Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 05-05-2023

‘Diversity must not become a spear of division’

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali has implored Guyanese to reject attempts, from whichever quarter, that are aimed to fostering prejudice, hatred,

strife and division.

In his message on the occasion of Arrival Day, the Head of State said that diversity must not become a spear of division.

- President Ali says no one will be treated as superior to another under ‘One Guyana’ thrust

“Arrival Day is a celebration of the multicultural character of our nation. On this day, declared as a public holiday, we pay homage to our African,

Asian, European and West Indian ancestors who together with our Indigenous peoples laid the foundation of our country’s ethnic diversity, each contributing,

in no small measure, to our country’s attainment of freedom and its development,” Dr. Ali said. He related that multiculturalism, the product

of the meeting of these worlds, allows Guyanese, as a nation, to benefit from the rich cultural heritage of their respective peoples.

Advancing bilateral partnerships

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, engaged in bilateral discussions with the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. The two leaders discussed advancing government-to-government collaboration in several areas, including energy, technology, health services, and urbanisation. The President also met with former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair. The areas of discussion included the efforts being made by the Government of Guyana to modernise governance systems for improved efficiency in services, policy formulation and the use of technology to advance these efforts. The two also discussed finding ways to work together to position Guyana as a major global player in climate, food and energy security. President Ali is in the UK for the Coronation Ceremony of King Charles III, which will take place on Saturday. (Office of the President photos)

Company undertaking gas-to-energy project to hire up to 2,000 Guyanese

- Chairman of LNDCH4 says, as Guyanese delegation tours company’s facility in the US

CGX strikes oil at Wei-1 well in Corentyne Block

- still to determine if the hydrocarbon encounter is sufficient for commercial development, company says

‘Diversity must not become a spear of division’

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan

Ali has implored Guyanese to reject attempts, from whichever quarter, that are aimed to fostering prejudice, hatred, strife and division.

In his message on the occasion of Arrival Day, the Head of State said that diversity must not become a spear of division.

“Arrival Day is a celebration of the multicultural character of our nation. On this day, declared as a public holiday, we pay homage to our African, Asian, European and West Indian ancestors who together with our Indigenous peoples laid the foundation of our country’s ethnic diversity, each contributing, in no small measure, to our country’s attainment of freedom and its development,” Dr. Ali said.

He related that multiculturalism, the product of the meeting of these worlds, allows Guyanese, as a nation, to benefit from the rich cultural heritage of their respective peoples.

“Guyana’s multiculturalism brings together the cultural traditions of Asia, Africa, Europe and the West Indies, and in this process, helps to forge a sense of oneness,” Dr. Ali said.

He highlighted that at those distinct and varied strands are being weaved into a singular, strong and unified national fabric, where differences are acknowledged, recognised and respected.

“As I have alluded to before, the One Guyana agenda esteems the diversity from which our oneness springs. Under the One Guyana banner, none are

more equal to any other, and none will be treated as superior to the other,” he said.

The President continued: “One Guyana is about fashioning a more inclusive and equal Guyana where our people are bonded by shared values and common aspirations.”

Arrival Day, according to him, should remind Guyanese that while their ancestors may have come in different ships, today, they are all in the same vessel.

“…this beautiful country called Guyana is blessed with warm, friendly and hospitable people and abundant resources. It is for us to work together, unshackled from divisiveness, so as to create the conditions that would yield a better life for ourselves and progeny,” Dr. Ali said.

The Head of State related that Arrival Day also coincides with the celebration of Indian Arrival Day, the anniversary of the arrival of the first batch of Indian indentured immigrants to

the country. He said that 185 years ago, Indians set foot on Guyana’s soil, and in the ensuing years almost a quarter of million indentured immigrants would arrive, the

majority of whom stayed and made this country their permanent homeland.

“These indentured immigrants and their descendants have made an undeniable and unmistakable contribution to our country’s development and its struggles for national liberation and human dignity,” Dr. Ali said.

The Head of State related that Indians have been integral to the country's quest for freedom, economic empowerment and its political, economic and social development.

“They have enriched and added to Guyana’s multicultural diversity. I urge all Guyanese, regardless of race, religion or class, to continue to work together to build a One Guyana,” Dr. Ali said.

Company undertaking gas-to-energy project to hire up to 2,000 Guyanese

- Chairman of LNDCH4 says, as Guyanese delegation tours company’s facility in

WITH the aim of gaining a deeper understanding of the gas-to-energy project in Guyana, more than 30 Guyanese, who are part of the delegation for the Offshore Technology Conference 2023 (OTC), conducted a tour of a facility owned and operated by US-consortium, Lindsayca/CH4 (LNDCH4), in Houston.

According to a release from the local team, during the visit, the Guyana delegation along with representatives of the US Embassy in Guyana, had the opportunity to meet the senior leadership of LNDCH4 which included Hector Fuentes, the President of Lindsayca and Nelson Drake, the Chairman of LNDCH4.

They were also provided with an overview of the project which included insights into other projects done worldwide, the timeline of the project in Guyana, and the available opportunities.

Drake said: “Although we are a US-consortium, our aim is to use as much local content as possible in Guy-

ana. In addition to engaging services from businesses in Guyana, we also aim to hire approximately 1,500 – 2,000 people in-country.”

Founder of the Guyana Oil & Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), Manniram Prashad said that he is pleased to see the approach that LNDCH4 has taken in sensitising the business community, engaging in such an informative and transparent manner, and outlining the various opportunities that will be available for Guya-

nese businesses.

“We feel confident that this project will be transformational for Guyana,” he said.

Nayteram Ramnarine, the Economist of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), said:

“This trip provided valuable insight into the timelines and processes involved in developing the gas-to-energy plant in our country. As an economist for the PSC, I am committed to ensuring that all businesses within our organisation are fully

prepared to capitalise on the opportunities that will arise from this project.”

Additionally, Kathy Smith, the Executive Secretary of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), said: “The presentation given highlighted the phases of the project towards production of reliable and cost-effective source of energy for power generation, thereby reducing electricity costs and improving energy security. Also important is job and local partnership opportunities that will spur economic growth, particularly in the West Coast Demerara region.”

The government has awarded a US$759 million contract to LINDSAYCA/ CH4 for the construction of the integrated Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Plant and the 300-megawatt (MW) combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plant located at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

Authorities had decided to construct the two plants together, as it was determined

there will be substantial savings from combining the two facilities.

The partnership is expected to bring significant investment and expertise to the project, helping to ensure its success and the realisation of its full potential benefits for Guyana.

As part of this project, there will be the construction of a 300-megawatt (MW) power plant being at the old Wales Sugar Estate, which will generate 250 megawatts (MW) of power to approximately 220,000 households that are connected to the grid.

A 200km pipeline will transport gas from the Liza Phase One and Liza Phase Two Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the natural gas power plant that is being constructed at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

The first step in the project is the extraction of natural gas from offshore fields using drilling and production facilities. The natural gas will then be processed to remove

the US

impurities and prepare it for transportation to shore.

The processed natural gas will be transported to shore through pipelines or other transportation systems, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers.

Natural gas will be used to generate electricity at onshore power plants. The electricity generated will be distributed to the national grid and used to power homes, businesses, and other consumers.

In addition to power generation, natural gas can also be used for other purposes, such as industrial and commercial applications, transportation, and as a feedstock for the production of chemicals and other products.

The sale of natural gas and the production of electricity will generate significant revenue for Guyana, contributing to the country’s economic growth and helping to support social and infrastructural development programmes.

Members of the Guyana delegation at the LNDCH4 facility in Houston, Texas

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

- President Ali says no one will be treated as superior to another under ‘One Guyana’ thrust

CGX strikes oil at Wei-1 well in Corentyne Block

- still to determine if the hydrocarbon encounter is sufficient for commercial development, company says

JOINT venture partners, CGX and Frontera Energy Corporation, have reported the discovery of multiple oil-bearing intervals at the Wei-1 well in the Corentyne Block offshore Guyana.

According to a media release: “The Well has encountered multiple oil-bearing intervals in the western channel fan complex of the northern portion of the Corentyne block in formations of Maastrichtian and Campanian ages.”

The Wei-1 well is being drilled by CGX and Frontera Energy Corporation (“Frontera”) (the “JV partners”).

The well, planned to be drilled to a total depth of 20,500 feet, to date has been successfully drilled to a depth of 19,142 feet. The Wei-1 well is located 14 kilometres west of the Kawa-1 discovery well announced by the JV partners last year.

“Operations were interrupted when a wire line

fluid sampling tool became stuck in the well and was not recovered. An openhole sidetrack will begin shortly from below the last casing point and will progress to the planned total depth. The JV Partners expect the well to be completed within the original timeframe announced on January 23, 2023 of four to five months after spudding the Well,” the companies said.

A comprehensive logging campaign in the Maas-

trichtian interval indicated the presence of medium sweet crude oil of 24.9 API. And downhole fluid analysis confirmed light sweet

crude oil in the Campanian interval.

“Logging while drilling (LWD) and cuttings indicated the presence of hydrocarbons in the upper portion of the Santonian; fluid samples have not yet been obtained. Core samples will be attempted in the Santonian interval when drilling resumes. It is not yet certain that the hydrocarbons encountered to date in the well are yet sufficient to underpin commercial development on the Northern portion of the Corentyne Block,” the companies related.

As drilling operations continue, the joint venture partners have revised the well’s total cost estimates to approximately US$175US$185 million to successfully reach the target total depth, complete the anticipated logging runs and complete the well.

The increase in cost includes the delays associated with the late release of the rig by a third-party and adjusting the spud date to January 2023, and costs associated with fishing and sidetrack operations.

It was reported last year that following “constructive” discussions with the Government of Guyana,

CGX Energy Inc. had announced that, together with Frontera Energy Corporation, the company will be focusing exclusively on the exploration opportunities in the Corentyne Block, offshore Guyana.

“Our long partnership with the Government and People of Guyana is a critical aspect of our decisions. We have a significant opportunity on the Corentyne Block following the discovery at Kawa-1. The joint venture is moving ahead rapidly to advance our programme and unlock the potential of the Corentyne Block, for the benefit of all stakeholders,” Executive Co-Chairman of CGX’s Board of Directors, Professor Suresh Narine, said in a statement released recently by the company.

In February, CGX, less than two months after encountering hydrocarbons at the Kawa-1 well in the Corentyne Block, announced that its drilling campaign had produced greater results.

