neville Bhagwandeen Gobin began his remarkable journey in the medical profession, which spanned over 45 years. His early education in India culminated in the achievement of his MBBS, after which he returned to Guyana and commenced his career as an intern under the

Dr Neville Gobin

guidance of the renowned Dr. M.Y Bacchus at the Public Hospital in Georgetown.

In the early 1980s, driven by a thirst for knowledge and excellence, Dr Gobin returned to India to complete his post-graduate diploma in obstetrics and gynaecology.

Upon his return in 1984, he became a private doctor at Woodlands Hospital, where he would go on to shape the healthcare landscape in Guyana for nearly four decades.

Dr Gobin's leadership at Woodlands Hospital was transformative. Serving as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for the majority of his tenure, he successfully propelled the hospital from a small private facility to one of the leading medical institutions in the Caribbean. His commitment to innovation was evident in the introduction of pioneering medical services, including the first compre-

hensive ultrasound service, ultrasound-guided surgery, MRI, CT scan, and the first fully automated laboratory in Guyana.

Dr. Gobin was a trailblazer in the medical field.

He performed numerous surgical interventions for gynaecological cancers. In early 2023, he introduced Guyana's first stem cell therapy for patients, which marked a significant milestone in the country's medical landscape. On the occasion of the launch of this pioneering programme he received encouragement from H.E. President Irfaan Ali. Dr. Gobin's impact extended far beyond the confines of Woodlands Hospital.

As an esteemed lecturer at the University of Guyana School of Medicine, his exceptional teaching skills and vast knowledge in Obstetrics and Gynaecology enriched the education of countless aspiring doctors. His lectures and workshops were known for being informative, engaging, and structured.

As Chairman of the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee, Dr. Gobin played a pivotal role in improving maternal health services in the public sector. His commitment to addressing systemic issues and enhancing antenatal care demonstrated a profound dedication to the well-being of mothers and infants in the community.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, the Government of Guyana bestowed upon Dr. Neville Gobin the Cacique Crown of Honour in 2020. This prestigious national award acknowledged his tireless efforts in advancing maternal and child health, as well as his contributions to the overall improvement of healthcare services in the country.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Gobin was a compassionate community activist. He volunteered for various medical outreaches and served as the President of the Family Planning As-

sociation of Guyana, contributing to the formulation and enactment of progressive legislation, including the Termination of Pregnancy Act in 1996.

Dr Neville Gobin's life was characterised by an unyielding commitment to improving healthcare in Guyana. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the students he inspired, and the advancements he spearheaded.

During this difficult time, we offer our deepest sympathies to Dr Gobin's immediate family, including his wife, Dr. Shoba Gobin, his children, and all those who were touched by his care and compassion. Guyana has lost a true luminary in the medical field, and his absence will be deeply felt in the medical community and beyond.

May Dr. Neville Gobin rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire and guide us in the pursuit of excellence in healthcare.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

‘My violin is my best friend’ — meet violinist Akeem Anthony Adams

By Telesha Ramnarine

WHEN 27-year-old Akeem Anthony Adams considered registering for a class at the National School of Music nine years ago, he hadn’t the slightest interest in learning to play the violin; it was just to accompany his sister to her class because she wanted company.

But Akeem can still remember that afternoon when he first walked into the building and heard the violins being played. It sounded too superb for him not to immediately reconsider his interest in pursuing a class.

“The sound of violins resonates well in halls that echo, and the school’s hallway was just that. So the sound surrounded me and engulfed me and I just knew that I had to go into that

Akeem Anthony Adams

Akeem has been playing the violin for the past nine years

class. There, I got my first violin lesson and I did not look back since,” Akeem reflected in an interview with Buzz this week.

It was never his intention to learn to play the instrument, but he wanted to join the school to pursue the piano and guitar, owing to his background in music during his primary school days in the choir.

“My sister wanted to do the violin and wanted me to join the class because it didn’t have a lot of people and she wanted some com-

pany. So I thought I would spend a day or two and then do what I wanted. But when I went the afternoon, the first thing I heard when I entered the hallway…just hearing the instrument (the violin) for the first time drew me to it.”

It was the sound of teacher Jillian Oak, a volunteer from the United States embassy who would become Akeem’s teacher. Sadly, for him, Ms. Oak moved to Mexico and learning the instrument became increasingly challenging, even frustrating, Continued on page 17

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Cinematographer sets sight on inspiring young film-makers

O N E o f G u y a n a ’s most outstanding cinematographers, Yaphet Jackman, has shared that through his media, film and consultancy company, Bent Street Films (BSF), he will help future film-makers of Guyanese and Caribbean heritage to enhance their skills.

Bent Street Films is close partners with Timehri Film Festival in Guyana and aims to showcase the work of Guyanese and Caribbean film-makers in the region and diaspora, the Guyana Animation Network (GAN) and others.

In a recent interview with the Buzz, the esteemed cinematographer explained that presently they are seeking projects

Yaphet Jackman

‘My violin...

From page 16 but he didn’t quit.

“With the use of YouTube and books and constantly recording myself and listening back so that they could correct my mistakes, I slowly realised that I was making progress and I was getting good feedback from others, so I continued on my journey and now I can say that I really love the instrument because it affords me the opportunity to not have to go to a 9 to 5 job and the opportunity to do something that I love.”

Akeem gets called now for weddings, shows, cocktails, and various other events, and is a regular feature at popular malls and entertainment spots.

Last year, he also became a teacher with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, teaching music to hinterland scholarship students - theory, guitar voice and violin.

“I also find having my students from the hinterland who speak different indigenous dialects sing in their native languages encourages them not to be ashamed of their culture,” he related.

