Issuu

FRIDAY 4th March, 2022

Sugar can be sweet again

No.106652

–– Guatemala offers to assist Guyana in revitalising sugar industry

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President, Dr Irfaan Ali and President of Guatemala, Alejandro Giammattei in discussion on Thursday (Office of the President photo)

Local security 02 company positions to serve O&G sector PAGE

From the 07 brink of death to life again PAGE

Members dissociate themselves from ‘politically twisted’ claims of NGOs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

GEB positioning to serve O&G sector By Jared Liddell

CHIEF Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana’s oldest locally-owned private security firm, GEB Security Services Inc., Maurice Amres says the company is taking steps to benefit from the massive opportunities in the oil and gas sector. He told the Guyana Chronicle that his company intends to become one of the

newer security firms providing services to the major sector. The GEB Security Services Inc. received ISO 9001:2015 certification from Global Compliance Service Guyana Inc. on Thursday. The company provides armed and unarmed security services, and is the first here to receive this internationally-recognised certification in 2022. Amres’ interest in serv-

ing the oil-and-gas sector started a few years ago when he was approached to provide security services to the sector. He noted that while his company offers efficient and quality service, it lacked ISO certification, which is required for firms entering the oil-and-gas sector. The 52-year-old company provides baton, canine and armed services to embassies, high commissions, large corporations, factories

and banks; it also offers marine services for businesses that require river boat patrol and marine guards. ISO 9001 is the internationally recognised standard for a quality management system (QMS) that was developed and published by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). This certification provides a model for companies of all types and sizes to improve their internal systems,

GEB Chief Executive Officer Maurice Amres, and his wife, Chief Finance Officer Chandra Amres with the company’s certification on Thursday (Elvin Croker photo) build quality management nese companies and Guyasystems, and operate ef- nese nationals by the end of fectively at different levels, 2022. For instance, by the including the ability to focus end of 2022, oil companies on customer requirements, and their sub-contractors and constantly find ways to must ensure that 100 per become resilient and sus- cent of their ground transtainable. portation needs are satisfied This standard is based by Guyanese entities. on seven quality manageThe same percentage ment principles: Having applies to the provision of a strong customer focus; immigration support serthe involvement of high- vices, customs brokerage level company management; services, and visa and work employee engagement; permit services. Similarly, evidence-based decision- Guyanese should provide 90 making; an outlined process- per cent of the office space based approach; relationship rental and accommodation management; and ongoing services; 90 per cent for improvement of business janitorial, laundry, catering operations. services; 95 per cent pest The certification of GEB control services; 25 per cent Security Services Inc. marks medical services; 20 per the third local security com- cent aviation and support pany to receive ISO certifi- services and 75 per cent location. This move, according cal food supply. to Amres, directly correlates LOCALS IN OIL with the recently enacted AND GAS local-content legislation, and At the recently conwill soon allow his organisa- cluded International Ention the opportunity to enter ergy Conference and Expo, the local oil-and-gas sector. Chairman of ExxonMobil LOCAL CONTENT Darren Woods stressed the LEGISLATION importance of locals being Since the establishment employed both directly in of the oil and gas sector, the oil-and-gas and **spinmany Guyanese individu- off sectors. He noted that als and businesses have even as the company continbenefitted from job oppor- ues to expand its operations tunities and income gener- here, locals play a major role ated from the sector. Those in its sustainability within opportunities are set to see the oil-and-gas sector. a significant increase in Woods said that Exxon, 2022, with the recent enact- since setting up its operament of the local-content tions here, has employed legislation. more than 3,500 Guyanese, Guyana’s Local Content and worked with 800 local legislation, which was tabled suppliers. by Natural Resources Min“From the very beginister Vickram Bharrat, and ning, we worked together subsequently passed in the to ensure that our activiNational Assembly, seeks ties had far-reaching and to ensure that Guyanese and enduring benefits for the Guyanese-owned businesses country and its people. We are given preference when believe it’s vitally imporit comes to providing goods tant that benefits are wideand services to the major oil ly shared. This includes companies operating within increasing the capabilities Guyana’s borders. of the local workforce, and It outlines 40 areas that building new infrastrucoil companies and sub-con- ture,” the ExxonMobil tractors procure from Guya- Chairman related.

Sugar can be sweet again

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

–– Guatemala offers to assist Guyana in revitalising sugar industry

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali and President of Guatemala, Alejandro Giammattei Falla have committed to strengthening bonds of cooperation and friendship between the two counties and have discussed issues of trade, investment, climate change and agriculture, in particular, assisting Guyana with revitalisation of the sugar industry. According to a joint statement, the two Presidents shared the aspirations of both countries to develop broad and effective cooperation for mutual benefit, including in the areas of security, climate change, agriculture and food security. “President Ali and President Giammattei agreed on the importance of a strong partnership in agriculture, particularly in assisting Guyana to revitalise the sugar industry, considering and recognising the significant role of the agricultural sector in achieving food security and economic development,” the statement said. According to data from the International Sugar Organisa-

President, Dr Irfaan Ali and President of Guatemala, Alejandro Giammattei with their respective delegations during the discussion on Thursday (Office of the President photo) tion, Guatemala is the second largest sugar exporter in Latin America and the fifth worldwide. In addition, it is the third largest sugar producer in Latin America and the Caribbean. Research and development, a fundamental pillar for the Guatemalan Sugar Industry, has contributed to improve efficiency and competitiveness each harvest, the Guatemalan Sugar Producers Association said. The association noted that the development of varieties of sugarcane is one of the great

contributions of the country’s research centre, and through the natural crossing of plants, 33 varieties of Guatemalan sugarcane have been developed that are more productive, resistant to pests and climate change. The sugar produced in Guatemala is exported to all continents and according to data from

the Bank of Guatemala (Banguat) in 2020, 59 per cent of sugar exports were destined for countries on the American continent, followed by Asia with 19 per cent, Africa with 13 per cent, Europe with five per cent and Oceania with four per cent. The Guatemalan Sugar Producers Association has noted

that in Guatemala, waste during the process of sugar is used to generate renewable energy and produce alcohol. Guatemala is recognised for its leadership in the generation of energy from the bagasse (biomass).

The Guatemalan Sugar Industry generated 1, 844 GWh renewable energy during 20202021, the association said, pointing out that this has allowed the mills to be self-sufficient and provide the country with 35 per cent of the national energy demand during harvest season. It has also prevented four million tonnes of CO2 from reaching the environment, Guatemala said Meanwhile, the joint statement issued on Thursday also noted that President Ali and President Giammattei expressed their mutual interest in concluding a Memorandum of Understanding in the near future between the two nations to further advance cooperation in the areas they discussed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

President calls on SICA to support CARICOM’s food security agenda

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali on has called for collaboration between CARICOM and the Central American Integration System (SICA) to strengthen and enhance food security in the region. The President made these remarks during an address on Thursday at the fourth CARICOM-SICA Summit in Belize where he stated that the Caribbean Community has embarked on a plan to transform the region’s agriculture sector to meet its food and nutrition needs. As the leader responsible for Agriculture and Food Security for CARICOM, Dr Ali

stated his team is prepared to engage and collaborate with countries within the region to achieve the ambitious agenda. “I wish to use this opportunity to focus on one specific area and as the country with responsibility within CARICOM for agriculture and food security, I offer a readiness to collaborate with countries of the hemisphere to strengthen agri food systems and enhance food security.” To this end, he highlighted that at the meeting, there is great potential as he noted that countries like Guatemala has 25 per cent of its GDP

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coming from agriculture with some 50 per cent of its labour force within the sector. Honduras, he noted employs some 39 per cent of its people in the sector. A number of countries within Central America are global players in the areas of sugar, coffee, banana and cotton just to name a few. “This tells us that the solution to food security and sustainability lies right in this room, what we require is the commitment and joint approach in addressing food security in the region,” he said. As such, he proposed steps that can be taken as part

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of the reset agenda. Prior to the meeting, Dr Ali indicated that discussions have begun with Belize, Costa Rica and Guatemala; these nations have expressed an interest and commitment in supporting CARICOM’s 25 by 2025 plan. This plan seeks to get the region to cut its food imports by 25 per cent by 2025. The President proposed a joint meeting between the Central American Agricultural Council and the Ministerial Task Force established by CARICOM so that the priorities can be married and a time-bound framework

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established in keeping with CARICOM’s mandate on food security. “We are extending and reaching to our friends in this room to support this agenda and support us; you are our first call,” Dr. Ali said. He went on to say that in furthering the agenda, an investment forum has been set for May 19 to 21 to deal specifically with agriculture and food security. He added that the areas that SICA has competitive advantages are almost identical to the areas that CARICOM has identified to boost production and improve competitiveness. “So this is low hanging fruit, very, very low hanging fruit in which we can bring real benefit, real results and

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President, Dr Irfaan Ali show the population of a region that we are not only on prolonged dialogue but here is it that as a joint region we are prepared to put up an actionable timetable that we are going to open ourselves to accountability to the people in achieving the integration that food security and agriculture can bring for us,” President Ali said. With that he extended an invitation to representatives of SICA to attend the agriculture investment forum to be held in May in Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Members dissociate themselves from ‘politically twisted’ claims of NGOs

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has dismissed claims by a number of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), some hardly known, that his government lacks accountability and is out of control as “ridiculous”. The NGOs that made the contentious claims include the Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR); the East Coast Development Committees (ECD7); the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA); the Guyana Organisation of indigenous Peoples (GOIP); the Guyana Society for the Blind (GSB); the Guyana Workers Union (GWU); the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC); the Policy Forum Guyana Inc (PFG); Red Thread; Transparency Institute Guyana Inc. (TIGI) and Ursuline Sisters in Guyana President Ali, in responding to the claims made reiterated that every single project his administration is pursuing, if not approved by the National Assembly, they are discussed in the public domain. “We have established a clear vision for the transformation of our country, we have established a clear

vision for the economic development of our country but it is clear that there are some organisations that are convenient with the truth and are political in nature and they cannot help themselves and their political bias and I do not have an issue if these organisations have a political bias or a political agenda but they must, they must not hide under the cloak of independence,” he said. He emphasised that his government is moving at a rapid pace to fulfil its manifesto promise to the people of Guyana and its role and agenda in Guyana and the region is focussed on the upliftment of Guyana, Guyanese and positing of Guyana as a country of integrity, democracy and where rule of law is the basis on which decisions are made and the development of the country is advanced. Many of the organisations who are accusing his government of lack of transparency and accountability, he said, were silent during the attempts by forces aligned to the then APNU+AFC Government to rig the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections. The Guyana Chronicle

was unable to get into contact with members of most of the complaining groups and those who answered the phone chose not to offer a comment. A representative of the Guyana Society for the Blind, who however agreed to speak but under the condition of anonymity, said the statement the society signed unto does not reflect the views of its wider membership but only that of the President of the society. BASELESS Several Amerindian leaders have also distanced themselves from the controversial statement, contending that it is a wholly disappointing and a baseless attempt by the named NGOs to

request ‘transparency’ and ‘consultations’ of the government when they were not consulted on the content of the statement issued. “In the circumstances, we as duly elected Amerindian leaders, with the required eligible standing to form a part of the National Toshaos’ Council, strongly disassociate ourselves and our fellow elected leaders from any type of endorsement of that erroneous article, the Amerindian leaders said in statement. The statement was signed by Desmond James of Red Hill, Region One; Lloyd Perreira of Wakapoa, Region Two; Ralph Hendricks of Capoey, Region Two; Yvonne Pearson of Mainstay, Region Two; Oren Williams of Batavia,