The company, in a press statement, announced that the Kawa-1 well encountered approximately 177 feet (54 metres) of hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs within Maastrichtian, Campanian and Santonian horizons based on initial evaluation of Logging While Drilling (LWD) data. Those intervals are similar in age and could be correlated using regional seismic data to recent successes in Block 58 in Suriname and the lucrative Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

Norton implicates independent LGE groups as front for APNU/PNCR

- Jagdeo calls on groups to clarify their position

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo, has said that the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is trying to disguise itself in some Local Authority Areas in shame of its track record, after the APNU claimed that a number of independents aligned to the party will be contesting the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE).

Jagdeo, during a press conference on Thursday, said APNU claims are dangerous to the independent entities, as it now opens all independent groups and individuals to suspicion that they are aligned to the party and it could affect their chances at the elections

The General Secretary has encouraged independent entities not aligned with APNU to distance themselves from that party.

“If it is not true, then what he has done is, he has branded all of those individuals and groups contesting outside of APNU in these Local Government Areas as APNU fronts. So, it is very dangerous for those people who are contesting now, because he has implied that they are all APNU fronts,” Jagdeo said during his weekly press conference on Thursday.

His remarks came moments after APNU Chairman, and Leader of the Opposition (LOO), Aubrey Norton, claimed that APNU refrained from contesting in some LAAs at the request of some of its party supporters that are contesting independently.

“In areas where community groups ask us to contest as community groups, we aid them and we work with

President acted lawfully’

- AG maintains, files notice of appeal ruling in PSC challenge

ATTORNEY-GENERAL, Anil Nandlall, S.C., will be moving to appeal Justice Gino Persaud’s ruling in favour of a constitutional action challenging the suspension of the former Police Service Commission (PSC) in 2021.

In March, Justice Persaud found that the President acted unlawfully when, based on the advice of the Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, and in accordance with Article 225 of the Constitution of Guyana, he suspended the then Chairman, Paul Slowe, and the members of the Commission, pending the findings of a tribunal that was to be established.

However, Nandlall has rejected the ruling and filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal of the Supreme Court to have the decision overturned.

them. What I am not going to do is to say which are the community groups and identify them,” Norton said as he once again faced questions about the magnitude of its participation.

He added: “We have always had a policy with says over the years we hope to depoliticise local government, and we have always created the opportunity, for independent groups to operate. In cases where they have asked us not to run in the area where they will run we have done that.”

According to the approved List of Candidates released by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), a total of 46 parties, voluntary groups and individuals will be contesting in the June 12 LGEs.

Aside from the PPP/C and APNU, there are 19 other voluntary groups contesting the Proportional Representation (PR) component of the elections.

APNU has been approved to contest in only 261 or 42.9 per cent of the 610 constituencies and 55 or 68.75 per cent of LAAs. That leaves 25 LAAs where the party is not

participating.

Conversely, the PPP/C, has been approved to contest in all 80 LAAs, which include 70 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and 10 municipalities.

The PPPC is already poised for default wins in 12 of the 80 LAAs. The LAAs where the PPP/C is the only contesting entity include Leguan, Canal Polder, and La Jalousie/Novelle Flanders in Region Three (Essequibo Island-West Demerara); Herstelling/ Little Diamond in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica); Kintyre/No 37 Borlam, Ordanance/Fort Lands No 38, Kilcoy/Hampshire, Port Mourant/Johns, Bloomfield/Whim, and No 64/ No 74 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); and the Aranaputa/Upper Burro Burro NDC and municipality of Lethem in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

In the application, the Attorney-General is contending that Justice Persaud misdirected himself in the law when he determined that the expired PSC could lawfully continue to maintain legal proceedings, and in so determining, refused the applicant's application to strike out the defunct PSC challenge.

Nandlall further contended that Justice Persaud erred when he determined that the PSC, for which members were appointed on May 31, 2022, was not properly constituted and, therefore, could neither participate in continuing nor discontinuing the proceedings before the court.

Among other things, the Attorney General is arguing that the Judge misdirected himself when he ruled that the President breached the constitution when he suspended Slowe and other commissioners.

Justice Persaud, in his ruling, posited that after the question of removing the officers is put to the President by the Prime Minister, the President shall act in accordance with the advice of the Judicial Service

Commission (JSC) in appointing a tribunal.

This tribunal is to consist of a chairman and not less than two other members. However, Nandlall, in his notice of appeal is contending that the Judge erred.

“The Learned Judge erred when he failed to properly appreciate that all of these peculiar circumstances concatenated to give rise to a necessity upon which the President, having received the advice of the Prime Minister, acted to suspend the former Commissioners, or otherwise, the machinery of administration, impacted by the actions of the Police Service Commission, may have further broken down,” the Attorney General reasoned.

Previously, Nandlall said that many of the crucial reliefs sought by Slowe fell away with the passage of time and other legal challenges, including those filed by the opposition.

The Attorney General went on to explain that the PSC is an independent body responsible for the promotion of certain ranks in the Police Force and for disciplining those ranks.

He alleged that Slowe is a known critic of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and is not impartial.

Nandlall stressed that Slowe is currently criminally charged and is before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on three counts of sexual assault, and the offence of con-

spiracy to defraud the State of just over $10 million.

The Attorney General, in addressing this aspect of the judge’s ruling, said that the President acted in the public’s interest, and in the interest of national security.

“What should the President have done in those circumstances to allow such a rogue organisation to proceed with a course of action that would have had destructive consequences to the police force of the country? Or should he sit and twiddle his thumb because there is no Judicial Service Commission?” he questioned.

Nandlall underscored that President Ali acted lawfully by exercising his executive power, and in the exercise of his deliberate judgement, since there was no JSC in place to which he could have turned to establish his tribunal.

Last year, Justice Persaud threw out an application for a stay of the proceedings which was filed by Attorney-at-Law Darshan Ramdhani, KC, who was representing the interest of the reconstituted PSC and the Attorney General.

The two parties had called for a stay of the substantive case, pending the outcome of appeals filed against the rulings made by Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George, S.C., in cases which touched on the subject of the action before Justice Persaud.

‘The

General Secretary of the PPP/C, Bharrat Jagdeo

Spotlight on Death by Drowning

TWO teenaged boys living in different parts of the country lost their lives to drowning on Sunday. Their untimely death is a harsh reminder that the water can be a dangerous place if one is not careful.

Additionally, it underscores the importance of learning how to respond to emergency situations that may occur in the water.

Statistics will show that our waterways are just as deadly as our roadways. Tragedy can strike at any moment and can easily end in fatality if the response is either slow or inadequate.

Given that Guyana has many rivers, creeks and waterfalls, and swimming in the neighbourhood trench is often the norm for many, it is reasonable to say that every citizen should possess basic swimming skills and

must also be equipped with the requisite knowledge to handle emergency situations in the absence of trained personnel.

If we examine the two cases based on the facts provided by the Guyana Police Force, it can be concluded that things could have turned out differently.

Swimming, particularly in rivers, creeks and even trenches, is risky, especially if you are not a strong swimmer. There are many factors that ought to be taken into consideration, since, in the blink of an eye, swimmers can find themselves encountering difficulties.

In addition to a strong current, the swimmer may be unaware of the depth – one part may be very shallow, then a few feet out, it suddenly gets very deep.

Nathaniel Nelson, a

14-year-old Line Path Secondary School student drowned sometime around 07:30hrs while swimming and playing with others in the Corentyne River.

“Nathaniel went into the water, began struggling, and disappeared,” the police had disclosed. His body was found almost three hours later.

The other case is that of Anthony Gordon, a 13-yearold student of Wismar/Christianburg Secondary School, who was found at the bottom of the “Buck Town” Creek in Wismar, Linden.

According to the police’s account, the teen was in the company of two friends, aged 10 and 14 when he reportedly “ran into the water.” He was never seen alive again.

Residents who responded to his friends’ cries for help

later found his body.

The efforts being made by the government to teach children proper swimming techniques while boosting their confidence in the water, cannot go unnoticed.

Thousands of children have benefitted from programmes organised and executed by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission, over the years.

The “Teach Them Young” programme which is held during the lengthy July/August vacation period attracted 1,700 children in 2022. Similar numbers were recorded for previous years.

This year, an Easter “Learn to Swim” programme was held, which saw some 2,000 children ages six-16 years old receiving swim coaching at the Colgrain Pool in Georgetown (Region

Four), Watooka Guest House in Linden (Region 10), Albion Estate in Berbice (Region Six), and the National Aquatic Centre at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown (Region Four).

The numbers prove that parents recognise the importance of their children learning to swim.

For this reason, every effort must be made to facilitate such programmes in other regions. Perhaps, several programmes can be held over the lengthy vacation period so that more children can benefit.

Over the years, too many children have been victims of watery deaths. No one could definitively say that having strong swimming skills might have helped the teens who perished on Sunday, but at least, all children their ages should

be provided with the resources and an opportunity to learn to swim.

Children will be children. They will often give in to the irresistible urge to plug into the gleaming black water of a creek or the murky water of the trench around the corner, without understanding the dangers of such an action. Every effort should be made to protect them from themselves. Teach them to swim early. Educate them about the dangers of swimming and where they should not venture on these swimming expeditions. And most importantly, teach them how to respond in the event of an emergency.

Doing all of the above could help save our adventurous children from untimely deaths and protect families and communities from heartbreak.

Reflection On Arrival Day ‘Shared governance’ is a political strategy for power not for good government

Dear Editor, “Accept the unedited past without any change”

So little or so much lie in the past, People and performances perfected with a blast. In the wink of an eye, it went fast, To leave us in a conditional overcast. Those days and nights will not change, Try not to tamper or rearrange. All’s written down along the range, Now, everything seems a little strange.

Shun not memories that cannot be forgotten, What in black and white, are already written. Bitter or sweet, events harden, soften or smitten, Issues viewed as uncomfortable and rotten.

History will be read but cannot be edited, A real life lived and scripted, not animated. If worthy and hearty, it may be imitated, Others find interested, otherwise, wasted.

Words spoken and gone, cannot now erase, The twists and turns traversed during that phase. Now, a present and future summon a case, Contingent on a foundation with a proven base.

Seasons upon seasons adept with reasons accept, What many moons kept with an individual concept. The passage of time swept the flowing tide to intercept, When man wept but nature perseveres to its precept.

Yours sincerely, Jai Lall

Dear Editor, I WRITE with reference to the Hon Jermaine Figueira’s (MP) article published in the media (May 4, 2023).

The piece makes a number of claims and propositions regarding “shared governance.” I should state, forthwith, that shared governance is not a well-intended mechanism for building good government in Guyana, but an ongoing ploy by the APNU+AFC to take power by any means.