Akeem finds it ironic that, growing up, he did

music theory in secondary school, but would always fail.

“Music theory involves some amount of Mathematics, and I was very slow in that department. However, when I started learning to read music again, around the age of 17, one day I was cleaning and a hammer fell and hit me in the head; it made me dizzy and I went to the doctor and had an x-ray and everything was fine, but I found like a week after that incident, music started to make sense. I could understand how to read the notes; I understood time signatures, my fingers were moving faster on the violin; I don't know if it's a coincidence or so but that is wild,” Akeem shared.

He used to love reading because he felt that it helped him see images in his head with the story. But with that ability taken away from him due to the ‘hammer’ incident, Akeem could no longer read.

“However, playing the violin has filled in the gap of that sort of escape that reading filled in for me. If I want to feel like I want to go to Ireland, I play some Celtic fiddle music; if I'm feeling mysterious, I dabble in some Arabian scales.”

that are geared at working towards developing Guyana’s film industry.

To work with him, Jackman explained that all a person would need is a project that they have belief in.

“If they believe that this project helps, or is important, then we decide if we’re the right fit for this project or not,” he said.

He noted that unlike those production houses in previous times that took any type of project, they actually work along with their clients to ensure the best outcome of the projects.

Jackman noted that when a client wants to work with them, they first have to present their work, which is then reviewed.

He added that as long as they believe that they can work with that client, they work hard to ensure every detail fits their client’s needs.

As a cinematographer, he explained that persons need to have that passion to create good images. In doing so, he related that you will be challenging yourself to understand and find art in the most mundane things.

“Train your eye to always find an interesting perspective on what it is that you are visualising,” he advised.

He remarked that as a business, BSF is repositioning itself to be more involved in film production in Guyana.

(Faith Greene)

Revellers will love ‘Cyril’s Party Bus’

BAR hopping, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, graduation parties, corporate outings, or whatever the occasion is, are all events that can be enhanced with a party bus. It’s a relatively new concept here in Guyana but one that is no doubt on par with international norms and provides party lovers with quite a unique experience.

Pioneering the introduction of a party bus experience, unparalleled in the nation, Cyril's Transportation Service stands out as one of the nation's leading ground transportation providers, “dedicated to unwavering commitments to safety and customer satisfaction.”

Since the debut of its first party bus in May 2022, Cyril’s 2023 marketing endeavours have propelled visibility, resulting in the addition of a second party bus.

Just what is a “party bus” though? It is a huge bus with state-of-the-art lighting, beverage and

he bus features state-of-the-art lighting and other attractions

ice cooler, TV monitor, microphone for singing enjoyment, a surround sound system, dancing pole, fog machine, and an unmatched party atmosphere.

The buses comfortably accommodate 15-18 persons and are equipped to

facilitate various events.

Clients can opt to bring their own drinks and food or choose from available packages.

The options are customised, such as bus decoration upon client request, and the choice to have a mixologist and cocktail

bar for an extra touch of sophistication. “ We m a i n t a i n o u r steadfast commitment with expertly trained drivers, well-versed in navigating the roadways. We've given much thought to safety and boast that these buses not Continued on page 18

Machel Montano opts out of Carnival 2024 18

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

— the 'King of Soca' will be busy writing his master's degree thesis

SEVEN-TIME soca monarch Machel Montano will be hitting the books instead of the stage at next year's Trinidad Carnival.

The 'King of Soca' announced that during Carnival 2024, he will be preoccupied with writing the thesis for his Master of Arts.

The 49-year-old who is in his second year at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), is completing his master degree in Carnival Studies.

As he received the keys to the City of San Fernando at Skinner Park on December 10, the 'Like Yuh Self' singer said he made the announcement last year, but "I don't think it registered."

"This is my second year, I am writing my thesis. This is my final year.

The work is very heavy," he said.

Montano emphasised that the thesis was intense as it required studying the history of calypso, steelband and mas, academic writing, history and social science.

"I am doing all of this because I want to set a foundation for the next level of Machel Montanos who are coming."

"If you don’t know where you are coming from, you can’t know where you are going," said the soca star, as he appealed to fans for their understanding. (Loop News)

Machel Montano

Revelers will love ‘Cyril’s...

The buses comfortably accommodate 15-18 persons

only ensure the elimination of driving under the influence, From page 17 but also guarantee complete privacy for an unrestrained celebration,” Public Relations and Marketing Officer, Handel Jacobs, told Buzz, adding, “We offer a secure environment for patrons to revel in their special occasions with friends and family.”

The service allows for personalised pick-up locations, route selection, on-the-go stops, passenger pick-ups, and the option is also given for persons to choose their drop-off points, all within the contracted rental timeframe.

The cost is $20,000 per hour and to book, persons can call or WhatsApp 600-1234 or email: bookings@cyrilstransportation.com.

“Cyril's Party Bus ensures an unforgettable and safe experience, allowing patrons the freedom to revel in their festivities with style and comfort,” Jacobs said.

‘The Crown’ star Dominic West says he can understand criticism of the show

THE Crown star Dominic West has said he can understand criticism of the show's depiction of royal life.

The sixth and final season of the Netflix hit dramatised events including the death of Princess Diana.

West, who played Prince Charles in the last two seasons, said: "I can understand why people think this is too close to the actual events and that the grief is still so real."

He said he "did think a lot about that" before taking the role. "I still do."

West told BBC Radio 5 Live he had persuaded himself that the Royal Family were "fair game" -- but he was "uncomfortable" with that idea.

In recent years, the show has faced growing criticism for using artistic licence to portray private royal life and sensitive events.