Region Seven; Shane Cornelius of Karrau, Region Seven; Melena Pollard of Rivers View, Region 10; Lenny Moses of Massara, Region Nine; Zalita Moses of Annai, Region Nine; Timothy Andrews of St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Region Four and Nowell Domingo of Wowetta, Region Nine. The Amerindian leaders said that the National Toshaos’ Council is much more than its Executive Committee, pointing out that it is the collective body of all toshaos in Guyana. The Amerindian Act is clear on the election of the Executive Committee, the Amerindian leaders said. DANGEROUS “The NTC Executive in its current form is not reflective of the collective position of the elected leaders and it would be treading dangerous and contradictory waters to endorse such an inflammatory statement in an attempt to reflect a position of the NTC. Further, it must be made abundantly clear, that any attempt to endorse that incendiary statement was done without consultation.

“We strongly condemn any attempt by any individual or group who seeks to make any public statement on our behalf without due consultation or without the requisite locus standi to do so. Further, it must be noted that, in the interim, as elected toshaos with the confidence of our people, we are aptly capable of speaking out on issues and we have the legal standing to do so,” the Amerindian leaders made clear. They also made clear that they have not endorsed the statement issued by the NGOs and disassociated themselves with any attempt to utilise their name and reputation in “a wholly misrepresented manner”. Minister of Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, has also dismissed the claims in the statement issued by the NGO groups of “paper organisations” as mischievous and unfounded.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

The Fresh Air of Democracy

EXACTLY two years ago an attempt was made to steal the democratic rights of the Guyanese people by the then APNU+AFC regime in collaboration with some rogue elements of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) secretariat. After voting peacefully at the March 2020 National and Regional Elections, the Guyanese people were eagerly awaiting the tabulation and announcement of the election results, only to find that the results were being flagrantly and shamelessly manipulated by the GECOM secretariat to fabricate an APNU+AFC “victory”. Interestingly, the results of all the other regions were satisfactorily tabulated and announced by the GECOM secretariat, except when it came to Region Four, after

it became apparent that the APNU+AFC Coalition was on the verge of losing the elections based on the Statements of Poll (SoPs) supplied to the political parties by the GECOM secretariat after the close of polls. The PPP/C was in the clear lead and the only way open to the Granger administration to perpetuate its life in power was to manipulate the votes in Region Four, the largest electoral district in terms of votes. Of interest to note was that the life of the then regime had already been prolonged by nearly 18 months after it was defeated in a no-confidence vote, but resorted to all manner of judicial gymnastics to stay on beyond its constitutional mandate. And that was exactly what the APNU+AFC attempted to do with the collaboration of ‘rogue’ elements in the GECOM secretariat. Depart-

ing from the well-established practice of announcing results from the actual Statements of Poll, the secretariat in a strange turn of events began the announcement of results in Region Four from a “spreadsheet’ carefully and calculatedly fabricated to project a margin of ‘victory’ in Region Four, sufficiently large enough to ‘negate’ the electoral gains made by the PPP/C in the rest of the electoral districts. Not only were the attempts to rig the results of the elections done in a clumsy manner, but it was done in full view of representatives of the political parties, overseas and local observers and members of the diplomatic community. Former Jamaica Prime Minister Bruce Golding, who headed the Organisation of American States (OAS) Observer Group, said that he “has never seen a more transparent

effort to alter the results of an election.” According to Mr Golding, the recount process which was subsequently done through the intervention of CARICOM, showed glaring instances where the figures presented by the Returning Officer of Region Four had been clearly fiddled with. “You know it takes an extraordinarily courageous mind to present fictitious numbers when such a sturdy paper trail exists,” he said in his report. By way of an example, he disclosed that for Ballot Box #4062, the Statement of Poll (SoP) had indicated 182 votes for the APNU+AFC and 43 votes for the PPP/C. The Returning Officer’s impugned spreadsheet reported those results as 292 for APNU+AFC and 33 votes for the PPP/C. However, when the box was recounted, the numbers in the Statement of Recount (SoR)

were 182 for APNU+AFC and 43 for the PPP/C, the exact figures that appeared on the SoP! These were not isolated cases, but formed a pattern of fictitious and bogus results in Region Four intended to falsely project an inflated number of votes for the APNU+AFC, large enough to overtake the PPP/C’s huge margin of votes in the other electoral districts. The electoral drama took several twists and turns as different results were announced by the then Chief Elections Officer, even after the recount was done and again showed a clear PPP victory. All of that is now water under the bridge thanks to the intervention of the local and international observer groups; the diplomatic community; the judicial system; civil society groups; the private sector; the non-state media and the

society as a whole. After a prolonged and painful period of counts and recounts, the PPP/C was declared winner and Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali was sworn in as the dulyelected President of Guyana. Today, the country is enjoying the fresh air of democracy, although there is still need to strengthen our democratic institutions, in particular, the Guyana Elections Commission to deliver free, fair and credible elections. Some progress has been made in this regard with the removal of some “rogue” elements within the leadership of the GECOM secretariat. Steps are also being taken by the PPP/C administration to amend the electoral laws to impose greater penalties on those who may attempt to engage in electoral malpractices.

Some issues in the aviation sector

Dear editor, I CRAVE your indulgence for the spending of your most valuable time to take cognisance of the salient points hereon as it relates to the labour malpractice in the aviation sector of our country that is coercive and exploitative of the workers in the sector. Over the years, the aviation sector has grown by leaps and bounds and continues to develop. However, sir the same cannot be said for the workers in the industry. As a frequent user of the services over the years, I have been able to observe the exploitation of the workers both ground staff, pilots and engineers, with the ground staff handers and loaders being treated like beasts of burden, having to load aircraft in all kinds of weather inadequately protected in

the lifting of fuel drums and heavy mining equipment unto trollies and pushing some to then be loaded unto the plane, making them prime candidates for hernia surgery. The pilots are slightly above that of a minibus driver and act like prima donnas in their interaction with the travelling public in some cases completely disrespectful and insulting. The attrition rate of engineers is extremely high since most become frustrated with the push around to get their licence or the scheduling of exams for some in most cases as long as two years where they are competent in their duties but with certification means higher pay since responsibility is more, but the operators keep them in limbo until frustration steps in and they leave. The operators are not worried since they have

an entire intake of graduates from the aeronautical school to choose from and the vicious circle continues with them reaping all of the benefits. The travelling public is

contemptuously treated; you buy a ticket for a scheduled flight to your destination is then given a specific time to check-in, some cases very early in the morning. You get there in keeping with the

ticket timing but there is no one thereafter nearly an hour when check-in is started; then for boarding you walk or if in a wheelchair pushed to the plane where you are seated in a cramp position with heavy

equipment and drums to the back of you just being a part of the cargo. Sir it is time the aviation sector is unionised. Yours sincerely, Frequent flyer

Minister Manickchand is a champion for ‘education for all’ Dear Editor, I’M writing this article to highlight a true heroine of Guyana, Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand. The reason I call this woman a heroine is that she’s on an operation of investigating all school dropouts and absentees from school. She is trying to help

them out by visiting their homes and bringing solutions to end illiteracy of our Guyanese children. These are the real duties of a true minister; she is going beyond boundaries to fight for our Guyanese children. Her love for children and education is so admirable that I had to write this article. She is trying to put chil-

dren back in the classrooms in whatever way she can. With education, we can develop moral personality and physical powers to change the world. Without education, society can’t go grow or even develop. The famous Malala said, “Education can change our life’’; “Teachers open the door, but you must enter

by yourself.” – Chinese Proverb and then there is Malcom X, who said “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it. Children are the future for our tomorrow. Your’s sincerely, Annabelle Persaud

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

From the brink of death to life again - former kidney failure patient shares his story

By Tamica Garnett IN human beings, the kidney plays a critical, lifesaving function of filtering out extremely toxic fluid, electrolytes and wastes produced by the body. As such, life with end-stage renal disease, or ‘kidney failure’, is an especially challenging one for those who suffer from the disease. From dealing with persistent muscle ache, tiredness and continuous vomiting to dealing with weekly dialysis and anxiety of the financial burden it brings, staying strong and persevering during kidney failure is a physical, mental, emotional and financial challenge on those who bear the burden. “Picture you waking up but your body isn’t waking up. Sometimes energy would be so low you can’t even open your eyelids. You don’t even have the energy and strength to even come off the bed,” said Richard Manpersaud, 33, as he describes what life was like for him during a period of two years when he lived with kidney failure. Manpersaud, who is originally from Leguan, was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2016. At the time he was working as a gold miner in the interior regions, and originally thought he was suffering from malaria; however, subsequent tests would show it was much worse than he feared. Unable to function properly, he had to leave his job. However, after almost two years of dealing with the illness and its associated challenges, Manpersaud was afforded a life

changing kidney transplant, which was performed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). In celebration of World Kidney Day, which will be commemorated on March 10, Manpersaud sat down with the Guyana Chronicle to share his story of going from a healthy life to living with kidney failure to finally being back to a somewhat normal life after his transplant. Today, thanks to his kidney transplant, Manpersaud’s life has resumed to some level of normalcy. He has even been able to return to work, something that at one point he did not think would have ever been possible. “In general for me life improved a lot after [the] kidney transplant. Now I am currently working again but I never really believed or thought that I would be able to go out back to work again,” he shared. Manpersaud is still coming to grips with how normal his life can be because of the depth of how terrible his life once was. Some days, during his days of kidney failure, Manpersaud wondered how he would make it through. “Sometimes your entire day you will be feeling upset. Sometimes you have nausea all day, you throw up all day because the toxins in your body does be so high,” he relates. VERY UNCOMFORTABLE “You get muscle cramps. You have a lot of pain in your body, sometimes your muscle just seizes up while you’re walking. Your feet will swell, your belly swells. You don’t get any appetite to eat. Some-

times for a week you cannot eat a meal. You cannot sleep lying either, you start getting shortness of breath. So if you want to sleep you have to sleep in a sitting position. I went through that for nearly two years, it wasn’t a pleasant experience.” But to ease the physical burdens of the disease would mean amplifying the financial burdens, primarily through dialysis and medication costs. Dialysis is a process that substitutes the functions of the kidney by passing a person’s blood through a machine that flushes out the toxins and returns it to the body. Patients suffering from kidney failure need between two to three dialysis sessions per week; with dialysis costing between $12,000 to $15,000 per session, the cost to patients ranges between $1.248 million to $2.34 million per annum. Shortly after first being diagnosed with kidney failure in 2022, Manpersaud started dialysis and needed three sessions per week. The financial burden was instantly overwhelming. “It cost $15,000 per session. Fortunately, I had some help from my entire family, which came together and helped me financially. But that only lasted for so long so I reached out to the government through the Ministry of Health to get some subsidy but at that time it was limited,” he explains. During Manpersaud’s ailment the government was sponsoring only up to 40 dialysis sessions per year per patient; however, Manpersaud and many others like him,