Mr. Figueira should know that political parties that have a long record of stealing elections cannot

be trusted with any kind of shared arrangement. If they were as brazen in trying to steal the 2020 elections, why would the APNU and AFC suddenly stop being bullies in a shared governance arrangement? Bullying is part of their institutional culture.

Mr Figueira’s entire case is built on the bogeyman called race. Instead of a well-grounded analysis based on the relevant political theories and empirics of the country, he descends into the customary grand rhetorical performance of dividing the world between the saved and the dammed.

There are too many throw-away lines such as, “the challenge now is how to ensure that the oil wealth is shared equally, equitably, fairly, and just [sic] among all Guyanese, regardless of race or political affiliation.”

These are just glittering generalisations concocted for mass consumption. It offers no meaningful way of realising these aspirational values. Mr Figueira cannot imply that some groups based on racial identity are getting more, while others are getting less without providing at least a minimal empirical analysis of the extant

condition that obtains in the oil-producing economy.

It is deeply troubling that the Hon MP would publicly urge the media to push ‘shared governance.’ Is that the job of the media or should journalists be more focused on reporting the news? Incidentally, would Mr Figueira and others think that critiquing this call for the media to push the agenda of the Opposition, an attack on journalists? Without a shred of disrespect for journalists, I do have to say that yes, journalists have been pushing shared governance

AG calls APNU’s bluff

- sees its move to block LGEs a sign of fear about results of upcoming polls

Warning the public not to be misled by these “fabricated and manufactured” allegations of theirs, the Attorney- General has called on the international community to censure the Opposition for attempting to delay the LGEs.

“The government is do-

ing everything possible to support GECOM, the electoral machinery, to hold these elections, and you have the main opposition parties manufacturing and concocting allegations of fraud, and threatening a delay of these elections,” he said, adding:

“In addition, throwing

hurdles and obstacles in the electoral machinery’s path in the hope that they will prevent these elections from taking place.”

Nandlall expressed confidence in his party’s ability to do well at the polls, especially since the APNU is only contesting in a fraction

of the Local Authority Areas (LAAs).

The PPP/C is contesting in all 610 constituencies across the 80 LAAs for the June 12 Local Government Elections. However, there have been numerous reports of instances of intimidation by APNU agents.

SENSING a loss at the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGEs), the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has resorted to the use of diversionary tactics, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C., has said.

APNU Chief Scrutineer Carol Smith-Joseph has moved to the court to block the LGEs over issues pertaining to electoral boundaries.

The party has asked the High Court to order the postponement or cancellation of the LGEs on the basis that 37 constituency boundaries in 19 Local Authority Areas (LAAs) have been changed, in contravention of Guyana’s Constitution and the Local Government Act.

“The APNU has finally made it clear that they do not want Local Government Elections. I have been saying from the inception, over a year-and-a-half ago, that they do not want to contest these elections; that they have seen the writing on the wall, and that they would be resoundingly beaten at these elections,” Minister Nandlall said during his Online show, “Issues in the News”.

“They have consistently and persistently, over the past year or more been throwing in the path of these elections all manner of hurdles and objections, hoping that they can succeed in delaying the elections. They have failed abysmally in their efforts to thwart these elections from taking place,” he added.

Currently, there is another matter before the High Court, whereby the Opposition is challenging the

process used to compile the List of Electors (or Voters' List) for the upcoming Local Government Elections.

The challenge is directed towards the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the Chief Elections Officer, the Commis-

sioner of Registration, and the Attorney-General.

In this application, Smith-Joseph is seeking a series of declarations from the court, including that GECOM acted unlawfully in compiling the List of Voters, and that it has a constitutional duty to ensure that the registration of electors is conducted in accordance with the law.

“They have tried persistently, at the level of GECOM through their commissioners, to raise all manner of objections against the list, against the employees of GECOM, against boundaries demarcated for these elections. And all those efforts yielded no fruit,” Minister Nandlall said.

He further stressed that the defunct party has issued a formal statement in which it is calling for an investigation into acts of electoral fraud by the PPP/C in another attempt to stall the LGEs.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C.

Carol Smith-Joseph

MINISTER of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, has said that with many issues facing Indigenous Peoples across the world, Guyana is way ahead of most countries in addressing those challenges and preserving the rights of the country’s first peoples.

The minister made those remarks on Thursday at a press conference held in collaboration with the National Toshaos Council to share the outcomes from the recently concluded United Nations Permanent Forum of Indigenous Issues.

In April, Guyana was repre-

sented by a team from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and the National Toshaos Council at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

During Thursday’s conference, Sukhai said that a fresh team was taken to the forum and was exposed to the issues challenging Indigenous Peoples across the world.

She said they discovered that Guyana is way ahead of in terms of what was discussed, especially when it relates to finding solutions to issues being faced by Indigenous Peoples.

She said: “So, they have discovered that Guyana is way ahead of most of what is being discussed in terms of finding solutions, engaging the Indigenous Peoples and actually having in place programmes that have allowed the protection of their rights having legislation and also addressing development.”

Sukhai said Guyana was among the very first to produce legislation and protection for Indigenous rights, while the country was also among the first to have commissions that the Indigenous Peoples could go to for redress if they feel discriminated against.

The Amerindian Affairs Minister went on to add that they were also able to present to the forum that remote and Indigenous communities in the country are going to be served by telemedicine systems soon.

She said that while some might believe authorities are beating their chests, those were just the facts that were presented to the UN. It was further noted that it was important for these programmes and results to be presented to the forum.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament, Allister Charlie who was also part of the delegation

Sukhai says

Guyana a frontrunner in the preservation of Indigenous Peoples rights - Minister

at the UNPFII, said that he too discovered that in contrast to other Indigenous Peoples across the globe, Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples are way ahead.

He related: “Guyana has paved the way in terms of Indigenous Peoples’ rights

and recognition so Guyana is on the right path. Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples are being respected in our country and we have a government that respects the Indigenous People.”

Additionally, the ministry’s legal officer, Miriam

Andrew-Ming told the conference that her contributions during the UNPFII’s session in April focused on Guyana’s legal and policy framework that promotes Indigenous Peoples’ rights in Guyana.

‘Shared governance’ is a...

FROM PAGE 6

for years. That should not be their business.

MP Figueria needs to tell us which countries in the world have been enjoying the blessings of shared governance of the sort he envisages. And, may I ask why Republicans and Democrats in the US do not put their heads together and work out something in a country that is deeply divided along the lines of race and class.

As an American citizen, I can tell you that many lay persons want the political elites in Washington to arrive at a constructive modus

vivendi. Instead, we had an assault on the Capitol.

Cosmopolitan liberals (scholars, entertainers, philanthropists, and some from the political elites) love to recommend that people in the Third World to get along better. In this instance, there is a pre-analytic, cognitive disposition in assuming something primordially saccharine about people in developing countries. Shouldn’t the focus instead be on encouraging those interested to engage in vigorous debate? The American constitution with all its flaws and contradic-

tions emerged out of lengthy debates.

Why shouldn’t the same be expected of us, as a young nation? Why boil everything down to “shared governance,” which is basically based on the early colonial anthropology of backward peoples needing to get along.

Mr Figueira has done well to put some ideas in the public realm. Yet, he must stay away from the WPA’s mantra that some suffered more and, therefore, deserve more.

Yours sincerely,

Dr Randolph Persaud

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai (centre), MP Allister Charlie (first from right) and Legal Officer, Miriam Andrew-Ming (first from left) along with other members of the delegation who attended the UNPFII in April (Delano Williams photo)

PPP/C: Let us continue to build on the achievements of our ancestors

ARRIVAL Day reminds us of the rich history of strength, determination, and innovative spirit brought by the Portuguese, East Indians, and Chinese, and others who were brought to these shores as indentured labourers.

It reminds us of the sacrifices and immeasurable contributions made by them to develop our individual communities and our country, and emphasises for us the duty we have to build a better country for our children.

As we commemorate this day, all Guyanese, here and abroad, are urged to reflect on the grueling, inhumane journeys undergone to arrive here; the harsh living conditions withstood in the early days, and the successful efforts made, in spite of that, to thrive and develop their families and communities.

Their determined efforts have led to the creation of this multi-cultural and multi-religious society of ours, in which there is immense pride in our diversity. We have been imbued with values of perseverance, sacrifice, brotherhood, and respect for one another as we share and participate in the various festivals that have come to identify us as a people.

Inspired by the sacrifices and achievements of our ancestors, the Guyanese people are deter -

mined to build upon the gains that have been made to: Ensure our country remains a place for all of its sons and daughters; safeguard our hard-won freedoms; ensure that peace is not compromised; and to ensure that the safety of our people is paramount.

Recognising the value of the gains that we have made, we must reject those views which will dishonour these inherited values, and we must continue to work together as one people to further advance the development of our nation for the betterment of all Guyanese.

The sacrifices made by the Indigenous Peoples, those who were brought to our shores as indentured labourers, and those who were brought forcibly as slaves, have brought us to a place in 2023 where our country today is recognised as the country in our region with the most robust social and economic development trajectory.

As we celebrate the successes and achievements of our people, we honour our foreparents by our united commitment to ensure a country where all families can live and thrive in safety and prosperity.

Happy Arrival Day to All!

PNC/R: The untiring efforts, enormous sacrifices of our ancestors must never be forgotten

THE PNC/R extends best wishes to the entire Guyanese nation, especially those of Indian ancestry, on the occasion of Arrival Day 2023. For this year’s observances, the PNC/R has chosen the theme, “Celebrating our cultural and racial diversity, while strengthening our unity”. This theme is reflected in the Guyana Constitution.

On May 5, we pay homage to the arrival of indentured workers to these shores, regardless of their origin. Of special significance, however, today marks the anniversary of the arrival of our East Indian ancestors in 1838. The arrival of these various Guyanese ancestors has added to the multi-ethnic, multi-re -

ligious, and multi-cultural splendor of Guyana.

The untiring efforts and enormous sacrifices of these ancestors have helped to build a nation that today we are proud to call home, and that we are prepared to represent, defend, and develop.

True, much more work remains to be done. The Guyanese people are yet to fully enjoy a comfortable standard

of living and a high quality of life. Widespread poverty and inequality still stalk our land. Arrival Day, therefore, provides an appropriate occasion for us to recommit to the call in the preamble of the Constitution to “safeguard and build on the rich heritage, won through tireless struggle, bequeathed us by our forebears”.