Last month, the Guardian's review said it "borders on the exploitative," while the Telegraph called it "intrusive and

Dominic West played Prince Charles in the last two seasons, with Elizabeth Debicki as Princess Diana (KEITH BERNSTEIN/NETFLIX photo)

clumsy."

Showing Prince Harry's imagined reaction to being told about his mother's death amounted to "intruding upon the worst moment of someone's life for the purpose of entertainment," the Telegraph said.

The Times' TV critic praised the first part of the final series, despite the fact it was "obviously mining trage-

dy for ratings."

Speaking to 5 Live's Nihal Arthanayake, West said: "I acknowledge that there's discomfort about it, and I can see why people think that way, and I have persuaded myself that the Royal Family are public property and therefore fair game.

"But I'm still uncomfortable with the thought of anyContinued on page 19

Netflix takes 'Stranger Things' to the stage in London

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

THE unusual world of Hawkins, Indiana, came alive in London on Thursday as Netflix (NFLX.O) debuted a stage play based on its hit sci-fi series, "Stranger Things."

Called "Stranger Things: The First Shadow," the play takes place in 1959, two decades before the period explored in the TV show. It was produced by Matt and Ross Duffer, the brothers who created the series.

Jim Hopper and Joyce Maldonado -- adult characters in the TV show -- are seen as high school classmates with normal teen concerns about cars and classes until a new student arrives.

"It sheds a lot of light on both the back story of all our characters and also starts to give some hints on where we are heading into the final season of the show," Matt Duffer said at the premiere of the play in London's West End.

"Stranger Things" debuted on Netflix in 2016 and became the company's most-watched English language series. The show tells the story of a group of teenagers battling supernatural events in the fictional town of Hawkins.

The fifth and final season of "Stranger Things" was delayed by two Hollywood strikes this year.

Production will resume in January for what is expected to be a year-long shoot, Matt Duffer said.

"It's a huge season, it's massive," he said. "There are a lot of expectations, but you take it a day at a time.

It's going to be challenging but super rewarding."

Netflix is working to turn "Stranger Things" into a long-running franchise. In addition to the stage play, the company has greenlit an animated spinoff series.

‘The Crown’ star...

From page 17 one being fair game or anyone's private life being made public."

However, he put his trust in writer Peter Morgan, and "he's a proven great dramatist so that trust was easy to give," the actor added.

Although he felt conflicted over the role, West told 5 Live: "Someone like me can't turn down a part like Charles.

He's so interesting. He's so complex.

"I did agonise for a while about it, but my wife tells me the result was always inevitable."

He jokingly added that

one of the negatives when he considered the part was that he had to "forgo the British Empire Medal that I might have got for services to acting."

The final season, which also includes Prince William meeting Kate Middleton and Princess Margaret's death, was met with generally negative reviews from critics.

Both the Independent and The Telegraph gave the season two-star reviews, with the latter writing that "a once fine drama abdicates with a miserable whimper." (BBC)

Actors take the curtain call after performing in 'Stranger Things: The First Shadow' at Phoenix Theatre in London, Britain on December 14, 2023 (REUTERS/Isabel Infantes)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

England keep places open for Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer in T20 World Cup squad

Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will have places kept open for them in the England team for the 2024 T20 World Cup, says coach Matthew Mott.

All-rounder Stokes is recovering from a knee operation and hopes to be fit to captain England in the Test series in India from January.

Fast bowler Archer has not featured for England since March because of an elbow injury.

Mott said Stokes was a "rare" talent and lauded Archer's "box-office pace".

"Every team in the world wants someone like that [Stokes] and they're rare," said Mott.

He pointed to Stokes' "incredible match-winning

Jofra Archer

ability in every department" and said the "ability to have a seam bowler in that top six gives you so many options with your team balance".

Mott added: "A lot of the times you have to give up something. If you win, everyone says 'oh, they got it right'. If you lose, it's 'they

were a bowler short or a spinner short'.

The 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and United States takes place in June.

Archer has been hampered by a series of injuries which have kept him out of Test cricket since 2021 and allowed him to play just seven white-ball games in 2023.

He has not been selected in the Test squad to tour India.

"In terms of Jofra, you've just got absolute box-office pace, change of pace, bowl any over in the innings. Him on the park is massive, everyone would agree with that," said Mott.(BBC Sport)

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23

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

European Super League: Revamped proposal launched for European competition

REVAMPED plans for a controversial European Super League have been announced after a top court ruled that banning clubs from joining a breakaway league was unlawful.

The proposal is for a league system which would include 64 men's clubs and 32 women's clubs.

The plans for a new ESL format would rival current UEFA tournaments.

Following the announcement, Manchester United said in a statement they remain "fully committed" to UEFA competitions.

United were one of the founding clubs of the original ESL but backed out following widespread condemnation of the plans.

The club said their position has "not changed" and they remain dedicated to "positive cooperation with UEFA, the Premier League, and fellow clubs through the ECA [European Clubs Association] on the continued development of the European game."

A case was brought by the ESL and its backers claiming UEFA and FIFA were breaking competition law by threatening to sanction those who joined the

Plans for a breakaway Super League were widely condemned when they were announced in April 2021

breakaway league.

On Thursday, the European Court of Justice ruled against the governing bodies but said that did not mean a breakaway league would "necessarily be approved".

But the ruling has opened the door for new proposals to be put forward and for clubs to look to organise and manage European football competitions.

Put forward by A22 backers of the original ESL - the new proposal outlines an annual promotion and relegation system with no

permanent members.

Fans would also be able to watch live matches for free on a new digital streaming platform.

No clubs or prize money have been announced but in a statement the ECA said: "To be absolutely clear, the judgement in no way whatsoever supports or endorses any form of Super League project.