Bahadur turns self in, released on $200,000 station bail

ONE day after a wanted bulletin was issued for her arrest, Amrita Bahadur turned herself over to the police, on Thursday, while in the company of her attorney, Bernard DaSilva. Bahadur was wanted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in connection to allegedly obtaining money by false pretence which occurred in Georgetown between June 2021 and

Amrita Bahadur

February 2022. The woman, who resides at Garnett Street, Georgetown, turned herself over to police at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters at Eve Leary. Bahadur was released on $200,000 station bail with an added condition that she report to the police station once weekly. This is an active investigation.

Richard Manpersaud needed 156 sessions per year. GRATEFUL Though he is past his dialysis days, Manpersaud could not stop praising the government’s implementation of the Dialysis Support Programme, which was included in the 2022 Budget, and will give each patient up to $600,000 per annum towards their dialysis treatment. Knowing the struggles of the financial burden of affording dialysis, Manpersaud is glad that others like him will now have greater relief. Manpersaud also commended the government for addressing the situation of shortages of key medications needed by dialysis patients. He shared that during his kidney failure

days, in a scary occurrence, the GPHC ran out of the vital medication for patients with kidney failure. “We had a medication shortage at GPHC, and myself and fellow kidney transplant patients went through a lot of stress. Some persons who were wealthy and had surplus they shared with others but we went through a tough time,” Manpersaud shared, still troubled by the memory of how dealing with a tough illness was unnecessarily made even harsher. Fortunately, Manpersaud shared, since the change of government in 2020, there has been a more efficient management of medication at the GPHC.

“For the past two years we have had no problems with medication at the GPHC. We have the right amount and we’re very grateful for that,” he said. Notwithstanding getting over the biggest hurdle, that is, getting a kidney transplant, it does not mean Manpersaud is entirely in the clear. Even after the transplant, patients must then be on continuous medication, for which there still remains a major financial burden Manpersaud is grateful for life. His days of dialysis came to an end in 2018 when he underwent kidney transplant surgery. The positive change to his physical health was instantaneous. “I felt good from day one. After kidney transplant, as soon as I woke up from surgery I already felt good, and the road to recovery that wasn’t tough at all. All that I had to wait to heal was my surgery wounds,” Manpersaud related. “I would like to recommend to anybody if you have kidney failure and you have a donor go ahead and get your surgery done. The government is also helping you with the funds to do the cross-matching test and that is the biggest expense for the kidney transplant. Because transplant is free.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Parents applaud gov’t for rollout of textbook initiative

- as distribution to primary school pupils commences countrywide

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand hands over a few textbooks to a Number 48 Primary School pupil BATOOL Jaiprashad, a 68-year-old grandmother, was overwhelmed with joy

Ann Marie Richardson

as she collected her quota for her three grandchildren when the distribution of textbooks to primary school pupils got underway in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on Wednesday. The event was launched by Minister of Education Priya Manickchand herself, at the Number 48 Primary School in East Berbice, around the same time a similar exercise was being held also at the Corriverton Primary School. Ms. Jaiprashad feels what the government is doing is commendable, as they are ensuring that children have access to resources that

are necessary for learning. She noted that her three grandchildren, aged eight, nine, and 10, are in Grades Three, Four and Six, respectively, and that it was only last week that she used the last of her savings to purchase a Mathematics textbook for one of them. Worried, thereafter, as to where she’d find the financial resources it would take to buy all the books the three kids needed, Ms. Jaiprashad said, “Yuh nah know how much this means to me; me ah depend only pon meh pension, and me ah send three children to school. I was worried how meh guh get de money to

Lalita Neerahoo

A parent appends her signature before collecting her child’s textbooks buy all dem book dem got to get, but, thankfully, God answered my prayers. This is a welcomed initiative by this government to help people like me who cannot afford it.” As someone who fully grasps the importance of having a sound education, Ms. Jaiprashad said she’s willing to do whatever she can to help her grandchildren get the foundation they need to succeed in life, and promises that good care will be taken of the books, knowing how costly they are. Lalita Neerahoo, whose child is in Grade Five, expressed similar sentiments

as Ms. Jaiprashad, in that she noted that the distribution could not have come at a more opportune time. “With the pandemic and students at home, this distribution is excellent, because they will have time at home to study and review materials in their spare time,” Ms. Neerahoo said, adding: “Many parents cannot afford to purchase these books for their children, much less those that have more than one child. I wish to thank the minister and the government, because this is the kind of help we as parents need.” ‘MAKE FULL USE’ President of The Par-

ent Teacher’s Association (PTA) of the Number 48 Primary School Ann Marie Richardson urged parents to make full use of the books they’ve been given to help their children catch up on the limited face-to-face interactions they would have had due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “This is a very good initiative, and the students are very lucky; they will gain a lot, since they were home for so long, and things in the book will expand their knowledge, and better their literacy skills,” Ms. Richardson said, adding: “And the delivery of the subject TURN TO PAGE 9

Batool Jaiprashad

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Two selected to represent Guyana

TWO young professionals have been selected by the Indian High Commission here to represent Guyana, virtually, at the ‘Know India Programme (KIP) tomorrow at 19:00 hours India Time. The two professionals are Print and Radio Journalist Indrawattie Natram of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), and Former ERC Commissioner and Youth Leader, Pandit Deodat Persaud of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). The event is organised by the New Delhi-based Diaspora Research and Resource Centre (DRRC) Antar Rashtriya Sahayog Parishad (ARSP), and will last for 90 minutes. Each participant will be allowed to talk about his/ her participation in KIP, and how it has benefitted them personally, professionally and culturally. Participants will also be allowed to make suggestions on how the programme can be improved, especially the session hosted

- at ‘Know India’ alumni event tomorrow

Pandit Deodat Persaud by DRRC-ARSP. Persaud visited India back in 2016 to participate in the 40th KIP, while Natram did so a year later to attend the 44th KIP. During Saturday’s event, participants from Mauritius, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, South Africa, and Reunion Island will also have the opportunity of sharing

their experiences while in India. Both Persaud and Natram are excited to have been chosen to represent Guyana on the programme on Saturday, and regard the opportunity as being “life-changing”. The Know India Programme is a flagship initiative of the Government of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, which allows young members of the Indian Diaspora to experience India by indulging in her rich cultural heritage. The ministry’s main objective is to familiarise the Indian Diaspora Youth, in the age group of 18-30 years, with development and achievements made by the country, and to bring the Indian Diaspora closer to the land of their ancestors. The programme provides a unique forum for students and young professionals of Indian descent to visit India, share their views, expecta-

Parents applaud gov’t for...

FROM PAGE 8 areas in the books is easier to facilitate the children and teachers’ learning experience. I am looking forward to us, as a school, doing better, now that we have the necessary resources.” Weighing in on the matter, Minister Manickchand, who was present on Wednesday to launch the distribution of the textbooks, stated that the exercise was the delivery on a promise made by the government that each child will have their own textbooks. “We promised that every child will get all the textbooks they need; when we made that promise, we were a political party in opposition. And we said, if you give us your support, we are going to restore and increase the cash grant; bring all the textbooks they need to each child; expand the school feeding programme,” Minister Manickchand said, adding: “Those were some of the promises; and today, two years later, I am here to deliver on those promises…” The Education Minister stressed that the distribution exercise will be rolled out across the country, and that due diligence was done to get the right books that will enhance the children’s success rate. She also asked that care be taken of the books, so that

other children can have the use of them. A COSTLY EXERCISE And, in light of the costly nature of the initiative, Minister Manickchand told parents that they would be required to sign a contract stating that they will return the books, so that they can be passed on to other children. “You have to sign a contract; no child will get a textbook unless the parents sign a contract,” she said, adding: “That is because you know more than me, that when you don’t have a textbook, you suffer; when you don’t have the books you need, you cannot do extra work. Sometimes you have the money, but cannot find the books. And we have looked at each book; we have looked at what causes or helps to bring about success, and we have bought every single one for every child. We are giving it to every single child, and that’s the first time this is happening in Guyana, where every child will get every book they need.” Minister Manickchand also announced that in either June or July, the $30,000 cash grant per child distribution will commence, but warned that failure to comply with the textbook contract, or failure to return the books could see them losing out on this monetary initiative. “So, if we are going to

be able to do this and see results, then every child has to return their books, so that the child beneath you can benefit from those books. Bring the books back, or pay for them!” she said, adding: “I am prepared to say that unless you bring back the books, and unless you return them for the next level, it could affect whether or not you are a recipient of the cash grant. So I want people to understand that it could affect other benefits you get, including the cash grant.” Regional Chairman David Armogan, in brief remarks, said the distribution, though seemingly small, is very significant, because this initiative complements the other work being done by the government. He also commended the Ministry of Education for ensuring that Guyana is on an upward trajectory to reclaiming its rightful place as the country in the Caribbean region with the highest literacy rate. And while on the subject of Guyana reclaiming its rightful place in the region, he used the opportunity to urge those parents present at the distribution exercise to make full use of the textbooks they’re being given, and to play a more proactive role in their children’s education, instead of leaving it to the teachers alone to do it.

tions and experiences, and bond closely with India. The Antar Rashtriya Sahoayog (ARSP), better known as the Indian Council for International