Let us take this opportunity to restate our support for May 5 to be officially recognised, henceforth, as Indian Arrival Day. Designating May 5 as Indian Arrival Day respects the historic fact that the date specifically marks the arrival of the first Indian indentured labourers to these shores.

May 5, therefore, should

be wholly devoted to celebrating the valuable contribution that our East Indian brothers and sisters have made to the development of our country, and to the shaping of its rich cultural tapestry.

Separate days to recognise the various ancestries and heritages of the Guyanese people should be seen as occasions to celebrate our distinct ethnic identities and cultural expressions, while we at the same time embrace our unity in diversity, our mutual respect, our shared values and beliefs, and our shared destiny.

Happy Arrival Day to all Guyanese!

strength, common bond

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends warmest greetings to all Guyanese on Arrival Day. It symbolises the journey taken by numerous indentured servants representing diverse cultures from various parts of the world, including India, China and Madeira across the seas to these shores at different historical periods.

The erstwhile colonial power coerced a labour supply made up of diverse peoples who have made and are still making unique and invaluable

contributions to the development of Guyana.

The ERC urges that we all use this occasion of Arrival Day to reflect and draw inspiration from the selfless sacrifices of those ancestors who, despite their hardships, ensured the preservation of our various cultures and traditions which, over time, shaped who we are.

Today, we also celebrate the enrichment of diversity that Arrival Day embodies in the shaping of Guyana and its modernity. Arrival Day is most significant for what it represents in the context of

the multi-faceted mosaic it created and for which our country is known.

As One Guyana, it is evident that many participate meaningfully in each other’s festivities that have become truly national observances.

Over time, that rich, beautiful and vibrant diversity has become our strength and common bond in the process of becoming one people, working towards a common destiny.

Happy Arrival Day to all!

ERC: Our rich diversity has become our

174 residents in Regions Five, Six receive steel, cement vouchers

- $29M injected in the regions’ economies through the initiative

OVER 170 residents in Regions Five and Six received their cement and steel subsidy vouchers on Wednesday, as part of the government’s slew of measures to support homebuilders.

In Region Five, some 78 persons received their vouchers at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Fort Wellington.

Madhuri Budhu told the Department of Public Information (DPI), “I am very happy receiving this subsidy; this will help me to complete my house… It would give my family a better opportunity to be in a home to enjoy.”

Harrinarine Singh, 79, said he has been looking forward to the opportunity to receive his voucher for a while now.

“I am so happy. I don’t know how much to praise the president for this… this will help my family a lot,” Singh noted.

Another beneficiary, Joshua Undell, 26, said, “This is a big move for me to start my foundation…it will mean a lot to my family.”

Meanwhile, over 120 applications were submitted for the programme in Region Six. However, 96 residents received their vouchers at the RDC office in New Amsterdam.

Tarmattie Jaipersaud said she applied for the

support in October last. “I am so excited. I feel very happy about it… I want to thank the government for this great initiative for me and my family.”

For Charles Johnson, the assistance will kickstart the construction of his house, since he acquired his land through his employer a while back.

“I feel very good… My family will be ecstatic. This is a very good gesture to move the family from one point to another.”

Another beneficiary, Tajnauth Sookdeo said, “This is the first time in my life I am experiencing this. Right now, I am very happy. It is a start for me to propel further…I am very grateful and happy.”

Approximately $14 million will be injected into the local economy in Region Five, while another $15 million will be invested in Region Six’s economy.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal emphasised that this initiative serves as a tangible example of the government’s commitment to offering housing interventions to citizens to lessen the burden of homeownership.

“You are part of our housing development.

Cement and Steel subsidy beneficiaries

Husband allegedly slits wife’s throat, stabs her 13 times

- body found at Alpha Hotel; suspect in police custody

tem examination will be conducted.

Halley’s body was examined, and 13 stab wounds were seen on her face, hands and body.

“A further examination was made, and a wound measuring 10 inches in

width and five inches in depth was seen on her neck. The white bedsheet was soaked in blood. A knife handle without a blade was seen next to the body on the bed. The blade was subsequently found in the deceased woman's

hair, covered in blood,” the police said.

The suspected was arrested around 16:30 hours and taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, where he remains in custody.

Halley and the suspect were married. However, there are claims that the victim was subject to abuse prior to her demise and she moved out of businessman’s residence about two months ago.

KIM Halley, a 46-yearold woman of Lamaha Park, was found dead with 13 stab wounds and her neck slashed at Alpha Hotel, Public Road Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), on Thursday.

According to information from the police, the woman and her reputed husband, Junior Halley, a 50-year-old Mahaicony businessman, arrived at the hotel and checked into room 235 around 13:45 hours.

Around 14:30 hours,

the hotel staff reportedly heard screams from the room and about 15 minutes after, the suspect exited the room and left the hotel.

Staff then discovered the door was slightly open and found the woman lying motionless on the bed.

A report was made to the police and the EMT was summoned. Halley was pronounced dead at the scene and the body was escorted to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, where a post-mor-

174 residents...

FROM PAGE 11

You are part of our trajectory of ensuring that development comes to everyone,” Minister Croal emphasised.

He noted that the government is investing heavily in the housing sector to make homeownership easier for Guyanese which includes land title distribution, low interest rates, house lot allocation, road infrastructure, bridges, and development of new housing areas.

To date, close to 1,000 house lots have been allocated in Region Five, while 1,300 lots have been allocated in Region Six.

In Region Five, infrastructural works are ongoing at a cost of $3.5 billion and some $9.2 billion in infrastructural works are ongoing in

Region Six.

CHPA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sherwyn Greaves said the government continues to look at various measures, like these, to bring relief to Guyanese throughout the country.

More than 600 persons in Regions Two, Three, Four, Six, Nine, and Ten have benefitted from the distribution of vouchers.

Under the $800 million initiative, persons constructing homes costing $6 million or less will be provided with the steel needed and one sling of cement for the construction of the foundation. For homebuilders spending $6 million to $25 million, the government will provide two slings of cement.

Dead: Kim Halley

More persons living with disabilities equipped with valuable skills

- Minister Persaud says others will be trained and positioned to access employment opportunities

ANOTHER 25 persons living with disabilities graduated from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s skills training programme recently, bringing the total number of graduates to 294 in just

one year. The graduation ceremony was held at the soon to be completed Learning Lab, training and empowerment centre, which will be the designated home for persons living with disabilities to be

trained and developed.

Among the courses, the individuals from Regions Four and Five were trained in JAWS (for the visually impaired) and social media marking.

Subject Minister Dr.

Vindhya Persaud told the graduates: “The aim is to make persons living with disabilities a very valuable part of every aspect of development and we want you to go out and be part of the labour market, part of the workforce and we want you to have your dreams become a reality.”

Minister Persaud said too: “While we were waiting on the facility, we didn’t wait to train so persons were trained across various regions, 294 of them, so we did the graduation for them in Regions Four and Five and we will be presenting the certificates to the others.”

Natasha Basdeo, one of the graduates said, “I am proud of myself because I went through the computer course, and I have a certificate. I learnt a lot from the course, and I think it is a good thing the Ministry is doing. It is very good for me, and I improved a lot so this will help me to gain employment.”

Another graduate, Hannah Joseph said: “It is very good that the ministry is doing so much for persons living with disabilities, it is very helpful to us. I want to thank the Minister for all she is doing for us and I want to encourage all persons liv -

ing with disabilities to take up the opportunity and get qualified.”

Meanwhile, Odessa Blair who completed the social media marketing course, related: “The course was very informative, and I think that persons with disabilities will be benefitting from these training. I believe the Ministry is doing a very good job and I have to say hats off to them for including persons with disabilities in their training and making us equipped to make an equal contribution in the world of work.”

Miner arrested for possession of unlicensed firearm, ammunition

A 35-year-old miner, Terry Williams of Karawab Village, Upper Pomeroon River, was, on Tuesday, arrested by police after he was found with a shotgun and four suspected live 12-gauge cartridges.

According to a report, around 19:30 hours on the day in question, officers from Regional Division #Seven responded to a report of threatening behaviour allegedly committed by Williams against Dwight Allicock, a 26-year-old miner.

The ranks proceeded to a mining camp belonging to Williams. On arrival, the ranks contacted Williams and told him about the allegations against him, which he denied. However, the ranks requested to search the camp and its immediate surroundings.

A search was conducted in Williams’ presence and four live 12-gauge cartridges were found hidden under a fallen tree trunk located about 10 feet away from his camp.

After being ques -

tioned, Williams admitted ownership of the cartridges. He was further questioned about the whereabouts of the firearm and took the police to a spot about 12 feet away from where the ammunition was found and pointed to a black 12-gauge shotgun lying on the tree trunk.

Williams was told of the offence committed, cautioned and arrested. He admitted ownership of the firearm and ammunition. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (right) hands over to Hannah Joseph her certificate

Freedom, protection of media workers top priorities for gov’t - Minister McCoy says

MEMBERS of the media will always be considered friends of the government and their protection is guaranteed under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, said the government intends to always preserve and protect the rights of all groups, including the media. He said that during the

Department of Public Affairs’ 30th World Press Freedom Day gala reception, on Wednesday, at the Pegasus Corporate Centre, Kingston, Georgetown.

Minister McCoy made it clear that the administration will not involve itself in behaviours that would endanger the lives of journalists, since they play an integral role in advancing the government’s agenda and society as a whole.

“My friends, you can rest assured that this People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government will always be a friend of the media, particularly as it comes to the point of being able to uphold the protection and the safety of our journalists. We will always be there and we will do everything to ensure that is never interfered with,” he underscored.

Moreover, journalists were reminded that the government has always been

readily available to the media and citizens, with ministers present at outreaches and community meetings, ready to answer questions.

“We take phone calls. We answer questions. We’re at press conferences. We’re at other events, and we don’t dodge. We don’t hide from the media because we know that you are playing an important role by pursuing us, and seeking answers and wanting information to be

able to share with the public for the public good,” McCoy related.

The minister called out certain sections of the media fraternity that would publish stories that are intended to damage the government’s reputation and undermine its work.

The government, he said, has a right to reply to the misinformation that is being peddled by any mischievous unit.

“We believe that….whenever the opportunity comes, that you have erred and that you have not done what is expected of you as a practitioner … I think that criticism of the media, once done respectfully is fair,” McCoy said.

This year’s World Press Freedom Day was observed under the theme: “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of Expression as a driver for all other human rights.”

Statement by UNFPA Executive Director, Dr. Natalia Kanem, on International Day of the Midwife 2023

EVERY year, on this day, we celebrate midwives for their unwavering commitment to saving lives and ensuring the health and wellbeing of women and newborn babies.