"Football is a social contract not a legal contract - all the recognised stakeholders of European and world football - spanning

confederations, federations, clubs, leagues, players and fans - stand more united than ever against the attempts by a few individuals pursing personal agendas to undermine the very foundations and basic principles of European football."

Following the ECJ's ruling, the Football Supporters Association said: "There is no place for an ill-conceived breakaway super league.

"Supporters, players and clubs have already made clear they don't want a stitched-up competition - we

Player, helped the Sixers to their seventh win in eight games.

The Cameroonian scored 20 points in the first half then completed the seventh 50-pointer of his career and second of the season late in the fourth quarter.

It inflicted a first loss in five games on Western Conference leaders the Timberwolves.

"That's one of the best teams in the league and the best in the West," Embiid said. "I'm glad everybody

just showed up."

Embiid, the NBA's top scorer, averaging 34.4 points per game, also became the first Sixers player since Wilt Chamberlain in 1967 to score more than 40 points and 10 rebounds in three consecutive games.

Tyrese Maxey added 35 points for the Sixers, forming a prolific partnership with Embiid.

"He [Embiid] does it every night so consistently," Maxey said. "We expect it of him and he goes

out there and performs every single night."

Elsewhere, the Boston Celtics moved to 21-6 at the top of the Eastern Conference with a 144119 victory against the Sacramento Kings.

Jaylen Brown and Derrick White each scored 28 points in the absence of top scorer and rebounder Jayson Tatum who has a sprained ankle.

The LA Clippers extended their win streak to nine games with a 120111 victory against the

all want to see the trigger pulled on the walking dead monstrosity that is the European Zombie League.

"While the corpse might continue to twitch in the European courts, no English side will be joining.

"Success must be earned on the pitch, not stitched-up in boardrooms."

The ESL saga began in April 2021 when news broke that 12 teams - including English teams Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham - had signed up to the breakaway competition.

There was widespread fury and condemnation from fans, European domestic leagues and even government, leading to the collapse of the plans within 72 hours.

Revamped European Super League format - how would new competition work?

The proposal from A22 says the new competition would include the continent's top clubs in men's and women's football.

In the men's competition, the top tiers - the Star League and the Gold League - would each consist of 16 teams while the Blue League, the bottom tier, would consist of

32 clubs with promotion and relegation between each tier.

The teams that finish in the top eight of each league go into the knockout stages, with quarter-finals and semi-finals played over two legs and the finals held at neutral venues.

The bottom 20 teams in the Blue league would be relegated from the competition entirely and replaced by the top-performing clubs from European domestic leagues.

The two teams that make the final of the Gold and Blue leagues would be promoted up a tier, while the two teams that finish bottom of the Star and Gold leagues would be relegated down a tier.

Matches would be played in midweek, allowing the new competition to be run in tandem with European domestic leagues.

The proposed women's competition would be run on a similar model.

"Our position has not changed. We remain fully committed to participation in UEFA competitions, and to positive cooperation with UEFA, the Premier League, and fellow clubs through the ECA on the continued development of the European game."(BBC Sport)

NBA: Sixers’ Joel Embiid with longest scoring run in 51 years JOEL Embiid scored a season-high 51 points and 12 rebounds as the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 127-113.

The 29-year-old is the first NBA player to score more than 30 points and 10 rebounds in 12 consecutive games since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar 51 years ago.

Abdul-Jabbar's record stands at 16 games for the Milwaukee Bucks in 1972.

Embiid, the NBA's reigning Most Valuable

Embiid and Maxey scored a combined 86 points of the Sixers’ 127

Dallas Mavericks. Kawhi Leonard scored 30 points and 10 rebounds for the Clippers.

Meanwhile, two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jok-

ic scored 31 points and added 15 rebounds as reigning NBA champions the Denver Nuggets beat the Toronto Raptors 113104.(BBC Sport)

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Jason Holder: Test career is ‘by no means’ over after Australia tour opt-out

JASON Holder says that his decision to make himself unavailable for West Indies' Test series in Australia next month was prompted by his desire to focus on T20 cricket ahead of a World Cup on home soil in June 2024.

Holder, who captained in 37 Tests between 2015 and 2020, does not feature in the 15-man squad named by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Wednesday, which includes seven uncapped players, and for which Alzarri Joseph has been named as Kraigg Brathwaite's deputy.

Instead, Holder will be playing in the ILT20 in the UAE during January's Test series, but has spoken extensively with the board in recent months and has made clear his desire to play Test cricket again after the World Cup. "By no means is this me turning my back on Test cricket," Holder told ESPNcricinfo. "It's not curtains for me in Test cricket by any means. It's my first time going through something like this and I felt that it was necessary to be as honest and as open with CWI as I possibly can. It was a very difficult decision: I just feel as though this is the right cricketing decision for me at this time.

"It was a difficult one.

But as much as I love Test

Jason Holder wants to concentrate on T20 cricket ahead of next year’s World Cup in the Caribbean • (Getty Images)

cricket, I want to give myself the best chance of playing in that World Cup. I felt it was probably best to prioritise and focus on playing as much T20 cricket leading up to that as possible. I will probably sleep a little bit better knowing that I've given myself the best opportunity to do that."

CWI told players that, in order to be considered for World Cup selection, they needed to make themselves available for both the ongoing series against England and February's T20Is in Australia. In doing so, Holder compromised his availability for the Big Bash League and will miss the end of the ILT20; playing the Test series in Australia on top of that would have ruled him out of the entire competition.