Co-operation, is based in New Delhi, and was established in 1978 as a non-profit, non-governmental and non-political organisation to promote

universal brotherhood and harmony, as embodied in its motto, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, or ‘The world is one family’.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

‘Smiley’ gets life imprisonment for killing reputed wife NINE years after 42-year-old Allison Bowen was fatally stabbed with a knife by her husband, who also wounded Bowen’s sister, the accused man was sentenced to life imprisonment on Thursday, with the possibility of parole after serving 20 years for the crimes. Last month, the accused man, Alex Douglas, also known as ‘Smiley’, was arraigned before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall at the Demerara High Court. The 50-year-old man pleaded guilty to the capital offence, which stated that on October 14, 2012, he murdered Bowen at Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD). Douglas also admitted that he wounded Bowen’s sister, Nicole King, with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. During his sentencing hearing on Thursday, Douglas’s probation report was read in court by a probation officer. In his probation report, Douglas said that the nowdeceased woman made him a better person and that he viewed her as special. The accused said his relationship with Bowen was good, adding that he worked assiduously to provide for her and their family. He further shared that the relationship had many domestic disputes, claiming that the deceased constantly accused him of infidelity when he returned home from Guyana’s hinterland region. Douglas admitted that he had physically-abused the now-deceased woman during a few arguments. He said their relationship became worse two years prior to the matter before court. Douglas attributed their disputes to outside influence on Bowen that resulted in the deterioration of the relationship and her lack of care for him. The probation officer said that based on the investigation conducted, it was found that Bowen had lodged several complaints of abuse against Douglas at the local police station. The probation officer told the court that even though the mother and sister of the deceased expressed forgiveness for Douglas, her three children stated that they cannot forgive his horrific action that took the woman they called their “heart”. “The children of the deceased expressed that the accused knew that the deceased was both their mother and

Alex Douglas (CONVICTED) and Allison Bowen (DECEASED father. In addition, they witnessed his frequent physical assault against their mother. The sons of the accused shared that they tried to stop the accused’s violent attack on their mother on the day in question,” the probation officer said. Among other things, the probation officer told the court that Douglas’s hidden anger and violent action took the life of his spouse, whom he claimed to have loved deeply, however, he did not express genuine remorse for his heinous actions that deprived three children of their mother. Bowen’s daughter, Jamacia Bowen, was present during the sentencing hearing and read her victim’s impact statement. “Growing up without a mother in my life has been one of the hardest parts of life I’ve had to face. After my mother passed away, it’s almost like a part of me died with her. After my mother’s death I cried myself to sleep every night,” she said. Jamacia explained that she lives by the memories of Douglas brutalising her mother as she and her siblings watched helplessly. “I hardly spoke to anyone about how I was feeling on the inside and that’s when depression and anxiety began to creep up into my life; Sooner or later came suicidal thoughts. I was so broken and lost in such a dark place that sadness and grieve (sic) took over,” she told the court. Jamacia urged women who are being abused by partner to get out of their abusive relationship before it’s too late. State prosecutor, Caressa Henry, in her address to the court, said that offences such as men killing women have become a trend in society and

needs to be stopped. She also asked the Judge to send a strong message to likeminded individuals that such acts cannot be tolerated. Meanwhile, Douglas’ attorney Latchmie Rahamat asked the court to temper justice with mercy. She also asked the court to take into consideration her client’s plea along with his remorse for his actions. In sentencing, Justice Morris-Ramlall said she found no mitigating factors in favour of Douglas. She considered factors such as a weapon being used, and the number of times Bowen was stabbed. In the end, the judge imposed the life sentence on Douglas and ordered that he be eligible for parole after serving 20 years for the murder. For the wounding of the deceased woman’s sister, he was sentenced to eight years which will run concurrently. She also ordered Douglas to undergo monthly counselling for anger management for the duration of his sentence. This newspaper was informed that on the day in question, the couple had an argument, during which Douglas held his wife down and attempted to force her to ingest a poisonous substance. He then armed himself with a knife and stabbed the woman several times about her body, resulting in her death. He also stabbed King during the confrontation when she attempted to intervene. King was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where she was treated. Douglas, who attempted to take his life, was later arrested by police. He was rushed to the GPHC for treatment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Duo in ‘Front Road’ cocaine ‘bust’ for court today TWO men are expected to be arraigned before a city magistrate, today, for the recent $1.2 million cocaine bust at West Ruimveldt “front road” area, Georgetown. Ron Reid, 49, and Nigel Dundas, 45, will be arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for drug trafficking. On March 2, 2022, the duo was arrested at a West Ruimveldt house by ranks from the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU). The men were found wrapping pellets of suspected cocaine. The more than 100 pellets amounted to 1.084 kg in total, with a street value of approximately GY$1,200,000, and it is believed the price overseas would be higher. According to a CANU

wanted bulletin for Reid after his associate, Julius Watkins, was intercepted at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport

release, Reid is no stranger to the agency. On March 2, 2015, Reid, along with his common-law

wife, was arrested with 70 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. In 2017, CANU issued a

Cop on $1.5 million bail for death of youth parliamentarian, boyfriend

Sheereda Persaud and Christopher Bhagwandat POLICE Corporal, Lawrence Carmichael, was released on $1.5 million bail on Thursday for his role as the driver in the fatal accident at Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD) which claimed the lives of a young couple. Carmichael appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the charge of causing death by dangerous driving. Particulars of the charge alleged that on February 2, 2022, Carmichael drove the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) vehicle in a dangerous manner at Mahaica, which caused the death of Christopher Bhagwandat, 20, and his 16-year-old girlfriend, Shereeda Persaud, who was also a youth parliamentarian a few years ago. The police officer was represented by attorneys-at-law Dexter Todd, Dexter Smartt and Jevon Cox. The case is expected in court again on March 10. Carmichael was charged by police based on the instructions from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Video footage provided by a business place close to the

accident site showed the GPF vehicle speeding behind the motorcar occupied by the young couple. Initial reports indicated that, on February 2, Bhagwandat, of Mon Repos, ECD, the driver of the motor car PNN 8852, and Persaud, of Bath, West Coast Berbice (WCB), were attempting to flee the police, who initially stopped them for a routine inspection. In the vicinity of the Ma-

haica Bridge, the motor car collided with a canter truck, which was travelling in the opposite direction, and the police vehicle crashed into the car immediately after. As a result of the impact, the truck toppled onto another car. Added to the fatalities, three law enforcement ranks, including a female officer, were injured. The occupants of the second car are said to be 29-yearold Derrick Dickson, his wife, and their two children, ages eight and two-years-old. The man and his family received care at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and were eventually discharged. The lone occupant of the canter truck, 46-year-old Omesh Persaud, of Leguan Island, did not suffer any injuries.

Police Corporal, Lawrence Carmichael (middle) being escorted for his arraignment on Thursday

(CJIA), Timehri with 114 cocaine pellets that he ingested. Watkins subsequently pleaded guilty and was

sentenced to four years in prison. The following day, Ron Reid turned himself over to CANU.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

ExxonMobil Guyana replants mangroves at Ogle foreshore

The corridor that was cleared and subsequently repopulated with seedlings EXXONMOBIL Guyana has replanted the mangrove vegetation cleared at the Ogle foreshore, East Coast Demerara for the landing of its fibre-optic cable which will service its offshore facilities. According a release, the exercise was overseen by

officials from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) as part of regulatory approvals the company received to clear a 240 square-metre area. The replanting exercise is part of an environment mitigation plan developed for the

A seedling being planted

project. The exercise, ExxonMobil noted, entailed the removal of mangroves plants and cordgrass. A section of rip rap boulders within the approved zone also had to be removed to facilitate the cable connection. The boulders were also replaced. “ExxonMobil Guyana is committed to conducting its business in a manner that is compatible with the balanced environmental and economic needs of communities where we operate. Working with the relevant regulators to mitigate environmental impacts is an integral part of that commitment,” said the company’s Projects Environmental and Regulatory Manager, Erik DeMicco. ExxonMobil Guyana also used the opportunity to remove some 1.4 tonnes of trash from a 100-metre stretch along the seawall. The trash was transported to the landfill facility at Haags Bosch, East Bank Demerara. Meanwhile, the mangrove vegetation cleared was chipped and the possibility of recycling and using the material explored instead of disposing it, the company said.

Seedlings being planted

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Scenes from President Dr Irfaan A at the 4th CARICOM-SICA Sum

–– the President also joined other Caribbean leaders for a reception

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Ali and members of his delegation mmit in Ambergris Caye, Belize

n hosted by Prime Minister of Belize, Johnny Briceño

(Office of the President photographs)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

64 CSOs undergoing water and sanitation training A field visit was done at the Culvert City pump station (GWI photo)

SIXTY-FOUR Community Service Officers (CSOs) in Region Nine are undergoing a two-day training exercise to better equip them with the

knowledge and skills to operate and maintain the water supply systems in their respective villages. This training is as a result of

a collaborative effort between the Ministries of Housing and Water and Amerindian Affairs, with the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) being the executing

The Community Service Officers participating in the training exercise (GWI photo) agency. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have contributed significantly towards

funding for the exercise. According to a release, the participants hail from 32 villages in Central, South-Central and North Rupununi, including Rupertee, Wowetta, Aranaputa, Nappi, Parishara and Shiriri. During the period of March 3-4, they will be trained in the core areas of the operation and maintenance of water supply and photovoltaic systems, water quality and sanitation. Practical exercises will cover areas such as solar panel connection and maintenance, leak repairs, new service connections and water sampling and analysis. Chief Executive Officer of GWI, Shaik Baksh, in his address to the participants at the opening of the training, stressed that the water sector is key to the development of Guyana. He urged the officers to

The GWI head stressed the need for the water systems to be cared for by the villagers, while urging the CSOs to be ambassadors in this regard. He took the opportunity to highlight that by end of 2022, government would have invested $2B for the development of the hinterland water sector. He said this is a great commitment to the development of the livelihoods and improvement to the quality of life for hinterland residents. Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, Brian Allicock, in his remarks, highlighted that often times there’s a lack of skilled personnel to control the flow and distribution of water in the villages and this training will remedy that situation. According to him, the training provides the participants with the opportunity to upgrade themselves as CSOs and to be