In a world that sees a woman die every two minutes due to pregnancy or childbirth, we also take this moment to champion universal access to skilled midwives as one of the most important ways to avert preventable maternal and newborn deaths.

If every pregnant woman had access to a well-trained, caring midwife, we would be much closer to a world where every childbirth is safe.

Instead, many health systems continue to marginalise this mostly female workforce, and treat midwives poorly in terms of pay, working conditions and opportunities to cultivate skills. This, along with a global shortage of 900,000 midwives, reflects an assumption that they are not essential healthcare workers. Nothing could be further from the truth.

MIDWIVES SAVE LIVES

Around the globe, in countries that invest in a capable midwifery workforce, more mothers and babies survive and thrive. Midwives provide essential information on sexual and reproductive health, including family planning, and help people navigate often-sensitive issues in a variety of contexts, including in humanitarian settings. Midwives are often the only healthcare workers serving people in hard-toreach places.

The consequences of not

having enough skilled midwives are alarming. Decades of progress in preventing maternal deaths have ground to a halt. Every single year, 287,000 women globally lose their lives giving birth; 2.4 million newborns die and an additional 2.2 million are stillborn.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Universal access to midwives offers the best and most cost-efficient solution to end preventable maternal deaths. By closing the deficit in the number of midwives, we could prevent two thirds of maternal and newborn deaths, saving over 4.3 million lives a year by 2035.

In some 125 countries, UNFPA strongly advocates for quality midwifery care.

Evidence shows that competent midwives can provide 90 per cent of essential sexual and reproductive health care, yet because they are both underutilised and in short supply, they account for only 10 per cent of those currently providing these services.

Midwife-led care models improve health outcomes, increase patient satisfaction and reduce costs. While midwives are often relegated to the periphery of health care, all evidence suggests they

should be at the centre.

With stagnating maternal mortality rates and the deadline of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals fast approaching, promoting and investing in midwifery is more important than ever. UNFPA has led a global drive to do so, including through the ground breaking State of the World’s Midwifery reports. From 2009 to 2022, UNFPA helped countries educate and train 350,000 midwives in line with international standards to help improve the quality of care they provide.

More countries today are moving towards universal health coverage, in line with the SDGs. This creates an opportunity to take a step that is long overdue: to formally recognise and treat midwives as essential, respected healthcare providers.

Every woman has the right to lifesaving healthcare. Midwives are critical to help make that happen. On this International Day of Midwives, let us fully acknowledge the skills and contributions of midwives, and invest in them to safeguard life and protect the health and wellbeing of women and newborns and communities at large.

President Ali orders comprehensive assessment of Fort Wellington Hospital

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday, called for a comprehensive assessment of the Fort Wellington Hospital in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) after listening to complaints from residents of long hours of waiting and other issues being experienced when they visit the emergency department of the hospital.

The President took the Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr. Desmond Nicholson, to task for not having the issue addressed, as residents informed Dr. Ali of having made several reports on the incidents but there have been no results.

“We will do a comprehensive assessment of what is happening at Fort Wellington Hospital. The administrators have to be held responsible and I'm being very frank on this. Right here we are hearing the experiences,” the President said.

President Ali was at the time visiting residents of Bath Village, where he subsequently turned the sod for the new $6.6 billion Bath Regional Hospital.

The residents reported waiting times of one to two hours, while recounting incidents that happened as recently as a few days prior.

“Sometimes the doctor gone on lunch three hours.

You gah go home and come back,” one resident said.

Another said: “I witnessed a man lie down for more than 20 minutes, and all them nurse and everybody fold them hands and watch this man. More than 20 times me make report about these things.”

Another man reported taking his daughter, who suffered from a heart defect, to the hospital recently and

even in light of an emergency involving a child, his experience was the same.

“Last week me went. About 8:30am me daughter went in emergency, she does trouble with lil heart problem, she start froth. We wait on doctor, wait on doctor. Then them give she panadol. Use panadol? Panadol nah gah power,” the father expressed.

In wake of those reports,

the RHO attempted to rebut the arguments of waiting times, but the residents were not deterred, and held their ground with their testimonies of their experiences.

President Ali, in response said: “You are saying about people not waiting an hour, but you are hearing right here evidence about people waiting an hour. Your attempt to refute it is being dismantled by the truth. These are

people who are going for the service. You have to listen to them.”

Questioned if he was satisfied with the level of care at the hospital, the RHO said there was room for improvement.

“And what are you doing to correct it? You are the one I'm going to hold responsible because these are tremendous reports on this hospital and this is the type of response

that you get that will not create positive results,” Dr. Ali said to him.

The RHO said that the hospital has 14 doctors, but that the doctors also cover the health centres in the region.

The President related that with the government making the necessary investments those tasked with service delivery must deliver.

Shoot for short film, ‘Old Toy Train’, wraps up today

Born at Haslington, East Coast Demerara, and raised at Zorg on the Essequibo Coast, Kevin, who was shortlisted in 2019 for the Commonwealth Short Story Prize, has been able to incorporate details from his childhood to add a more personal touch to

the story.

Of course, working on a film has not been without its challenges.

“In the workshop, we were told what to expect on a film set but it’s only when you’re on the location and see the challenges; the

many takes you have to do just to get a few minutes of footage.”

However, Kevin is convinced that he and the team have a good story to tell and he feels encouraged by the fact that he has Wiltshire’s support.

“For Rae to have faith in my vision; he’s an experienced filmmaker. His most recent film got screened in London a few months ago. So for him to have that kind of faith in me, I think I am in good hands.”

Continued on page 26

KEVIN Garbaran has been writing short fiction for a while now, but when he joined Rae Wiltshire’s film-making workshop recently, he decided to try his hand at a short film called ‘Old Toy Train.’

Produced by Wiltshire, Kevin is the Director and Script Writer of the film, which is just one of those being produced under the Georgetown Film Festival.

While trying his best not to give away too many details about the plot, Kevin told Buzz this week that the film

explores the family dynamics between an elderly man and his daughter returning to his childhood home in Guyana.

The elderly man has a chronic mental illness and the daughter finds herself in a position where she has to make a very difficult decision.

Commenting on what led to this story idea, Kevin said during Wiltshire’s workshop they were asked to write something that was personal.

“For me, [it was] memories and childhood experiences I value and cherish.”

Director and Script Writer, Kevin Garbaran

Bringing ‘more’ to Berbice

— female promoter seeks to set Ancient County ‘ablaze’ on Independence Day

THE 'One Guyana Independence Chutney Show’ is anticipated to be a massive affair that will bring the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground to life.

According to the promoter, Nerissa Gopaul, who is the head of Mystic Media Live, this Chutney show aims to showcase both local and regional artistes.

The May 26 show will feature the most famous

Chutney sensations coming out of Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago (T&T). Among those slated to perform are Savita Singh from Trinidad and Tony Cuttz, Vicadi Singh, Bunty Singh and AW Lyrical from Guyana.

This is its first Chutney show and Mystic Media hopes to make it an annual event to bring jubilation and ‘aliveness’ to thousands of Berbicians.

“So far everything has been good [and] I’ve been getting good feedback,” Gopaul stated.

In an exclusive interview with this week’s Buzz, she recalled what life was like for her growing up in the countryside and how most times these “famous” and lively concerts were held in Georgetown, making it nearly impossible for Berbicians to experience unless they had

the resources to make the trip.

In an effort to not only bring joy to thousands but also operate under the ‘One Guyana’ slogan, Gopaul stated that it was her aim to provide a platform for local Chutney singers, who have been cooking up a storm on the local, regional and international scene.

Cognisant that being a woman in such a male-dom-

inated field is challenging, Gopaul intends to inspire other women to reach for the stars even when it seems impossible. It is for this reason that she has added Chutney Queen Savita Singh to the line up. She hopes that together they can accomplish this.

“An evening of fun and entertainment” is what Gopaul says the Guyanese pub-

lic can expect on May 26. She further remarked that vendors will also benefit as they will be able to earn from the event.

The show which begins at 18:00 hours, will also see DJ Nyo from Trinidad, Dj Garwin and Seen Up, Dj Dauren, Junglist Sounds, and Rhythm Star Itl, entertaining the crowd, according to the promoter.

Shoot for short film...

From page 25

The film, which will be released around November 2023, has four actors: Michael Khan, Marisa Morgan-Bonie, Renita Doodnauth-Dindyal, and Adhinav Richard, an eight- year- old first-time actor.

“I’m pretty sure we have a really good story to tell. Friday (today) is our last day of shoot. Another film has already been filmed and is in the editing process now and a few more films are to be done to be released at once in November. We still have

to do post production work and I believe Rae wants to get a few films completed to screen them all at once,” Kevin shared.

As a word of advice to those who want to get into films, he said: “You first have to find that faith and belief in yourself to put out your work, to actually put it to paper. I think that’s a major hurdle to get past first….The best way is to network; collaborate with other creatives.”

Head and founder of Mystic Live, Nerissa Gopaul

On the set of ‘Old Toy Train’

Eight-year-old first-time actor, Adhinav Richard, during a scene

Hits and Jams to introduce new ticketing system for Independence weekend events

IN a bid to change the way patrons party in Guyana, Genesis, one of the leading carnival bands in Guyana, is introducing a new ticketing system to improve safety and provide an overall better partying experience.

This new system called “Party Cashless” was announced by Hits and Jams Entertainment’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rawle Ferguson during Genesis The Band’s online launch of its Independence weekend activities.

No more online preaching for Minister Marion Hall

MINISTER Marion Hall, formerly Lady Saw, says she will be walking away from conducting her "preaching" and other religious activities on social media.

In a message posted to her Instagram and Facebook accounts on Tuesday night, Hall revealed that "social media has become a place where I don’t want to be".

"Blessings overflow to all Jesus followers and friends. I just want to inform you that I will no longer be preaching and doing prayers and fasting online," she told her thousands of fans and followers.

The disclosure by Hall comes following a recent revelation she made during an online sermon that she is being "banned" from some churches and was no longer booked for an appearance at a fund-raising concert at Papa San's Ministry in Florida, United States, on May 7.

Hall went on to theorise that her controversial approach to the gospel could be behind some churches withdrawing support for her ministry publicly.

Those withdrawals have seemingly been further fuelled by her being billed to appear on Reggae Sumfest in July, having last performed at the event when she was active in dancehall in 2015.

Before being baptised on December 14, 2015, Hall went by the moniker Lady Saw. She established her church, the Holy Ghost Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ, online in 2020.