Holder was an 18-yearold fan the last time that the Caribbean hosted a men's ICC event, the 2010 World T20: "To see it unfold, particularly in Barbados, was a major spectacle for me," he said. It is the prospect of featuring in the same tournament 14 years later which he identifies as the reason underpinning his decision to turn down January's Test series.

"I've never played a World Cup at home: I really, really want to be a part of it because I love playing in front of the fans in the Caribbean," he added. "I think we've really got a good chance of lifting the trophy… the cricket that we've been playing in the last couple of months gives us real encour-

found that Curran then "attempted to perform a practice run-up and run at pace straight towards the umpire, who stood in the bowling crease facing Curran. The umpire stepped to his right to avoid the risk of collision."

The incident was deemed to be "intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire or match referee" under the Cricket Australia code.

According to the BBL's

rules, only the captain and team coach are permitted to walk on the pitch to assess its condition prior to the start of play, with spiked footwear also not allowed before the match.

Former Australia women's captain and head of the Sixers, Rachael Haynes, said: "Tom and the club maintain that Tom did not knowingly or intentionally intimidate a match official and, on legal advice, we will exercise our right to appeal

agement that we can go there and do something special.

Why wouldn't I want to give myself the best chance to be a part of it?

"I've been an all-format player for probably the last eight or nine years. If you look at the current scope of the sport in general, it's now a more common trend based on the dynamics of world cricket: everything is constantly evolving. There are leagues popping up here, there and everywhere and there are quite a number of options for players.

"It all depends on what a player wants in terms of his career. It's a profession, and there's a massive window in terms of franchise cricket early in the year. The main part of my decision is to prioritise playing as much T20 cricket as I can leading up to the T20 World Cup - and of course, in doing so, there is also the opportunity to maximise your earnings."

The launch of the ILT20 and South Africa's SA20 which Holder featured in earlier this year - has contributed to January becoming saturated with T20 leagues, along with the BBL and the Bangladesh Premier League.

Johnny Grave, CWI's chief executive, believes that it represents a fundamental shift in the global game.

"That month has gone

from being a southern hemisphere international window to now a very key month, with leagues fighting to get the best players," Grave told ESPNcricinfo. "When you look at what's on offer for five weeks' work, it's become a really compelling option for players at a certain stage of their careers."

CWI and Holder have been in open discussions about his availability in recent months, and the board announced last week that, along with Kyle Mayers and Nicholas Pooran, he had turned down a central contract for 2023-24. "I was disappointed that we couldn't reach a common ground in me signing a central contract, but I understood why that wasn't an option in the end," he said.

Holder's decision gives other players the chance to perform in the Test series in Australia. Grave cited the example of West Indies' tour to Bangladesh in early 2021, when a number of players opted out: Mayers - who, like Holder, will miss the Australia Tests - made his international breakthrough as a result. "Nobody is guaranteed a spot, and we want that competition for places," Grave said.

"We accept that players have to make choices and we hope that players understand

that we also have to make choices. We're not going to change the philosophy that we can't guarantee any players selection for any international series. We're certainly not moving on from Jason Holder, but him not being in Australia will create an opportunity for someone else to perform."

But Holder still hopes to be part of their three-Test tour of England in July and the two-match home series against South Africa that follows: "I will do everything possible to make myself eligible for those Test series and have spoken to the coach and selectors to reiterate that," he said. That will include playing first-class cricket in the West Indies Championship - and, after going unsold in Tuesday's IPL auction, potentially in England's County Championship.

Both Holder and Grave stressed that their conversations had been transparent, and CWI's administration are conscious of the sport's evolution "We're not going to deny NOCs [No Objection Certificates] or get into public spats with players," Grave said. "If they choose not to play for West Indies, we're not going to try and punish them.

We've moved on from those days."(Cricinfo)

Sydney Sixers and England all-rounder Tom Curran banned for intimidating umpire

CRICKET Australia found that Tom Curran was involved in a disagreement with an umpire during the warm-up.

Curran, 28, and his club denied the offence and plan to appeal.

In the build-up to the match, the fourth umpire -who is tasked with supervising the pitch -- asked Curran not to run on the pitch.

But Cricket Australia's code of conduct commissioner Adrian Anderson

the decision.

"We will support Tom during this period and look forward to him returning to the field."

The ban means Curran, who has not played for England since 2021, will miss the Sixers' clash with Adelaide Strikers on Friday and will not be available until their match against Brisbane Heat on 3 January.

England all-rounder Tom Curran

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Samson ton, Arshdeep four-for gave India ODI series win

A STATEMENT-MAKING maiden ODI century from Sanju Samson, followed by a tidy bowling partnership between Arshdeep Singh and Washington Sundar, sealed the three-match ODI series in India's favour, as the visitors won by 78 runs against South Africa at Boland Park.

Samson's first century in India colours lifted the team to a strong 296 for 8 in the first innings, but the total seemed within reach of South Africa while Tony de Zorzi batted. He crunched 81 in 87 balls to keep the hosts on course, keeping the runs flowing even as South Africa lost Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen early.

(Scores: India 296 for 8 (Samson 108, Tilak 52, Hendricks 3-63) beat South Africa 218 (de Zorzi 81, Markram 36, Arshdeep 4-30) by 78 runs) He smacked six fours and three sixes before Arshdeep's yorker ended his stay in the 30th over. Arshdeep, who dismissed Hendricks with the new ball and

then Keshav Maharaj and Lizaad Williams in his final spell, finished with 4 for 30 after a clinical bowling display. After an initial lack of control with the new ball, he made up for it later by getting the ball to effectively nip across to the right-handers.

Washington, playing the final ODI for the rested Kuldeep Yadav, bowled tidily on a surface

TRADITIONAL hardball and softball cricketers from Number 65 Young Titans are the latest players to benefit from “Project Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyama,” the joint initiative between Kishan Das of the USA and Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Executive Anil Beharry.