Two participants engage in a practical exercise. Also in the photo is GWI’s Region Nine Manager, John Yow (GWI photo)

contribute towards ensuring that there is continuity of water supply in their villages, while alluding to the fact that they would have in the past experienced water shortages or walking miles to access this resource. The CEO said that the government is placing special emphasis on skill development for youths across the country since there is a deficit. It is with this in mind that he told the participants that it is vital that they acquire the knowledge and skills to ensure the smooth functioning of the water supply systems in their villages. He pointed out that having the CSOs better equipped will allow GWI to save money, since there will no longer exist a need for personnel to travel from Lethem for something as simple as repairing a leak. Baksh assured those present that the training will be continuous since it will continue at the village level with more practical exercises. HANDS-ON APPROACH He opined that the practical exercises are the most important aspect of the training since this provides a hands-on approach. Adding that he is pleased by the number of female CSOs participating, the CEO noted that for far too long this area has been dominated my males.

a part of regional and national development. He emphasised that water is an essential aspect of life, while highlighting that the government’s aim is to ensure every citizen has access to potable water. The Regional Chairman charged the CSOs to be humble as they execute their duties in service to their communities. He took the opportunity to express gratitude to the facilitators of the training. Ministry of Amerindian Affairs representative, Jason Wilson encouraged the CSOs to take the training seriously and give of their best for the betterment of themselves as well as their communities. He pointed out that for a number of years, there have been issues with regard to the proper functioning of water supply systems due to lack of training. However, the CSOs will fill that gap by monitoring and servicing the systems. Further, he stated that close collaboration will ensure that the region has the same benefits afforded to those on the coastland. The government, through the Ministry of Housing and Water, has been investing heavily in Amerindian communities to ensure access to potable water.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Digicel gives customers free calls, texts from their home country to Ukraine

IN a show of solidarity for the people of Ukraine and their loved ones and supporters around the world, Digicel is giving customers across the Caribbean and Central America the ability to call and text from their home country to the Ukraine for free from today. “We know how important it is to be able to stay connected with friends and loved ones – no more so than at a time like this. We encourage everyone to reach out to their people in the Ukraine to let them know they’re not alone and that the world is with them,” Digicel Group CEO, Oliver Coughlan said. As a Digital Operator, Digicel is in the business of delivering powerful digital experiences 1440 minutes of each day to customers – that’s every minute, all day, every day, a release from the company said. Through its world-class LTE and fibre networks, together with its suite of eight apps spanning sports (SportsMax), music (D’Music), news (Loop), local radio and podcasts (GoLoud), TV streaming (PlayGo), enhanced messaging and marketplaces (BiP), cloud storage (Billo) and self-care (MyDigicel app), Digicel is among the foremost players in the telecoms industry.

‘Angel of death’ gets 14 years for attempted murder

FORTY-NINE-YEAR-OLD CANE harvester, Neil Archer, was sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment on Thursday for the attempted murder of a woman in 2016. Archer, of Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara (WCD), was sentenced by Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall at the Demerara High Court. On February 14 of this year, Archer had confessed to the crime which he said occurred on October 19, 2016. During his sentencing hearing on Thursday, state prosecutor, Cecilia Corbin, told the court that Archer was sentenced to two seven-year prison terms in 1997 for attempted murder and wounding, respectively. The sentences were served concurrently which meant that he only spent seven years in jail. According to Corbin, after Archer’s release from prison, he eventually found himself in the hands of the law again and was charged with the murder of his wife. He was remanded to prison. On July 25, 2005, he was eventually arraigned before a High Court judge. Following the conclusion of his trial, he was sentenced to 17 years’ imprisonment for the lesser offence of manslaughter. He entered a guilty plea. The prosecutor, on Thursday, informed the Court that Archer was released from prison on July 9, 2016, after serving his sentence. On October 19, 2016, Archer was arrested by police after attacking and wielding a cutlass at the victim in this current matter. The Court heard that she was chopped to her hand, neck, and back by Archer and received a total of 39 stitches. In her impact statement,

CONVICTED: Neil Archer the victim said that Archer was an “angel of death” and asked for the maximum penalty so that Archer could not abuse other women. She explained that during the attack Archer severed several of her fingers which had to be reattached by a doctor. Among other things, the victim said that before the incident she was employed as a cook. However, after the attack, the victim suffered hardships because she was unable to ply her trade, due to her being unable to regain function of her injured hand. According to the state prosecutor, Archer showed no intention of reforming himself. She asked the judge to impose a sentence that will be a deterrent to Archer and likeminded offenders. The Judge, after considering the nature of the case and Archer’s previous convictions for similar crimes, sentenced him to serve 14 years’ imprisonment. The Court also ordered that during his time behind bars, Archer must undergo monthly counselling sessions for anger management.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Versatile ‘soft furnishing’ collection in the works

…as Sonia Noel enters quarter century in creative industry

Designer, Sonia Noel poses among some of the pieces featured in her new soft furnishing line (Delano Williams photos) By Shamar Meusa GUYANESE fashion designer, Sonia Noel, on Thursday, marked her 25th year in the fashion and creative sector with plans to launch a new fashion line along with the introduction of her “soft furniture” pieces. During a preview event yesterday, Noel intimated that as she celebrates this special milestone, she wanted to start with something different and as such let the public in on her latest project on

soft furnishing. “For a very long time, I have been thinking about soft furnishing and I love wood art. So, I started dabbling in it for my home and then people saw it and they loved it,” she said. The passion for this project, she said, came following a visit to the Iwokrama International Centre and saw pieces that were being discarded. She believed masterpieces could be made with them. To this end, she not-

ed that it started with a dream where she saw the words, “I am” which she said are the words that start off any positive affirmations. Noel opted to centre her work around this. “Just like my clothing is very very versatile, I need whatever addition that I’m doing to also be versatile. So, I thought about palettes. I’m always intrigued with them; like for patios and even indoors and [thought] what can I do that’s different?” she told the small gathering at the Queenstown, Georgetown showcase. At the event, which was supported by Banks DIH Ltd, Noel stated that she brought a number of local creatives on board, including Shari Singh of ‘Florals by Shari’; ‘Azzira Games’ by Linden Cave; Natasha David, and even Sonia’s daughter, Shonta Noel.

Various pieces of creative outdoor and indoor furniture were displayed at the preview on Thursday. Speaking on the pieces, Noel revealed: “Some of it can be converted into beds; like if you put two of the sofas together. If somebody’s over for the night, it can be converted into a bed; some of it can be flipped; instead of one seat it can be turned into two seats. The unique centre tables, the actual foot is in the form of ‘I am’”. The pieces will also feature artwork—some abstract—while others will feature the flora and fauna in Guyana. Some of the artwork that will be featured on the pieces, she delved deeper, will be from artists that are at the David Rose School and others. She expressed: “So I’m going to be working with them and you’re going to be seeing a lot of

This table piece features the words “I Am” that Noel says was the inspiration behind the project their work… Doing this, it reignited my passion for the industry and it’s something purposeful, because for people that know me, know how purpose driven I am and things have to have a little message, a little meaning.” However, Noel stated that she has also found the inspiration for her

Centre tables that feature abstract art

latest fashion line which will also feature abstract art. She noted that some proceeds from her new soft furnishing line will go towards the Sonia Noel Foundation, which will continue its work of development of the creative industry within Guyana and even the Caribbean.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Euphoria’s second season ends with both renewed promise and frustration

By Naomi Parris THE second season of Euphoria has been a rollercoaster of heavy emotions, bright aesthetics, and tales of brilliant deceptions, grief and addiction, all of which were present throughout the conclusion of the season. SPOILER ALERT! If you have not yet watched Euphoria, the HBO show written by Sam Levinson and produced by popular rapper Drake, then you should know it’s a coming-of-age story detailing the not-so-pretty side of being a teenager and young adult. The show is easily a cinematography masterpiece, capturing a plethora of emotions and tackling the uncomfortable conversations and discussions many of us are afraid to have at that age. W h i l e t h e s h o w, o f course, has it glitz and glamour, it features boundarypushing content related to sex, substance abuse, sexual violence, domestic abuse, peer pressure, and unhealthy relationships. It forces many to look at the realities of what many of our teenagers are facing today. The finale episode of the season “All My Life, My Heart Has Yearned For A Thing I Cannot Name” picks up the storyline from the previous week’s episode which focused on Lexi’s school play and the fallout from disclosures about the cast’s private lives. Lexi, a main character, is played by Maude Apatow. About the school play

scene—tensions among the main characters are high as the two former best friends, ‘Cassie’, played by Sydney Sweeny, and ‘Maddy’, played by Alexa Demie, hash out their ‘beef’ and finally confront each other. This has been a muchanticipated scene for many fans who have been following the series from the season premier. Meanwhile, the final episode also sees a glimpse of hope as another one of the show’s main characters, ‘Rue’, played by the talented Zendaya, is starting anew as she navigates sobriety, leaving her drug addiction behind. The real heartbreaker and frustration of the season was the downfall of two fan favourites who, for the sake of not sharing too many spoilers, will not be listed in this review. Nevertheless, the second season of the show, which is very much like the first season, takes you on an emotional journey of the brutal honesties of life—it is thrilling, daring, disquieting, and compelling, and is a triumph at a time when truly unique storytelling remains unsettlingly rare. Its raunchy scenes and poignant emotions, however, are more suitable for older audiences and is not for the faint of heart. I must warn that if you are one who gets uncomfortable with taboo conversations, this may not be the series for you. The show has been renewed for a third season and is set to return to screens in 2024, however, while it is

a long wait, I’m excited to see what the new season will bring.

Of course, I’ll be doing a follow-up for our Buzz family.