On Tuesday night, the 'Tun Back Christians' singer gave more details on her shift away from preaching online.

"I also want to thank all the people who contributed to the Bible giveaway. I’ve been called all types of names for asking for confirmation to buy the Bibles, so I won’t be asking for any more confirmations," she stated.

"God will provide the money to buy the amount we need, he’s a great provider," said Hall.

"Please get yourself connected to a church or Minister of the word of God, and get to know God for yourself. Love you all. Peace out," she concluded.

Despite her stance, the gospel singer's fans encouraged her to remain strong and not pay attention to the detractors and naysayers online.

"My sister, 'Greater is He that is in you than he that in the world!' Please keep focus and don’t mind the haters," wrote a male follower on Facebook.

"I can understand if you want to stop preach online; I felt so at times but stick closer to God," he added.

Said one female Facebook user: "If Job do it, you can do it. Don’t let them win. You are in my thought and prayers for greatness."

Commented another: "Don't let them win, continue do you. Let God be the judge, not mankind. What some of them doing behind closed doors you will never believe."

Hall made a similar announcement in February 2022 that she would "no longer be preaching or keeping church on any social media platform", and would be stepping away from her "calling".

Though Hall’s sentiments sent social media into a frenzy at the time, with many speculating that she would be making a return to dancehall, the minister, in an interview she later did, shared that she would not be abandoning her ministry.

"I'm just stepping away from Facebook and IG (Instagram) because they're just polluted with the devil’s activity," she said then.

However, she returned to her regular online sermons shortly after.

Hall, 53, is best known for her Grammy-winning feature on No Doubt’s hit song, 'Underneath It All'. But, as Lady Saw, she ruled the dancehall roost with a steady stream of hits such as 'Man is the Least', 'Sycamore Tree', 'If Him Lef', 'Good Man', 'I’ve Got Your Man', and 'Heels On'.

As Minister Hall, she is known for the fan-favourite track, 'Tun Back Christians', 'Mi Soon Alright', and her recent hit 'I'm Doing Better'. (Loop News)

According to Ferguson, this simple cashless feature is being added to provide a safer atmosphere for partygoers and to improve the systems that were in place for last year’s activities.

He explained that, with this, patrons will now be able to go to box office locations and purchase barcoded wristbands which they can load with various amounts of cash.

“It's simple. Go to the outlets buy your band, load up as much money as possible, go to the

event, swipe to get in,” Ferguson noted while adding that this system will also allow patrons to purchase food and drinks at the cashless bars in the venue.

The ‘digital wallet’ can be used at Stinging Nettles on Thursday, May 25 and Soca and Wine on Sunday, May 28.

“Something new for Guyana, something safe and we always try to make sure that every year it is better,” he said.

Emphasising the benefits of the system, Hits and Jams, in a

press release, stated that with the digital payments, there is less risk of theft or loss compared to carrying physical cash.

The release added that transactions can be processed more quickly which reduces wait times for attendees and improves the overall efficiency of the event.

These bands/tickets can be purchased at Hjexperience. com and patrons can then choose the individual events or season passes.

Marion Hall (Photo: @ ministermarionhall via IG)

LABA to host U23 3x3 tournament tomorrow

Guyana Breweries Inc. lends support

THE Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) tomorrow will host their U23 3x3 tournament at the Retrieve Hard Court, starting at 16.00 hours.

Colts basketball club and Kwakwani Untouchables will have two teams in the tournament that will feature Victory Valley Royals, Retrieve Raiders, Kid Rock Blazers, Block 22 Flames, Sixers and Kings.

President of the LABA, Rawle Toney, said Kwakwani Untouchables had initially registered under the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) due to the inactivity of basketball in Linden.

According to the LABA president, while the GABA fine-tune preparation for the start of their season, Kwakwani will be invited to play in all LABA Knock-out tournaments.

“Kwakwani has signalled their interest in registering under the LABA, so while that process is being undertaken, we will facilitate the club. However, if the team isn’t registered by the start of our league, they will have to continue playing under the GABA until next season,” Toney stated.

As it relates to inviting the Colts basketball club, Toney highlighted that the

move was to make the tournament more competitive and help GABA keep their affiliated clubs active.

Toney said the tournament was scheduled for a week prior, but the weather forced the LABA to postpone the event to May 6.

Meanwhile, the LABA president thanked Guyana Breweries Inc. for their continued support of local basketball.

The company presented trophies and refreshments for players to the LABA president through Brand Manager Seweon McGarrell at their Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara headquarters.

Boston Celtics beat Philadelphia 76ers 121-87 to level semi-final

THE Boston Celtics thrashed the Philadelphia 76ers 121-87 to level the Eastern Conference semi-final at 1-1.

Jaylen Brown scored 25 points and Malcolm Brogdon 23 from the bench, including six three-pointers, for the Celtics at TD Garden in Boston.

Sixers centre Joel Embiid, the 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player, returned from injury after two weeks

out.

"We knew they were going to respond after the first game and we just weren't ready enough," said Embiid.

"They beat us to every loose ball. They played with more desperation than us. We didn't execute what we wanted to. We've got to be better."

Embiid scored 15 points and James Harden, who scored 45 in the Sixers' thrilling 119-115 win in game one on Tuesday, missed all six

three-pointers and managed only 12 points.

Eight Celtics players contributed to their tally of 20 three-pointers, while the Sixers made six from 30 attempts.

The third game of the seven-game series takes place in Philadelphia on Friday, which you can watch live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website (Saturday 00:35 BST).

Joel Embiid (centre) had not played since injuring his right knee in game three of the first-round sweep of the Brooklyn Nets

Future of Test cricket could be like Wimbledon, says Rajasthan Royals owner Manoj Badale

THE future of Test cricket might be short once-a-year events like the Wimbledon tennis tournament, according to Rajasthan Royals lead owner Manoj Badale.

One of the biggest issues cricket faces is the scheduling with some sides playing two series in two different formats concurrently in recent years.

Badale estimates some of the world's best players can play cricket on 220-230 days of the year, across T20, one-day and Tests.

England Test captain Ben Stokes retired from oneday internationals last July saying "there is too much cricket" and players "are not cars" that can be "refilled and go back out there".

"We can make Test cricket work if we make it more of an event," Badale told the Tailenders podcast.

"We should have it at the same time every year, played between a small set of nations that can actually afford it and Lord's becomes like a Wimbledon, an event that is the diary.

"The amount of times I hear arguments like 'Ben Stokes wants to play Test cricket' - that is important but what is really important is what the fans of the future want to watch and where are they going to spend their hard-earned money.

"We are going to have to think creatively about Test cricket if we want it to work."

'I would be worried about ODIs'

Last summer, England's Test side faced New Zealand at home while their white-ball team toured the Netherlands.

In March a white-ball series in Bangladesh started one day after a Test tour of New Zealand finished.

India have regularly had white-ball sides on tour while another set of players is playing another format elsewhere.

"There are too many formats," said Badale. "I would be more worried about the

ODI game right now.

"It is difficult one for me because Test cricket is what you grow up on as a fan and I haven't missed the first day at Lord's for however many years, it is still my preferred format.

"But it is not about me, it is about what the 10-15-yearolds in India and across the world are thinking."

'T20s have got too long, T10 is going to be interesting'

A report in The Times last week said six English players had been approached about signing multi-year deals with their Indian Premier League franchises to play in multiple leagues across the world.

Seven of the 10 men's IPL teams have sides in different leagues across the world including the West Indies, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and a USAbased league.

Former England and IPL all-rounder Ravi Bopara told the BBC Test Match Special podcast that the contracts are "coming" and "not a surprise".

Badale said he expects franchises to "become bigger entities" and "play in more leagues".

"I do genuinely believe in the next three to five years there are a number of choices that the administrators are going to make that are going to be really game-defining," said Badale.

"We are the second most-popular sport in the world at the moment but our real competition is other forms of entertainment.

"We've got too many franchise leagues now so you can have a hierarchy of the IPL, some major leagues and then some minor leagues."

Cricket has a long-held desire to get into the Olympic Games but Badale feels the current formats restrict the likelihood of that happening.

"I was at a game at the Wankhede [stadium in Mumbai] the other day and the game was 4 hours and 15

minutes - that's too long, so I think in a way T20 has got too long.

"The T10 [10 overs per side] is going to become an interesting one.

"The only way I can see cricket in the Olympics is T10, where you can get it done in 10 days."

'Don't solve time issues with a new format'

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) introduced a new 100-ball competition in 2021 designed to attract a more diverse audience to the game and fit within a two-and-a-half hour slot for broadcasters.

There have been reports they are considering axing the tournament after no other countries adopted the format and after it had made losses of £9m in the first two years.

Badale feels the ECB should be willing to stick with the format.

"I don't think the right question is 'what are you losing?', it is 'what are you prepared to invest?'," Badale said.

"People go on about the IPL now but there were hundreds of millions of dollars invested in the first five to seven years. Everyone forgets it was loss-making for years.

"I saw an article that the Hundred lost nine million dollars, that is irrelevant to me. If there is an economical model that works it could be huge."

However, Badale said he doesn't believe the solution was another format.

"I tend to agree that T20 works, why do we need another format?" Badale said.

"I do think administrators tend to prioritise trying to look different over what we should prioritise.

"The problem they were trying to solve with The Hundred is that T20 games were getting too long, and I do think four and a half hours is too long, but you don't have to solve that by changing the format. (BBC Sport)

ECB recommends fines and bans for ex-Yorkshire players found to have used racist language

FORMER England batter

Gary Ballance should be fined £8,000 and banned for eight weeks for using racist language at Yorkshire, according to the England and Wales Cricket Board.

Ballance is one of six former Yorkshire players found to have use racist slurs at the club by the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) panel in March.

The charges stemmed from claims made by former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq.

Ballance, who retired earlier this month, admitted the charge against him.

The ECB also recommended a combination of fines, suspensions, reprimands and education courses for former England bowlers Tim Bresnan and Matthew Hoggard, former Yorkshire captain and coach Andrew Gale, former Scotland bowler John Blain and former Yorkshire all-rounder Richard Pyrah.

All five did not appear before the independent CDC panel in March after withdrawing from the process and also did not provide written submissions for this hearing in London on Wednesday.

CDC panel chair Tim O'Gorman said a decision on sanctions for the six former players will not be made for "several weeks".

Former England captain Michael Vaughan was cleared "on the balance of probabilities" by the panel of using racist language towards Rafiq. Sanctions against Yorkshire, who admitted four amended charges, will be discussed at a hearing in late June.