The club received two pairs of batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves, five pairs of batting gloves, one box, two cricket bats, one pair of thigh pads, 20 caps, one helmet and two gear bags. According to members of the initiative, this gesture is aimed at keeping as many youths as possible off the streets and get them involved in sports.

They pointed out that over the years, too many young kids are caught up in drugs and crime and it is their

hope that the contributions will make a difference in their lives and the communities in which they live.

The caps were donated by former West Indies ‘B’ all-rounder Derek Kallicharran who now resides in the USA. The gear items were recently handed over to club leaders Chandradat Nankooar and Vanessa Khemraj.

Total cricket-related items received/purchased so far: $370 000 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, two trophies, 17 pairs of cricket boots, 31 pairs of batting pads, 33 cricket bats, 29 pairs of batting gloves, 24 thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest guards, two boxes, 10 cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets, one softball cricket bat and 10 boxes of white balls.

In addition to the above, $600,000 worth of gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed,

Sanju Samson celebrates his maiden ODI hundred•AFP/Getty Images

that assisted spin, and accounted for Wiaan Mulder, but more importantly had Aiden Markram caught behind attempting a reverse sweep for 36. Markram's wicket in the 26th over, four overs before de Zorzi's dismissal, effectively started the slide the hosts never managed to shake off.

With Mukesh Kumar and Avesh Khan also picking off Da-

vid Miller and Heinrich Klaasen respectively soon after, South Africa went from 131 for 3 to 192 for 7 in the space of 12.1 overs.

Washington finished with 2 for 38 - even outperforming his senior spin partner Axar Patel (1 for 48) - to compliment Arshdeep's match-winning spell.

Earlier in the day, India were inserted by Markram at the toss, and were in a spot of bother when debutant Rajat Patidar, his fellow opener B Sai Sudharsan and the No. 4 KL Rahul all fell for relatively low scores. Patidar had impressed with a spunky 16-ball 22 but was bowled by Nandre Burger trying to attack.

Sudharsan was gone lbw by Beuran Hendricks while Rahul was out trying to flick Mulder off a two-paced delivery.

It was at 101 for 3 in the 19th over when Samson - promoted to No. 3 for the decider - and Tilak Verma joined hands to anchor the middle overs.

Their 116-run stand in 136 balls held the innings together through a difficult period where

Number 65 Young Titans benefit from Project Cricket Gear former national wicket-keeper/batsman. All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time.

To date, 69 young players from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted from three junior gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 27 bats, five helmets, 23 pairs of cricket shoes, 15 pairs of batting pads, two thigh pads, one bat rubber, 24 pairs of batting gloves and two pairs of wicket-keeping gloves.

In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area have benefitted from two used bats.

Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also received one box of red cricket balls each; Cold Fusion Cricket Club 13 coloured uniforms while RHCCCC got three boxes of balls, 15 white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping

gloves and a set of stumps and bails. Other beneficiaries are the Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem and youth coach, Travis Persaud, softball teams in the Upper Corentyne area, No.65 Young Titans and Just Try CC, national fast bowler Shemar Joseph and Nehemiah Hohenkirk.

Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients.

Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist in identifying talent. Progressive and well-managed cricket clubs with a youth programme will also benefit.

Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.

the slow surface and accurate spin bowling from Maharaj and Markram made run-scoring tough.

In the first ten, India had gained the early momentum by hitting 59 in the batting powerplay but appeared to lose it when Tilak, in particular, was strangled by spin. Their scoring-rate dropped significantly between overs 11 and 30, as the pair built a score at a slow pace, adding only 73 runs in that 20over period.

Tilak's struggles also starved Samson off strike in the initial stage of the partnership, but Samson did not lose patience in his innings building, easing the overall pressure with the occasional boundary to keep India moving.

Once Tilak got his first boundary in his 39th ball to move from nine to 13, the floodgates also opened, with the runs coming more frequently. The 71 runs the pair added between the 31st and 40th overs brought India on track with big hitters to follow,

but Tilak fell to Maharaj for 52 soon after hitting his maiden ODI fifty.

Samson, though, who played relatively risk-free cricket, kept India's score moving. He brushed past his previous ODI high score of 86 comfortably, and in the 44th over reached his maiden century by driving down the ground for a single. His 110-ball century was followed up with a flex of his muscle.

Samson was eventually gone for 108 in the 46th over with a strike-rate of almost 95 in trying to hit Lizaad Williams out of the ground, but his century meant the stage was set for some late fireworks. That was provided by Rinku Singh, who muscled 38 in 27 balls, with some able assistance from Washington and Arshdeep with the bat too, who together contributed 21 in 11 deliveries.

That pushed India to a score of 296 for 8 - including 164 in the last 20 overs - to post a total that appeared above par given the surface on offer.(Cricinfo)

Vanessa Khemraj and Chandradat Nankooar pose with the cricket gear

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Tour of Australia is chance for untried and untested players to shine - Windies Lead Selector Desmond Haynes

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados,(CMC) – Lead West Indies selector Desmond Haynes admitted the Test squad for the Tour of Australia was short on experience, but he said it was an opportunity for the slew of untried and untested players to make a name for themselves against one of the sport’s toughest opponents.

The selection panel led

by Haynes named seven uncapped players in the 15-member squad to be led again by opener Kraigg Brathwaite, with pace spearhead Alzarri Joseph elevated to be his deputy.

The uncapped seven are batsman Zachary McCaskie, wicketkeeper-batsman Tevin Imlach, all-rounders Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, and Kevin Sinclair, as well as fast bowlers Akeem Jordan and Shamar Joseph.