Scenes from the Euphoria season two finale aired last Sunday

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

It’s time to let the girls ‘fro’

The topic of hair— ‘black hair’ that is—has always been a taboo conversation within the Guyanese community. In schools, at places of work, or just in everyday life, people of African descent’s hair is under the microscope as they are constantly told to tame their kinks, curls or locs to suit the societal norm of what is considered to be ‘neat and professional’. I remember an 11-yearold me begging my moth-

er, to the point of tears, to straighten my natural hair. At the time, I was just trying to fit in with the rest of the girls at school. During that time at least 90 per cent of the girls my age rocked buns and bonestraight ponytails, while I seemed to have been the only one still flaunting my cornrows and twists. Little did I know, I was sitting on a goldmine; there was history growing from my scalp, and before now, I had

been ignorant of it. As you must have figured out by now, I never liked my hair growing up. I was a very tender-headed child. Washing, combing, pressing or braiding my hair was always a struggle. The other reason had to do with the fact that growing up, I was teased a lot about my hair during my primary and secondary school years. At that time, unfortunately, there were not many natural hair enthusiasts for me to

look up to. As I got older, (well not that old) I started doing my own hair. I even had an experimental phase in my late teens where I tried new hairstyles and methods of styling but always worked toward taking better care of my hair. While I was loving my hair, others did not quite understand this love. During my experimental phase, I played with many new hairstyles some of which saw me rocking my natural

A Buzz reader shared a few of her favourite hairstyles that are sometimes deemed inappropriate for school or work tresses in a kinky fro, or what many girls call a ‘high puff’. These hairstyles were not deemed as appropriate for school. Like many Afro-Guya-

nese girls and girls of other races with largely ‘black’presenting hair, I have stories of how teachers whispered or even sometimes berated me for the hair that was growing

from my scalp. I can recall one instance where I was asked to ‘tame the bush’ on my head because my puff was so high it was blocking another student

My hair in its natural state from seeing the chalkboard able whenever I wear it in its in a classroom. natural state. I even recall another inFor the most part, I igstance when the deputy head- nore these comments when mistress of my secondary they come by me, and I simschool threatened to cut some ply blame it on the lack of braids out of my head which knowledge of ‘black hair’. she deemed as inappropriate ‘BREAK THE BIAS’ for school. Recently, a video of some While I have been out of teen girls at a secondary school for a while, I still have school in the Caribbean celencounters in my everyday ebrating their natural tresses life where persons would tell on school grounds went viral. me to fix or comb my hair The girls were proudly and make it more presentTURN TO PAGE 23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

It’s time to let the girls...

FROM PAGE 22 flaunting afros, curls, locs and braids, with the hashtag: ‘fro day’. This sparked a conversation among a few Guyanese on several social media platforms. Hopefully paying attention to the Buzz, Guyana’s Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, came up with an initiative to host a ‘hair day’

at schools across the country. According to a memo published by the ministry, the event will be celebrated in keeping with International Women’s Day which is slated to be celebrated worldwide on March 8. Naming it ‘Break the Bias’, the ministry said the one-day event will allow fe-

male learners to attend school wearing their hair however best reflects them. There are some restraints, of course. But whether it’s afros, braids, curls, whatever style, if any, that makes them feel most beautiful and confident and purposeful, they should flaunt! Additionally, the minister has since said that her ministry

will be looking at coordinated efforts aimed at overhauling outdated school rules which disproportionately affect learners based on their gender and

ethnicity. During a recent media interview, the minister said that discussions will be held to remove some of the archa-

ic rules in schools that could narrow how people choose to express their individuality. I’m here for all of it. (Naomi Parris)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Reifer keeps pressure on selectors with brilliant century

All-rounder Raymon Reifer celerbates his hundred against England on Thursday. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Raymon Reifer fashioned an excellent hundred to maintain pressure on Test selectors but a late-order collapse saw the CWI President’s XI concede a significant lead to England on the penultimate day of the four-day tour match here yesterday. Replying to England’s massive 466 for six declared, the hosts were dismissed for 264 in their first innings, with the left-handed Reifer carving out 106. Keacy Carty struck a composed 57 and tail-ender Colin Archibald, 23, but left-arm spinner Jack Leach claimed four for 62 and parttime off-spinner Dan Lawrence, two for 26, as the President’s XI lost their last six wickets for just 69 runs. In their second turn at the crease, Zak Crawley made 35 before falling to the day’s final delivery as England reached 77 for three – an overall lead of 279 runs. The day belonged to Reifer, however, the Barbadian striking 15 fours and two sixes in an innings span-

ning 182 deliveries and 4-¼ hours. Crucially, he put on 118 for the fourth wicket with Carty, the right-handed former West Indies Under-19 star, facing 164 balls in 3-¾ hours and counting seven fours. Reifer, who averaged 46 over the first two rounds of the Regional Four-Day Championship last month, arrived at number four after Devon Thomas fell in the morning’s first over without adding to his overnight one, lbw to fast bowler Ollie Robinson. Finding an ally in Carty who resumed the morning on eight, Reifer played positively to reach lunch on 42 with the President’s XI on 133 for three. He brought up his half-century at the start of the eighth over following the resumption, when he stylishly punched fast bowler Saqib Mahmood to the backward point boundary. And on 94 at tea with the President’s XI having reached 229 for six, Reifer posted triple figures in the fifth over after the break with a streaky boundary to third man off seamer Craig Overton. Reifer, who played one Test for West Indies nearly 4-½ years ago, finally perished when he was eighth out, lbw on the back foot to one that crept from Leach. Carty, meanwhile, also reached his half-century in style with a back foot drive for four off Overton early in the second session, after resuming from lunch on 44. His dismissal was a disappointing one, losing his shape in a wild heave at Leach, and having his leg stump pegged back.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Revamped India begin new era in Kohli's 100th Test

(REUTERS) - Rohit Sharma is ready to begin his reign as India's new Test captain in a two-match series against neighbours Sri Lanka, hoping to keep the team's juggernaut rolling at home. India have not lost at home in the longest format since their 2-1 defeat by England in 2012, and won their 14th consecutive home series when they beat world champions New Zealand at the end of last year. Rohit's side will be firm favourites to extend their winning streak - having never lost a Test to Sri Lanka on home soil - when the series begins today. Their last defeat against Sri Lanka in the five-day format was back in 2015. Rohit was named India's Test captain last month, succeeding batting talisman and long-time skipper Virat Kohli as the team's leader in all three formats. The opener from Mumbai is a proven leader in white-ball cricket, having led India to T20 series wins over New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka recently and also captaining the

All-rounder Jadeja has returned to full fitness from a knee injury while Ashwin is expected to be available after recovering from an unspecified injury in January. Sri Lanka have also welcomed back Kusal Mendis and

Former India captain Virat Kohli (right) is set to play in his 100th Test match

Mumbai Indians to five Indian Premier League titles. Kohli, India's most successful Test captain, stepped down after seven years in charge in a shock move last month following India's 2-1 series defeat in South Africa. The spotlight will, however, continue to be on the 33-yearold Kohli in Mohali with the contest against Sri Lanka to be his 100th Test match for the country. The match in the northern Indian city was initially scheduled to be held without spectators due to COVID-19 but the Indian cricket board said on Tuesday that 50 per cent capacity will be allowed for Kohli's

milestone match. The two-match series will also be the first in years when India will be without both Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara, with both senior batters dropped due to inconsistent form. Batter KL Rahul and all-rounder Washington Sundar are also missing due to injuries. It could open up a batting spot in the Test side for Shreyas Iyer, who scored three unbeaten half-centuries in India's 3-0 victory in the T20 series against the same opponents, The hosts could also unleash their first-choice spin duo of left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin against Sri Lanka.

Jrue Holiday scores late as Bucks beat Heat 120-119

JRUE Holiday secured a game-winning shot with 1.9 seconds remaining as Milwaukee Bucks fought back to beat Miami Heat 120-119. Heat led 113-99 inside the final six minutes before Bucks, who won the NBA title in 2021, hit back. Holiday scored 23 points and made 11 assists, while Giannis Antetokounmpo led the scoring for Bucks with 28 points 17 rebounds. "We can't dwell on this win - these games are not stopping," Holiday said. Heat remain top of the Eastern Conference, with Bucks fourth. James Harden impressed on his home debut for Philadelphia 76ers in their 123-108 win over New York Knicks. The Knicks took a 16-point lead in the second quarter, but Harden scored 26 points

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and Joel Embiid 27 as 76ers rallied. "It was a movie. I felt the energy and I felt the love," Harden said. Indiana Pacers came from 94-85 down in the fourth quarter to beat Orlando Magic 122114 in overtime, thanks to Malcolm Brogdon's 31 points, 11 rebounds 8 assists. Phoenix Suns breezed past Portland Trail Blazers 120-90, while Indiana Pacers beat Orlando Magic 122-114 in overtime. Donovan Mitchell scored 37 points as Utah Jazz beat Houston Rockets 132-127 in overtime, and Oklahoma City Thunder saw off Denver Nuggets 119-107. Cleveland Cavaliers suffered their fifth loss in six games with a 119-98 defeat by the Charlotte Hornets, while New Orleans Pelicans beat Sacramento Kings 125-95. (BBC Sport).

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Niroshan Dickwella in their Test squad after their one-year suspension for breaching the team's bio-bubble protocols during last year's tour of England was lifted in January. Lahiru Thirimanne has also returned to the Dimuth Kari-

naratne-led side, having opted out of Sri Lanka's previous Test series against West Indies in November for the birth of his second child. The second and final Test will be played in Bengaluru from March 12 under lights.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Pakistan, Australia to play for Benaud-Qadir Trophy

THE Test series between Pakistan and Australia will now be played for the Benaud-Qadir Trophy in honour of the two legendary leg-spinners. Australia are making their first visit to Pakistan for a Test series since 1998, when Mark Taylor's side won a three-match series 1-0. Benaud was the part of Australia's first Test in Pakistan in 1956 - the country's first-ever in Asia - and top-scored with a second-innings fifty in what was an eventful affair played on a matting pitch in front of a passionate home crowd in Karachi, and resulted in a heavy defeat for the visitors. He was then skipper when Australia returned in 1959, his first away series as captain, which the tourists won 2-0. A legendary player and broadcaster, Benaud passed away in 2015 Hailed as a 'magician', Qadir was credited for reviving the art of leg-spin bowling in 1970s and 80s, and Benaud was said to have held him in very high regard. The crafty leg-spinner took

236 wickets in 67 Tests for Pakistan, with 45 of those coming in 11 Tests against Australia. Qadir played three Test series against Australia, at home in 1982 and 1988, as well as in Australia in 1983-84 when he claimed a five-wicket haul in that summer's Boxing Day Test He also took 132 wickets in 104 one-day internationals, with Imran Khan using him as an attacking weapon in the 1983 World Cup held in England. Qadir, who later served as chief selector of Pakistan and ran a private academy in Lahore, also played a summer in Victoria's Premier Cricket competition in 1998-99, at age 43, and took 72 wickets 15.87 for Carlton Cricket Club. He died suddenly in 2019 at the age of 63. "I am delighted to give my approval for Richie's name to be on this trophy alongside that of Abdul Qadir," Benaud's wife, Daphne, said in a statement. "Richie had a very high regard for Abdul and the fact that

both were leg-spinners has a nice ring to it "I know Richie would be very pleased to approve a trophy, the aim of which is not only to enhance Test cricket but also to advance cricket more broadly between these two countries. I wish both sides the very best of luck for the series and I shall be following it with interest." The current tour is the 26th Test series the two countries have contested, with Australia having won 13 to Pakistan's five Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockely, who is with the Test squad in Pakistan, said inaugurating a perpetual trophy underlined the desire to play more Tests in future. "We believe that having a perpetual trophy for this and future series between Pakistan and Australia, and having the names of Richie and Abdul illustrates the desire of both governing bodies to grow the stature of these series moving forward," Hockley said in a statement. "From an Australian perspec-

tive, Richie is a wholly appropriate choice for this honour given his immense contribution to the game, the respect and affection he commands in Australia, Pakistan and throughout the cricket world, and the fact that he captained the first full Australian tour to Pakistan in 1959-60. "Having his name alongside that of another great of the game, Abdul Qadir, is a recognition and celebration of the art of leg-spin, a skill they both did so much to showcase." Benaud played a key role in the early days of Pakistan-Australia Test matches in Asia, which were a shock to the Australians as they were played on matting pitches instead of turf. Expecting to face more matting surfaces on the 1959 tour, Benaud enacted extraordinary measures during a pre-tour exhibition game played in Brisbane to celebrate Queensland's centenary by arranging for Gabba ground staff to lay out a length of matting over a closely cropped section of the outfield where squad members