The ECB said Ballance's fine should be reduced from £12,500 and the suspension reduced from 10 weeks because he admitted guilt and apologised to Rafiq.

It said Ballance, 33, should also go on an education course if he intends to return to cricket in a playing or coaching capacity and be reprimanded.

Ballance's lawyer Craig Harris said the financial penalty should be reduced because being involved in the proceedings led to the end of Ballance's Yorkshire career, the loss of a sponsorship contract and him not being considered for England.

Ballance was released by Yorkshire at his request in December and switched to

play for his native Zimbabwe, initially signing a two-year deal, before announcing his retirement four months later.

In 2020, he took a break from cricket to manage "some heightened feelings of anxiety and stress" and missed much of the 2022 season to focus on his mental health after admitting he was responsible for some of the allegations made by Rafiq.

ECB lawyer Jane Mulcahy KC said: "We understand there has been a significant impact on Mr Ballance's mental health."

Harris said Ballance "accepted he ought to have known better" but added that the rules were "breached by someone living and playing within a culture in which the use of such language had become normalized."

Ballance did not take part in the proceedings in March after admitting his charge.

The ECB said Hoggard should be handed a £7,500 fine - reduced from £9,000 because he admitted part of the charge against him - and a reprimand. It also issued a "strong recommendation" he undertake an education course at his own expense, particularly if he intends to return to cricket.

The panel found that 2005 Ashes winner Hoggard, who denied racist intent to his language, had used two racist slurs but found an allegation he used the term "you lot" about Asian players not proved.

The ECB recommend -

cricket.

Gale was found to have used two racist slurs towards Rafiq throughout his time at the club, as well as using one of these racist terms towards Mosun Hussain, a Yorkshire academy player, in 2013. He denied the allegations.

Pyrah's recommended

fine is £4,000. Mulcahy said the ECB also recommended a two-week suspension for Pyrah but admitted she did not know if he was still coaching.

He was found to have used a racial slur towards Rafiq's sister, which he denied, while an allegation he used the term "you lot" towards groups of

Asian players was not proved. The ECB said all five players would have been suspended if they were still playing. Bresnan retired in January 2022, Gale in 2016, Pyrah in 2015, Hoggard in 2013 and Blain's last top-level match was in 2010. (BBC Sport)

SCA 2023 season swings into gear this weekend

…Record 110 teams to participate

ed Bresnan and Blain both be given a £5,000 fine, be reprimanded and attend an education course at their own expense, especially if they intend to return to cricket.

Bresnan, who denied all the allegations, was found to have used a racial slur towards Rafiq's sister and other Asian women. Allegations he used the terms "brothers" and "you lot" to specifically refer to Asian players were not proved.

Blain was found to have used a racist phrase to describe Asian individuals during his time as a Yorkshire coach, which he denied.

In a statement on Wednesday, Blain called the outcome of the proceedings a "depressingly predictable and wholly unjust decision" as he also launched a crowdfunding page in a bid to clear his name through legal action.

He added: "Despite being entirely innocent of these allegations, I was advised by my lawyers to withdraw from the inadequate ECB process, due to its many fundamental flaws.

"The evidence given was one-sided, partial and in some areas, simply untrue - I have never used such language. This is supported by many independent witnesses, many of whom were team-mates."

The ECB recommended Gale be given a £7,500 fine, a reprimand and a four-week suspension if he were to return to coaching ECB-regulated cricket. It also said he should do an education course at his own expense if he returned to

THE Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) 2023 season swings into gear on Saturday with a record 110 teams slated to participate, representing an increase of 16 from the 94 which took part last year. And according to SCA President, Guyana-born Shiv Persaud, that figure could have been even higher if more playing facilities were available.

Persaud pointed out that earlier this year, his association was forced to turn away over 40 new applicants, thereby putting over one thousand constituents out of cricket. To compound the already growing situation, the SCA also lost the services of the Ajax Cricket Ground, which is currently undergoing rehabilitation and won’t be completed for matches to be played there this season. On a brighter note, when completed, the venue will be outfitted with lights, allowing for matches to be played under floodlights.

Two new grounds, Cedarvale ground in Toronto and Jeffrey Park in Whitby have been however added to the list of grounds with the prospects of having another in Pickering on the cards.

Cedarvale and Jeffrey Park facilities will see action this Saturday and Sunday, featuring mainly T20 and T30 games while matches in venues in Scarborough will bowl off on May 13 and 14.

Defending Elite champions Naseeb Cricket Club (NCC) who dethroned defending champions Ambassadors Sports Club A in the semi-final, before inflicting a six-wicket defeat on Victoria Park in the final, played at the Ashtonbee Number One ground, open their 2023 campaign against Ajax Cricket Club on Saturday, May 13 at the Ellesmere South ground.

In the other opening Elite match-up, set for the following day, Star CC/Island Warriors oppose Victoria Park at L’Amoreaux.

Notably, NCC achieved the feat in their first year in the Elite Division, after being promoted from the Premier Division which they won in 2021.

The other teams in contention in the Elite Division are Ambassadors Sports Club A, Highland Creek, who earned promotion after winning the Premier Division in 2022, Kaieteur International A, who also played in the Premier last year, and Caribbean Stars.

Ten teams are vying for supremacy in the Premier Division, which has been divided into two groups. Group A has Bangla Warriors, Champions CC, Janbaaz CC, Maple CC and Toronto Invaders CC while Group B comprises of Ajax CC, Bilal CC, Palace Panthers/Scarborough Legends, Team Tigers and Toronto Rhinos CC.

The First Division, which will also see ten teams battling, has also been split in two divisions. Armor CC, Bawa X1 CC, PBR CC, TP Tigers CC and United Titans are in Group A while Group B has Ajax CC, Durham United CC, Kaieteur

International CC, Knightly CC and United CC.

The eight teams in the Second Division are Ambassadors Sports Club B, Oshawa/Hawks Toronto Braves, Superstars, Team Tigers, Toronto 6ixers, Toronto Seawolves, TPark Youngstars and Victoria Park.

Challengers CC, Friends United CC, Lawrence CC, Northumberland County CC, Pickering Panthers CC, Pro Sports CC, Stikbook CC and Toronto Invaders make up the Third Division.

The T30 (Elite and Premiere), T20 (Elite, Premiere, First and Second Divisions) and Over-50 are the other divisions to be contested while efforts are being made to revive the women’s and youth categories.

Meanwhile, the 2022 presentation will be held outdoors on Friday, June 23 at the Ashtonbee ground, starting at 5:00 pm while the association will be reverting to its usual presentation, dinner and dance for the 2023 season on Saturday, November 25, set for the Grand Cinnamon Banquet Hall. This will mark the first time the function will be held indoors since the COVID-19 pandemic. (Frederick Halley)

Last year’s Elite Division winners Naseeb Cricket Club pose with their trophies following their victory over Victoria Park. SCA Secretary Eon Gunraj is extreme left while Grounds Coordinator Calvin Alexander is extreme left

Gary Ballance played 23 Tests for England and one for Zimbabwe

Napoli win Italian title for first time in 33years

NAPOLI won their first Serie A title for 33 years as they drew with Udinese at Dacia Arena to spark jubilant celebrations back in Naples.

They last won the league in 1990 with a Diego Maradona-inspired side adding to their first title three years earlier.

Victor Osimhen smashed in a 52nd-minute equaliser after Sandi Lovric had given Udinese a shock lead.

And Napoli held on to the point they needed to win their third Serie A title with five games to spare.

Napoli end three decades of hurt

Napoli's previous two titles came in the days of

Argentina legend Maradona - who their stadium is now named after - in 1987 and 1990.

Following those glory days the club fell into financial decline, relegation and

bankruptcy; playing in Serie C as recently as 2006.

They have won the Coppa Italia three times in the past 11 seasons but it is the Scudetto the Napoli fans craved.

They now have a new cast of superstars, with Nigeria forward Victor Osimhen scoring 21 goals in 26 league games and Georgia winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia contributing 12 goals and 10 assists.

At 64 boss Luciano Spalletti, who twice won the Coppa Italia with Roma, becomes the oldest manager to win Serie A.

His team had the chance to lift the title with six games to spare last weekend but could only draw with local rivals Salernitana.

But with a 16-point advantage over second-placed Lazio their third Serie A title is now confirmed.(BBC Sport)

Argentina forward Lionel Messi to leave PSG at end of season

LIONEL Messi will leave Paris St-Germain (PSG) this summer at the end of his current contract.

The Argentine World Cup winner had reached an 'agreement in principle' to extend his stay for another year but neither club nor player now want to sign the deal.

Messi is unconvinced the club can compete at the top of the European game, due to financial issues, while the French champions want to focus on developing young talent.

He signed a two-year deal in Paris in 2021 with an option to renew for another year but that will now not be activated.

It is understood his father Jorge Messi informed Paris St-Germain's football advisor Luis Campos a few weeks ago.

The player believes PSG's budget could be limited next season to comply with Financial Fair Play rules - putting the quality of their squad at risk.

His reluctance to commit to a new deal in recent months has frustrated PSG's Qatari owners, who believe Messi's lack of response was a clear message he didn't

CWI settles with Browne, Baptiste over wrongful dismissal claim

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) has moved to settle their legal dispute with former selectors Courtney Browne and Eldine Baptiste, cricket commentator and broadcaster Andrew Mason is reporting.

The two former West Indies players received letters of termination on April 10, 2019, shortly after Ricky Skerritt and Dr Kishore Shallow won the Cricket West Indies presidential elections in March that year. The termination letters made reference to a task force that was being established to review the selection system. The task force that was chaired by CWI Vice President Dr Kishore Shallow was expected to make recommendations.

Notwithstanding that the task force had not yet met, CWI fired the selectors ahead of any recommendations that would have come from the task force. The matter has been before the courts for the past four years until now when Mason reported that CWI had decided to settle and will pay all legal costs and 15 months’ payment of the contract.

Mason anticipates that Brown’s pay out would amount to about US$75,000. The money would represent welcome funds for Browne, who is still undergoing rehabilitation after suffering serious injuries in a motor-vehicle accident in December 2019. (Sportsmax)

The driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident, died on the spot (Sportsmax)

want to stay

The 35-year-old was suspended by PSG for two weeks on Tuesday after travelling to Saudi Arabia without the club's permission.

Barcelona and Messi would be keen on securing a dream return for the forward to the Nou Camp but, with the La Liga leaders facing severe financial difficulties, a move back 'home' looks increasingly unlikely.