Of the squad, only Brathwaite (87), Joseph (30), long-serving pacer Kemar

Roach (79), and wicketkeeper-batsman Joshua Da Silva (24) have more than 20 Tests under their belts.

“The selection panel decided that it would give some opportunities to players who we have been looking at for the last couple of years,” Haynes said during a virtual news conference after the announcement of the 15-member squad on Wednesday.

“We have got a Tour of England coming up after Australia and a home series against South Africa, so it will be good to see how these guys perform up against a tough opposition like this.”

All, except Greaves, of the seven uncapped players were a part of the West Indies ‘A’ Team – under the guidance of senior team head coach and selector Andre Coley – that went on the Tour of South Africa that ended last week.

Haynes said he expected the players to build on the experience they gained play-

ing there.

“I think we could have done better in South Africa, but you must appreciate that these guys have been involved with the red-ball cricket playing against the South Africans on similar kinds of pitches that you will get in Australia,” he said.

“It was a situation where we have taken a few of the guys on ‘A’ Team tours, and we believe it’s only right that we give them opportunities.

Australia is always going to be a tough tour, but it’s a good way to show if these guys have got the ability to go on and do well at this level. If you do well against Australia in Australia, it’s very good, and it can set your career on a high.”

Haynes said the selection panel recognised that of the batsmen in the squad, only Brathwaite and Da Silva had played Tests in Australia previously, but the One-day and Twenty20 International series against England pre-

vented them from exposing other players that they may have considered on the ‘A’ Team tour of South Africa in preparation.

“We had to also look at a situation where there were tours overlapping,” he said.

“We had players playing in the white ball in the Caribbean against England, and you had a group of guys in the ‘A’ squad in South Africa, so we were looking at players who were playing the red-ball cricket and getting enough red-ball practice that we believe could do a good job in Australia.

“We did take into consideration that a lot of players selected [for Australia] are young and inexperienced, but we are hoping that they will perform well enough to set their careers on a high.”

Haynes said Shai Hope was considered for selection, but the West Indies One-day International captain felt he needed more time playing

West Indies Lead Selector Demond Haynes

red-ball matches to get back in touch with the longer format of the sport.

The lead selector said he owed Jermaine Blackwood a call to explain fully the panel’s decision to omit him, but he stressed that players like the deposed vice-captain and compatriot Nkrumah Bonner have a chance to find themselves again in next season’s West Indies Championship.

Haynes also said Cricket West Indies director of cricket Miles Bascombe con-

tacted Darren Bravo, but the discarded left-handed batsman was sticking to his well-publicised decision to take a break from the game.

Bravo took the decision after failing to make the side for the ongoing whiteball series against England following heavy scoring in the West Indies Super50 Cup in which he was the leading scorer and led Trinidad & Tobago Red Force to the title.

Bowlers, openers give India flying start in Wankhede Test

ALYSSA Healy's hopes of starting off a new legacy for Australia under her captaincy by batting long was thoroughly thwarted

by Indian bowlers on an up-and-down surface at the Wankhede.

Healy kept her end of the bargain by winning the toss and deciding to bat first, but her top-order faltered as India made regular inroads to deny Australia the chance to build and consolidate. In the final session, Australia were bundled out for 219.

To compound their woes, India openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma began briskly as the hosts finished on 98/1 at stumps.

India had a charmed start to the morning as Beth Mooney and Phoebe Litchfield were involved in a miscommunication in the first over that led to the run out of the latter. In the second over, Pooja Vastrakar cleaned up Ellyse Perry, like she did Natalie Sciver-Brunt just last week - with a length

The Indian openers started fluently in response to 219

ball that jagged back sharply to breach the bat-pad gap and rattle the stumps.

Tahlia McGrath arrived with counterattacking instincts and the India quicks offered her ample width for it. She got a couple of re-

prieves as Deepti Sharma put down both chances at slip off the bowling of Renuka Thakur and Sneh Rana.

McGrath went on to score a 52-ball 50 to plot a move on for Australia, but Rana put an end to that.

The off-spinner, in the middle of an exceptionally dry spell, got McGrath to flick uppishly on a flighted full ball. It travelled only as far as mid-wicket where Rajeshwari Gayakwad timed her jump and pouched a sharp

catch.

Mooney and Alyssa Healy looked to take the team to Lunch without any further damage but Vastrakar returned to deny them that.

She went round the stumps and surprised Mooney with an angled in short ball - the last one of the morning session. Mooney fended awkwardly at it, and ended up hitting to Rana at first slip to depart for 40.

Australia's resurrection was down to their skipper and Annabel Sutherland.

They made slow progress in the second session before Deepti Sharma cleaned up Healy to leave Australia five down. Healy's dismissal was also down to the ball keeping extremely low as it sneaked underneath her attempted sweep shot. In the next 10 overs, Australia's downward spiral gathered pace as they went from 143 for 5 to 168 for 8, with Vastrakar returning to dent the visitors with the wickets of Sutherland and Ashleigh Gardner.

India continued to hammer home the advantage as Mandhana and Shafali made a stroke-filled start.

Mandhana got off the mark with a pristine square cut off Kim Garth in the second over while Shafali drove Cheatle for two successive fours.

They took India to 50 in just the eighth over as boundaries came easily to both as.Ellyse Perry struggled to get her footing right and bowled a couple of no-balls in her first over that went for 13 as India really flew off the blocks. Ashleigh Gardner arrived to put the brakes but Shafali punished Perry at the other end.