Current Test captains Pat Cummins of Australia and Pakistan's Babar Azam unveiled the new trophy at the Rawalpindi Stadium, where the first Test will be played from today (cricket.com.au.)

for the upcoming Test tour could ready themselves. It proved prescient with the first Test in Dhaka - what was then East Pakistan - played on matting, but Australia won by eight wickets, with Benaud claiming four wickets in each Pakistan innings. The victory was also memorable due to a remarkable 96 scored by Neil Harvey, who was suffering from dysentery and was forced to leave the field up to half a dozen times during his innings. Benaud's Australia clinched the series with a seven-wicket win on turf in Lahore before a drawn third Test in Karachi, back on matting. Benaud was introduced to Pakistan president Ayub Khan

during the third Test and, along with team manager Sam Loxton, impressed upon the leader that his nation's standing in the eyes of the cricket world would be considerably enhanced if they played all future Test matches on turf pitches. Pakistan never played a Test on matting again. (Cricket. com.au) Richie Benaud v Pakistan Tests: 4 | Wickets: 19 | Avg: 21.89 | BBI: 5-93 | Runs: 144 | HS: 56 | Avg: 28.80 Abdul Qadir v Australia Tests: 11 | Wickets 45 | Avg 35.86 | BBI 7-142 | BBM 11-218 | 5WI: 3 | 10WM: 1 Australia v Pakistan Test record Played: 66 | Australia won 33 | Pakistan won: 15 | Drawn: 1

UEFA believes plans for additional World Cups will soon be scrapped

UEFA is confident that FIFA’s biennial World Cup idea will soon be “off the table” with a solution set to be reached that could result in this summer’s Finalissima becoming a regular occurrence. FIFA has been consulting over the possibility of switching World Cups to every two years

with president Gianni Infantino eager to add more meaningful games to the international calendar. Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA’s president, has been a vocal critic of the idea but hinted the two governing bodies were close to an agreement when speaking at the Financial Times Business

of Football Summit yesterday. He said: “I wouldn’t compare Super League and the issue with FIFA. With FIFA we discuss regularly and the biennial World Cup is a no-go for everyone in football. I am glad that now FIFA realises it as well. “We are still discussing. I had a discussion with the FIFA

president yesterday about it and we absolutely admit and cannot say football on other continents cannot be developed, but we should be aligned and it should not hurt European and South American federations. “We have discussions as much as I heard and I am sure biennial World Cups is off the

Italy won Euro 2020 (PA)

table. We are discussing and want to help. We cannot say European football is European football and we don’t allow anything else. “That was never our approach and it will not be our approach in the future as well. We are discussing, I don’t think it is correct we say more now, because only discussions but I am sure we will come to a solution very soon with FIFA.” Ceferin suggested this could see the European Championship winners facing the Copa America champions become a fixture in the calendar. A match between Italy and Argentina, dubbed Finalissima, is scheduled for June 1 in London and has been organised by UEFA and CONMEBOL. On Wednesday, FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani floated the idea of a global Nations League or a revamped Confederations Cup, which was scrapped in 2017 but did bring together nations from different parts of the world. “I think it is a very good

and interesting thing that the two confederations, the only ones who won the cups, play one match against each other,” Ceferin said of Italy versus Argentina. “I see many of our big federations and also South Americans saying they want to play against each other more and it makes sense. Now we are discussing also with FIFA how do we do it? Do we do it together? Probably yes but for now, too early to share publicly. “I agree before (the) Nations League there were more friendly matches with teams from outside Europe and now friendly matches are not so many so we have to see how we give a chance for teams to play against each other. It is not only about big teams. “Small teams want to play against different confederations. It is always different to see different styles and we see our confederations would like it. We are discussing with FIFA about it almost every day. (PA Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Women's Cricket World Cup in New Zealand set to begin today THE Women's Cricket World Cup in New Zealand gets under way today, with England looking to defend the trophy they won in 2017. The hosts play West Indies in Tauranga (01:00 GMT) in the first game of a tournament delayed by a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. England begin against favourites Australia in Hamilton tomorrow. There will be live commentary of 20 matches on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and BBC Sounds. There will also be video highlights on the BBC Sport website and app, and regular episodes of the No Balls podcast,, hosted by England fast bowler Kate Cross and 2017 World Cup winner Alex Hartley, who is part of the Test Match Special commentary team. The tournament is taking place against the backdrop of a surge in the Omicron variant in New Zealand, so crowds will be extremely limited, at least for the opening matches.

They are favourites. They might not say it, but we all know that they are."

Eight teams are taking part in the Women's Cricket World Cup

Eight teams are taking part in the 50-over event, all playing each other across six venues in the group stage before the top four advance to the semi-finals. The final will be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on April 3. The winners will take $1.32M (£0.99M) from a total $3.5M prize fund. The sum for the champions is double what England received in 2017, but still only a third of what their male counterparts received for winning the Men's World Cup in 2019. 'WRITE US OFF AT YOUR PERIL' Despite being the holders, England find themselves in the pack chasing Australia.

Heather Knight's side arrive at the World Cup having been soundly beaten in the Ashes, when they went winless across the multi-format series. Seven players remain from the squad that won a dramatic final at a sold-out Lord's five years ago. Established names like Sarah Taylor, Laura Marsh, Jenny Gunn and Danielle Hazell have moved on, to be replaced by youngsters Sophia Dunkley, Charlie Dean and Freya Davies. "It would be a massive achievement to go back-toback and retain the trophy," said opening batter Tammy Beaumont, who was the leading run-scorer and player-of-the-tournament last

Shakib, Tamim back in Bangladesh Test squad for South Africa tour

SHAKIB Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal have returned to Bangladesh's Test squad for the forthcoming series against South Africa. Tamim missed the Test leg of the New Zealand tour due to multiple thumb injuries while Shakib skipped the trip for personal reasons. Shakib's comeback into the Test fold comes after BCB president Nazmul Hasan had said that the 34-year-old would tour South Africa even though he had initially planned to skip Test cricket for six months. "Now that he is not going to the IPL, I don't see any reason why he shouldn't play the Test series in South Africa," Hassan had said last Monday." So forget about it. This is no longer in my mind. The IPL was preventing him from playing (the two Test series), but now he will play (both series)." However, Fazle Mahmud and Mohammad Naim have been dropped from the Test squad. Fazle had previously earned his place in the side on the back of chart-topping numbers in domestic first-class cricket while

Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal lend experience to Bangladesh's squad ( AFP)

Naim was a left-field pick as he is more of a T20 specialist. Naim had made his debut in the second Test in Christchurch, but didn't make much of an impression. Bangladesh stuck with the ODI squad that recently beat Afghanistan 2-0 at home. Fast bowler Khaled Ahmed who is uncapped in ODI cricket is the only addition to the squad. The 29-year-old has played three Tests so far, managing just one wicket. Bangladesh will play three ODIs, part of the World Cup Super League, on March 18, 20 and 23, while the two Tests, part of the World Test Championship, will start March 31 and end April 8. Test squad: Mominul Haque

(capt.), Tamim Iqbal, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das (wkp.), Yasir Ali, Taijul Islam, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Abu Jayed, Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Shohidul Islam, Khaled Ahmed, Shadman Islam, Nurul Hasan ODI squad: Tamim Iqbal (capt.), Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hassan Miraz, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Ebadot Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Yasir Ali, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Khaled Ahmed. (Cricinfo)

time. "The conditions in New Zealand are quite similar to home, so it's a nice one to try to go back-to-back on. "I feel like a lot of people have written us off. We're still the holders, and you write us off at your peril." England are coached by former Australia batter Lisa Keightley, herself a World Cup winner in 2005. "The players and all the coaching staff believe we have what it takes to win a World Cup," said Keightley. "I'm happy to be where we are and Australia to be the favourites. "That becomes an extra pressure. We know they have played pretty consistent cricket over the past two years.

AUSTRALIA THE TEAM TO BEAT Meg Lanning's Australia are one of the strongest teams in all international sport. Their Ashes triumph came on top of two T20 World Cup victories since the last 50over tournament, the second of which was in front of 86 174 spectators at the final in Melbourne two years ago. However, they were beaten by New Zealand in their last warm-up match and will be mindful of the fate they suffered in 2017, when they were stunned in the semi-finals by an inspired India. England beat India in the heart-stopping final and it remains true that an Indian victory in a global tournament - they have lost in three finals - would give an immeasurable boost to the profile of the women's game in the biggest cricketing nation on the planet. They once again boast a batting line-up dripping with talent, while legendary

captain Mithali Raj and fast bowler Jhulan Goswami will play in their last World Cup. South Africa are ranked as the second-best team in the world - ahead of England - though the Proteas will have to do without injured captain Dane van Niekerk. New Zealand will have home advantage, but are unpredictable - in the warm-ups their win over Australia came after a loss to Pakistan, the lowest-ranked team in the competition. Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof is one of the stories of the tournament. She leads her team only six months after giving birth to her baby daughter, who is travelling with the team. Pakistan meet India in Tauranga on Sunday. Realistically, Pakistan will be looking to avoid bottom spot, alongside Bangladesh, who are playing in their first World Cup. West Indies boast some dangerous players, but look a shadow of the team that reached the 50-over World Cup final in 2013, then lifted the T20 title in 2016. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Russia to appeal against football ban imposed by FIFA, UEFA