He also has interest from Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and an eyewatering offer of about 400m euros (£354m) to play in Saudi Arabia for a year with Al-Hi-

lal.

Messi though believes he can still compete at the top of European football for another season - eyeing the chance to win a fifth Champions League trophy - but, with a move to Barcelona looking impossible, his options are looking increasingly limited.

Messi has scored 31 goals and contributed 34 assists in 71 games in all competitions for PSG, and won the Ligue 1 title last season.

He is set to miss matches against Troyes and Ajaccio as PSG, five points clear with five games to go, look to clinch a ninth league title

in 11 seasons.

He is set to miss matches against Troyes and Ajaccio as PSG, five points clear with five games to go, look to clinch a ninth league title in 11 seasons.

Messi, Barcelona's alltime top scorer with 672 goals in 778 games, left the Nou Camp in 2021 because of financial issues at the club.

He is favourite to win an eighth Ballon d'Or in October, which is three more than any other player, after winning the World Cup with Argentina in December.(BBC Sport)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday May 05, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD -83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) MI

(2) CSK

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who was voted Man of the Match in the 2013 IPL final?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Tournament in IPL 2013?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Napoli fans invaded the pitch at full-time to celebrate their first title in over three decades

Lionel Messi helped Paris St-Germain win the Ligue 1 title last season

Former West Indies players Courtney Browne (left) and Eldine Baptiste

Thomas hits 57 as Team Weekes dismissed for 235

SCOREBOARD

TEAM HEADLEY 1st Innings 177

TEAM WEEKES 1st Innings (overnight 61-3)

T. Chanderpaul lbw b Holder

Z. McCaskie lbw b Mindley

Sheltez Tennis Club’s youth programme continues tomorrow

ST JOHN’S, (CMC) – A half-century for Leeward Islands Hurricanes stalwart Devon Thomas was the only notable accomplishment in the third and final match of the Headley-Weekes Tri-Series on Thursday in Antigua.

The Antiguan hit the top score of 57 and shared a half-century, eighth wicket stand with Guyana Harpy Eagles ace Veersammy Permaul before Team Weekes were bowled out for 235 to gain a first innings lead of 58 about five minutes before tea on the second day of the four-day, first-class match at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Team Headley reached 67 for two in their second innings at the close, and they have so far gotten a lead of nine and hoping they can beef it up on the third day to set up any attempt to win the match and earn bragging rights, if nothing else.

Harpy Eagles and former West Indies Under-19 opener Matthew Nandu was not out on 28, and Test and Windward Islands Volcanoes batsman Sunil Ambris was not out on one at stumps.

Team Headley were set back when Test and Hurricanes left-handed opener Kieran Powell was caught at deep

mid-wicket off Barbados Pride left-arm pacer Dominic Drakes for nine, and Volcanoes batsman Kavem Hodge spent an hour over 26 before he gave a return catch to Harpy Eagles off-spinner Kevin Sinclair.

Earlier, Thomas cracked seven fours and one six from 150 balls in a near three-hour stay at the crease and propped up the Team Weekes batting after they continued from their overnight total of 61 for three.

The 33-year-old put on 68 with Permaul to add some respectability to the Team Weekes total after pacers Anderson Phillip and Akeem Jordan shared three wickets – including opposing captain and leading batsman in this year’s West Indies Championship Alick Athanaze for 37 – and had them wobbling on 145 for six at lunch.

Hodge bowled Dominic Drakes, son of former Barbados and West Indies all-rounder Vasbert Drakes, for 18 in the sixth over after the interval, and Team Weekes were 155 for seven.

Permaul, batting at nine, came to their rescue and made 35 before his dismissal triggered a slide in which Team Weekes lost their last three wickets – two to Hodge – for 12 in the span of 16 balls.

(b4, lb2, nb5) 6

(all out, 80.3 overs) 235

of wickets: 1-2, 2-50, 3-61, 4-107, 5-112,

Position: Team Headley lead by nine with eight second innings wickets standing.

Umpires: G. Brathwaite, L. Reifer Jr. Match referee: S. Proverbs.

Hodge ended with three for 46 from 18 overs and was the most successful Team Headley bowler, while off-spinner Chaim Holder, as well as his pace bowling Pride teammate Jordan, and Test and Trinidad & Tobago Red Force pacer Phillip took two

wickets each.

The performance failed to inspire confidence in the batting depth within the Caribbean among the more seasoned crew of players and practically handed the title to the inactive West Indies Academy, the third team in the tournament.

National Darts team named for Costa Rica tourney

By Sean Devers

AFTER playing at the Malteenoes Sports Club in the National Darts trials, four players were selected for the World Darts Qualifiers in San Jose, Costa Rica on May 13-14.

The winners will receive an invitation to participate in the Professional Darts Corporation World Cup of Darts to be held in Germany from June 15-18.

Rajendra Naraine and Christopher Lochan will make their national debuts while the other members of the team are 36-year-old Sudesh Fitzgerald and veteran 59-year-old Norman Madhoo.

Dr. Terence Joseph is the manager while GDA President, Victorine Chandro has been appointed coach.

Madhoo, who started playing Darts in 1992 has been the National Champion of Guyana for over a decade he was also the Caribbean and south American champion in 2004, 2010

and

2011

The experienced Madhoo was the MVP of 2004 Florida Open champion and Caribbean mixed doubles runner up.

Sudesh Fitzgerald, who has recovered from a motor vehicle accident last year is national champion and won that title since 2018.

Fitzgerald is the only Guyanese to win the Brazil championship.

Caribbean Champion and Caribbean double champion 2016 when he was adjudged MVP of that Tournament.

Caribbean mixed doubles champion 2018 and was the MVP of that tournament while he was in three consecutive finals in the Professional Darts Championship qualifiers.

Fitzgerald is the record holder in Guyana for the shortest games, highest check out, most 180 and most hundreds in a national championship.

By Sean Devers FORTY-nine-year-old

former National Tennis player and Guyana Coach

Shelly Daly-Ramdyhan is making a positive impact in developing Lawn Tennis in Guyana to International standards but her work is far from done in working from the Nursery up at the Sheltez Tennis Club.

“We concluded the U10s event on Monday at the GBTI Court where two levels were used, Red and Orange balls.

In the Red Ball, 16 girls and 12 boys participated. In the orange category, seven girls and eight boys participated. We played over three days using two locations. They played over 30 matches. Overall, it was the first time we've had turnout of participants in that category. The U14s will begin this weekend and is expected to be very exciting.

In the Red Ball tournament, Jordyn Sears emerged the girl’s winner with the runners-up being Breyanna Younge. Fatheya Hakim ended third while Diamond Graham placed fourth.

The boy’s winner was Michael Fordyce with the runners-up being Mukang Yi while Mathew Kristyanto and Fateh Hakim were third and fourth respectively.

Coach Shelly spoke about the recent trip to the U-14 Powerade COTECC tournament in Barbados.

“In Barbados, our three players; Elwyn Levius, Jose Rodrigues and Sihlelewe Marakalla participated and Elwyn qualified for the main draw but lost to Ahil Cyril of St. Lucia in the first round of the main draw,” disclosed Coach Shelly.

Jose and Sihlelewe were placed in the consolation draw, Jose lost in the first round and Sihlelewe won against Barbadian Janae Lane. She went on to the semi-finals but lost against the number 1 seed, Trinidadian Anya Romany,” added Coach Shelly, who was National Champion for five successive years from 1993.

“For me, I am pleased with the players’ performances, Elwyn is the most experienced player but didn't compete at the international level since 2021.

Jose and Sihlelewe are new players, playing for less than a year and showing great potential. The exposure for them is important, because they saw the level of players from countries that are playing and competing regularly,” informed Coach Shelly.

“The lack of training time and facility continue to be of great concern for our players,” lamented the Coach.

“If I’m to compare tennis back then to now, I would say that the level is much higher and the opportunities are much more available for players.

The players back then didn’t have a lot of opportunities compared to now… most players, if they travelled then, did it with their parents but the level was very good.

The players now are more exposed to international tournaments because of our structure in the clubs and association,” explained Coach Shelly.

Shelly informed that Guyana’s affiliation with the ITF allows the team to participate in team events and circuit tournaments throughout the year once they can afford to attend.

Devon Thomas hits a half century for Team Weekes

Coach Shelly Daly-Ramdyhan

Top left Sudesh Fitzgerald, top right Norman Madhoo, bottom left Rajendra Narine, bottom right Christopher Lochan

LABA to host U23 3x3 tournament tomorrow

Guyana Breweries Inc. lends support

Small roles for Russell and Narine in

KKR victory

MUMBAI, (CMC) – Out-of-favour West Indies duo of Andre Russell and Sunil Narine played supporting roles, but helped lift Kolkata Knight Riders to a crucial five-run win against Sunrisers Hyderabad in yet another last-over thriller in the Indian Premier League on Thursday in Hyderabad.

Russell scored 24 from 15 balls, and Narine made only one, but impactful knocks of 42 off 31 balls from Nitish Rana and 46 off 35 balls from Rinku Singh helped KKR recover from an early stutter and post a competitive 171 for nine from their allocation of 20 overs after they decided to bat in the match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

In the field, Russell pouched a fine catch to dismiss Abishek Sharma for nine off India international Shardul Thakur in the fourth over to sink Sunrisers to 37 for two.

Two overs later, he grabbed the scalp of Rahul Tripathi caught at deep fine line for 20 and finished with one for 15 from his only over.

Future of Test cricket could be like Wimbledon, says Rajasthan Royals owner Manoj Badale

Narine made less of an impact, conceding 16 from two wicket-less overs, and KKR needed disciplined bowling in the slog overs to clinch a thrilling win with leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy defending nine off the last over.

KKR displayed nerves of steel under pressure to clinch their fourth win in 10 matches for eight points and handed Sunrisers their sixth loss from nine matches to leave them stuck on six points.

It was a brilliant comeback for KKR after Sunrisers captain Aiden Markram hit 41 off 40 balls, and fellow South Africa international Heinrich Klaasen made 36 off 20 to put the visitors in the ascendency during the chase with a stand of 70 for the fifth wicket.

They along with fellow South Africa international Marco Jansen fell for the addition of 28 in the span of 25 balls, and Sunrisers needed 20 from the last 11 balls, but KKR produced a brilliant comeback to win the match.

GBI Brand Manager, Seweon McGarrell handing over trophies sponsored by his company to LABA president Rawle Toney

The likes of Australia's Steve Smith (front left) and England Test captain Ben Stokes (front right) have been purchased in the Indian Premier League draft by Manoj Badale (back left)