With less than 10 minutes for close of play, Jonassen gave Australia a reason to break out a faint smile as she trapped Shafali leg before. Shafali walked off for 40 off 59 and India finished the day on 98/1, with Mandhana going strong at 43 not out.

(Cricbuzz)

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

Usman Khawaja charged over black armband in support of Gaza Australia opener Usman Khawaja has been charged by the International Cricket Council for wearing a black armband in support of civilians in Gaza during the first Test against Pakistan.

Khawaja, 37, did not wear shoes bearing the words "all lives are equal" and "freedom is a human right" in Perth, as he had in training.

The ICC deemed him in breach of its clothing and equipment regulations.

Khawaja is free to play in the second Test, starting on 26 December.

However, he faces further sanctions if he wears an armband again or makes an on-field statement in support of Palestinians without the permission of the ICC and Cricket Australia.

At least 20,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been reported killed since Israel began bombing the territory in the wake of Hamas' 7 October attacks, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry.

Under ICC regulations, players cannot display messages of political, religious or racial causes during international matches.

Khawaja, who is Muslim, has said his message is a "humanitarian appeal" and not a political statement.

"Usman displayed a personal message during the first Test match against Pakistan without seeking the prior approval

of Cricket Australia and the ICC to display it, as required in the regulations for personal messages," said an ICC spokesperson.

"This is a breach under the category of an 'other breach' and the sanction for a first offence is a reprimand."

Khawaja said he would "fight" the decision when he was told not to wear the shoes, which featured writing in red, green and black - the colours of the Palestinian flag.

He posted a video message on social media in which he reiterated his support for civilians in Gaza.

"The ICC have told me that I can't wear my shoes on-field because they believe it's a political statement under their guidelines. I don't believe it is," he said.

"I will respect their view and decision but I will fight it and seek to gain approval."

Cricket Australia previously said it supported "the right of our players to express personal opinions" but that it expected them to uphold the ICC rules.

In 2014 England all-rounder Moeen Ali was warned to stop wearing wristbands showing support for Gaza during a Test against India.

Khawaja is set to speak to the media in Melbourne today.

Australia lead the three-match series 1-0 before the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Usman Khawaja scored 41 and 90 as Australia won the first Test by 360 runs

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 22, 2023

West Indies beat England in deciding fifth T20 to clinch series 3-2

ENGLAND lost the fifth and deciding T20 against the West Indies by four wickets in Trinidad to suffer a 3-2 series defeat.

After being put in to bat, England struggled for fluency at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and were bowled out for 132 off 19.3 overs.

Sam Curran gave England a chance with a brilliant penultimate over, taking a wicket and conceding two runs, to leave the hosts needing nine from the last.

But Shai Hope's mighty six sealed victory with four balls to spare.

England fought well with the ball, Reece Topley impressing with 2-17 and Adil Rashid taking 2-21, but Hope's crucial run-aball 43 not out proved the difference.

Playing on the same pitch on which they scored

Shai Hope made a crucial 43 not out to ensure the West Indies beat England in both white-ball series on this tour

a record 267 in the fourth T20, the tourists' timing was thrown off, with the surface offering more for the bowlers and West Indies' attack showing much more consistency.

The in-form Phil Salt hit

38 but only Liam Livingstone and Moeen Ali, with 28 and 23 respectively, also made telling contributions as England lost their last five wickets for just 11 runs.

The defeat completes a disappointing end to the

year for England's white-ball sides after a 2-1 series defeat in the one-day internationals that preceded the T20 leg of the tour, and the group-stage exit of the 50-over World Cup in November.

England's batting falters

in decider After two magnificent batting displays to level the series from 2-0 down -- chasing 223 in Grenada before the onslaught at this same venue -- a third straight win proved a challenge too far for England.

The pitch played completely differently to Tuesday, though England opener Salt still showed signs of his touch and power before canny slow left-armer Gudakesh Motie got one to pitch on leg stump and rip out middle.

Salt's dismissal left England 60-3 in the seventh over and they never really recovered, with many left batters left ruing some loose dismissals.

Captain Jos Buttler earlier miscued a ramp shot to short fine leg, Harry Brook was caught off a top edge when mistiming a sweep

and Livingstone chipped one back to Motie just as he appeared to be setting himself for a counterattack.

Andre Russell rolled back the years in a masterful death-bowling display, expertly mixing his variations to restrict England's struggling lower order and remove Chris Woakes and Rehan Ahmed with consecutive deliveries.

While England's bowlers also benefitted from the surface, West Indies were under little pressure with the luxury of knowing their target, and even as the tension rose in the 19th over, the victory never felt out of reach.

Hope exuded class and calmness throughout to anchor the chase, before launching Woakes over cover to finish the game and the series in style.

Captains promise exciting KFC School Football final

JAMAICA’S Clarendon College and Trinidad’s St. Benedict’s College promise an exciting end to today KFC's fourth KFC International Schools Under-18 Football tournament.

Speaking on the eve of the final, both captains expressed a desire

to produce their best to lift the title and know it would be a tough match, given the calibre of the teams.

Both teams are undefeated in the tournament but had contrasting semi-final victories on Tuesday evening at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Av-

enue.

Clarendon will face St. Benedict’s College at 20:00hrs, while VW04 will take on Chase Academic Foundation for third from 18:00hrs.

The top school will cop a prize of US$2,500, followed

by US$1,500 (second), US$1,000 (third) and

US$500 (fourth).

Former champions D.C Caesar Fox Secondary (Waramadong), St. Ignatius Secondary, Bartica Secondary, and Carmel Secondary were the other participating teams in the tournament.

St. Benedict’s College captain Jeremiah Joseph (left) and Clarendon’s Deandre Gallimore with the championship trophy

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| FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2023