THE Russian Football Union (RFU) said it will go to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to appeal against its ban from international competitions after the country's invasion of Ukraine. On Monday, Russian football clubs and national teams were suspended from all competitions "until further notice" by FIFA and UEFA. The union said it would file one lawsuit against football's world and European governing bodies, demanding Russia's men's and women's national teams be allowed to compete. Russia wants its national teams reinstated to play their men's World Cup play-off matches next month `and the women's team once again in-

cluded in this summer's Euro 2022 competition in England. The union also said it could ask for the suspension of competitions they were originally scheduled to compete in if unsuccessful. "If FIFA and UEFA refuse such a procedure, a requirement will be put forward for the introduction of interim measures in the form of suspension of FIFA and UEFA decisions, as well as competitions in which Russian teams were supposed to participate," Russian football authorities said. Russian club Spartak Moscow were also kicked out of the Europa League and their last-16 opponents RB Leipzig will advance to the quarter-finals. A statement from Rus-

sian football authorities said it "believes that FIFA and UEFA did not have a legal basis when deciding on the removal of Russian teams". "The Russian Football Union was also not given the right to present its position, which violated the fundamental right to defence," the statement continued. "In addition, when making decisions, FIFA and UEFA did not take into account other possible options for action, except for the complete exclusion of participants from the competition from Russia." FIFAand UEFA intervened after Russia, supported by Belarus, launched a military invasion of neighbouring Ukraine last Thursday. Russia says it "will insist

Russian Football club Spartak Moscow

on an expedited procedure for considering the case" in an effort to "ensure the possibility of the participation of Russian teams in the next scheduled matches" The Russian men's team had been scheduled to face Poland in a World Cup playoff semi-final on March 24. The union, who say they will seek "compensation for damage", said actions taken against them "violated the fundamental rights of the RFU as a member of FIFA and UEFA." "The decision to withdraw the national team from qualification for the 2022 World Cup was made under

pressure from direct rivals in the play-offs, which violated the principle of sports and the rules of fair play," the RFU said. FIFA had previously ruled that Russia must complete their upcoming games in neutral territory, under the title Football Union of Russia, and without their flag and anthem. However, that announcement had drawn criticism and several nations, including England, Northern Ireland Scotland and Wales, as well as Poland, the Czech Republic and Sweden, in refusing to play against Russia. The 2022 Champions

League final, originally due to be played in St Petersburg on May 28, has also been moved to Paris. Meanwhile, UK culture secretary Nadine Dorries said there was "really strong consensus" for further action against Russia after hosting a virtual summit of ministers from more than 15 countries, which included the US, France, Poland, Canada and South Korea. "Universal condemnation of Russia and Belarus, and all (were) clearly united in the same aim: ostracising Putin from the sporting stage," she posted on Twitter.” (BBC Sport)

Rescheduled Republic Cup softball set for Sunday … Trophy Stall to sponsor trophies FOLLOWING a one-week delay, occasioned by a soft outfield due to torrential rains, the Georgetown Soft-

ball Cricket League Inc. is hoping for better weather conditions this Sunday to stage its much-anticipated

Republic Cup softball tournament. The Togetherness Park at Liliendaal, Greater George-

town is expected to be abuzz when Regal Legends tangle with archrivals Mike’s Wellman for championship honours in the Over-50 Division. Preceding what is expected to be a heated affair, Regal Masters and a Select XI will clash in the Over-40 category from 10.00hrs. Regal Legends have had the better of their counterparts over the past few years and this dates back prior before both joined the Over50 ranks. However, Mike’s Wellman have a score to settle with their opponents and are hoping to turn the tables this time around. Led by veteran all-rounder Wayne Jones, who still has

Mahendra Hardyal

Wayne Jones

the capability to destroy any bowling attack, and including the versatile Lloyd Ruplall and Lakhram ‘Mike’ Singh, whose underrated leg-spin can cause problems at times, Mike’s Wellman are looking to stop Regal Legends’ invincibility. Stopping Regal Legends, however, seems an insurmountable task with the reigning champions pos-

sessing players of the calibre of David Harper, Parsram ‘Pacer’ Persaud, Mahendra Hardyal, Unis Usuff, Rudolph ‘Gussy’ Baker, Eion ‘Rapper’ Abel and Laurie ‘Tony’ Singh. The day’s action is scheduled to get underway at 10.00hrs with Regal Masters (Over-40s) taking on a Select XI. Regal Masters will include the experienced Chien Gittens, Patrick Rooplall, Mohamed Ayume, Samuel Kingston, Ricky Roopnarine and Lakhram Roopnarine. Sunday’s tournament is being used as preparation for local players who will be participating in the annual Florida Cup competition from March 31 to April 2. Meanwhile, tickets for the annual fundraising takeaway Bar-B-Que, organised by the Regal cricket teams, to aid in their participation in the Florida Cup, will be on sale from any player at $1500 each. Trophies for Sunday’s two games are acquired through the kind generosity of Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday March 4, 2022)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Brian Lara-400* (ARG, 2004) (2) Andy Sandham-325 (Sabina Park, 1930) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI has captured most wickets in Tests against ENG to date? (2) Which Englishman has claimed most wickets against the WI to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Gainda, Sharma Fury says will retire after spin East Coast Dillian Whyte fight in April to victory Mickel Sharma (left) and Arun Gainda starred for their team

EAST Coast spin bowlers Gainda and Sharma spun their team to victory over the Upper Demerara team at Enmore ground when action continued yesterday in the Demerara Cricket Board/Premier Insurance Inter-Association tournament. East Coast won the toss and elected to bat, posting 123 for 7, from their reduced 30 overs because of overnight showers. Middle-order batter Trilok Nanan top-scored with an unbeaten 22 while Aaron Kissoon chipped in with 17. Keron Phillips grabbed 3-13 while supported by Croy Charles who claimed 2- 23. In reply, Upper Demerara struggled against the East Coast spinners and were bundled out for 37 from 10.5 overs. No batter managed to reach double figures. Mickel Sharma and Aruna Gainda collected 3-0 and 3-4 respectively while medium fast bowler Gopaul Ramchand took 2-13. East Coast won by a massive 86 runs. In today's match, Georgetown will face West Demerara at DCC ground. Match starts at 09:30hrs.

Asked whether he would call time on his career after fighting Whyte at Wembley Stadium on April 23, Fury said: "100%." Speaking after his news conference to promote his upcoming bout, Fury said: "I'm a two-time undisputed world champion. "(I have) £150M in the bank and nothing to prove to anybody." Fury - who has hinted at walking

The unbeaten Tyson Fury is a two-time world champion

BRITAIN’S heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury says he will retire after the defence of his WBC title against Dillian Whyte in April. The unbeaten 33-yearold is a two-time world champion, winning 31 of 32 professional fights. He drew with American Deontay Wilder in the first of their three fights, before winning the second and third bouts.

away from boxing before - was expected to face the winner of Anthony Joshua's rematch with Ukranian WBA (Super), IBF and WBO champion Oleksandr Usyk later this year, should he beat Whyte. That potential scenario to unify all the heavyweight belts had kept alive the possibility of a long-awaited fight between Fury and Joshua, after negotiations ended last year. (BBC Sport).

Dharry to headline return of Professional Boxing at National stadium

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 4, 2022

Guyana's Elton Dharry during training

AFTER some hiccups, boxing-starved fans will finally be satiated with a card comprising two title fights next month. This is according to USA-based prizefighter Elton Dharry, who is scheduled to headline the April 23 event, dubbed the ‘Guyana Fight Night Road to Redemption’ at the Guyana National Stadium. Dharry was scheduled to be in the ring here on Boxing Day then in February at the same venue, but the card was postponed due to the prevailing pandemic situation and international cricket. The event has now gotten the green light. “We got the approval today for the stadium for April 23,” said Dharry yesterday. Dharry, who has large fan base in the 592, will star in the feature presentation for the spoils of the WBC International super flyweight title while Dexter ‘The Kid’ Marques will be the co-main event. Dharry disclosed that Dexter will be fighting a Mexican for the WBC Silver International title. Their respective opponents will be named

shortly along with the full slate of the five-fight professional card. The 36-year-old orthodox fighter knows that Father Time is ticking on his career and plans to put on a show in front of the local boxing-starved fans. “I am in contact with match-makers in New York, Nicaragua and Mexico to get quality opponents who will come to Guyana and fight. My main aim is to win big fights and get another crack at the world title.” Dharry, who has been calling out world champions in his division, fought for the WBA Super Flyweight title in 2019. However, he lost to Andrew Maloney in the latter’s hometown of Melbourne, Australia in a controversial ninth-round stoppage after the ringside doctor stopped the fight due to an eye injury. Dharry said he was dominating at the time. Dharry, who improved his record to 25-6-1 (15KOs) with a first-round stoppage in his last fight last July, stated that his ultimate dream is to win a world title for Guyana.

International competition is on the horizon for Guyana’s Green Machine

Guyana to compete at RAN Sevens in The Bahamas next month

Elton Dharry (centre) with Minister Charles Ramson Jr (left) and Director of Sport, Kashif Muhammad, during a recent visit

RUGBY Americas North (RAN) has announced that its 2022 Sevens Qualifiers are set to take place at Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium in Nassau, Bahamas on April 23-24, 2022, hosted by The Bahamas Rugby Football Union. Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) will be part of the event and will be looking to better their performance in 2021. In 2021, Guyana started their campaign with a 36-5 win over Belize, but then lost 15-7 to Bermuda. Moving in the medal aspect of the championship, they lost to eventual winners, Jamaica 24-0 and Barbados 26-5 before crushing the British Virgin Islands 43-0 in the fifth-place playoff. The two-day event – which includes senior Men’s and Women’s divisions – will serve as qualifiers for the Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022 in Cape Town, South Africa in September, along with The Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham, England in July. The top two Men’s teams and one Women’s team from the event will book their ticket to the Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022, while the highest-placed Men’s team eligible to participate in The Commonwealth

Games 2022 will represent RAN, alongside Canada who have already pre-qualified for both men and women. USA Men’s and Women’s teams have already qualified for the Rugby World Cup Sevens in South Africa based on their finishing positions at the 2018 edition of the tournament in San Francisco, which means that RAN will be represented by three Men’s teams and two Women’s teams in South Africa. RAN has received interest from more than 20 national teams, including Canada Men and Women, across the two divisions. The final list of competing teams, pools and tournament structure will be announced closer to the event in April. This will be the first international Sevens competition hosted by RAN since last year’s Fireminds RAN Sevens in Turks and Caicos, where Jamaica lifted the trophy as champions with a 21-7 win over Mexico in the final. Earlier this year, RAN announced that its RAN Super Sevens tournament – which was to be played in Mexico City February 1213 with both senior and age-grade divisions – had to be postponed due to the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic.

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